Use This, Not That: Household Products

Trying to tidy up your act? Start at home.

We rarely put thought into our mundane household items, like trash bags, toothpaste, and paper towels. For the most part, they’re stashed in a cabinet somewhere or standing silently on the back of the counter. But these are exactly the kinds of products we should be paying close attention to.

Why?

Unfortunately, a lot of the products found in our homes are riddled with toxins.

That’s not great for you and your family. And it’s not great for the planet, either. Luckily, there are greener options on the market.

Here are some sustainable household product swaps you can make.

In The Kitchen

• Compostable garbage bags. Instead of using a bag that will sit in a landfill for thousands of years, opt for one that will decompose naturally.
  

• Wooden cutting boards. We ingest far too many microplastics as it is. Avoid that by chopping veggies, serving fruit and cheese, and prepping meat on wooden boards instead of plastic ones.

• Swap plastic baggies for reusable silicone or beeswax bags. Both are perfect for stashing sandwiches and other snacks on the go.
  

• Dump the coffee pods and use fresh beans instead. (While you’re at it, make sure you buy organic, fair-trade coffee if it’s available to you!)

• Glass Tupperware. Microwaving food in plastic? Bad idea. The heat can cause chemicals found in plastics, like BPA and phthalates, to leach into your food.

• Reusable paper towels. Choose a fun print and reuse them for days! Just stick them in the wash and they’re good as new.

Doing Laundry

• Wool dryer balls and natural laundry detergent. Conventional dryer sheets and laundry detergent both have lots of chemicals and synthetic fragrances, which are terrible for you and the environment. Some of those chemicals can also cause irritation for people with sensitive skin.

   

• Cold water cycles instead of hot. You’ll use less energy that way. 

In The Bathroom 

• Non-toxic bathroom cleaners. There are lots of plant-based cleaners that work just as effectively as conventional ones.

   

• Bar shampoo and conditioner. Plastic-free shampoo and conditioner are great eco-friendly options. Plus, most of them are plant-based and free of harmful chemicals.

   

• Plastic-free toothpaste and toothbrushes. Ever seen these cool toothpaste tabs? Pop one in, chew slightly to activate, brush with a bamboo toothbrush for two minutes, and voilà. No plastic necessary for a stunning smile!

   

• Natural air fresheners and/or candles. Keep your bathroom fresh without nasty propellants, chemicals, or artificial fragrances. A spritz of natural, botanically-formulated air freshener does the job! Or try lighting an organic candle made with natural essential oils.

   

• Toilet paper from recycled paper…or use a bidet if you’re really committed.