20 Must-Try Zero Waste Swaps

We all know the planet is facing some serious challenges—climate change, pollution, resource depletion. And while it might feel overwhelming at times, the good news is that there’s a ton of stuff you can do about it, starting with something as simple as switching to zero waste swaps in your daily life.

If you’ve ever thought about making the change to a more sustainable lifestyle, but didn’t know where to start, this article’s for you. I’ve rounded up 20 super-easy, totally doable swaps that you can try out right now to help reduce waste and make a positive impact on the environment.

Trust me, these little changes add up over time, and you’ll feel so much better about the things you use (and the things you don’t use anymore). So, let’s dive in!

1. Swap Plastic Bags for Reusable Bags

One of the easiest and most impactful changes is to ditch plastic bags and opt for reusable ones. The best part? You can find bags made from eco-friendly materials like cotton, hemp, or recycled plastic that are durable and stylish.

Pro tip: Keep a few reusable bags in your car or bag so you’re always prepared when you head to the store.

2. Switch to Stainless Steel or Bamboo Straws

Plastic straws are one of the most common single-use plastic items that end up polluting our oceans. But don’t worry, there’s a simple fix: swap them out for stainless steel, bamboo, or silicone straws. They’re reusable, easy to clean, and much better for the planet.

Bonus: Stainless steel straws can also keep your drinks cool!

3. Replace Paper Towels with Cloth Napkins or Towels

Paper towels are a huge waste, and they don’t even last long. By switching to reusable cloth napkins or towels, you’ll save trees and reduce your household waste.

What to do: Use cloth towels for cleaning and cloth napkins for meals. You can even use them as makeshift napkins when you’re on the go.

4. Say Goodbye to Single-Use Coffee Cups

We all love our coffee, but those disposable cups (even the ones labeled as “recyclable”) are a major waste contributor. Invest in a good travel mug or reusable cup. Many coffee shops even offer discounts for bringing your own cup!

Pro tip: Look for a stainless steel or bamboo coffee mug with a tight lid to keep your coffee hot all day.

5. Choose Bar Soap Over Liquid Soap in Plastic Bottles

Liquid soap bottles are convenient, but they’re often made from plastic, which takes forever to decompose. Switch to bar soap, which usually comes in paper or cardboard packaging. Plus, bar soap often lasts longer and works just as well!

Bonus: Many local, sustainable brands make amazing natural bar soaps that are free of harsh chemicals.

6. Swap Plastic Bottles for a Reusable Water Bottle

You’ve probably seen it everywhere, but for good reason: single-use plastic water bottles are terrible for the environment. Switch to a stainless steel, glass, or bamboo water bottle. It’s better for your health (no BPA!), your wallet, and, of course, the planet.

Keep your bottle filled with water wherever you go, and you’ll avoid the temptation of buying disposable bottles.

7. Use Beeswax Wraps Instead of Plastic Wrap

Plastic wrap is a huge contributor to single-use plastic waste. A simple and eco-friendly alternative is beeswax wraps. These wraps can be used to cover food, seal jars, or even wrap sandwiches. Best of all, they’re reusable and biodegradable.

Pro tip: Beeswax wraps come in tons of fun patterns, so you can add a little style to your kitchen while saving the planet!

8. Try a Safety Razor Instead of Disposable Razors

Disposable razors might seem convenient, but they’re wasteful and often don’t give you the closest shave. Switch to a safety razor, which is durable, effective, and can last for years with proper care.

Extra bonus: Safety razors typically only require you to replace the blade, which reduces waste and saves you money in the long run.

9. Swap Tissues for Handkerchiefs

Tissues might be soft, but they’re also a one-time-use product that adds up fast in landfills. Instead, switch to a reusable handkerchief. They’re easy to carry, washable, and gentle on your skin.

Bonus: Handkerchiefs often come in fun prints and colors, so you can personalize your new eco-friendly habit!

10. Use a Compost Bin for Food Scraps

Instead of throwing food scraps in the trash (where they’ll sit in a landfill for years), try composting! Composting turns organic waste into nutrient-rich soil for your garden or local parks.

You can compost things like fruit and veggie scraps, coffee grounds, eggshells, and even cardboard and paper products.

11. Switch to Cloth Diapers (If You Have a Little One)

If you’re a parent, you know how many disposable diapers one baby can go through. Cloth diapers are a fantastic alternative, reducing waste and saving you money in the long run. Plus, today’s cloth diapers are super absorbent and easy to use.

Bonus: Many cloth diaper brands offer a variety of patterns and styles to match your baby’s personality!

12. Opt for Wooden or Metal Cutlery Instead of Plastic

Takeout often comes with a set of plastic forks, knives, and spoons that are used for a few minutes before being tossed. Ditch the disposable cutlery and switch to a reusable set made from bamboo, stainless steel, or another eco-friendly material.

Pro tip: Keep a set of reusable cutlery in your bag or car for when you’re out and about!

13. Try a Zero Waste Shampoo Bar

Liquid shampoos often come in plastic bottles, and they’re loaded with chemicals that aren’t great for your hair or the environment. Swap them out for a zero-waste shampoo bar, which comes in minimal packaging and lasts longer.

Bonus: Shampoo bars are great for travel since they’re compact and won’t spill!

14. Switch to Eco-Friendly Toilet Paper

Regular toilet paper is often bleached and wrapped in plastic. But fear not! There are several eco-friendly brands that make toilet paper from recycled paper or bamboo. You’ll feel great knowing you’re using something sustainable and better for your body.

Bonus: Look for subscription services that deliver toilet paper directly to your door to make your life even easier.

15. Make Your Own Cleaning Products

Many cleaning products come in plastic bottles and are full of harmful chemicals. But you can make your own natural cleaning products with simple ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils. Not only is it better for the planet, but it’s cheaper too!

Pro tip: Use a reusable spray bottle to store your homemade cleaning solutions.

16. Try a Solar-Powered Charger Instead of Disposable Batteries

Batteries are another waste culprit that can take years to break down. Instead of relying on disposable batteries, switch to a solar-powered charger or rechargeable batteries for your devices.

Bonus: You’ll save money on batteries, and it’s a win for the environment!

17. Use a Cloth Shopping Bag for Produce

Instead of using the plastic produce bags at the store, try switching to reusable mesh or cloth produce bags. They’re washable, durable, and keep your fruits and veggies fresh.

Bonus: Many of these bags are made from organic cotton, so you’re helping the planet even more!

18. Try a Zero Waste Toothbrush

Did you know that plastic toothbrushes are one of the most common items found in ocean pollution? Swap out your old plastic toothbrush for a bamboo toothbrush. They work just as well, and they’re biodegradable!

Bonus: Some bamboo toothbrushes come with replaceable heads, making them even more sustainable.

19. Switch to an E-Book or Paperback Instead of Buying New Books

Books are awesome, but they often come with packaging and transportation costs. Consider switching to e-books or borrowing books from the library. If you’re buying a physical book, try to buy secondhand or from eco-conscious sellers.

Bonus: E-books are perfect for travel since you don’t have to carry around heavy books!

20. Switch to a Cloth or Paper Coffee Filter

Disposable coffee filters are one of those little things that quickly add up. A great alternative is a reusable cloth coffee filter. You can also opt for compostable paper filters if you don’t want to go the reusable route.

Bonus: Reusable filters often improve the flavor of your coffee too!

Final Thoughts: Small Swaps, Big Impact

Switching to zero waste products might seem like a huge challenge, but remember: it’s all about small changes that add up. You don’t have to change everything overnight—just pick one or two swaps that feel right for you, and slowly build up from there.

Every swap you make is a step toward a greener, cleaner future for you and the planet.

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