Pictures and products courtesy of The Pale Blue Dot.
When we think about creating zero-waste it can be pretty daunting; it seems like almost everything comes in plastic. I’m hoping this post offers some manageable steps we can all take in the home that will lead us toward a more sustainable lifestyle.
These beeswax wraps are a gamechanger. Using plastic wrap and Ziploc baggies for leftover produce is fairly common, but it is very wasteful. So, when I saw these food wraps hit the shelves at the grocery store, I had to try them out; I was not disappointed. The wraps can be used repeatedly and they are easy to clean. I feel like this one change made a huge impact on the amount of plastic my family used each month and I highly recommend them.
Dryer balls not only save electricity by cutting down on drying time, but they also reduce static and wrinkling and improve the longevity of your wardrobe. Dryer balls can last more than 500 loads and you can even use them to add a scent to your clothes! (use an essential oil like lavender to each ball).
With the observation in 2018 that billions of used straws polluted the world’s beaches, many individuals and those in the foodservice industry made the switch to reusable straws. Straws are an easy, economical and sustainable option that we can all get behind to preserve the beauty of nature.
Incredibly, over a billion toothbrushes end up in North American landfills each year, so a bamboo toothbrush is a great alternative. When you’re ready to dispose of it, simply pluck the nylon bristles out with tweezers and throw them in the garbage and then put the handle in your backyard compost or yard waste.
Amber glass bottles are a simple solution to plastic soap containers and cleaning bottles. You can usually find a local neighbourhood shop offering soap refills.
Besides being a more sustainable option, reusable pads are also comfier, great for sleeping if you have a heavy flow, and don’t contain harmful chemicals and carcinogens.
It often takes multiple wipes or pads to take off an entire day’s makeup and the cost can add up. I currently use a cleansing bomb that doesn’t require any wipes or a makeup removing towel. If you like the idea of having a pad though, I’d definitely recommend these reusable rounds!
8. Deodorant
I made the switch to Routine’s natural deodorant while working at a health food store and realizing how many nasty chemicals and alarming ingredients were in my normal stick deodorant and how much plastic I threw away. While the price may seem expensive, it lasts for months and it’s effective.
9. Metal Razor
The Environmental Protection Agency estimates that 2 billion razors are thrown out in the U.S. each year. Razors are one of, if not, the most wasteful product in our bathroom. Say hello to the only razor you will ever need.
10. Tote Bag
We’re all aware of the dangers plastic bags pose. I always make sure to keep my tote in the car so I don’t forget and the odd time I do I am one of those people who will try to juggle my purchases. So easy, so inexpensive, and such a positive impact on the environment!
Woohoo! I do all ten of these things!
Great list for sustainable living!
Love all of these ideas! Some I am already doing but some I definitely need to add to my routine! Great post!
I love these! I already do a couple but I’m going to add dryer balls and food wraps to the list. Something else you could add to the list is reusable produce bags for when you go to the grocery store!
Thanks for the suggestions!