These Common Routines And Household Items Are More Damaging To Our Planet Than You Realize; Here's What To Do (And Use) Instead
Our planet is pretty cool. It's treated the human race well for thousands of years, so if you are looking to return the favor, there are many eco-friendly steps you can take to help the Earth.
Here are some eco-friendly swaps you can make right now and even save some cash in the process:
1.BYOSB! (Bring your own shopping bag!)
Ditch the plastic and paper bags. Eco-friendly (reusable) linen shopping bags are where it's at. Since I moved to Maine, it's pretty cool seeing people bring their own unique bags into stores.
It would have seemed like an unbelievable life-changing shift a year ago, but like many of the swaps and changes on this list, it's a pretty simple ask.
2.LED lights are the real deal for you and the planet.
I remember being a kid and seeing LED bulbs for the first time when using them for Christmas decorations. Oh, man, they were a game-changer. I feel like a lot of people complain about eco-friendly swaps being a downgrade. Not here, my friend.
Shower me in LED bulbs. They're a great alternative in your home.
3.Install lights that work on timers rather than flipping switches frivolously.
On top of your new LED lights, you can take full control of them with just a click of your smart device. You're on your phone or tablet anyway, so there is no harm in taking full control of your home. You could even save some money on electricity in the long run by setting everything on timers, including any outdoor lighting.
4.Swap plastic bottles for reusable water bottles.
It's no secret that plastic is bad news for the environment, so it should come as no surprise that you should swap out plastic water bottles for something better. Most reusable water bottles go from $15-$50, which will pay for itself after ditching all those single-use plastic bottles.
5.While we're at it, trade in your plastic cups for glass cups.
Whether it is a glass mug or cup, either is better than going through dozens of red solo cups. Glass is the perfect option to hold your water, iced coffee, or whatever liquid floats your boat! And, speaking of glass...
6.Mason jars. Mason jars everywhere!
I do love a good Mason jar. They are the perfect alternative to plastics and are multi-purpose. Just remember to get ones without harmful screw-top lids since those are not eco-friendly... and kind of defeat the whole purpose.
Speaking of glass jars...
7.Add some plants to your house and keep them in your new glass bottles and jars!
I shouldn't have to bang the table for plants in a green article, but some might forget that they are great for in the home. They take in carbon dioxide and put out oxygen, which means more oxygen for your lungs. Woo!
But be sure to grow them in glasses since most containers get a green thumbs down.
8.Glass storage containers should replace plastic containers.
It's time to reorganize your cupboards with glass food storage containers, and although they are more expensive than plastic, it's better to keep your food and snacks in glass rather than a plastic prison.
Seriously, who enjoys that plastic-like smell and flavor?
9.Buy nuts, grains, and seeds in bulk...and use your glass containers to fill up.
If you ever walk by those dispensers in supermarkets and are looking for healthier options, this place will feel like you're in Willy Wonka's chocolate factory (but with less chocolate and more nuts).
Just remember to bring your own containers since we're avoiding plastic-wrapped goodies.
10.Invest in your own reusable straw so you don't have to keep going through plastic ones.
I feel like this one is obvious, but a lot of restaurants are waving goodbye to plastic straws. Steel straws are a great swap and pretty easy to clean at home.
Personal opinion: Steel straws are a huge upgrade from the eco-friendly disposable straws, which kind of whither away while you're still drinking. But whatever you prefer, make the swap away from plastic!
11.Have cast-iron cookware replace all your nonstick cookware.
From eggs to meat, cast iron is great for all your stovetop needs and is even oven-safe! You can buy them for as low as $10 and invest in sets (pans, pots, skillets, etc.) for under $100.
12.Bring back lunchboxes for all ages! Ditch the paper bags.
It sounds silly, but it beats plastic or paper bags. You can't go around the office carrying glass containers, so finding the right eco-friendly lunch box is the way to go when it comes to storing your afternoon pick-me-up.
13.Swap your body wash for simple eco-friendly bars of soap.
Everyone has their special body care products, but keeping it simple with biodegradable soap is enough to keep you clean.
Plus, they smell amazing!
14.Make your coffee at home.
Imagine not having to chuck your coffee cup away every day. Making coffee at home is the better option, and it's easy to find all the best tutorials online for making the perfect cup of Joe in the comfort of your own kitchen.
There are some extra steps with this one: Make sure you're eco-smart about trying not to be wasteful with cups, filters, and pods.
15.Try to use cloth towels, or even a handkerchief, instead of going through endless paper towels.
This one's a HUGE money saver. Just add your personal cloth/handkerchief to your laundry rotation, and you will no longer need to spend money weekly on something you don't need.
Much like personal shopping bags, you can find a hand cloth that is just your style!
16.Start using low-VOC paints around the house.
This might be the least "convenient" option, but seriously, how many times do you plan on painting your home? Obviously, you need to find the right color, but there are plenty of options out there.
17.Try out biodegradable silk or charcoal floss for your dental hygiene.
I've still yet to try charcoal. Maybe I need to break the irrational fear of it not coming off my teeth and looking like a horror show to others. People rave about the results, and you can find all kinds of major brands (including Sensodyne) that offer charcoal options.
While we're talking about dental hygiene...
18.Bamboo toothbrushes are as cool as they sound.
Yeah, yeah, yeah, they are better than your plastic toothbrushes, but let's talk about how they look! I love these, and they make for a great swap on looks alone, so going green is a plus!
19.Make the swap to organic cotton tampons or pads.
20.Ditch disposable razors for safety razors.
There are more eco-friendly options for shaving, especially options that are made from recycled materials. Swap out your disposable razors for something a little more green.
21.Swap out running your water all the time for NOT WASTING SO MUCH WATER!
It sounds silly, but this is also the easiest swap on this list. Remember to turn your faucet off while brushing your teeth and reduce shower time.
Less of a swap, but you're still swapping out your time to turn that knob, and it's very important to add to your eco-friendly routine.
