Breaking up with plastic is (not so) hard to do

A few weeks ago, we announced that we're on our way to breaking up with plastic for good. Though we're talking plastic when it comes to packaging, there are a million and one ways for us all to break up with single-use plastic in our everyday lives, too. We couldn't fit a million, so here are 15 easy swaps to get you started. 

  1. BYO reusable bags to the grocery store, pharmacy, clothing shops...keep 'em stashed in your car to have on hand for any time you're planning to make a purchase. 
  2. Say 'see ya never' to beverages in plastic bottles. Glass is great. Aluminum cans are even better. 
  3. Choose produce not packaged in plastic, whether that's by shopping at the Farmer's Market or being more selective at the grocery store. Lots of produce comes in its own natural packaging anyway, and the extra plastic is totally unnecessary. 
  4. Carry your own reusable beverage container. If you don't have one, try a glass mason jar or clean out an old jelly jar. Great at coffee shops, water fountains, and most airports even have refillable stations now too. 
  5. Avoid convenience foods packaged in plastic when you can.  
  6. If you have the time (and we get it, you may not), make your own hummus, yogurt, bread, etc. We're sure you picked up some skills in 2020. 
  7. Clean with baking soda and vinegar (try these 15 great DIY cleaner recipes for every room of your house) or opt for refillable cleaner services.
  8. Use bar soap to wash dishes, hands, body, and even your hair. These days you can find plenty of awesome options for plastic-free or low-waste packaging.
  9. Buy laundry detergent in boxes (yep, it's a thing) instead of plastic containers.
  10. Real utensils are your friend. Use them with takeout or when hosting parties (if you're worried about the cleanup, there are rental services who will drop off, pick up, and take care of all the washing for you). 
  11. Buy from bulk bins using paper bags or your own containers.
  12. Whenever you have the option to choose something other than plastic, don't think - just do it. Tortilla chips in paper bags, sauces in glass or cans, toilet paper in paper, etc. 
  13. Remember these 3 magic words when ordering drinks: "no straw please."
  14. No need for Ziploc. If you need to keep things like half an onion, use aluminum, wax paper, glass containers, or Bee's wrap. 
  15. Use matches instead of plastic encased lighters. You can get them for free at the liquor store (or our favorite - as mementos from your favorite restaurants and bars). 

If you're looking for more, check out these additional daily plastic swaps. And remember, it's all about progress, not perfection.