Was your New Years' resolution to create a more eco-friendly lifestyle? Or are you looking for ways to make your life less hectic and more sustainable?
Moving toward more eco-friendly living can sometimes feel overwhelming. Figuring out what swaps are trends and which ones make a lasting impression can give you more of a headache than actually being sustainable.
But, it doesn't have to be that way! Now, there are more options than ever to live in harmony with the environment, all thanks to these sustainable household products.
Sustainable Lunchbox
While you're whipping up delicious, sustainable meals, many household sustainable swaps can be done in the kitchen!
First and foremost, you need to grab a sustainable lunchbox. A durable lunchbox is the building block for living sustainably in 2021. You can carry your meals from home to the office or pack up healthy snacks for running errands.
Though it may seem like just a carrier for your delicious foods, the materials that make up your lunchbox matter.
Da Costa Verde knows the importance of using quality materials. The result? These sustainable lunch bags are not only 100% antibacterial and leak-proof, but also eliminate BPA, lead, and other toxins from production.
These sustainable lunch bags are a great size and are cute as well!
Bamboo or Wooden Utensils
If you're looking to cut down on waste this year, bamboo utensils will be your best friend! You can get plastic forks, spoons, and knives in sets to keep in your lunch box or car. Some sets even come in self-storing containers, so you don't have to worry about them rattling around in your lunchbox.
These are an alternative to plastic take-out utensil sets or taking your own silverware from home. Bamboo and wood are natural, durable products that last for years. These materials are also lightweight, so they won't weigh you down or make noise when you walk.
They also work well for backpacking and camping tricks, as they can hold up to thick foods that would snap plastic pieces.
Reusable Bags
These are a game-changer in your kitchen! Instead of going through several boxes of clear baggies, grab some reusable ones.
From packing kid's snacks to your own sandwich creations, these bags are perfect for everyday use. They also work as an alternative to clunky Tupperware containers.
Many reusable bags are dishwasher and microwave safe, meaning you can use them for years. They also hold up well in the freezer, making these durable bags a win for an eco-friendly living!
Once you begin using these bags, you'll realize you're not only reducing your plastic waste but saving money on baggies, too. This is a win for your wallet and the environment.
Reusable Straws
Reusable straws are one trend 2021 is not letting go. Reusable straws are good on the go or for sipping your favorite drinks at home.
There are different brands, colors, and materials to choose from, too. Each reusable straw helps cut down on non-recyclable waste from plastic straws.
You can find straws that are silicone, which work well if you tend to bite the ends of straws. There are also stainless straws that are great for thick smoothies. Or, you can have the best of both worlds and go for a silicone/stainless duo straw!
One bonus is if you find a pack of several straws that comes with a cleaning brush! Just run hot soapy water through the straw and use the brush to scrub out any residue. Then, you're ready to go!
Beeswax Wraps
Tired of trying to preserve your food with plastic wrap? Frustrated with your plastic wrap sticking (or not sticking?) Beeswax wraps are coming in hot to help you out!
Beeswax wraps are pieces of cotton bonded with beeswax for a tight seal and a sustainable way to preserve your food. Plastic wrap can't be recycled in most areas of the United States, so by making this swap you're reducing your household's impact.
To use this eco-friendly product, stick the wrap over your bowl or around your food. Press your hands against where you want the wrap to seal. The warmth from your hands is what activates the beeswax and helps it stick.
Then, store as usual! To wash the wrap for continued use, rinse it in cold water. When your beeswax wrap has lived a full life, throw it in the compost instead of the trash.
Dryer Balls
Though there are lots of sustainable swaps to make in your kitchen, don't forget the rest of your home! Now, time to move into the laundry room.
You can find dryer balls in both hard plastic or wool form. They replace the need for dryer sheets.
Instead of using those small sheets that end up in the trash can every time, dryer balls keep your clothes from clumping together. The balls go in between the layers of clothes to separate them and help them dry faster.
Another notable difference between dryer balls and dryer sheets is that the balls don't add a scent to your clothes. This is something that most dryer sheets provide. A no-scent option, however, can be beneficial for those with sensitive skin.
But, if you can't go without a scent, grab some wool dryer balls and add a few drops of essential oils each time you do a load of clothes.
Sustainable Household Products
Though there are numerous changes to make for eco-friendly living, these swaps will help get you started! Keep in mind, sustainable products are a bit more pricey on the front end, but are well worth it in the long run. You pay for higher quality products that last much longer than their older counterparts.
If you're ready to make the switch to more sustainable household products, be sure to check out the company's mission as well.
At Da Costa Verde, we believe in friendlier ways to treat our bodies and planet. That's why whenever we sell one of our lunchboxes, we plant one tree in the Amazon. To say thank you to you and our planet.