Eliminating single use plastic can be done easily if you know where to start. Whether it be for life on the road or at home, here are my favorite items to help start reducing single use plastic.
Plastic Free & Zero Waste Hygiene Products
Safety Razor
Talk about a money waster. Disposable razors are a freaking joke.
It’s a minor $25 investment that will last you forever if you take care of it. It also makes for a better shave.
Razor Blades
These are the razor blades you’ll need for your safety razor. I bought a package of 100 years ago and still have probably half of them left.
They last much longer than a disposable razor for sure.
Bamboo Toothbrush
Toothbrushes are not biodegradable and will never go away.
The easiest way to fix this is switching over to a bamboo toothbrush. Inexpensive and environmentally friendly!
Toothpaste Tablets
I really love LUSH’s toothy tabs but this is a more available version if you’re not able to get LUSH products.
These are a great zero-waste alternative to toothpaste. They are also great for traveling.
Razor Blades
These are the razor blades you’ll need for your safety razor. I bought a package of 100 years ago and still have probably half of them left.
They last much longer than a disposable razor for sure.
Menstrual Cup
Even if you buy organic tampons or pads, you’re still contributing to a ton of plastic waste and honestly, spending a ridiculous amount of money.
A menstrual cup is the best thing for the environment, you wallet and more.
Bar Soap
Don’t buy the soap in plastic containers – go back to good ole bar soap!
I use Dr. Bronners castile soap which comes in several different scents.
Bar Soap Container
You’ll need a container to keep your soap in so it doesn’t get everything else gross. A simple one will do!
Shampoo Bar
Solid shampoo is one of my favorite things. Just like bar soap, it’s great for plastic-free shampoo options as well as great for traveling as you don’t have to worry about liquids spilling.
Shampoo Bar Container
You’ll need a container to keep your sjampoo in so it doesn’t get everything else gross.
This LUSH tin is perfect for this!
Solid Deodorant
Finding a plastic-free deodorant as been one of my most difficult swaps but this brand has fantastic reviews, is all-natural, vegan and, of course, zero waste.
Peppermint Oil
I get headaches often but I hare constantly taking pain relievers as they aren’t good for you. Peppermint oil has worked really well for me in relieving headaches for the most part.
Tiger Balm
Tiger Balm is amazing for pain relief. It’s basically like icy hot but just better. You can get it at most stores and online, but if you’re traveling to Asia, wait until you get there and buy it because it’s much cheaper.
Zero Waste Floss
Aside from deodorant, floss is my other struggle. I finally found a zero-waste and vegan floss option with this Dental Lace. Finally, feel like my zero-waste hygiene kit is complete!
Plastic Free & Zero Waste Essentials
Stainless Steel Straws
Probably one of the most talked about plastic items has been straws. They’re definitely an incredibly huge problem. You can either opt to not use one at all or carry a stainless steel one with you to use.
Insulated Reusable Bottle
One of my favorite things is my Klean Kanteen bottle. If I put ice-cold water in here, it will still be ice-cold at least a day later if not longer.
I’ve used several different reusable bottles but this is my favorite.
Bamboo Utensil Set
When traveling, it’s pretty common to eat out or get food to go. Don’t worry though, you don’t need to get plastic silverware every time you eat when you travel with a bamboo set. I also place my stainless steel straw in the case!
Reusable Coffee cup
I don’t know about you but I drink a lot of coffee and even more so when I’m traveling. Sometimes, I’ll get coffee on the go or some shops don’t even use coffee mugs period. That’s where this baby comes into play. Most coffee shops will give you a discount for bringing your own cup too!
To-Go Container
To-go containers are another thing to think about. A lot of people who are on a zero-waste path will just refrain from getting food to go but that’s not always possible when you’re traveling or just when you have a crazy hectic life. You can even use these to take your lunch when you’re at home.
Stainless Steel Cup
I wouldn’t say this is an absolute necessity for traveling especially if you have a reusable water container, but if you’re the type that likes to get drinks in cups [especially on airplanes], this is a great alternative.
Reusbale Produce Bags
Produce bags are often overlooked. Everyone seems to have at least started thinking about plastic grocery bags but don’t forget the produce bags! Often, I just let my produce go naked and don’t use a bag at all because I’m going to wash it no matter what but if that freaks you out a little, these are great. They can be used for more than just produce too.
Reusable Grocery Bags
I’m the worst at buying reusable bags but always forgetting them when I go to the store.
The key is to keep them in your car. If I go but forget them, I just carry out my items.
I love getting fun reusable bags because why not? Here are a few I like.
Laundry Detergent
Dropps are one of the best things I’ve ever started using in terms of zero waste lifestyle. These laundry pods are completely cruelty-free, vegan, zero-waste, and all-natural. They’re shipped in compostable [or recycable] cardboard with absolutely zero plastic.
Dishwasher Detergent
Dropps also makes dishwasher detergent which is just as great as the laundry detergent.
