Reducing Single-Use Plastics

Simple swaps, lasting impact.

Plastic is everywhere—from packaging to products we use daily. While it may be convenient, single-use plastic comes with a high environmental cost. The good news? Small, intentional changes can significantly reduce your plastic footprint.

On-the-Go

⦿ Carry a reusable tote bag or foldable shopping bag

⦿ Keep a collapsible coffee cup in your backpack or car

⦿ Use a metal or bamboo cutlery set instead of plastic utensils

⦿ Carry a stainless steel or glass water bottle

⦿ Decline plastic freebies at events

⦿ Say “no thanks” to plastic stirrers in drinks

⦿ Choose paper or compostable packaging when ordering takeout

Kitchen

⦿ Replace plastic wrap with beeswax wraps or silicone lids

⦿ Use glass jars, stainless containers, or repurposed jars for storage

⦿ Store leftovers in reusable containers

⦿ Use dishwashing bars instead of plastic bottle soap

⦿ Choose plastic-free dish brushes or compostable sponges

⦿ Freeze food in reusable silicone bags instead of ziplocks

⦿ Avoid single-use K-cups—use a reusable coffee filter or French press

Bathroom

⦿ Swap bottled shampoo for shampoo bars

⦿ Use bar soap or refillable body wash

⦿ Switch to a bamboo toothbrush

⦿ Use reusable cotton rounds or pads

⦿ Refill floss containers instead of buying plastic ones

⦿ Choose toilet paper wrapped in paper, not plastic

⦿ Opt for deodorant in cardboard tubes or glass jars

⦿ Try a safety razor or a cartridge with a metal handle

Cleaning

⦿ Make DIY all-purpose cleaner with vinegar and essential oils

⦿ Use refillable cleaning tablets in a glass spray bottle

⦿ Swap paper towels for reusable rags or “unpaper” towels

⦿ Choose wood or bamboo scrub brushes

⦿ Buy dish soap in bulk or refillable stations

⦿ Avoid plastic-packaged dryer sheets—use wool dryer balls

⦿ Reuse old t-shirts as cleaning rags

⦿ Use laundry detergent strips/powder in cardboard boxes

Use up what you already have before replacing it.

Sustainability starts with reducing waste—and that includes not discarding perfectly good products that you already own just because they aren’t eco-friendly.

Choose one swap a week to stay consistent.

Creating lasting habits takes time. Instead of trying to do everything at once, focus on one area of your home or lifestyle each week. This slower approach makes the changes feel manageable and gives you space to really integrate them into your routine.

Make a “go bag” with your reusable items.

Keep a small bag ready with essentials like a reusable water bottle, tote, utensils, and a coffee cup. Having sustainable items within reach makes it much easier to skip single-use plastics while you’re out and about.

Get friends or family involved to share the journey.

Sustainability can feel more rewarding—and more fun—when shared. Invite a friend to do a low-waste challenge with you, trade tips with family, or share your progress on social media. A little community support can keep you inspired and motivated.