10 sustainable swaps to make right now
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It can feel like life is a never-ending run to the grocery or big box store for toothpaste, detergent, paper towels...the list goes on. And you'll probably need everything on that list in another couple of weeks, right?
That's because most of the products that we use in our households today are part of what is called a linear economy. That means that these products have a predictable and well-worn path to the garbage. We buy them, we use them, and then we throw them away. That’s where these swaps come in.
The goal of sustainable swaps is to select products that are part of a circular economy. These products take a long and winding path to the garbage, or better yet, avoid the garbage altogether. That means looking for products that are intended to last a lifetime, are compostable, or eliminate and/or replace plastic. And because we know this can be overwhelming, we’re going to help you get started.
Here are 10 sustainable swaps you can make right now:
1. Cloth Napkins
Pretty much cloth anything is a good swap because that generally means it is washable and thus reusable! We love cloth napkins because they look great on the table, stand up to use, and make an immediate daily impact.
2. Reusable Totes and Bags
Canvas, net, or upcycled from other materials (like denim, flour sacks, burlap - the possibilities are endless!) reusable totes are a great option for eliminating plastic bags. Keep them in your car to prevent forgetting them on your next grocery run.
3. Period Products
Traditional period care is often an unsustainable combination of disposable plastic packaging and toxic ingredients. We break down the options in the link below!
(Tip: Reusable pads and period underwear can also be put to good use postpartum!)
Sustainable period curious?
4. Swedish Dishcloths
These cloths replace up to 17 rolls of paper towels and are biodegradable at end-of-use. We use them for everything from washing dishes and wiping spills to cleaning windows and dusting. Plus they come in so many cute patterns!
5. Reusable Facial Rounds
Replace disposable cotton balls and facial rounds with a washable alternative. They are perfect for removing make-up, applying toner, or washing and exfoliating. Look for gentle materials like cotton, bamboo, and hemp.
6. Bamboo Toothbrushes
Get rid of the plastic of the actual toothbrush and the plastic packaging. Bamboo is even compostable at end-of-use and available in adult or kid sizes.
7. Solid Products
Just about every liquid product is packaged in a plastic container. DYK that many can be purchased from Grove as solid bars or tablets, eliminating that plastic? And with products like Blueland, you dissolve the tablet in water - making refills a sustainable breeze!
(Bonus: many of these solid alternatives also eliminate the harmful, toxic ingredients that their liquid counterparts often contain!)
8. Razors
A stainless steel safety razor is meant to last a lifetime by only replacing the blades every 4-8 uses. Along with being eco-friendly, safety razors also help prevent ingrown hairs, are more economical long-term, and do not have the toxic strip with hormone disruptors found on many disposable razors!
9. Straws
We know that you know this one, but have you swapped it yet? We’ll make it easy for you - pick up these copper-cutie faves on your next Target run.
10. Dryer Balls
Great for reducing drying time and cutting static without the single-use waste of sheets. If you miss the scent, apply a few drops of your favorite essential oil directly to the wool balls.
