Our 10 Favourite Ways to Reduce Plastic Waste

Cutting out plastic from our everyday lives can feel overwhelming but by starting with a few small changes we can make a world of difference! We've put together a short list of some of our favourite ways to go plastic free to help get you started (and added some links to our favourite products)...

🌿Give up plastic bags... Seriously. Do it. Did you know you can now buy little reusable bags to pack your own fruit and veg in store? They are so much friendlier than those annoying little clear bags that every supermarket seems to use. These ones from Colony Co. are some of our favourites. 

🌿Detox your beauty regime. De-plastic it. Like, you know things are getting serious when even Selfridges launches a "plastic conscious beauty solutions" campaign. 

🌿Say NO to plastic straws. There are some amazing paper straws available nowadays. Or metal ones too if that takes your fancy. These rainbow coloured ones are pretty lovely - and come in a wider size that are perfect for smoothies too :) 

🌿Say NO to plastic bottles and disposable coffee cups. Look for an 18/8 stainless steel water bottle for durability and safety like the Umi ones from Amazon. 

🌿Avoid plastic packaging. Buy in bulk if you can. Avoid produce wrapped in plastic. Use a reusable bread bag. Try bar soaps and shampoos instead of liquid (OMG Beauty and the Bees make the best shampoo bars ever - and they're 100% plastic free). And while you’re at it, give up plastic plates and cups. Stock up on baking soda and vinegar for cleaning products - CHEAP and healthy :)

🌿Don't buy cling wrap. Use bees wax coated cloths instead of cling wrap. We especially love these wraps from Bee Hop Eco. 

🌿Reuseable containers. Try carrying your lunch in reusable containers and use them for takeout and leftovers. The Elephant Box stainless steel boxes are super handy. 

🌿Use natural cleaning cloths and scrubbers instead of plastic scrubbers and synthetic sponges. Compressed natural cellulose sponges are often even sold without any plastic packaging because they don’t need to be kept moist. Check out these cute loofah dish pads. 

🌿Buy clothes made from natural and organic materials. Fabrics derived from plastic, like polyester and other synthetic fibres including acrylic, lycra, rayon and nylon are treated with thousands of toxic chemicals during production and are leading contributors to micro-plastics. When buying new clothes, look for organic cotton and other natural fibres and brands with a sustainable and ethical ethos. Hold on to any clothes made from synthetic fibres for as long as you can so they don’t end up in landfill. Request no plastic packaging when placing your order.

🌿Get to your local farmers market. Where you'll find farm-fresh produce with no plastic packaging! Bingo! Or get farm direct produce boxes delivered to your home. We are long time fans of Riverford in the UK, but your should be able to find a good supplier local to your home. 

🌿Replace your plastic toothbrush with a bamboo toothbrush. Did you know the first toothbrush you ever had as a child is still sitting in landfill somewhere? Switch to bamboo - these Fat Panda ones will do the job nicely.