How I’m Trying to Use Less Plastic (And How You Can Too)

I’m going to get straight to the point: Plastic is harmful for the environment and it’s harmful for you.

A simple way that you can reduce toxins in your life, save money, and help the planet is by reducing your plastic use and consumption. 

Plastic is literally used everywhere – from kitchen items to beauty products. It’s in your clothing, furniture, and feminine products. I’m not saying you have to avoid it all (that would be unrealistic and I don’t like to promote a purist lifestyle) BUT you can make simple changes that will make a difference! 

I have a long way to go and still contribute to way more waste than I’d like to admit, here’s what I’ve done the past several years to reduce and limit my plastic use.

This post contains affiliate links. 

How I’m Trying To Use Less Plastic

1. I stopped buying plastic straws.

I drink a lot of smoothies. Like basically one every day! My hubby and I definitely prefer our smoothies with a straw, but I felt like I was going through way too many plastic straws to feel good about it. Not to mention, they can be expensive.

I found these reusable straws that are nice and big (perfect for thick smoothies) on Amazon for under $8! And they even come with a cleaner, which is super important because no one wants nasty crap building up in their straws.

2. I use a reusable water bottle and bring it everywhere.

I’ve been doing this one for years, but to be 100% honest with ya, it wasn’t because I was worried about my plastic consumption. I just like to have water with me because it’s important to stay hydrated but it also helps the environment.

My favorite water bottle is my IronFlask. It’s stainless steel and keeps things cold (or hot) for hours, and I mean hours even baking in the hot sun. They have all sorts of sizes and colors too.

3. I stopped buying plastic bags and just use glass containers or reusable bags.

I recently ran out of sandwich sized bags and I started using glass containers to bring sandwiches and other meals into work. I realized, anything I would normally put in a plastic baggy, I could just put in a reusable container or use these handy Bees Wrap food wraps. 

I LOVE these simple glass ones from Amazon. They are safer to use in the microwave and are oven and freezer safe too.

4. I bring reusable shopping bags to the store.

I purchased some reusable shopping bags on Amazon a few months ago because I was sick of throwing away so many plastic bags each time we made a grocery trip. They also make carrying in groceries WAY easier.

Plastic bags at the store are one of the biggest contributors to waste found in the ocean, so simply using reusable shopping bags can make a huge difference!

5. I switched to a plastic free safety razor.

And it’s the BEST! I was a little nervous going from regular little plastic razors to a metal safety razor but it was so easy to learn how to use. I actually accidentally nick myself way less with the safety razor than I did with the plastic ones. I also noticed I have NO razor burn. No waste. No toxic chemicals on my skin. A better shave!

6. I now use shampoo and conditioner bars. 

I recently switched from regular shampoo and conditioner bottled formulas to unscented bars from Viori. I was hesitant at first but they work very well and I love having less clutter in the shower. I love their body wash bar too!

I also use a non-toxic and gentle bar to wash my face instead of cleanser from a bottle. Another switch I’ve been loving! 

7. I use plastic free pads, tampons, and period underwear.

Yes – you can find plastic free options! I’ve been loving this brand of disposable pads and tampons that are organic and plastic free. Organic cotton reusable pads or period cups are another option- although I haven’t used them. I love my period underwear from Aisle who use organic cotton and their underwear has been shown to be free of toxic chemicals.

Conclusion

I know there is much more I can do to use less plastic, but it’s something I’m working at! I truly believe that even seemingly small changes can have big impacts. Have any tips for me? What are ways you reduce your plastic consumption? Leave a comment and let me know!