Evergreen Refillery

2025-08-15 - Opened at 502 1st Street.

Refillery offers eco-friendly service

Jay Gunter, Cheney Free Press | Last updated Sep 03, 2025 11:13am0

CHENEY—The Evergreen Refillery, which opened Aug. 15, brings a new “eco-swap” concept to Cheney. Owner Scarlett Arlt explained the model as replacing disposable household items with reusable, environmentally friendly alternatives. “It’s just all-around better for you and the environment,” she said.

The store’s refill stations allow customers to purchase soaps, cleaners, laundry detergent and body wash in any amount. Shoppers can bring their own jars, bottles or pumps—or buy one in-store—and pay only for what they need.

Arlt, a former microbiology lab worker at Community Colleges of Spokane, said health issues pushed her to find a new path. When a similar Spokane store closed, she saw an opportunity to open a shop of her own. “I didn’t want to be a burden to any of the businesses in town,” she said.

Originally from Nebraska, Arlt moved to the area last year after finding a home she and her wife connected with. Since opening, she said community support has been overwhelming. “We’re not even two weeks in and already we have to place so many orders because we’ve run out of refills,” Arlt said.

She encourages residents to stop in and see the variety of locally made products on the shelves. Eco-friendly shopping, she said, doesn’t have to be intimidating. “If you’ve never tried sustainability before, it’s meant to be for everybody. You don’t have to change your whole house at once—just start with a swap in your laundry room or living room.”