Refill shopping in London: a guide to shopping with less waste
Want to cut down on packaging without changing the way you shop completely? Refill shops make it easy to bring your own containers and top up on everyday essentials. Across London, you can find shops selling loose food, refillable cleaning products, toiletries and reusable household goods.
Instead of buying a new packet or bottle each time, bring a clean container, fill it with what you need and use it again next time. You can buy a small amount to try something new, or stock up on the ingredients you use every week.
Choose unscented items for pregnancy/nursing or near babies/pets (and xylitol-free dental care if you live with animal friends). If buying plants, read up on pet-friendly gardens (and how to stop birds flying into windows).
Why shop at refill stores?
Refilling is a practical way to reduce single-use packaging. It can also help you buy only what you need, which is useful if you have limited storage or want to avoid food going unused. Some shops stock local, organic or specialist products too, although ranges vary from shop to shop.
You don’t need to overhaul your whole routine. Start with one or two regular purchases—perhaps oats, rice, spices or washing-up liquid—and see what works for you. Refill shopping is not about being perfect; it’s about making lower-waste choices when they’re convenient and affordable.
What to expect on your first visit
Check the shop’s latest information before you go. Some provide containers, while others ask you to bring your own. Take clean, dry jars or bottles and ask staff how to weigh and label them. If you’re refilling cleaning products, use a suitable container and label it clearly at home.
A short shopping list can help you avoid buying more than you need. If you’re unsure how the process works, just ask—the staff can explain how to fill, weigh and pay for your items.
Refill shops across London
London’s refill options are spread across its 32 boroughs, and what’s available can vary by neighbourhood. Some areas have dedicated zero-waste shops; elsewhere, independent grocers, markets or community shops may offer loose goods or refill services.
When choosing where to shop, check what each business actually offers. One might specialise in bulk food, while another focuses on cleaning products or toiletries. Opening hours, product ranges and refill services can change, so check directly with the shop before making a special trip.
Whether you’re in the north, south, east or west of the city, there may be a refill option closer than you think. Look up shops in your neighbourhood, ask local businesses about their services and share your discoveries with other Londoners:
- Kilo (Islington)
- Jarr Market (Stoke Newington and Herne Hill)
- Get Loose (Hackney)
- Gather (Peckham and Nunhead/Southwark)
- Art of Zero Living (Greenwich)
- Shop Without Packaging (Lee Green) Lewisham
- Naked Larder (Herne Hill)
Source Bulk Foods has several shops:
- Hampstead
- Richmond
- Battersea
- Crouch End
- Chiswick
- Notting Hill
Start small and find your local favourites
Refill shopping doesn’t have to replace your usual supermarket shop. It can simply be one useful stop for the products you buy regularly. Choose what fits your budget, schedule and journey, and build the habit at your own pace.
Before visiting, check a shop’s current opening hours, address, product range and container policy. If you’re sharing recommendations, include a link to the business’s latest information so readers can check before they travel.
Where do you refill in London? Share your favourite local shop and help more people discover easy ways to shop with less waste!
