26 Simple Ways to Use Less Plastic Everyday

Bring your own takeaway containers, cups, coffee thermos, and utensils with you so when you get or food or drinks to-go, you won’t waste any packaging. The restaurant might even thank you for saving them the cost of to-go containers.

2020 Note: With businesses trying to prioritize hygiene more than ever, some places are not accepting reusables for the time being. But it doesn’t hurt to ask!

Here are some of our favorite reusables:

And just like with reusable bags, store a set of reusables in your car so they’re handy when you need them.

Related: Check out our eco-friendly gear in our online storefront!

11. Use what you already have

We live in a world where we’re constantly told we need more or we need the newest model. And sure, there are times when having the newest model is truly worthwhile, more efficient, or just a hell of a lot cooler! But a lot of the time this “consumer mindset” that we’re spoon-fed from an early age benefits the big brands more than benefits us.

This is true even for eco-friendly products. Do you really need a new reusable tote bag? Why buy a 7th water bottle when you already have 6 that do the job. Instead of buying a fancy eco-friendly container for takeaway food, use a container you already have at home. (yes, even if it’s plastic!).

Before heading to the store to make a purchase, ask yourself the following:

Do I really need to buy this new?
Do I already have something that will work?
Could I borrow this item from someone?

Buying new doesn’t have to be your go-to option for everything. Get friendly with local thrift stores or join a “Buy Nothing” Facebook group in your area (they are an incredible resource!).

Obviously there are always going to be things you want to buy new — like underwear and toothbrushes, duh! — but there are many items that will do the same job whether new or lightly used.

12. Fix ‘er up

Get in the habit of fixing things instead of throwing them away. Think of your belongings as having a lifespan. Do everything you can to extend that lifespan and keep them out of landfills.

Oh, and it might be obvious, but getting in the habit of fixing things before going out and buying new is going to save you a heck of a lot of money.

Psst! YouTube is an amazing resource for finding tutorials that walk you through how to fix specific items.

13. Really think about your purchases

I’ll be blunt: It’s a lot of work to be a conscious consumer.

There’s a lot to think about and brands sometimes make it difficult to find the answers you’re looking for. But you don’t have to make all the changes at once. Research one product at a time to find the best brand or option, then stick with them.

Here are some things to consider when you’re making a purchase:

Choose brands wisely: Research the brands you are loyal to. What is their stance on the environment? Do they have any sustainability practices? Are their more eco-friendly alternatives?
Compare packaging: If there is a glass option versus a plastic, go for glass. If you have the choice of buying a large container or a small one, go for the big one (if it’s something you use often and won’t expire).
Avoid individually packaged items: While a teeny bit more convenient, individually packaged items are incredibly wasteful. If you want things to be portioned, put them in individual jars or reusable bags.
Buy for the long run: Ask yourself if there’s an option that’ll last longer. For example, a single plastic lighter will last you until the lighter fluid runs out. Instead, opt for a USB rechargeable lighter that you can use for years and years. And likewise, opt for better quality. It may cost a little more now, but you won’t have to replace things as frequently if you prioritize quality.

14. Don’t buy… DIY

Hey, that rhymes!

If you like getting crafty, consider learning how to make your own beauty products, household cleaners, and prepared foods.

Not only are you going to be able to save a ton of packaging (wahoo!), but you can also choose exactly what goes into each item. Say buh-bye to chemicals, toxins and additives and say hello to an all-around healthier lifestyle.

As with most of the advice on this list, start small. Think of a few things you use often that you could potentially make yourself.

For example, we eat a lot of sriracha, salad dressings and kimchi, so we started making them ourselves instead of buying them in plastic packaging. Additionally, I make a simple body scrub, face toner, and window cleaner so we don’t have to buy those either.

One of the beauties of the Internet is it’s packed with all sorts of resources and tutorials. Simply search “DIY recipe for [insert product]” and you should find tutorials to choose from!

Once you get in the habit of making things yourself you’ll see how easy it is, and how much money it can save in the long run.

Some of our favorite DIY products: