Throughout my Zero Journey I have felt overwhelmed and frustrated, whether it was the amount of plastic at stores, the unnecessary stickers or double/triple wrapping, the ignorance of others to the amount of waste they’re creating, or the lack of access to zero-waste items. The best way I could combat my frustrations was taking it one small step at a time. I also (still) remind myself that this is my choice and I cannot change the minds of others – I can only inspire :).
- handkerchiefs – replaces tissues
- homemade lip balm – replaces tubed lip balm, easy to make
- baking soda – replaces many cleaning products (Pinterest it!)
- wool dryer balls – replaces toxic dryer sheets, compostable
- travel mug – replaces plastic coffee cups and lids
- reusable water bottle – replaces plastic bottles
- hand towels/rags – replaces paper towel
- jars – various sizes for bulk, food storage, drinks
- soap – various types for body, face, and hair
Sometimes it can feel overwhelming, or you may not even know where to start; maybe you’re even intimidated by these changes. You don’t need to change everything all at once. Do one small thing at a time or set a small goal; maybe you put your travel mug in your car so that when you have a java urge, it’s right there for you!
The best part… you’re not alone! We all started from Step 1, and this is a pretty welcoming community who want everyone to succeed π
How long does it take to make your balm?
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15 minutes if I remember correctly and it needs coconut oil, beeswax, and lavender oil.
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Thank you!
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I put mine in a baby food jar. It’s not good for on-the-go in that size of jar, so maybe you can throw it in your purse if you want it for that. If the weather is too hot I’m not sure if it’ll stay solid in your purse though π
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I have a little tin I could pit some in π
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It’s on my Pinterest, want the link? π
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Handkerchiefs have been my favorite switch! I hate kleenex; I’ve always hated them. So dumb, I should have switched long before going zero waste.
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Agreed! I had the same thought once they became habit π
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This is awesome!
I had a question (going back to the lip balm), I found a recipe for homemade lipstick and it’s just coconut oil and non toxic crayons that you melt.
Are there any extremely negative environmental effects to using crayons?
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I haven’t really looked into it, but it would be worth it. I want to say I don’t think so, but I have no evidence to back it up :). I’ve been wanting to try some lip stick or stain to avoid the packaging for them.
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Thanks for posting this, Nadine! Awesome tips. You are very inspiring π
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Thanks, Allie π
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[…] I did not jump straight into homemade deodorant and DIY sour cream.Β I started simple with a COMPOST BIN (how predictable), which already eliminated a significant amount from my garbage bin.Β Throughout two years I have changed more and more habits to achieve zero waste, and I am still not at 100%, hence the journey in my blog’s title.Β Do not be too hard on yourself.Β It is a huge achievement just to start one thing, whether that is using cloth bags, avoiding plastic packaging, using cloth napkins, or making it a habit to take your travel mug and water bottle wherever you go.Β Not sure where to start?Β See my post on Easy First Steps. […]
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[…] Easy first plastic-free steps […]
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