If you are just starting out on your sustainability journey, or have been a longtime pro, this article will help you get inspired to improve your eco-friendly practices! There are many ways to reduce plastic and plastic waste in your everyday life or even eliminate it completely! Sometimes, all it takes is a little reminder to go the extra step and live more organically. Let’s explore 10 easy ways to eliminate or reduce plastic from your life and home.

Grow Your Own Produce

When you go to the grocery store, it is likely that the products you’re purchasing come in plastic packaging. This is especially true if you purchase a lot of produce or fresh products. These items are often double-bagged or stored in thick plastic containers to keep the delicate produce safe during transport.

To cut down on your plastic usage, while also helping your bank account, consider growing your own produce at home. You can start small by growing easy items such as herbs and spices on your countertop. You don’t need a lot of land to start growing and harvesting your own food. Even just a small plant box on your porch or window can do the trick! You will be cutting down on plastic, saving money during your grocery store runs, and investing in a new activity. Plus, growing your own produce will mean you get organic produce without paying “organic” grocery store prices.

Buy in Bulk

If you run a business or have a large household to accommodate, avoiding plastic can be tricky. Buying in bulk can help you cut down on your plastic usage, even if it is just a small amount! 

Try poking around your local wholesale stores, such as BJ’s or Costco, to see what they have to offer. Products sold here are typically packaged in mass quantities, utilizing less packaging than if they were sold individually. While this is a small step towards embracing a sustainable lifestyle, it can significantly add up over time if you have a lot of mouths to feed.

Shop Local

If and when you can, be sure to shop local! Not only will you be supporting small businesses in your area, but you will also be cutting down plastic usage, too. By shopping locally and visiting farms nearby, you will be able to purchase products that are not individually wrapped or covered in plastic. This is a great way to purchase produce that is fresh, organic, and typically stored in wooden crates or other sustainable containers. Don’t forget your reusable bags!

Set Reminders For Yourself

Sometimes, all we need is a little reminder to be kind to the earth. Our days can get busy, and the convenience of plastic is a huge reason why humans use so much of it. Write yourself small reminders to be kind to your sustainable self. 

Make a note on your refrigerator reminding you to bring your reusable bags with you when you go to the grocery store. Bringing smaller containers is also a great idea so that you can ditch small produce bags, too! You can also keep up with our site to continuously be informed of new and innovative ways to be your most eco-friendly self!

Make Your Own Cleaning Products

It’s no secret that cleaning products utilize a lot of plastic. Not only do they come in plastic packaging, but they contain a lot of microplastics as well. This is harmful to our bodies and to the environment. Not to mention, cleaning products can be extremely expensive! 

Making your own cleaning products is an easy and affordable way to reduce your plastic usage in your home. Everything from kitchen counter spray to laundry detergent can be made at home with simple ingredients. One of our favorite cleaning recipes is listed here:

DIY Counter Spray:  Mix 1/4th cup white vinegar with ¼ cup of baking soda. Mix together in 2 cups of water and add a sprinkle of essential oils for a fresh scent if you choose! 

Go to Thrift Stores

Thrifting has come back in style, and the earth is extremely grateful for it! Instead of purchasing new items online, which come heavily packaged in plastic, visit your local thrift store the next time you need a new clothing item. The manufacturing and shipping process of new clothing is harmful to the earth, and thrifting is a great way to help combat this. Plus, you will be able to find some unique pieces to show your individuality!

Bring Reusable Cutlery

Many of us have reusable straws and water bottles, but have you heard of reusable cutlery? Of course there’s the silverware you keep at home, but there are options for travel-friendly reusable eating utensils. 

If you go out to eat or order takeout at the office, your food is oftentimes delivered with disposable forks, knives, and spoons. Be sure to ask the business to leave these items out, and invest in your own reusable cutlery pieces. You can get a few different sets to keep with you so that you never go without them! Be sure to keep these in your purse, work desk, car, backpack, or wherever you go to often.

Don’t Buy Single-Use Plastic

While this tip goes without saying, sometimes we all need a little reminder to reduce the amount of plastic we use sometimes without realizing it. Try to avoid purchasing single-use plastic altogether when you can. Seek out sustainable alternatives for your preferred food or cleaning products. Instead of asking for a plastic bag at the grocery store, bring your own bags or carry out your items if you forgot your set. Being sustainable isn’t always easy, but it is always worth it!

Use Beeswax Wrap

Plastic wrap is one of the most commonly used kitchen items across America. Who doesn’t love leftovers? When storing food items that you did not get around to eating, try swapping to beeswax wrap instead of utilizing cling wrap or parchment paper. Beeswax wrap is much better for the environment, and is even reusable! Simply give it a quick rinse under the sink with a dollop of soap, and your beeswax wrap will be good as new.

Join an Eco-Friendly Group

The best way to stay up-to-date on reducing plastic and all other things organic is to surround yourself with people who are in the know! By joining an eco-friendly group (such as following along with our online community) you can share ideas, learn new tips, and continuously evolve with others who are planet-friendly. 

 For more helpful tips on sustainable, organic living, contact HomeOrganic today.