Single-use plastics are the worst, right? They generate a ton of waste, they’re difficult to recycle, and most of the time, they’re not even necessary!

But they’re convenient, and you can’t always choose when they’ll be given to you. Couple that with the fact that alternatives aren’t always easy to find, and it’s clear why nixing our plastic problem is so difficult. It’s sometimes said that “the world doesn’t need one person doing zero-waste perfectly, it needs 1,000 people doing zero-waste imperfectly.” So if you’re ready to start an imperfect journey towards cutting down on plastics, we've got some great products to get you started! They’re simple, they’re affordable, they’re all on DoneGood, and they’re great alternatives to single-use plastic!

Reusable Straws

 

I love a straw—I just tend to drink more water with them! And with sustainable options out there, I can sip on without the waste.

These reusable bamboo straws from Malia Designs come in a set of two, with a brush, and carrying case so you can take them along to your favorite restaurant. They’re durable, easy to clean, and made from easily renewable and biodegradable bamboo that’s BPA-free!  

We also love these compostable straws from Preserve. They’re made from non-toxic, non-plastic, plant-based materials and are backyard compostable! Perfect for reducing your plastic consumption, but still getting the convenience of a disposable straw!

Reusable Shopping Bags

 

Ditch the flimsy grocery store bags! Make grocery shopping more colorful and eco-friendly with reusable grocery totes like the Market Tote from Mayamam Weavers or the Market Tote from Vi Bella! Both are roomy, durable, and handmade with love—a great accessory to use on your errands without compromising sustainability or style.

Plastic-Free Food Storage

 

I love the Food Huggers Eco Pro Bundle - their food storage options are absolute staples in my house. It keeps food fresh for longer without disposable plastic wrap or plastic baggies. The Best part? You can just toss them in the dishwasher and use them again and again!

Reusable Menstrual Products

 

Yeah, we’re going there. And once you get past the initial “yeeeeah, but how does it work?” question, you’ll be glad you tried Saalt’s reusable period underwear and menstrual cups. First of all, because disposable period products are expensive! You can save an estimated $60-$90 a year with reusables! 

Also because menstrual products generate a ton of waste (an estimated 250-300 pounds in a woman’s lifetime).

Need another reason to make the switch? The normal period products we're used to often have harmful chemicals and bleach - learn more in our blog on PFAs here. So ditch the chemicals, bleaches, waste, and cost, and go for high-quality, comfortable-for-you, great-for-the-planet period products instead!

Reusable Water Bottles

 

 

This Pure Copper Bottle from Shakti Warrior is an easy way to bid farewell to single-use plastic water bottles. An added benefit: when water is stored in a copper vessel for 6-8 hours or overnight, the vessel releases beneficial ions into the water. Experience the ancient tradition of drinking from a copper bottle, known for its Ayurvedic benefits. Discover the power of Shakti Warrior's bottles, crafted from pure copper, designed to boost vitality, strengthen immunity, and offer anti-aging benefits.

Eco-Friendly Personal Care Products

 

Lots of personal care products come in plastic bottles that you can only use once. And half of what you're paying for is water anyway! We’ve got an amazing selection of low-waste personal care products that are plastic-free and made from high-quality ingredients.

Plaine Products sends their personal care products in reusable aluminum containers that you can send back for a refill! We love their naturally-scented body wash, shampoo, and conditioner. 

J&L Naturals offers a low-waste, plastic-free Exceptional Skin Care Regimen Kit that includes a face mask, face cleansing bar, lip balm, and more, all in cardboard packaging. Now you can transition your entire skin care routine to be completely plastic-free!

Remove even more single-use plastic from you shower with these Shampoo and Conditioner Bars from Community Goods. All of their bars are SLS and palm oil-free, and made with the finest essential oils and natural ingredients.

Eco-Friendly and Plastic-Free Plates and Cups

 

As a constant party hostess, I’m always torn between the convenience of disposable dishes and their absolute waste. Not a problem for the ever-incredible pioneer in sustainable consumables, Preserve! Preserve excels in making household goods that are either made from recycled plastic or are compostable! 

If you think you can swap out disposable cups and plates for reusable ones, Preserve offers this Everyday Tableware Set that’s designed for 4 people. Light enough for a party, durable enough for everyday, affordable, and made from recycled plastics! 

But if the draw of disposable is too tempting to pass up, never fear! Preserve offers compostable plates and cups! Enjoy the party, guilt-free, without having to worry about the dishes! 

 

 

 

 

 

  

Erin King
DoneGood Contributor

Writer, editor, and all-around language enthusiast who uses her love of words to help others.

Website

 

Note: This blog post has been updated from its original version to include the most up-to-date suggestions.