Have you heard of the #zerowaste movement, where people limit their trash so much to be able to fit an entire year of trash in just one little mason jar ? It’s a nice thought, but I’d really have to go out of my way to be able to achieve such little waste. I can’t realistically take on that challenge. A more realistic challenge is Plastic-Free July. “Plastic Free July” is another movement in the world of eco-friendly to limit the use of single use plastic for the month of July. I can happily say that with little effort, I was successful, mostly because Amazon Prime has some amazing eco-friendly substitutes for single use plastic that can be shipped to your doorstep in just 2 days. Now that we’re stocked it’ll be plastic free July every month from this point forward.
Here are my top 10 favorite eco-friendly lifestyle products:
1. Reusable Cotton Grocery Bags
I bought these when I was very into stenciling and spray-painting bags and they are actually very hearty and thick. Fun fact: always buy cotton reusable bags so you can throw them in the washing machine. Reusable bags track a ton of bacteria, so it’s important to be able to wash and bleach them regularly. I do it once a month.
2. Netted Tote Bag
Not only is this a trend right now instead of a purse, I use them for larger fruits, this bag is really stretchy and strong!
3. Silicone Zip Bags
*Game-changer over here* I love my Yuggen silicone zip bags! They are made from food grade silicone, so they can me microwaved and frozen without leaking out any toxic chemicals like plastic. The one I linked comes with 2 smaller bags for snacks and sandwiches and 2 larger bags for food storage/marination. I like to use the larger bags to store popcorn because it doesn’t get stale unlike plastic bags. The Yuggen bags leak proof and machine washable. I love how convenient these are and I think I like these better than glass containers for food storage!
Each purchase of a Yuggen product will plant a tree in Madagascar, Indonesia or Nepal. You can learn more here on their website.
4. Produce and Bulk Bag
We like to shop at farmer’s markets and Sprouts. These bulk and product bags tell you the weight of them, and are machine washable. We wash these every other use.
5. Metal Straws
Plastic straws are one of the most useless wasteful plastic uses! In Costa Rica, all of the straws were either made of paper or biodegradalbe fiber. I use the stainless steel smoothie straws since I like to make a lot of smoothies.
6. Bamboo Toothbrush
Biodegradable toothbrush and floss! I’ve tried their toothpaste, but I think it’s more suited for children because I like the most minty toothpaste. This company in particular uses plant based and recycled packaging as well.
7. Reusable Cup/Thermos
This one stays hot and cold for so long, if I put ice in it it lasts the entire day! This is the best cup/thermos I’ve ever owned. The smoothie straw I linked above fits perfectly in this (I drink all coffee through a straw) and it matches perfectly! It keeps my smoothies cold until I finish them. The rose gold is is a true rose gold and not metallic pink.
8. Reusable Water Bottle
double insulated so it stays cold and hot for a long time. I especially like this water bottle because of the spouted cap. If you spill on yourself often like I do, this water bottle is perfect.
9. Reusable Utensil Set
I bring these with me everywhere in my purse and when I travel. Just note, you won’t be allowed to carry the very dull knife onto a plane, just my personal experience!
10 Biodegradable Doggy Bags
The only plastic alternative to doggy-poop bags I have been able to find. Be careful with the marketing on these products, for example the bags that say “compostable” are only compostable together and need to be brought to special composting facilities. These bags are plant based and should biodegrade within a year.
xo,
Thank you, Yuggen, for sponsoring this post. This post does contain affiliate links. All opinions are my own.
