Science

Eco-Friendly Alternatives to These Household Staples

by Ally Sabatina

Amazon

Confession: my household throws so much away. We’re only two people, but we manage to fill an entire recycling bin every week, not to mention multiple trash bags. If there’s one thing we know how to do in this house, it’s throw away… stuff.

But we’re trying to change. Even though a couple months have gone by and the Marie Kondo konmari craze has mostly evaporated, we still find ourselves asking, “Does this bring me joy?” about stuff in our lives. And the answer is usually no. Today I decided to start asking myself, “Does the trash you put out every week bring you joy?” It doesn’t. It just brings guilt.

So if you want to stop asking yourself, “Why did I buy this thing just to throw it away?” and you want to start living a more eco-friendly lifestyle, these are some great products to help kick-start that journey.

TOPOINT Reusable Cotton Rounds - 16 Pcs

Why We Picked It: These cotton rounds are made of wholly sustainable organic bamboo cotton, which is both more absorbent and takes a lot less water to produce than regular cotton. These can be used for removing makeup, applying toner, whatever you normally use cotton rounds for. And they’re easy to wash with the included laundry bag.

YIHONG Zero Waste Reusable Produce Bags - 15 Pcs

Why We Picked It: You probably don’t even think about it while you’re at the grocery store, but every time you use a plastic produce bag, you’re taking it home to the trash. These reusable produce bags optimize the freshness of your food and cut your plastic use. Ultra lightweight, they won’t add weight (and therefore extra cash) to your produce bill.

rezip Flat-Lay Reusable Bag - 5 Pack

Why We Picked It: If you pack your lunch or often have to save small leftovers, these reusable zipper bags will make it so that you never have to buy Ziploc bags again. Made out of BPA-free silicone, these are freezer safe and leakproof. Transparent design and multi-colored options allow you to know exactly what is in each bag.

Handy Laundry Wool Dryer Balls

Why We Picked It: Dryer sheets are essential for wrinkle-free, soft laundry, but hi, you don’t have to buy them anymore. These reusable wool dryer balls do all that with zero chemicals and no need to repurchase.

YesTree 100% Paperless Stainless Steel Drip Coffee Maker

Why We Picked It: You know how frustrating it is when you realize you forgot to pick up a new thing of coffee filters, and you’re forced into the indignity of running to the store before you’ve even had your morning coffee? This stainless steel drip coffee maker completely eliminates the need for paper filters. You’re welcome.

S'well Vacuum Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle - 17 Oz

Why We Picked It: We could all stand to drink more water, and I think we can all agree that it’s much more enticing when that water is cold. Rid yourself of plastic water bottles and start carrying this stylish, double-walled, vacuum-insulated water bottle designed to keep your beverages icy for up to 24 hours.

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