13 Ways to Live More Sustainably

You’ve probably heard that making sustainable swaps in your daily life is important—but do you know why? Every choice we make has a consequence. While a single plastic straw or disposable bag might feel harmless, all those small actions add up quickly, impacting our environment in a big way.

Now, I’m not saying that swapping to reusable items will solve the climate crisis overnight—but small, consistent actions really do make a difference. Here’s a roundup of simple swaps you can make today that reduce plastic waste and make your everyday life cleaner, greener, and more sustainable. 

Reusable Straws. Trendy? Yes. Effective? Absolutely. The average person uses 600 single-use plastic straws per year. Switching to a reusable straw can cut that in half—or more! I personally love metal straws because they come with a cleaning brush, air-dry easily, and keep your drinks nice and cold.

Beeswax Wrap. One of the easiest swaps with endless uses! Wrap leftovers, cover awkwardly shaped veggies, or even use them for baked goods. Beeswax wraps replace single-use plastics like cling film, zip-lock bags, and produce packaging. They’re reusable, compostable, and versatile—plus, you can DIY your own for a fun weekend project! 

Reusable Zip-Lock Bags.These are pantry game-changers! Just like Tupperware, they come in various sizes, are easy to clean, and make storing food eco-friendly. My favorite: Stasher Bags—tons of colors and sizes, and totally reusable. My only regret? Not buying them sooner!

Reusable Shopping & Produce bags. Plastic bags are the ultimate waste culprit. Reusable bags are sturdy, inexpensive, and multi-purpose—perfect for groceries, farmers markets, or even beach days. Just remember to bring them with you!

Wool Dryer Balls. Say goodbye to chemical-laden dryer sheets! Wool dryer balls reduce energy use, soften clothes naturally, and last for years. They’re non-toxic, eco-friendly, and a simple way to protect both your health and the planet.

Reusable Water Bottles & Coffee Mugs. Still buying single-use bottles or cups? It’s time to upgrade. Reusable bottles and tumblers cut down massive waste and keep you hydrated (or caffeinated!) all summer long. Pair with a Brita pitcher for extra savings and sustainability.

Non-Stick Silicone Baking Sheets. Ditch foil and parchment paper for silicone baking mats. They’re reusable, reduce waste, and provide a more even cooking surface. Bonus: easy to clean!

Reusable Paper Towels. Yes, they exist—and they’re amazing! These zero-waste towels are often more absorbent than single-use options, come in cute designs, and can double as napkins or face towels. Just wash and reuse again and again.

Washable Cotton Rounds. Perfect for makeup removal or skincare routines. Durable, reusable, and soft on the skin. You can even pick different textures depending on your use—gentle for cleansing, slightly textured for exfoliating.

Glass Tupperware. Stop hoarding plastic and make the switch to glass. Perfect for leftovers, take-out, or storing food in the fridge. Durable, reusable, and better for both your food and the environment.

Refillable Cleaning Bottles. Single-use cleaning bottles are out. Brands like Blueland let you buy the bottle once and refill forever with tablets that dissolve in water—eco-friendly, effective, and cost-efficient. Plus, they smell amazing!

Plant Bee-Friendly Flowers. If you garden, swap out regular flowers for bee-friendly options. Supporting pollinators helps the environment and your local ecosystem thrive.

Composting. One of the simplest yet most impactful swaps. Composting reduces landfill waste and creates nutrient-rich soil for your garden. Even small kitchens can start composting easily with the right bin.

The takeaway: Every small swap adds up. You might feel like just one person, but when we all do our part, the impact is huge. Start small, stick with it, and watch your habits—and the planet—thrive. 🌎💚