Simple Swaps for a Sustainable Lifestyle

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Wood and natural bristles swapped out the plastic.

I was sitting in my favorite chair, drinking a tea blend that I created, feeling pretty good about the sustainable swaps I have been making around the house. But, then the little voice in my head said, "Don't pat yourself on the back too hard." I purchase many things that are strictly used once and then thrown away. I went to my pantry and looked inside. That little annoying voice was right. I have switched many items to storage in glass jars, but I had plastic wrap, plastic ware, baggies, and plastic cups lurking in there.

Plastic has become so ingrained in our daily lives that we often don’t realize how much we rely on it—until we start noticing just how much we throw away. From food packaging to cleaning products, plastic waste builds up quickly, contributing to pollution and harming the environment. The good news? With a few thoughtful changes, we can significantly reduce our plastic use, especially in the kitchen and around the home. Here are some simple swaps and strategies to help create a more sustainable lifestyle.

Glass jars reused for storage.

1. Plastic-Free Food Storage

One of the biggest culprits of plastic waste is food storage—plastic wrap, baggies, and disposable containers. Instead, try these alternatives (links to try too):

• Glass Jars: Save and reuse glass jars from store-bought sauces, jams, and other foods. They’re perfect for storing dry goods, leftovers, tea blends, herbs and even homemade yogurt or broths.

• Beeswax Wraps: A great alternative to plastic wrap, beeswax wraps can be used to cover bowls, wrap sandwiches, or keep produce fresh. I have several of these and use them like Press-n-Seal.

• Silicone Bags & Lids: Reusable silicone bags work just like plastic baggies but can be washed and reused indefinitely. Silicone lids create an airtight seal over bowls and jars, eliminating the need for plastic wrap.

• Cloth Bowl Covers: Handmade or store-bought fabric covers with elastic edges are a charming and reusable alternative to plastic wrap. I have made dozens of these! They are my favorite for covering bowls. Last week’s post covered how to make them.

Spring bowl cover sets ready to take to Wildcat Creek Emporium.

2. Shop Smarter: Reduce Plastic Packaging

Every trip to the grocery store brings home unnecessary plastic packaging. Here’s how to cut down:

• Buy in Bulk: Many stores offer bulk sections for grains, nuts, spices, and dried fruit. Bring your own bags! I just keep cloth ones in the car.

• Cooking & Serving: Swap plastic utensils, cutting boards, and storage for wood, metal, or glass alternatives.

  Reducing Plastic in the Rest of the Home

  • Cleaning: Make homemade cleaning solutions (like the ones I already share on my blog!) to avoid plastic bottles. Use natural sponges, compostable cloths, and wooden brushes.

  • Personal Care: Choose bar soaps, shampoo bars, (see my store for soap options) refillable deodorants, and safety razors instead of plastic-heavy toiletries.

  • Laundry: Use wool dryer balls, or homemade laundry detergent (recipe in previous post) instead of plastic-packaged detergents and dryer sheets.

    Mindset Shift: A Less-Wasteful Approach

    • Repair and repurpose before buying new. Resist theurge to purge!

    • Support companies that use sustainable, plastic-free packaging.

    • Engage in DIY projects, like making your own cleaning products, beauty items, or even reusable food wraps. I have many ideas in previous posts.

More recycled jars.

Final Thoughts

The purging of plastic is not an easy thing to do. It comes in so many convenient products. But my grandparents and great-grandparents had sustainability figured out (mostly out of necessity). I am making an effort and I think they would be proud. I plan to stop and take an inventory of what I have swapped out every six months. I’m not rushing it, but replacing items as it makes sense. I would love to hear how you have reduced plastic or your struggles, because I have them too.

Until next week….

Roxanne