- Don’t use plastic food containers
If your cupboards are already full of Tupperware (and let’s face it, whose aren’t), you can continue to use them as they are better than disposable ones but opt for glass or stainless steel food containers in the future. - Invest in cloth napkins and handkerchiefs
It seems strange to think that older generations didn’t constantly reach for a tissue or paper napkin every time they ate or blew their nose. - Use rechargeable batteries
So many everyday products rely on batteries. By spending a little more upfront, you can save yourself $$$ in the future by recharging instead of replacing your batteries and adding harmful toxins to the planet. This battery charger charges AA and AAA and includes 2 USB ports, genius! - Reconsider your approach to ‘disposable’ fashion
Before buying, ask yourself: if you know you aren’t going to wear something in six months – or even three months – is it really worth it? Instead, build a stylish capsule wardrobe and always donate old clothing instead of placing it in the trash. Need tips on how to keep your clothes in tip-top condition? Check out this post. - Stop buying ‘new’ clothes
Nothing beats finding an incredible vintage piece for cheap at your local thrift store. Nowadays you don’t even need to leave the house, with a range of online sites and apps helping people find a new home for their preloved clothing.Another idea if you’re not into vintage, is to have a clothes swap party with friends so you can all exchange your unwanted clothing for some new looks with no waste. - Learn some basic sewing techniques
Repair instead of replacing is the mantra of any zero waste lifestyle. A worn-in and much-loved pair of jeans will most likely look (and fit) better than a new pair off the rack. Learn to sew up any holes, or alter clothing to make it like new. - Use worn-out cotton clothes use as rags
From cleaning your home to DIY projects and just about everything in the garage, you can never have too many rags to clean with. - Shop at a Farmers’ market
Nothing beats a home-cooked meal. Picking up fresh ingredients from a farmers market (using your reusable shopping bag and containers, of course), cuts down on excess packaging that processed, pre-made meals and takeouts are covered in. If you’re short on time, check out this post for some brilliant make-ahead meals that you can prep and freeze. - Bring your own containers to the grocery store
When buying produce that’s sold loose, it’s easy to use your own containers, but if you shop at the grocery store, it’s worth asking if they have anywhere that you can fill up containers, or if you can hand back their containers to reuse if they’re sold pre-packed. - Hit up Craigslist before you buy new
Before buying brand new furniture or other household items, check sites like Craigslist, eBay, or Freecycle for your area. It’s also worth looking in thrift shops, at garage sales (or at curbside collections, with the owner’s permission), or put up a wanted ad. You could kit your place out for next to nothing and discover some unique finds, as well as reducing waste.
They might be great for convenience but you can aim to send fewer to landfills by using cloth ones and washing them along with your normal laundry. Always use disposable tissues when you have the flu, however, throwing away reduces the chances of passing on the bug.
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Our favorite recipe book for home-cooked inspiration
