Switching to eco-friendly products can feel expensive, but sometimes it’s just about choosing items in more sustainable packaging. This week, I made a simple change: instead of buying cat litter in a plastic container, I picked one packaged in a recyclable cardboard box. It was an easy swap that didn’t cost more, and when it’s empty, I can toss it right in the recycling bin.
You can do the same thing with a lot of everyday products. Take body wash, for example. Instead of the usual plastic bottle, I’ve started looking at bar soap. There are so many varieties and price points out there. Honestly, I’d never bought bar soap for my home until I tried solid shampoo last week. I always thought bar soap was kind of gross—especially when it got soggy—and I wasn’t thrilled at the idea of people rubbing it directly on their skin without a washcloth.
Then I discovered soap saver bags. They keep bars from turning to mush, make them easier to lather, and give each family member their own soap and bag. If someone wants to go “direct to skin,” that’s their choice, and it’s not shared. Bonus: bar soap lasts longer than bottled body wash, so you save money while cutting down on plastic waste.
My next swap is going to be compostable trash bags. I’ll admit, I’m nervous. My family creates a lot of trash—less than we used to since we started recycling and composting—but still a lot. My kids have a habit of cramming as much as possible into the kitchen trash can, so I’m worried the bags might tear. We’ll see how it goes.
I’m also trying plastic-free laundry detergent and fabric softener this week. This will be a tough change for my husband, who loves Gain and Snuggle. But all those plastic bottles add up, and I’m ready to make the switch. I’m buying laundry sheets, fabric softener sheets, and even recycled toilet paper. This toilet paper is 3-ply, so I’m hoping we’ll use less—because we go through a lot. It’s pricier than the store-brand I usually buy, but it’s better for the planet. And no, we’re not ready for cloth toilet “paper.” That’s one swap I don’t think my family would agree to anytime soon (especially without a bidet!).
On the business front, things are moving forward with Eco Sloth Refillery LLC. The LLC paperwork and tax ID are done, and I’m setting up the website and picking products. I’m a little stuck in the process, so I may need to get some extra help—but I’ll get there. I plan on selling versions of all the eco-friendly products listed above on my website and in-person, so keep an eye out!
What about you? What swaps are you trying in your home? Share them in the comments below or on the blog’s Facebook page—I’d love to hear your ideas. Blog's FB page
Eco-Friendly Tip of the Day: Before buying a new eco-friendly product, see if there’s a similar version in recyclable or compostable packaging. Sometimes the most sustainable choice is simply changing the container, not the product itself.
No comments:
Post a Comment