Switching over a zero waste lifestyle may seem extreme, but surprisingly it’s easier now than ever- particularly with the right zero waste starter kit. While most of us who are thinking about adopting the zero waste lifestyle maybe think it’s an all or nothing scenario because of the ever-increasing amount of waste is that produced daily, but it doesn’t have to be that way. We believe that it can be a gradual process with the right tools that will help along the way. Obviously, the benefits of the zero-waste lifestyle aren’t only felt on the environment, but rather also financially, and economically.
That said, if you’re looking to start the zero waste journey, we highly recommend pulling together a zero-waste starter kit. In a time of endless plastic bags and cute cotton tote alternatives, you might feel a little overwhelmed. From start to finish, here are a few ways that you can shop and live a little with an arsenal of great eco-friendly accessories:
Canvas Tote Bag
A canvas tote bag makes for a great plastic bag substitute, no matter where you are. With endless options that can be customized (think Zazzle and Vistaprint), be proudly folding up your canvas bag for your backpack, purse, or another carrying accessory that you use day today. These are perfect for the last-minute grocery run or inheriting books from a friend that you need to lug home.
Mason Jars (2) sizes
Mason Jars are a brilliant and multi-purpose tool for your day to day life. Whether it’s shaking up some chia seed pudding for the next day in your fridge, or sipping on a freshly brewed cup of coffee…these jars will give you life. I recommend having two sizes – one 500ml one with a double screw lid, and one smaller one for all the extra spices etc that you want stored.
Mason Jar brands can range from the classic Bernardin Jars to Ball, these jars are great for durability, versatility, and homey comfort in a modern world (truth, I swear).
Produce Bag
The lesser-known cousin of the tote bag is a Produce Bag – typically nylon or cotton mesh baggy that you can bring along with you to the store. Perfect for storing those bright red tomatoes and fresh parsley for your tabbouleh salad, these are a must to avoid those little stretchy baggies at the grocery store.
Castille Soap
Castille Soap is a fantastic way to create hand soap, laundry detergent, veggie wash, floor cleaner, and more. Boasting over 18 different ‘recipes’ for cleaning, Dr. Bronner‘s is one of the most well-known Castille soap brands on the market. While it doesn’t quite lather and sud like your typical soap brand, these are still gentle on the skin and so multi-purpose you won’t need more than one bottle in your home at a time, for a very long time.
Silicone Baggies
Stasher makes great silicone baggies for storing your lunch, snacks, or prepped items that are ready to be microwaved or thrown in the oven (though I still cringe at the thought of this). Forget zip lock bags and typical sandwich wrap, you’re good with a few of these many-use baggies.
Silicone Dispensers
Travel, much? Silicone Dispensers are a great way to travel with your favorite shampoo, lotion, conditioner, and more. Purchase a set of 4-5 and you can really minimize your waste while bringing along the comfort of your regular facial and hair routines.
Bamboo Utensils
I love carrying bamboo utensils wherever I go – you never know when you can save using a plastic straw, wooden chopsticks (ouch, splinters) or even avoiding those dreaded take out plastic cutlery. You can do better. Buy Bamboo.
Choose Unwrapped (Lush Shampoo Bars, Soap Bars)
While they’re a little harder to dry, unwrapped soap bars and shampoo bars are a great way to use natural products that skip the unnatural wrapping. Picking up an enchanting scented soap bar is a luxury that I love indulging in when visiting a small boutique shop or farmer’s market.
That’s it! Starting a zero waste / less waste journey can be easy with a little preparation. Happy saving!
