So, I have tried the search function and I might not know the right terms, but I'm not finding anything.

Are there any stores in CH (Basel area preferrably) where you can buy items in bulk? I'm not talking about massive purchases. I'm thinking of reusable containers -- where we could bring our own container to the store. Everything from flour, nuts, cereal, and on to shampoo, dish detergent and laundry soap. Local markets are great, but I'm also thinking of household staples.

I love the recycling opportunities in CH, but I realize that everything I throw out still seems to be packaging.

Have you looked at Top CC for businesses ?

http://www.topcc.ch/contento/default.aspx

http://www.prodega.ch/DE/Home/Pages/willkommen.aspx

I just checked out their website and it seems to be aimed for purchasing large quantities? (as you mention for businesses)

I'm looking for something where I can refill my own containers -- avoiding the whole packaging process. So, again, I think my term may not be correct. For example, instead of throwing out my plastic bottle of dish detergent or shampoo every month, I would like to refill my own container from some huge vat in a store and pay for the contents.

In the US, there weren't as many options with the plastic 're-fill' bags, so it seemed every town had some store like this. But, the plastic re-fill bags may be my only alternative here.

Overall, my goal is to reduce to almost nothing what we throw away.

Thought I'd post an answer to my own thread in case it's ever searched. Happened upon Oekoladen the other day. It's in the shops under the Theater. It's exactly what I was looking for. You can refill household cleaning fluids, shampoo, hand soap and other items there. My quest is completed! Although, my daughter mentioned I could have some items refilled at the local drogerie. Hmm, maybe should have asked her first.

www.oekoladen.ch

Hi! I'm so glad I saw your post as I, too, am looking for a place to refill household items. I'll check out Oekoladen tomorrow. I've been here two months now and I just discovered a place called Vom Fass in Basel. Check it out--he sells oils, vinegars, bulk liquor, and a few other items in bulk. I love that you're trying to be waste-free--me too! Here's hoping others catch on...!

Not sure if you are already aware about this project... it is probably a good news for your Zero Waste lifestyle.

https://www.facebook.com/BaselUnverpackt/?fref=ts
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1F...1Aj1w/viewform