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.

And if you're looking for something sturdy to carry your produce in, we love the Marche Sac from Better Basics. Made from 100% organic cotton, they’re great for carrying your fruits and veggies home and keeping them fresh.

Beeswax Wrap

Bee Well Beeswax Wrap from Better Basics is the bomb and an absolute staple in my house. It keeps food fresh for longer without disposable plastic wrap—and honestly, it just looks cooler!

Made from organic beeswax, GOTS certified organic cotton, and jojoba oil, this beeswax wrap is also durable, and free from toxins, VOCs, PVCs, and PETs. Reuse it again and again—just wash off with warm water and soap!

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). 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

 

The Ever Bottle from Better Basics is an easy way to bid farewell to single-use plastic water bottles or plastic cups at your coffee shop. It's double-walled—designed to keep hot drinks hot and cold drinks cold for 12 hours. Sleek, adaptable, and the perfect size (16.9 oz), this bottle could save you hundreds of disposable bottles and cups a year!

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 low waste 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. 

Better Basics also offers a low-waste, plastic-free personal care starter kit with shampoo, conditioner, balm, and cleanser in aluminum or cardboard packaging. The formulas are concentrated, so they save space and weight as well as packaging!

Another bestseller, the 12-pack assorted bar soap set from Hand in Hand Soap, is made from all-natural ingredients that smell ahhh-mazing. The soaps are vegan, cruelty-free, and palm oil free, and for every bar you buy, you’re giving clean water and a bar of soap to a child in Haiti! Win-win!

You'll never miss your shampoo bottle again with these Shampoo Bars from Fountain House + Body. With a blend of butters, oils, and natural fragrances, you can get that hair squeaky clean without dirtying up the planet!

Eco-friendly 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 On-the-Go Tableware Set, that’s designed for 8 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.

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