10 easy eco swaps

Sustainability and eco-consciousness may be the hottest buzzwords of 2020, but neither of these concepts require significant time and resource. In fact, simply by swapping ‘this’ for ‘that’, you can help your home tread more lightly on the earth.

1. Beeswax buzz: Say no to single-use plastic wrap and instead opt for an alternative option – beeswax food wraps. They are the big thing in food preservatives right now (everyone’s buzzing about it… including the bees). The wraps are reusable, biodegradable and are oh so awesome in this war on plastic.
2. The last straw: On the topic of fighting against plastic, we have our next suggested swap – a stainless steel drinking straw. While the internet has somewhat turned these items in a joke about purely ‘saving the turtles’, that’s not their sole reason for being produced. Stainless steel straws = a sustainable solution.
3. Light the way: Rather than fumbling around for the light switch on your way to the bathroom during the night, use the light from your window. Yes… you’re correct, it is dark at night. But we’re referring to the light during the day that will charge your solar powered nightlight. Not to mention, it’s also helpful to the power bill too.
4. Second lease on life: Judging from the lead into this, the next suggestion is self-explanatory: but why not buy items second-hand such as clothing, furniture, electronics or even books? Not only is it cost efficient, but it’s also sustainable. That makes it a win-win.
5. Say yes to soap bars: Rid yourself of the plastic containers that most body washes come in. Instead opt for a solid soap bar. Worried about it not lasting long enough? Buy a soap holder to ensure that it dries in between uses.
6. Hung up… on plastic: How annoying is it when you go to hang something on the washing line and your plastic peg snaps? This can all be avoided with the transition to metal pegs! They won’t rust and they last much longer.
7. Carry on: A plastic bag is a rare find these days – especially at the supermarket. But that doesn’t mean you should be a balancing act trying to carry everything in your arms back to your car. Buy a few reusable shopping bags then store them near your car keys after use, so you remember to put them back!
8. A one trick pony: Paper towels are a single-use product. Once they’re wet, it’s sayonara. The answer is simple – washable dishrags.
9. Something to smile about: Dentists recommend that you should change your toothbrush every two to three months. If those said toothbrushes are plastic… that’s not good for Mother Earth. Bamboo alternatives are great because they’re biodegradable.
10. Lose the lightbulbs: A simple light switch is needed for your home to become one step closer to being eco-conscious. LED bulbs are a much better options and once again easy on the power bill.