Discovering Seattle’s Zero Waste Scene
From the iconic Pike Place Market to the towering Space Needle, Seattle is a city that captivates with its stunning landscapes. Nestled between water, mountains, and expansive parks, the natural beauty here is simply breathtaking. Seattle stands as a significant hub for technology and tourism, and it boasts one of the oldest continuously operating farmer’s markets in the United States. Additionally, it is home to an array of innovative zero waste stores, making it an exciting place for eco-conscious shoppers.
Fun Fact: The inception of Pike Place Market was sparked by outrage over inflated onion prices in the 1960s, prompting the city to establish a public market where farmers could sell their produce directly to consumers, ensuring fairer prices.
Our Top Picks For the Best Seattle Zero Waste Shops
- Public
- Mimi’s
- The Naked Grocer
- Recology
- Dandelion Botanical Company
- Eco Collective
- Out Of The Box Eco Store
- Town & Country
Exploring Zero Waste Stores in Seattle
What exactly is a zero waste store, and why should you consider shopping at one? These stores are designed to minimize waste by allowing customers to refill their containers with products, reducing reliance on single-use plastics. If you’re curious about where to shop zero waste in Seattle, keep reading!
1. Public
Public is a unique zero waste shop that offers a stress-free shopping experience in a beautifully curated space. Every product is carefully selected to ensure quality and eliminate single-use plastic waste. The owner, who embraced a lower-waste lifestyle through trial and error, identified a gap in the market and created Public to meet the needs of eco-conscious shoppers.
At Public, you can choose to shop in-store, bringing your own refillable containers, or order online with free shipping on U.S. orders over $30. An added convenience is the ability to drop off your jars for refilling while you handle other errands. Their DIY cleaning recipes available online are a fantastic resource!
What They Offer:
- Items for reducing waste on-the-go, tackling food waste, and personal care
- Products for kids
- Refillable items including dish soap, oral care, personal products, hair care, oils, and laundry supplies
Hours:
- Tue/Wed/Fri: 11 am – 6 pm
- Sat/Sun: 11 am – 5 pm
- Closed on Mon and Thurs
2. Mimi’s
Mimi’s is a paradise for bulk pantry staples, where customers can bring their own containers to fill with the organic goods they need. Co-founders Heather and Berenice are passionate about zero waste living, aiming to make it accessible and enjoyable for others. Heather was inspired by her experience at Scoop Marketplace, while Berenice’s minimalist lifestyle naturally aligned with the mission of Mimi’s.
At Mimi’s, you can shop in-store for high-quality organic items such as beans, flour, and rice, as well as refillable containers and sustainable kitchen utensils. Online shopping is also available, with orders ready for pickup in just 2 to 4 days.
What They Offer:
- Refills for cooking and baking supplies, herbs and spices, grains, dried fruits, nuts, chocolate, and household products
- Refillable containers
- Kitchen necessities including dish scrubbers and silicone baking mats
Hours:
- Monday: 4:30 – 8 pm
- Thurs/Fri/Sat: 11 am – 6 pm
- Sunday: 12 pm – 5 pm
- Tues/Wed: appointment only
3. The Naked Grocer
The Naked Grocer prides itself on being a “waste-less” grocery store, with all products packaged in glass, paper, metal, or compostable materials. This shop offers a wide range of produce and grocery items while prioritizing sustainability by supporting responsible producers and sourcing local products whenever possible.
Currently, shopping is only available in-store, but an online shop is in the works. Customers are encouraged to bring their own containers to use at the Tare Station, where they can weigh and fill them with their desired items. Special orders for larger quantities are also welcome!
What They Offer:
- Dairy products, eggs, tofu, fish, and meat
- Bakery goods
- Frozen fruit and prepared meals
- Natural beers and wines
- Cleaning supplies and body products
- A variety of bulk items
Hours:
- Mon – Fri: 11 am – 8:30 pm
- Sat/Sun: 9 am – 8:30 pm
4. Recology
Recology features a unique concept where all products are crafted from recycled or upcycled materials, designed to replace single-use items. As a 100% employee-owned company, Recology prioritizes community engagement and environmental responsibility.
Beyond retail, they provide recovery resources to minimize waste, boasting impressive statistics such as transforming over 735,000 tons of food scraps into compost. With four locations, they also accept hard-to-recycle items and offer staff assistance for recycling inquiries. Customers can find eco-friendly brands like Abeego and Stasher and take advantage of bulk goods.
What They Offer:
- Health and beauty products
- Kids’ items
- Kitchen supplies
- Reusable water bottles
- Bulk goods including laundry detergent and shampoo
- Gifts
Hours:
- Open Tues – Sun: 10 am – 5 pm
5. Dandelion Botanical Company
Dandelion Botanical Company, a natural apothecary established in 1996, specializes in ethically sourced botanicals and organic products. Recently nominated as one of America’s top five herb stores, they partner with local farming communities to bring fresh herbs to customers.
They offer a range of classes on DIY skincare and seasonal herbalism, providing an excellent opportunity for learning. You can shop in person, call in for pickup orders, or browse their website for online purchases.
What They Offer:
- Bulk herbs
- Women’s health products
- Essential oils and flower essences
- Homeopathies and Chinese patent formulas
- Tea and culinary needs such as salts and spices
- Candles and bath products
Hours:
- Wed-Mon: 10 am – 6 pm
- Closed on Tues
6. Eco Collective
Eco Collective was founded by Genevieve and Marimar, who bonded over their journeys toward zero waste living. They aim to unite self-care with sustainability, offering products that are eco-friendly and packaged in plastic-free materials.
The brand participates in local farmers’ markets and also offers online sales, with all shipping done in a carbon-neutral manner. Their products are vegan, safe for both consumers and the planet.
What They Offer:
- Bath and body products
- Skincare and haircare items
- Stationery and cleaning supplies
Location: The warehouse is based in Seattle (5309 22nd Ave NW Suite B, Seattle, WA, 98107), and operates online 24/7.
7. Out Of The Box Eco Store
Founded by Aline, who relocated from Paris to Seattle, Out Of The Box began with a vision to reduce waste and promote sustainable home decor. After witnessing the environmental impact of excess packaging, she launched a mobile refill shop to honor her commitment to low-waste living.
Customers can shop in person, request the mobile refill service, or order online for delivery. Check their event calendar to find out where the mobile shop will be next!
What They Offer:
- Home care products
- Personal care items
- Pet products
- Laundry and cleaning supplies
- Starter kits for sustainable living
Hours:
- Wed: 1 pm – 5 pm
- Fri/Sat: 11 am – 5 pm
8. Town & Country
Town & Country is a heartwarming family-owned business founded by brothers John and Mo Nakata, along with their friend Ed Loverich. Growing up together in Seattle fostered a deep appreciation for diverse cultures, which is reflected in the variety of organic foods and products offered at their supermarket.
They provide both online and in-person shopping options, featuring an extensive selection of bulk goods, organic foods, and beverages. Customers can also explore curated recipes and special offers on their website, with six locations available, including a prominent store in Ballard.
What They Offer:
- Asian foods and bakery items
- Bulk goods and beverages, including beer, wine, and spirits
- Frozen foods and dairy products
- Meat, seafood, and sushi
- Health and body care items
Hours:
- Open daily from 7 am – 10 pm
- Online orders accepted daily from 8 am – 6 pm
Understanding Zero Waste Shops
When I first learned about zero waste shops, I was amazed by the innovative concept of refilling containers with products while minimizing packaging waste. These stores are dedicated to reducing the plastic footprint we leave behind, addressing the alarming fact that a staggering 36% of all plastics produced are used for packaging, with only 25% recycled properly.
Shopping at a zero waste store is a meaningful alternative to traditional grocery outlets, allowing customers to cut down on single-use plastics while often enjoying lower prices through bulk purchasing. You can discover unique zero waste gift ideas and daily-use items that promote a greener lifestyle.
Final Thoughts on Zero Waste Shopping in Seattle
Seattle is at the forefront of innovation, making it a perfect place to explore the future of sustainable shopping. Interested in visiting these eco-friendly stores? Simply search for “best zero waste store near me in Seattle,” and you’ll find one nearby! Embracing zero waste shopping can be easy; just like remembering your reusable grocery bags, keep some refillable containers in your car, and head out to shop sustainably. Which store will you visit first? If you’re in Seattle or planning a visit, share your favorite zero waste shops with us! Don’t forget to spread the word by sharing this article!