Why do I write product reviews?

Product reviews are one of the most popular types of blog that I write.

Product reviews for ethical/ plastic free products is something that I valued on other blogs- so I began to write them myself, and this has been matched in viewerships to those articles. But if I'm honest, this has always been a source of disappointment for me, that indepth complex blogs about wider issues I am passionate about, haven't matched viewership.

There are a few reasons I think reviews have high viewership.

• The sad reality that even when ethical, or in some cases perseeved as so, buying eco products is a still a form of consumerism. For many people, it’s the easiest part of “eco friendly” to engage with, but with the dopamine of purchases still.

• I usually write reviews for low cost products, like skin care items. But I realised the cost isn’t necessarily the important factor in trying to make a zero waste purchase. It’s trying to understand if you’re going to enjoy the product, it’s good quality, it’s going to do what you want/ need it to and so it’s worth purchasing- to save waste. I have bought many skincare products over the years that I didn’t get on with, and have had to either use up bregrudgingly or pass on, so I read reviews before any purchases. I hate waste. It can have beautiful glass packaging, but if it’s not going to be utilised it’s not zero waste.

• A proper review beats the short reviews on websites, especially for pricier or longer term purchases. I will always be honest too.

• Sometimes a zero waste swap might be a little more complex, like a safety razor. A review of the process is really useful, compared to say, just a review of the construction of the product itself. I found this when I ran my zero waste stall, people wanted to chat about how to use it before committing. If taking a little time to explain how I use something means it’s a little bit more accessible, I’m happy.

• I don’t just review products. Book review blogs stay popular over the years, which always surprises me. Sometimes I review older books and don’t advertise the review at all, as sometimes it’s simply a diary for me of that book. It brings me such joy when they get hundreds of organic views. This is the most satisfying of reviews, as in a way it’s a kind of book club, across the globe. Obviously a book is quite a commitment of time, so understanding if you’re going to love it before purchasing or getting out of the library is a great idea.

• It gets conversations going around a new product, such as a refill service etc.

• People like to read reviews from like minded people. For example, as you develop into zero waste I think you become more sensitive to heavily scented products, and so a fellow zero waster (me) is likely to review with similar priorities.

• Some of my reviews are for services, like Too Good To Go. I completely empathise with the desire to understand how the system works, before committing or partaking. In this case, lots of people may like a step by step of how to engage in the service, again, like Too Good To Go. I sincerely hope that I help someone who is a little nervous, gain the courage to try.

• I have worried that my blogs drive consumerism. However, I always write my blogs honestly which means sometimes they’re not all completely positive for the brand or product. I hope I am helping with mindful purchases. I hope I am helping people be a little bit more informed before they buy products, and sometimes this is going to mean preventing a purchase.

I always try and be fair in my reviews. Sometimes I try a product I know it just isn’t for me. But it is a great product. Sometimes it needs tweaks for me to enjoy. Sometimes I take years to write reviews- if it’s something I really want to test drive fully or try out in different circumstances. If I’m not getting paid or sponsored there is no rush and I can publish when I’m good and ready.

I have come to peace with the popularity of the product and book reviews. At the end of the day, I started writing these blogs as I also found them useful too. They speak for themselves in their views, consistently over time, I hope they bring value to you and help you make the right purchase and prevent waste.

If you have a product, or a book, that you would like to send us to review, please send us an email. We will endeavour to review your product and will always be fair and honest.