*My fiancé thinks it’s a good idea to me to note that when I say plaster, I’m not referring to the white plaster but instead what I mean is adhesive bandage or band-aid. So there you go before you begin reading, remember plaster = adhesive bandage.
I’m a clutz. Perhaps it’s the lack of sleep and tiresome week I’ve had that has result in me:
1) Trapping in my own finger in the copier machine paper tray
2) Closing the room door on my own toe
3) Remembering my cell phone, but instead left behind my handbag
And might I say all within a consecutive 5 days! But honestly I think it’s because I’m generally quite careless by nature and being tired just adds to it.
Anyways, this week alone has left me nursing some wounds. Nothing severe but still requiring the use of a few good plasters.
Which brings me to wonder how many of us realize that even the smallest and insignificant things we use on a daily basis has a green version?
Now since it wouldn’t be very wise or hygienic to “reuse” your used plasters, going green here obviously doesn’t mean we’re expecting or in any way suggesting you to do just that. In fact it’s worth remembering how ‘used’ plasters are considered biohazards so please do discard them with care.
On contraire, going green with the elements within your first aid kit simply means buying those made from eco-friendly materials.
So let’s assume we all have 4 questions about this greener option and the following are the answers to them:
1. So what are our options when it comes to plasters?
The answer to this one is, you can purchase plasters made latex-free (made from recycled PVC plastic), natural food-grade colourings dyed, have an animal-free, water-based adhesive and of course recyclable packaging!
2. Will selecting a green version of the product in any way reduce its medical effectiveness?
No, in fact it would likely be better for you as it is non-toxic and designed to be less of an irritant on your skin.
3. What brands may I look into for greener plasters?
You can try Eco Guard Vegan and Help: I’ve Cut Myself
4. Do they cost more than the ordinary plasters?
Not necessarily, Eco Guard Vegan retails at $3.99 for a pack of 25 pieces per box but Help: I’ve Cut Myself sells for $6 for a pack of 8 pieces. It’s likely the latter costs more because their plasters are made from hydrocolloid which is the same material they use in hospitals to help wounds heal faster and reduce scarring.
On a completely unrelated note, you should visit Help I’m Bored for a few good laughs…Help is the company which sells Help: I’ve cut myself (plasters)
I can’t even remember the last time I needed to use one of these things! But it is good to know that now they are also available for the ”green” aware people!
I pride myself on shopping carfeully, but I rarely thought about the eco-rating of bandaids before. Did you say the eco-friendly ones were made from recycled PVC – because PVC is not something I’m comfortable putting anywhere near my skin.
I understand your concern (a very good one too!). If it’s a minor wound, you could always do well with organic cotton gauze and some surgical tape. It’s not perfect, but with sustainable living, every little bit helps.
I had no idea you could get green plasters lol..
I do not think i have ever seen them in my local pharmacy, but i will look out for them now!