21 Easy Swaps for a More Sustainable Home
With all the reports coming out about the effects of climate change, a lot of people are looking to live more sustainable, eco-friendly lives (us, included). And since the most recent one by the United Nations' Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change warns that sea levels are rising at even faster rates and that extreme weather events could be a yearly occurrence by 2050, there's even more cause to start making more lifestyle changes now.
The thing is, you don't have to live off the grid to be more sustainable. In fact, your life doesn't even have to look all that different. Especially now, when there are so many brands that are offering eco-friendly products at affordable prices. The trick to living a more environmentally conscious life is to start slow and take it one step at a time, according to Kira Cahill and Olivia Dahan, co-founders of eco-lifestyle company Bold Box.
"Starting an eco-friendly lifestyle is like anything, going to the gym, changing your eating habits, etc.," Cahill says. "We've found that in order to keep a sustainable life, you have to make one swap at a time and find what works for you. It can be overwhelming going zero to a 100."
To help you get started, or provide some more ideas if you're already trying to live sustainably, we rounded up 21 swaps to make (with some help from Cahill and Dahan).
In the Kitchen
Regular Coffee Pods for Reusable Eco-Cups
"Let's start with coffee! If you use a Keurig, invest in reusable eco-cups," Dahan says. "They are made of stainless steel and can be washed and used repeatedly. Obviously the most eco-friendly option is a French press, but these reusable cups are an easy intro item."
Plastic Sandwhich Bags for Reusable Storage Bags
Plastic Food Storage for Glass or Stainless Steel Versions
Plastic Wrap for Beeswax Wrap
Plastic Trash Bags for Compostable Trash Bags
Paper Towels for Bamboo Towels
Plastic or Paper Shopping Bags for Tote Bags
In the Bathroom
Regular Toilet Paper for Bamboo Toilet Paper
Normal Shower Head for a Low-Flow Version
Liquid Soap for Bar Soap
Regular Toothbrush for Bamboo Toothbrush
Regular Makeup Remover Pads for Reusable Ones
Air Fresheners for Essential Oil Diffusers
For the Laundry Room
Dryer Sheets for Dryer Balls
Dryer sheets cause a lot of excess waste, and many contain harmful chemicals. If you like the smell of dryer sheets, you can add some essential oils to the dryer balls for the same effect.
Laundry Wash Bag for Guppyfriend Washing Bag
For Your Bedroom
Think sustainable if it's time to upgrade your bedding. A lot of companies like Buffy and Coyuchi make their sheets and comforters from recycled, plant-based, or organic materials. Buffy's is made from eucalyptus fabric, and each comforter is said to keep 50 bottles out of landfills. Coyuchi has an eco-friendly subscription service in which you get towels, sheets, and duvets every six, 12, or 24 months—the company will renew, upcycle, or recycle your returned items so they don't end up in landfills.
For Your Home Tech
Regular Thermostat for a High-Tech One
Disposable Batteries for Rechargeable Batteries
Incandescent Light Bulbs for Energy-Efficient Light Bulbs
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, energy-efficient light bulbs use 25% to 80% less energy than regular light bulbs, reducing the environmental impact. They last longer, too.
Next up: These 10 Sustainable Products Are Trending on Pinterest
This article is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to be used in the place of advice of your physician or other medical professionals. You should always consult with your doctor or healthcare provider first with any health-related questions.
Sarah is lifestyle writer and editor with over 10 years of experience covering health and wellness, interior design, food, beauty, and tech. Born and raised in Los Angeles, she attended New York University and lived in New York for 12 years before returning to L.A. in 2019. In addition to her work at Who What Wear, she held editor roles at Apartment Therapy, Real Simple, House Beautiful, Elle Decor, and The Bump (sister site of The Knot). She has a passion for health and wellness, but she especially loves writing about mental health. Her self-care routine consists of five things: a good workout, “me” time on the regular, an intriguing book/podcast/playlist to unwind after a long day, naps, and decorating her home.
-
I Tried to Reduce My Trash by 50%—Here's What Happened
It was challenging yet rewarding.
-
The Sustainable Activewear Brands That You Need to Know About
Put these on your list.
-
This Sustainability Activist Has a Zero-Waste Morning Routine
Ideas you can use for your own mornings.
-
25 Simple Ways You Can Be a Good Neighbor Right Now
Start here.
-
9 Ways You Can Be a More Mindful Shopper
Be good to the environment (and your wallet).
-
The 15 Best Sustainable Gifts to Give This Holiday
Presents, but make them eco-friendly.
-
PSA: You're Probably Recycling Wrong—Here's How to Fix It
Know the rules.
-
The 13 Best Natural Detergents That Actually Get the Job Done
Laundry day just got better.