Our liquid refills

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Firstly, let’s start by saying that not all liquid refills which market themselves as ‘eco-friendly’ are anything of the kind. Many (including several big names) are owned by umbrella Corporations who are some of the worst offenders when it comes to animal testing, environmental pollution and plastic waste. There has been a massive push by larger companies to broadcast their eco credentials, with many using classic Greenwashing tactics to gloss over their failings - such as a ban on Innocent smoothie adverts which implied buying their products would have a positive environmental impact.

Here at The Little Refill Shop we bring liquid refills which have bona fide eco friendly credentials. Our suppliers are trusted family businesses and ethical cooperatives who genuinely care about the state of the environment and the quality of the products they provide you.

Cruelty Free: The brands we stock do not engage in animal testing across their Companies. Larger brands which we choose not to stock are part of a wider conglomerate, arms of which do use animals for testing. To us, this is not acceptable. If you have bought one of their bottles then feel free to turn your back on them and refill your bottle with products we do stock rather than throw it away! More information can be found here to begin your own research.

No Parabens: Parabens are a group of chemicals which occur naturally, and can be artificially made. They are used as preservatives in a wide range of skincare and personal care products. Some scientific studies have shown that Parabens can disrupt hormones and potentially cause cancers. However there is no conclusive evidence either way that Parabens are harmful, or safe. On this basis many people have decided that it is better to use products without. Even if the risk is low would you take it if you can avoid it altogether? More information can be found here and here

SLS Free: Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS) is used as a cheap surfactant in many mass market cleaning products, toothpaste, shampoos and bodywashes. Surfactants produce the lather effect in cleaning products and allow the effective cleaning agents to rub off the dirt and grease more easily. It has been reported as ‘cancer causing’, but no research has proven this link. However it is widely accepted as a skin irritant in large concentrations or to those with sensitive skin. SLES is a similar chemical to SLS but is milder and less of an irritant. So although it is unlikely to cause long term harm being SLS free can reduce irritation to the skin. Learn more about SLS here and here.

Vegan: All of our liquid refill range carry the Vegan Society Trademark which denotes that they are free from animal ingredients. It also provides confidence that it is free from animal testing and Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO’s). As well as liquid refills many of our other products carry Vegan certification. Even if you are not Vegan looking for this standard assures you a level of quality missing in many mass marketed products.

Made in the UK: All of our liquid refills are manufactured in the UK. This provides assurance that the workforce is protected by UK labour laws.

Plant Based Formulas: Miniml refills have produced a handy ingredients list for their products. It cuts through the long names and helps to give an understanding of what each ingredient does. Having the majority of compounds derived from sustainably sourced plants leads to a greener end product, with less impact on the environment.

So whether you choose a refill from Miniml or Alter/Native in store you can be assured that you are buying a product of quality with minimal impact on the environment and on your own health and well being. Items available for local delivery purchased through our website shop will be delivered in clean, reused containers.