10 More easy ways to go plastic free

Published on Wed Jul 17 2019 in Lifestyle

Already mastered going plastic free in the kitchen? Eliminating as much as you can from your food shopping, prep and storage can make a big impact on the environment. But you don’t have to stop there! There’s plenty of plastic that can be removed from our cleaning routines, bathrooms and closets.

Here are 10 more ways to go plastic free in your home:

Problem: Plastic cleaning supply bottles

Fix: Worried about your plastic use and what’s in your cleaning supplies? Making your own household cleaners from common ingredients (like vinegar, citrus, bicarb and essential oils) could help you breathe a bit easier on both fronts! Store cleaners in glass bottles or wash out old plastic spray ones to reuse. 

Problem: Plastic scourer pads and sponges

Fix: Those disposable scrubbers used to wash dishes? They’re typically made with plastic! Natural alternatives—made from materials like coconut fibre, walnut shells and other plants—are available and can be composted instead of tossed in the bin.

Problem: Plastic liquid soap containers

Fix: Washing hands with liquid soap is convenient, but the plastic bottles they come in aren’t great for the planet. Switch to a bar soap wrapped in paper or packaged in a box for a friendlier alternative.

Problem: Plastic wrapped toilet paper

Fix: Most packs of toilet paper are wrapped in soft plastic, which is difficult to recycle. Instead, find a brand that wraps it’s rolls in paper. There are even 100% recyclable options online that can be shipped right to your door, so you’re never left without a roll!

Problem: Plastic toothbrushes

Fix: Bamboo handle toothbrushes are a popular, eco-friendly option. Some have biodegradable bristles, but others use nylon or similar soft plastics. Still, making the handle with sustainable wood can help cut down on a lot of plastic waste.

Problem: Plastic toothpaste tubes

Fix: Toothpaste tubes are hard to empty and even harder to recycle in most areas. Making your own toothpaste from everyday ingredients like bicarb and coconut oil is one way around this. Or, order a ready-made brand online that comes in an easily recycled metal tube or glass jar.

Problem: Plastic disposable razors

Fix: This one might bring back fond memories of watching Dad or Grandpa shaving. Ditch plastic disposable razors for a sturdier metal safety razor—just swap out the blade when it gets dull. For even more retro feel, a barber’s or straight razor can be sharpened dozens of times before it needs replacing.

Problem: Plastic hair brushes

Fix: Hair brushes and combs usually don’t need to be replaced too often, but there are alternatives to the plastic variety. Brushes made from bamboo and boar bristles could leave both the earth and your hair a little less messy!

Problem: Plastic clothing

Fix: You might be surprised to learn that your closet is full of plastic! Any man-made fabric is actually plastic: lycra gym wear, nylon stockings, polyester tops… and that’s just a few. Commit to wearing only clothing made from natural fibres (like linen, cotton or hemp), or buy secondhand items whenever you can.

Problem: Plastic in shoes

Fix: You might want to give your shoes a closer look, too. All styles of shoes are made from plastics like polyester, nylon, foam and other synthetics. Instead, look for brands that use only natural materials or 100% recycled plastic.

 

Need more tips living plastic-free? Read all about the four biggest myths. 

 

About Author: Momentum Life is a leading provider of Life insurance and Funeral insurance in New Zealand.

 

TAGS: environment, plastic free,

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