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12 Best Eco-Friendly Razors in the UK for 2022

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Ladies, gentlemen, how often do you shave? We’re not the kind of people who’ll judge you for partaking in the social norm of shaving… but using disposable razors? Well, we can’t let that slide.

Billions of disposable razors are sent to landfill each year. Yes, the blades can usually be recycled even if the plastic handle can’t… but honestly, how many of us will actually break down a disposable razor to ensure it’s recycled properly?

Not many, is the answer.

But don’t stress, after hundreds of shaving sessions, we have selected some of the best eco-friendly razors based on:

  • Their sustainability (from material to packaging) – most of them are plastic free razors.
  • Their key specifications (length, weight, grip, aggressiveness, etc.).
  • Who are they best for (Beginner? Big hands? We got you covered)?
  • Their availability in the UK.

Bonus treat: most of these eco razors will give you a close shave that disposable razors can only dream of.

Our Selection of Sustainable Razors in the UK

🏆 Best Sustainable Razor OverallJump to review
Best Zero Waste Shaving Kit – All you need to startJump to review
Best Bamboo RazorJump to review
Best Safety Razor for BeginnersJump to review
Best Safety Razor for Big HandsJump to review
Best Sustainable Razor for WomenJump to review
Best Budget Sustainable RazorJump to review
An eco alternative to classic cartridge razorsJump to review

If you’re coming from a classic cartridge razor (or a simple disposable razor), we encourage you to read our buying guide first. Reusable razors are not built the same. Based on our tests, a few specifications are to be taken into consideration if you’re a beginner – especially with plastic-free safety razors (spoiler alert: most of the razors we’ve tested are safety razors). Picking the right zero-plastic razor will make your shaving experience much more enjoyable, believe us.

Landed here from the US? Head to our selection of sustainable razors in the US, or our selection of safety razors for women in the US

Totally Unisex Plastic-Free Razor, by Jungle Culture (The one David uses)

unisex-Eco-Safety-Razor

The Eco Safety Razor for women and men by Jungle Culture is totally plastic free, from the blade to the end of the handle. But it still has that cool, bright, and modern vibe with three pastel colour options. It comes with a soft, organic cotton bag made from ethically sourced jute, and you have the option to buy a matching razor stand at the same time. It’s compatible with any double-edge safety razor blade.

What makes it our favourite sustainable razor? We’ve tried and compared many eco-friendly razors, and it’s simply the one that gives us the best shaving experience: well-balanced weight, long enough chrome metal handle (but not too long), and no cuts to declare! It stands proudly on its stand in our bathroom, and shaving has never been so exciting.

Key specifications:

Razor type:Double-edged safety razor
Handle size:Long (100mm)
Material:Chrome-plated handle
Weight:On the heavier side
Grip:Good (textured handle)
Beginner-friendly?Yes (mild aggressiveness)
Blade replacement ease:Medium (three-piece razor)

Good Stuff

  • Zero plastic elements in the razor or packaging
  • Three cool colours to choose from
  • Weighted chrome handle is comfortable for men and women

Bad Stuff

  • No protective storage box
  • Stand sold separately
  • No plain coloured option

Zero Waste Shaving Kit, by Shoreline Shaving (The one Jonathan uses)

shoreline shaving zero waste travel kit

Shoreline Shaving is a small and local shaving company that we support 100% when it comes to eco-friendly shaving, but also for their ethical practices. They work only with plastic-free stockists and they support several ocean protection movements.

Their eco-friendly razors are well-balanced and provide a great shaving experience – for both men and women. But what we like the most is their travel kit. It’s simple, but it’s all you need:

  • A (cool-looking) safety razor
  • A natural vegan-friendly shaving soap
  • 10 top-quality replacement blades… and a robust yet flexible hessian bag to protect your kit while travelling.

We feel like many people still leave their reusable razors at home and prefer disposable razors while travelling. If you’re one of them, give Shoreline Shaving and its travel kit a chance, you won’t regret it.

What makes it our favourite shaving kit? It simply ticks all our boxes. The razor is of high quality and each product within the kit is both eco-friendly and skin-friendly. The whole kit is also quite small and won’t be annoying to carry while travelling as the bag is flexible and fits in any toiletry bag.

Key specifications:

Razor type:Double-edged safety razor
Handle size:Long (100mm)
Material:Chrome-plated brass alloy handle
Weight:Medium 90g
Grip:Good (textured handle)
Beginner-friendly?Yes (mild aggressiveness)
Blade replacement ease:Medium (three-piece razor)

Good Stuff

  • The whole kit is plastic free!
  • Eight cool colours to choose from
  • Assembled and packaged in the UK
  • The reusable hessian travel bag
  • Packaging is recyclable or biodegradable

Bad Stuff

  • A separate soap container would be great (for once it’s wet)

Eco-Friendly Razor Made from Bamboo, by Bambaw

bamboo safety razor by bambaw

Quit being bamboozled by plastic razors and try a Bambaw razor!

The Bambaw zero waste razor is the first of our bamboo double-edge safety razors and one of our favourite alternatives to disposable plastic razors. This sustainable razor has a lightweight bamboo handle, stainless-steel components, and fits double edge blades.

From our experience, we think it’s a great pick for both men and women looking for a more “natural” shaving experience. The bamboo handle feels great in the hand and as it’s naturally grippy, you don’t have to worry!

Once this beauty has a spot in your bathroom cabinet, you’re set for life! Just replace the blades (recycling the old ones, of course) and get shaving.

Key specifications:

Razor type:Double-edged safety razor
Handle size:Long (115mm)
Material:Stainless steel and natural bamboo handle
Weight:On the heavier side
Grip:Good (bamboo is naturally grippy)
Beginner-friendly?Yes
Blade replacement ease:Medium (three-piece razor)

Good Stuff

  • Durable Bamboo handle and stainless steel components
  • Cheaper than chrome/stainless steel safety razors
  • Awesome tips in the manual

Bad Stuff

  • Takes a while to shave large, curvy areas.
  • Blade replacement could be easier

Best Sustainable Razor For Women, By EcoRoots

rose gold safety razors by eco roots

Here we go, ladies, this is one of our favourite environmentally-friendly razors for women. Why? Well, first off, because it’s gorgeous, we love that rose gold coat. Secondly, it’s lightweight and easy on the wrist compared to many plastic-free safety razors that we have tested. But it’s also sturdy and provides a smooth and close shave.

Their reusable safety razors are made of stainless steel and zinc alloy and are resistant to corrosion thanks to their highly polished finish. And let’s not forget to mention that, once again, they are 100% plastic-free safety razors!

Note: This razor gives a slightly more aggressive (and closer) shave, and the handle can be slippery if not held properly. Also, if you’re a beginner, make sure you don’t apply too much pressure, as it’s lightweight. When I tried it, I didn’t get any cuts, but some customers raised the topic. However, with a bit of training care, it should give you a clean, smooth shave!

Key specifications:

Razor type:Double-edged safety razor
Handle size:Medium
Material:Stainless steel and zinc alloy
Weight:Lightweight
Grip:Inferior (smooth, non textured, handle)
Beginner-friendly?Slightly more aggressive
Blade replacement ease:Medium (three-piece razor)

Good Stuff

  • Damn Cute!
  • Comes with five blades
  • Light and durable
  • Plastic-free and recyclable packaging

Bad Stuff

  • Handle gets slippery when wet
  • High shipping costs to the UK (around £10)

Find more options for women in our selection of the Best sustainable razors for women.

Best Safety Razor for Beginners, by Merkur

merkur 34c safety razor for beginners

Our top choice for beginners is definitely the Merkur 34C heavy-duty classic double-edge safety razor. It’s a little expensive, but it’s not going to drain your wallet.

Why is it great for beginners? First, the knurled handle is kind of Merkur’s signature and it’s known for being super easy to get to grips with. Then, the good thing with that razor is that it has well-balanced specs as it doesn’t go to extremes. It has a medium weight, a rather shorter handle and provides a mild aggressive shave. Finally, it’s a two-piece safety razor, making blade replacement really easy! However, we think its shorter handle is not the best if you have big hands and you might have to put your yoga moves into practice to reach the bottom of your legs.

If you’re starting your safety razor shaving journey at the same time as your sustainable shaving journey, this bestseller is the one for you.

Key specifications:

Razor type:Double-edged safety razor
Handle size:Short (75mm)
Material:Chrome-plated
Weight:Medium (76g)
Grip:Good (knurled handle)
Beginner-friendly?Yes (mild-aggressiveness)
Blade replacement ease:Easy (two-piece razor)

Good Stuff

  • Basic but high-quality razor
  • Blades are very easy to replace
  • Ideal for beginners
  • Easy to get to grips with
  • Not too expensive

Bad Stuff

  • Handle is quite short, even for average-small sized hands
  • Not the best at shaving difficult areas

Shaving in an eco-friendly way is more than the razor. Make sure you use the right shaving soap or cream (check out what makes a cream toxic) and use a shaving bowl for an optimal shaving experience.

Chrome Plated Safety Razor Made In The UK, by Edwin Jagger

edwin jagger chrome platted safety razor

A decent price for a safety razor made in the UK (Sheffield, to be exact), and a blade angle that’s just right for sensitive skin. So yes, you can have your eco-cake and eat it.

This is a two-piece safety razor, meaning that it’s quite easy to replace its blade. When we had an assembly/disassembly competition (yes, like in the army), it took half the time to replace the metal blade on this razor than with a three-piece razor.

The Edwin Jagger is compatible with all standard safety razor blades and includes all the instructions you need to shave accurately.

Razor type:Double-edged safety razor
Handle size:Medium (85mm)
Material:Chrome-plated
Weight:Medium (72g)
Grip:Average (lined pattern)
Beginner-friendly?Yes (mild-aggressiveness)
Blade replacement ease:Easy (two-piece razor)

Key specifications:

Good Stuff

  • Made close to home in the UK
  • Gentle enough for sensitive skin
  • Well-balanced weight makes it easy for beginners to handle

Bad Stuff

  • The handle can be a little slippery when wet
  • Not the best for stubborn beard stubble

The Affordable Pick, by Gillette

king c gillette safety razor

This safety razor is quite exciting!

First of all, this is the first safety razor for the crowds by Gillette in decades. Secondly, the reusable razor is named after the founder of Gillette, King Camp Gillette, which is also the first in Gillette’s range. So yes, the King C. Gillette Safety Razor is a pretty big deal in the shaving world.

If you’re looking for a good-looking, affordable safety razor that benefits from over a century’s worth of expertise, the King C. is your best pick! 

Key specifications:

Razor type:Double-edged safety razor
Handle size:Medium (95mm)
Material:Chrome plated
Weight:On the heavier side (102.6g)
Grip:Average (only the top half of the handle is textured)
Beginner-friendly?Yes (mild aggressiveness)
Blade replacement ease:Medium (three-piece razor)

Good Stuff

  • Inexpensive
  • Gillette’s expertise
  • Good for a beginner
  • Comes with 15 King C. Gillette Double Edge Safety Razor Blades

Bad Stuff

  • Blades are made in Russia
  • Grip is good but not the best

Eco-Friendly Razors Made from Recycled Plastic, by Preserve

preserve recycled razors

Yes, it’s not a plastic-free razor… but don’t judge yet, it’s nothing like traditional razors!

It’s the only razor handle made entirely from recycled material. It might not last as long, but it’s not made from brand-new materials (like bamboo and stainless steel) either. This actually makes it one of the most eco-friendly, recycled shaving tools for those on a tight budget.

We have compared the shaving experience from the Preserve 5 to the one from a classic cartridge razor and honestly, it’s very similar! The pivoting head works great and it provides quite a close shave (not as close as safety razors, though). Note that the razor feels very lightweight, even in comparison with traditional cartridge razors.

Note: There have been several complaints about rust appearing fast on the blades. To avoid that, make sure to dry your razor after use and store it in a dry container.

All in all, a great cheap option.

Key specifications:

Razor type:5-blade cartridge razor
Handle size:Medium
Material:Recycled materials
Weight:Lightweight (45g)
Grip:Good
Beginner-friendly?Yes, the easiest (but not the closest shave)
Blade replacement ease:Very easy

Good Stuff

  • Made from recycled plastic
  • Great option if you have metallic allergies
  • Cruelty-free
  • Replaceable cartridges
  • Standard razor design, like you’ve been using all your life (pivoting head)

Bad Stuff

  • Hefty carbon footprint! (Made in USA & Mexico)
  • Plastic packaging
  • Overall feel is, well, cheap
  • Not the closest shave
  • They might easily rust

Getting an eco friendly razor is only the first step of building a good eco shaving kit. Check out our guide to eco friendly shaving for the next steps.

The Best Safety Razor for Big Hands, by Merkur

merkur 23c long handle safety razor

This one is a classic, and we haven’t been disappointed by it! If you feel like the handle of the Merkur 34C (just above) is too short, this 23C might be the one for you!

In our opinion, the Merkur 34C is the best option for men shaving only their face because it’s slightly heavier and it has a shorter handle for more precision. And this one, the 23C is the better pick for women as its lengthy handle (4 inches) makes shaving over curves and awkward areas easy,

However, men with larger-than-average hands might also prefer the longer handle of the 23C.

Despite the easy manoeuvrability, you still get the close shave you’d expect from a safety razor.

Key specifications:

Razor type:Double-edged safety razor
Handle size:Long (105mm)
Material:Chrome-plated
Weight:Lightweight (62g)
Grip:Good (knurled handle)
Beginner-friendly?Yes (mild-aggressiveness)
Blade replacement ease:Medium (three-piece razor)

Good Stuff

  • Long handle: better grip for big hands
  • Easy to control when shaving legs and hard-to-reach places
  • Lightweight design
  • Comfortable to hold
  • Textured handle is non-slip

Bad Stuff

  • Takes a while to get used to
  • Struggles to cut through the thickest, wiry hairs

Non-Slip Safety Razor, by Earnest James

earnest james safety razors

Now, this is the definition of sustainable luxury. This eco-friendly razor is simply beautiful. The razor offers crosshatch knurling to give you a great grip, and it’s made of chrome! Plus, you have many options to choose from if that one grip doesn’t fit your needs. The company offers 5 different versions, two of which have beautiful wooden handles if you want a more “natural” feel.

And don’t forget, since it’s all metal, it will rust and degrade over time (if it ends up in a landfill, etc) but otherwise, you can use it forever and simply recycle your blades.

Key specifications:

Razor type:Double-edged safety razor
Handle size:Long (100mm)
Material:Chrome-plated
Weight:Medium (78g)
Grip:Good (knurled handle)
Beginner-friendly?Yes (mild-aggressiveness)
Blade replacement ease:Medium (three-piece razor)

Good Stuff

  • Multiple options
  • Local business (England)
  • Luxurious, yet eco-friendly

Bad Stuff

  • Slightly more expensive
  • No eBook included

Like a Disposable Razor, but Eco-friendly, by Bulldog

bulldog bamboo razor

Another bamboo beauty to boggle at. But it’s not just for a pretty face. This razor uses changeable blade cartridges with 5 tempered steel blades and an aloe vera lubrication strip.

The Bulldog bamboo razor feels just like your disposable razor and can pivot for curvy areas, making it suitable for shaving legs, armpits and faces alike (but change the cartridge to keep it hygienic!).

(Note: this is not a 100% plastic free razor, as there is plastic in the cartridges)

Key specifications:

Razor type:5-blade cartridge razor
Handle size:Medium (90mm)
Material:Brushed metal head and natural bamboo handle
Weight:Medium (70g)
Grip:Good (bamboo is naturally grippy)
Beginner-friendly?Yes (very easy, but not the closest shave)
Blade replacement ease:Very easy

Good Stuff

  • Built like the disposable razors you’re used to.
  • Less likely to cut yourself.
  • Packaging made entirely from recycled materials

Bad Stuff

  • Blade quality is not as good as a safety razor
  • Razor performance is about equal to a standard, disposable razor.
  • Blade cartridges create waste

Best Eco-Friendly Razor for The Adventurous Shaving Pro, by Feather

feather straight razor

Woah, calm down there Sweeney Todd! This is not an eco-friendly razor for the light-hearted, the heavy-handed, or the over-confident, as we found out (ouch).

Going for a Feather straight razor is going for a brand that also offers medical products, such as scalpels, that require the sharpest and highest quality blades. So, yes, this razor is expensive, but it’s also one of the best in the market.

The stainless-steel blade is incredibly sharp, but no worries, this is not a scalpel. The blade is designed to give you a similar shaving experience as with a traditional razor, thanks to its rounded head and ridge.

The blade is easy to remove, clean, or change, and the handle is made of resistant sustainable scotch wood.

If you’ve not used a straight blade before, start with a safety blade and work your way up.

Is this the ultimate razor for a zero-waste shaving kit? We think so!

Key specifications:

Razor type:Straight Razor (cut-throat razor)
Handle size:Long (124mm)
Material:Stainless steel and scotch wood
Weight:Lightweight (51g)
Grip:Good
Beginner-friendly?No (It’s sharp!!)
Blade replacement ease:Easy

Good Stuff

  • Sexiest razor we’ve ever seen
  • Replaceable blades
  • Easy to change the blades
  • Provides the best clean shave when you know how to wield it

Bad Stuff

  • You need to be a “pro” to use it
  • Expensive

Don’t Forget the Blades!

One last important note before you pick the eco razor you’ll spend a lifetime with.

Many of these razor sets are sold without blades, for legal and safety reasons. Just make sure you order your blades at the same time so you can combine shipping and save excess packaging! For safety razors, we like the pack of 100 Astra superior platinum double-edge safety razor blades. They are rather inexpensive and of high quality.

Astra Superior Razor Blades

I can barely even put into words how great of a deal this package is. Let’s just start with the most basic thing; you’re getting 100, yes 100, of these recyclable blades in ONE order. Plus, they’re platinum grade! You’re also getting a FREE shaving cream soap stick added in!

And yes, it is environmentally friendly. They are completely recyclable and will biodegrade over time!

astra safety razor blades


Buying Guide – Pick the right Eco-Friendly Razors

Razor type: As we said before, most razors we’ve selected are double-edged safety razors, simply because they are the best option for most people (head out to our short guide at the bottom of the page to see why). However, there are other sustainable options available, such as straight razors (also called cut-throat razors) for advanced shavers or more eco-friendly takes to the classic cartridge razor, for those who prefer the “comfort” of pivoting heads to adjust the shaving angle.

Handle size: The handle size of a razor is another element you need to consider, especially with reusable safety razors where the difference in size (and weight) can be big between the two models. In fact, it’s often a matter of preference. People with bigger hands usually find longer handles (100mm and more) to be more comfortable, and longer handles also offer more reach (that can make the difference when shaving your legs for example). While others prefer shorter handles as they usually give more control and are more manouverable (they are usually better for the face). In short, if you have big hands or if you shave your legs, you might prefer a longer handle. But if you need a razor for the face only, consider a shorter handle.

Material: When it comes to sustainable razors, most razors are made of metal or bamboo, but in some cases, you can find wooden or recycled razors. Premium metal safety razors are usually made of stainless steel, but even though these are extremely durable, they are more difficult to manufacture and rather expensive. For that reason, most consumer-targeted safety razors are made from a cheaper chrome-plated metal. Bamboo is a great alternative to metal handles, but make sure it comes from sustainable sources.

Weight: A heavier razor means you need to apply less pressure while shaving. You let the weight of the razor do the work. With a lighter razor, you need to apply some pressure to get a closer shave, and it can lead to cuts. But with the right technique, it will give the same result as heavier razors, while giving you slightly more control. But in reality, it’s once again a matter of preference and many agree that they prefer a heavier razor for the premium feel, rather than for performance.

Grip: The Grip is important on a razor, especially for wet shavers (aka, most people). Make sure to hold the razor correctly and look for non-slip handles. A bamboo razor, for example, offers a natural grip, due to bamboo’s properties. However, metal razors can be quite slippery, especially those with a smooth shiny cute handle. So, to avoid accidents, pick a razor with a textured handle, at least where your fingers will be placed (our preference goes to knurling).

Beginner-friendly:

We expect most of you to be reusable razor beginners, so we added this as a spec. We based it on the aggressiveness of the razor. Most people should opt for a mild-aggressive razor as they minimize cuts and offer a close enough shave (closer than cartridge razors, anyway). Keep in mind that people with strong body hair, for example, might benefit from a slightly more aggressive razor. Also, all the safety razors listed here are closed comb, which adds an extra layer of protection.

Blade replacement ease:

We understand that replacing the blade should not feel like playing Rubik’s cube. Fortunately, most razors these days won’t feel that way, but some are easier than others. As a general rule, three-piece safety razors are more difficult than two-piece safety razors, which are more difficult than cartridge razors.
But as you will notice, most reusable safety razors that we’ve picked are three-piece models. Not because we like to torture you, but simply because they are the most popular, and they are also easier to clean and maintain. And to be honest, you’ll be totally fine with blade replacement on a three-piece razor after 1 or 2 tries.

You can find these specifications for each razor in our list under “key specifications”.


About safety razors

Are Safety razors eco-friendly?

Back in the 90s, the EPA has estimated that 2 billion disposable razors ended up in the trash, for that reason, you should invest in a reusable razor. Unlike many modern razors, safety razors are designed to last for a long time and they are generally 100% plastic-free razors!

Most of these reusable razors are made of stainless steel which explains their longevity. Others are made of bamboo, and they are cruelty-free, plastic-free, and can be easily recycled.

The double-edge razor blades, on the other hand, are fully recyclable; however, you need to be familiar with the local regulations concerning tossing razor blades, as it differs from one place to another.

How to Use a Safety Razor?

Before Shaving
Before you start using your sustainable razor, it is recommended to prepare your skin first. To do so, it is better to shave during or after a hot shower, as it would open up your pores and permit a closer shaving. However, if you are a hot shower lover, it is preferable to allow your skin to cool down before shaving since hot water will soften your skin, and you risk cutting yourself.  

Using the Safety Razor
First, make sure to apply a generous amount of shaving soap or cream and leave it for about 30 seconds to soften your skin. Then, hold your razor 30-45 degrees angle and start shaving in the direction of your hair growth and take short straight strokes. Last, but not least, do not apply additional pressure that could cause any razor burn; the weight of the handle itself is enough to do the work. Make sure to replace the razor blade each week.

After Shaving
After your shaving experience, rinse with cold water which will close your skin pores. Then, apply a refreshing after-shaving cream or a body lotion that will smoothen your skin and protect it from any additional irritations. 


Let’s be honest, going for an eco razor is an easy (but important) step towards a sustainable bathroom, right? 

Whenever you feel ready to take the next step, we’ve got you and your baby covered (literally)! 

Yes, we’re talking eco-friendly toilet paper and reusable nappies

If you are looking for more bamboo products, check out our collection of the best bamboo toothbrushes that are 100% biodegradable and exceptionally durable.

Looking for more? Organic bathroom products don’t include any chemicals which could be harmful both to your skin and the environment. You can go organic with your shampoo (even for coloured hair), conditioner or deodorant.

A zero-waste bathroom? Almost there!


All products ship to the UK, most of them for free!

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Jonathan Davies

Jonathan Davies

Content manager @ beeco. Raised in the countryside, you can find me near water, whatever the weather.
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