Post by applecrisp1 on Jan 21, 2019 12:38:29 GMT -5
I'm always looking for ways to make better choices for the environment (and extra bonus often saves you money too). Any new (or old) favorites that do at home?
Off the top of my head....
I do the usual, bring my own bags when shopping, and I always have one of those tiny fold-up ones in my bag for unexpected errands. I'm not perfect with it but for the most part I use my own.
I have those reusable mesh produce bags. I might still use a bag now and then --- but these really have helped out. And many items just don't need a bag anyway.
I've used cloth napkins for years. It takes so little effort, why did it take me so long? I don't have to spend money on paper napkins and/or store them.
Most of my storage containers are glass. I do use a combo of glass and reusable plastic storage containers in the freezer and I try to use as few plastic bags.
A Brita filter in place of plastic water bottles.
I am trying to be even more aware with the food, cleaning and beauty products that I buy, whether it the ingredients, the plastic used, the packaging etc. If I'm buying kitchen equipment etc, I want it to last and not end up in the landfill in a few years. And just as bad, end up in the back of my cabinet not being used.
I do get some items from the bulk bins but I don't buy many of the items so not really geared to me. I will say when I get the chocolate covered pretzels, being eco-friendly is not my main objective. : )
And related, I'm trying to really think about what I order online. The excess packaging/the transport ..... Can I just get it locally? (let alone supporting local businesses).
Soooo.
- Does anyone use those reusable storage bags (in place of ziploc type bags) and have a brand to recommend? I would love to use in the freezer (for example if freezing muffins, bagels etc). I do try to reuse the plastic bags, especially if simply putting a new loaf of bread in the freezer.
- I want to further cut back on my paper towel use. For those that don't use (or many) paper towels -- do you use anything special? I use cut up pieces of old t-shirts etc. When I tried cutting up old towels, it made a mess, threads/bits of towel all over the place. What do you do with the dirty towels after you use them? (I only do laundry once a week).
- Anyone use those reusable beeswax wraps in place of plastic wrap? I've seem them in stores/online but have never tried. Like everything, people either love or hate it. I use very little plastic wrap and not on my to try list right now -- but I will say some of the designs are super cute.
- Garbage bags. I need to find a small garbage bag (think the size of a plastic grocery store bag) and if there are better choices for the env't. Do you all just get the big brands from the supermarket or big box stores?
- Anyone have any favorite homemade cleaning products? I use vinegar/water - not much beyond that.
Any favorite tips?
Thanks.
Off the top of my head....
I do the usual, bring my own bags when shopping, and I always have one of those tiny fold-up ones in my bag for unexpected errands. I'm not perfect with it but for the most part I use my own.
I have those reusable mesh produce bags. I might still use a bag now and then --- but these really have helped out. And many items just don't need a bag anyway.
I've used cloth napkins for years. It takes so little effort, why did it take me so long? I don't have to spend money on paper napkins and/or store them.
Most of my storage containers are glass. I do use a combo of glass and reusable plastic storage containers in the freezer and I try to use as few plastic bags.
A Brita filter in place of plastic water bottles.
I am trying to be even more aware with the food, cleaning and beauty products that I buy, whether it the ingredients, the plastic used, the packaging etc. If I'm buying kitchen equipment etc, I want it to last and not end up in the landfill in a few years. And just as bad, end up in the back of my cabinet not being used.
I do get some items from the bulk bins but I don't buy many of the items so not really geared to me. I will say when I get the chocolate covered pretzels, being eco-friendly is not my main objective. : )
And related, I'm trying to really think about what I order online. The excess packaging/the transport ..... Can I just get it locally? (let alone supporting local businesses).
Soooo.
- Does anyone use those reusable storage bags (in place of ziploc type bags) and have a brand to recommend? I would love to use in the freezer (for example if freezing muffins, bagels etc). I do try to reuse the plastic bags, especially if simply putting a new loaf of bread in the freezer.
- I want to further cut back on my paper towel use. For those that don't use (or many) paper towels -- do you use anything special? I use cut up pieces of old t-shirts etc. When I tried cutting up old towels, it made a mess, threads/bits of towel all over the place. What do you do with the dirty towels after you use them? (I only do laundry once a week).
- Anyone use those reusable beeswax wraps in place of plastic wrap? I've seem them in stores/online but have never tried. Like everything, people either love or hate it. I use very little plastic wrap and not on my to try list right now -- but I will say some of the designs are super cute.
- Garbage bags. I need to find a small garbage bag (think the size of a plastic grocery store bag) and if there are better choices for the env't. Do you all just get the big brands from the supermarket or big box stores?
- Anyone have any favorite homemade cleaning products? I use vinegar/water - not much beyond that.
Any favorite tips?
Thanks.