12 Products To Use To Be More Sustainable
I think we all know that our environment is in dire need of help. Did you know that as of May 2020 the concentration of CO2 in our atmosphere is the highest it has ever been in human history? Climate change is real and it’s true that we are doing irreparable damage to our planet. Consider all of the products you use in a day. How many of those products can be swapped out for more sustainable products? We have 12 environmentally friendly products that can be easily integrated into your everyday routines.
1. Straws
A reusable straw is an absolute must! Save one turtle at a time with your on-the-go straw. There are so many options like glass, metal and silicone to choose from and most of the time you can get them in a pack! Investing in different types of straws with different materials and thickness is great so you can use them no matter what you’re drinking. From water to smoothies, you have a straw for every need. You can also find ones that are travel friendly so you can always keep on in your bag or car.
2. Reusable bags
All those random bags you’ve collected over the years, don’t get rid of them! They are such a versatile and multi-use product. There are a lot of options in terms of reusable bags whether it be a tote to carry your groceries, mesh bags for produce, or silicon bags for leftovers or snacks. Having these items on hand are so handy and bank account friendly because you don’t need to rebuy things like baggies or grocery bags.
3. To-Go Containers
Did you know that Styrofoam doesn’t break down in landfills? All of those Styrofoam to go containers for take-out and leftovers have been in my hands more times than I can count just over the course of quarantine. Check out more environmentally friendly food transport products like bento boxes or even investing in durable glass Tupperware that will last you a lifetime.
4. Food Storage
I know what you’re thinking… to-go containers and food storage aren’t the same thing? They KINDA are, but we want to draw attention to a couple things that are usually overlooked like foil and plastic wrap. You can buy reusable beeswax, silicone stretch lid covers, or food savers to replace those single use items. You can wrap or cover your partially used foods or produce with these and will save you so much money from buying wasteful single use products!
5. On the go
When grabbing your to go food or packing your own lunch, don’t forget to bring your utensils too. You can find great options for eco friendly reusable utensils on amazon or with a little more research places like small local businesses. Ours are made from bamboo, but you can find ones made from recycled plastic or metal too.
6. Compost Bin
This may seem extreme because you don’t grow your own produce, or have a farm that would use compost, but your compost has purpose! Grab a compost bin and leave it on your counter for a week. See how much and the kinds of food waste that compiles over the next 7 days. All of that food waste and compost can be used for so many things like aiding in grass regrowth, giving back to the soil in a garden, or even for compost teas. None of these interests you? Take your compost and donate it to a neighbor who gardens or look up compost donation in your local area.
7. Cotton Pads
Moving on from food storage and waste and on to something slightly more glamourous, your hygiene essentials. Bathroom essentials like cotton pads, cotton balls, and cue tips are used multiple times a day in most bathrooms, but they can be so wasteful and harmful to the environment! You can swap out these single use items out for more sustainable and cost friendly options like these reusable cotton rounds. Use them for toner or to remove makeup throughout the week. Once you’ve used them, throw them into a mesh bag so they don’t get lost in the wash. Wash and reuse! Easy and cuts so much waste.
8. Toothpaste
It’s crazy to consider how much single use plastic you come in contact with each day. Typically your oral care is consumed with plastic whether it be your plastic toothpaste, the plastic packaging of your toothpaste or mouth wash, even your little flosser picks are made from plastic. Consider finding alternatives for some of these items. You can use a bamboo toothbrush or even use sustainable toothpaste like Bite’s bits. These convenient little bits are packaged in a glass container that can be sent back in and refilled. The bits replace traditional toothpaste and is vegan and cruelty free!
9. Shampoo/ Conditioner
When it comes to sustainability it can be very overwhelming when you realize how many everyday things that deem necessities are not environmentally friendly. Things like toothpaste, paper towels, and shampoo are all products that are constantly being used and most likely not recycled or reused properly. Like the Bite’s toothpaste, you can get refillable shampoo and conditioner. If that is not budget friendly for you, you can also try these great and natural shampoo and conditioning bars. They sell them is a multitude of places like Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods, and Lush!
10. Period Essentials
Periods are never fun! Have you ever considered how much waste comes from period products alone? Tampons and pads can take years to breakdown and decompose in landfills. Most of your traditional period products also contain harmful ingredients that can be absorbed into your body after long term use. Try using a menstrual cup to eliminate waste and look after your body. Loads of different period brands have hoped onto the menstrual cup train. It’s difficult to recommend one because everyone has different preferences but we’ve heard great things about The Honey Pot and Tampax Menstrual Cups.
11. Reusable Water Bottle
Everyone knows about plastic water bottles and how harmful all that plastic can be especially when it’s not recycled properly. Having a good reusable water bottle is essential. Once you’ve lost your favorite water bottle you will never be the same. We suggest investing in a high-quality water bottle that works well for your lifestyle. Meaning picking one that is a good size for you and that is comfortable to drink from. I know that sounds silly but sometimes the opening of the bottle can be too big or small and if we’re going to be taking this thing everywhere with us then it needs to be just right!
12. Dryer Balls
These are a great replacement for your single use dryer sheets. You can make these very quickly at home or even buy a set from an eco-friendly website like Grove Collaborative. You can drop a few essential oils onto the balls, so they infuse your clothes with your favorite smells. Bonus! They also help take drying time off of your clothes! Saving energy and your electricity bill! It’s a win win!
