What You Will Learn

• Zero waste living aims to send no waste to landfills, promoting sustainability and resourcefulness.
• Adopting the five key principles: Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and Rot is essential for a zero waste lifestyle.
• Reducing waste is crucial for conserving natural resources and combating climate change.
• Participating in challenges and community initiatives enhances motivation and builds a support network.
• Understanding the circular economy can empower informed purchasing decisions and promote sustainable practices.

We Want to Hear From You!

What step are you most excited to take in your zero waste journey? Share your thoughts below:

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Recap of Key Points

Here is a quick recap of the important points discussed in the article:

• Zero Waste Living: Aims to send no waste to landfills by reducing, reusing, and recycling materials.
• Key Principles: Follow the 5 R’s: Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and Rot.
• Importance of Waste Reduction: Helps conserve resources, decreases pollution, and promotes sustainable practices.
• Influential Figures: Bea Johnson and Lauren Singer have significantly shaped the zero waste movement, providing guidance and inspiration.
• Progress Over Perfection: Focus on small, manageable changes to create a sustainable lifestyle without feeling overwhelmed.
• Circular Economy: Emphasizes redesigning consumption patterns to minimize waste and supports sustainable business practices.
• Next Steps: Engage in challenges or initiatives to deepen your commitment and connect with a supportive community.

Last Updated on August 19, 2025

Reusing your items is one of the best things you can do for the environment. As well as simply using what you have!  

Before buying new, I’ll borrow from a loved one first. If that doesn’t work, getting it secondhand is second best. And, as a last resort, I’ll buy it new – but support small businesses where applicable. 

Some of the links in this post are affiliate links; for more information please see my disclosure policy.

There’s already so many items on this planet – and our resources aren’t infinite. Did you know every single piece of plastic ever made still exists today? Considering most items are made from plastic nowadays, we should make the effort to buy less and choose well.

If you’re looking for a list of items that you can reuse over and over again, here’s what I love to use.

This post is divided into sections to make it easier to navigate, so feel free to jump around where you need to. I also tried to link to small businesses whenever possible in place of Amazon. 

kitchen 

The kitchen is one of the most wasteful rooms of the home. And I spend a good chunk of time in it whipping up scrappy recipes (check them out in my new book, 101 Tips For a Zero Waste Kitchen)! 

1. reusable water bottle 

Almost everyone has a reusable water bottle nowadays, which is great! But I’ve noticed that sometimes people feel pressured to buy these to be trendy (ahem, Stanley cups anyone?).

Now those very Stanley cups are littering thrift stores. My best advice? Stick to what you have.

And if you are in need of a new reusable water bottle, I’ve had my Klean Kanteen for 6 years and couldn’t be happier with it! 

2. tumbler 

If you love hitting up cafes for tea or coffee, consider bringing a reusable tumbler with you! I’ve even been known to bring a coffee mug from home in the past if I plan to stay for a bit.

Of course, double check the cafe doesn’t offer their own mugs if you order it to stay. Many small, local cafes will!  

3. french press 

I cannot say enough about my French press – yes, it can make coffee. But it also can make loose leaf tea! And we love a versatile, reusable product that eliminates the need for single-use K-cups or plastic tea bags. 

4. stasher bags 

To replace plastic ziplock bags, I recommend silicone bags that seal shut. Stasher bags are a good option to consider. You can use them in the microwave, freezer, or even the oven.  

5. metal lunch box 

A metal lunch box totally beats wrapping a sandwich in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. They even have tiered ones which are great when you want to pack more than one thing but don’t want the foods touching. You can wash and reuse it for years to come. 

6. snapware  

Glass snapware is perfect for storing leftovers, cut produce, and transporting homemade goodies! You don’t have to worry about plastic leaching into your food either. And it can be frozen too, if need be. 

7. silicone baking mat 

I love lining my pans with a silicone baking mat – I use it in place of parchment paper or tin foil and it works like a charm. Just clean and repeat! Use some baking soda and a wooden scrubber to get off burnt-on grime. 

8. silicone covers 

Silicone bowl covers work great at covering bowls with leftovers instead of using plastic wrap. I don’t prefer beeswax wraps (though that is another option). 

9. long handled wood dish brush 

Instead of a sponge, which can get grody very fast, consider switching to a long handle wooden dish brush! Not only will it make cleaning easier, it helps reduce plastic waste.

And, you only have to change out the top part of it periodically – which can be composted. I like to use it in tandem with a dish soap block, but refillable liquid soap is a great option too. 

10. rechargeable candle lighter 

Instead of single-use matches, try switching to a reusable candle lighter. You can recharge it, so it can be reused indefinitely! Saves you money in the long run. Pair it with some sustainable, non-toxic candles! 

11. cloth napkins 

I’m never purchasing single-use napkins again. Reusable cloth napkins save SO much money, and when you’re done, just chuck them in the washing machine! There are so many cute ones you can invest in with a multitude of patterns to fit any vibe.

cleaning 

There’s a lot of waste that comes with cleaning (paper towels, wipes, harsh chemicals etc.). But there doesn’t have to be!  

12. reusable cloth towels 

Instead of paper towels, try using reusable cloth towels to clean messes. This can be rags (from old t-shirts or sheets) or microfiber cloths.

Just chuck them into the laundry bin when you’re done. And yes – you can use these to clean toilets too! Make sure to keep a color coded system going. 

13. swedish dish cloths 

Swedish dish cloths are great for cleaning countertops – and they’re reusable for a long time. Think of them like a reusable paper towel. Just add water, some soap, and you can use them to clean surfaces. Or soak up spills.

They can even be washed (just air dry them). When they reach the end of their life, just cut them up and add them to your compost! 

14. reusable swiffer pads 

If you still have a swiffer pad, don’t toss it. Just get reusable swiffer pads! When yours starts to look grimy, toss it in the wash. No waste needed! If you’re good at sewing, you can probably even make your own. 

15. washable duster 

I have a plastic-free feather duster I purchased secondhand made from ostrich feathers and a wooden handle. It gets the job done and I don’t need to waste any disposable wipes or paper towels.  

16. refillable cleaning products 

Instead of buying a new bottle of cleaner every month, why not reuse the same container and just refill it? Many sustainable cleaning companies offer refills that reduce so much plastic waste.

Blueland is a good example of this – nab their spray bottles once, then refill it using their condensed, water-activated refills. Here are some more sustainable cleaning options. And I also love DIY cleaning products too – as long as it’s not laundry detergent! 

bathroom and personal care 

The bathroom is an area where a lot of waste gets generated. It’s probably the second most wasteful room in the home after the kitchen.

Makeup, skincare, and haircare products can also be extremely wasteful. Especially if you like to keep up with trends, or get those ‘restock’ videos on your feed.

FYI – those videos aren’t normal and are usually beauty influencers who receive tons of PR (no average person could go through THAT much product, even in one year’s time). 

17. reusable cotton rounds 

Instead of disposable cotton rounds, I made my own reusable cotton rounds from scrap fabric! I had a flannel shirt that shrunk and didn’t want to toss it – so I upcycled it instead. I can reuse these cotton rounds over and over, which I love. I use them to remove makeup or apply toner to my skin.  

18. bidet attachment 

I don’t use toilet paper wrapped in plastic (I’ve switched to Who Gives a Crap), but I barely even need TP because of my bidet! It’s easy to install a bidet on your toilet (yes, they even have ones for renters).

Tushy is one option, but there are many bidet brands out there worth checking out. Bidets can be used to clean more than just number two – they’re great for post-sex and workouts, and that time of the month (ladies, just lean forward a little bit). They’ll keep you clean in so many ways! 

19. refillable soap 

Instead of using hand soap you dispose of after it empties, consider switching to a container you can refill. Head to a local refillery (if you have one), or buy from a brand that offers refillable hand soap options. 

The same applies to shampoo, conditioner, and body wash soap too! There are several brands that make refillable products you can use in the bathroom. Plaine Products, Public Goods, and Blueland are just a few options to consider. You can also use bar soap. 

20. handkerchiefs 

I’ve stopped using tissues and switched over to handkerchiefs instead, which can be washed after use. I fold them in an accordion pattern so when you pull one, it’ll automatically pull the next one out.

I store them in an old porcelain cover box. Many of them are from my grandmother and great grandmother, which is a lovely way of keeping them with me.  

21. reusable period products

In the U.S. alone, around 12 billion pads and 7 billion tampons are thrown out every year. Switching to reusable period underwear is a great way to reduce period waste. 

I co-founded a period underwear company (Kayaness) with my best friend, Shelby, so I’m a little biased! 

But period underwear are wonderful for those irritated by period pads and tampons and want to feel like they’re wearing nothing. Use the discount code kay10 for $10 off your first order!  

But reusable pads and menstrual cups are also options for those who prefer extra coverage. Menstrual cups may take some trial and error to find the right fit – but once you do, it will keep for hours! 

22. safety razor 

Disposable razors don’t work well and rack up in cash. But when you buy a safety razor, it’s not something you’ll have to replace for years (if ever).

All you’ll need to do is replace the razor blades – but those can be recycled. And honestly, I bought a pack of refills back in 2017 that I’m still using – it will probably last me for several more years, seeing as they don’t have to be replaced frequently. 

23. glass nail file 

Most nail files are flimsy and break after a few uses. However, I absolutely love my reusable glass nail file because I can just wash it clean when I’m done and reuse it without worrying it will break!  

24. refillable makeup products  

There are so many amazing eco makeup brands making a conscious effort to package their products thoughtfully. I am a huge fan of Kjaer Weis and Zao because they are refillable and made using natural ingredients. 

parties and events 

Parties can create a large amount of waste, from the food to the decor. But with a little planning, you can prevent this (and still have fun!). 

25. reusable plates and cups

Having a stash of plates you keep just for parties is a great idea. Hitting up a thrift shop will deliver affordable results. At the end of the night, ask your friends for help to load up the dishwasher! 

For drinks, obviously you can just use glass cups if it’s a dinner party. But if you know guests will be wandering around and may be drinking alcohol, investing in stainless steel pint cups might be for the best. Another option is asking friends to bring their own reusable tumblers! 

26. reusable silicone baking cups 

If you’re planning on baking for a gathering, especially muffins or cupcakes, consider investing in reusable silicone baking cups! They will save you money, plus you can just wash them for next time (they’re freezer and dishwasher safe too – a plus!). 

27. fabric gift wrap 

I love wrapping gifts with furoshiki wrap (aka cloth/fabric). You can thrift pretty scarves, sheets and handkerchiefs you use as wraps but make a second gift!  

But you can also upcycle gift bags and tissue paper, reusing them over and over again. Reusing packaging paper to wrap your gifts is also charming (keep it plastic-free by tying it together using twine). 

office and stationary 

28. refillable fountain pen 

If you work an office job, you probably go through a lot of pens. But switching to a refillable fountain pen will save you money in the long run! I draw the ink from an ink well.

And if you’re worried you might lose it – when you know an item is valuable, you’re going to treat it a lot better. Plus there are lots of carrying cases you can nab for it on the go.  

29. wooden highlighters 

Are you constantly highlighting things in college textbooks or in books? Consider switching to wooden highlighters. They don’t bleed through the paper and are completely plastic-free. And yes, reusable, to the last point! They won’t dry out on you either. 

30. rechargeable batteries 

Switching to rechargeable batteries is such a great way to reduce e-waste, but also saves money in the long run. You won’t constantly be tossing out batteries and can just put them on a charging dock when their juice runs low.  

What do you think of these reusable products? Which is your favorite, or what would you add to this list? Let me know in the comments! 

Dryer sheets are a commonly used laundry solution, but they aren’t the most environmentally friendly. For those who are looking for an option that’s sustainable and zero waste, there are alternatives you could find right in your home.

These dryer sheet alternatives are affordable, get the job done, and help reduce your carbon footprint.

We’ve rounded up a few options that will keep your clothes feeling fresh while also honoring the environment.

From essential oils to aluminum foil, you’d be surprised what you can do to spruce up your loads of laundry.

Why Use Dryer Sheets?

Dryer sheets are used for a variety of reasons. Some of the most common uses include reducing static in clothing, releasing wrinkles, softening fabric, and adding a clean, fresh scent.

They’re quick and convenient, offering noticeable results with little effort. They work by transferring a solution (fabric softening agents, for instance) found on the sheets to clothing as they heat in the dryer, and voila, fluffy clothes that smell great!

Are Alternatives Better?

Many of us want are clothes to feel and smell fresh after washing, but at what cost?

Traditional dryer sheets are often filled with toxic chemicals and synthetic fragrances.

Sure, these chemicals quickly make your clothes feel soft and smell like roses, but they also transfer those same chemicals onto your skin.

If you have sensitive skin, allergies, sensitivities to harsh chemicals, or simply prefer to be more environmentally conscious, traditional dryer sheets may not be the best option for you.

Beyond personal health, single-use dryer sheets aren’t biodegradable, meaning once they’re used they go straight to a landfill.

Switching to dryer sheet alternatives allows you to cut back on chemical exposure and environmental impact. Many of the available options are cost-effective (or free) and already availabe in your home.

So, how what dryer sheet alternatives will help you toss the chemicals and embrace the natural? Keep reading!

Vinegar

Whenever we think of natural all-purpose cleaning solutions, vinegar is usually at the top of the list. Plus, it’s something you can easily find right in your kitchen.

To make this dryer sheet alternative, apply a mix of 1/2 cup white vinegar or apple cider vinegar with 1/2 cup water to a rag or cloth, then add it to clothes during the drying cycle.

Using vinegar will help your clothes feel clean and soft and minimize static.

And if you are worried about a strong vinegar smell, there’s nothing to fear – there’s no lingering scent, but a little essential oil can naturally offer a nice scent boost.

Note: Be sure to avoid using vinegar if you’ve used bleach in your clothes due to any potential chemical reactions.

Baking soda

Baking soda isn’t just for neutralizing smells in your refrigerator; it also works on clothes!

It naturally adjusts to your water’s pH levels, working to eliminate odor, bacteria, and helping clothes feel softer. We recommend adding 1/2 or 1/4 cup (depending on load size) to the laundry before adding detergent, then proceeding with your usual wash settings.

This alternative is a great option for those extra smelly laundry loads, especially thanks to its bacteria-busting power. Just make sure not to mix with vinegar, or else your laundry will turn into a science project!

Ice cubes

This is probably one of the easiest dryer sheet alternatives on the list since it’s using the most readily available item in your home: water.

Just freeze up some ice cubes to get this idea going and add them during the last 15-20 minutes of your dryer cycle.

It probably seems counterintuitive to use ice cubes for all the reasons you could think, but it works. The steam from the ice cubes works to reduce wrinkles and static.

Just a couple of ice cubes will do for a small to medium-sized load.

Aluminum foil balls

Foil as a zero waste dryer sheet option may be the most surprising on the list. But before you skip ahead, here’s why it works.

The negative ions from the aluminum foil discharge static electricity which releases which works to make your clothes static-free.

You’ll want to add two or three small balls of foil to your dryer with your wet clothing. Remember foil won’t soften your clothes or boost scents – but other options on the list will do the trick.

Wool dryer balls

Dryer balls made from wool are a great, eco-friendly option because they reduce static and soften clothes.

This natural fabric softener is loved for being so sustainable because they made with natural fibers and is designed to be reusable with multiple loads. Adding them to your dryer can also reduce drying time and increase airflow as the balls work to soak up extra moisture in fabrics.

Wool balls are also great for sensitive skin because they are free from synthetic fabrics and dyes.

Give them an extra boost by adding your favorite drops of essential oil (like lavender or citrus) to help naturally improve the scent of your clothes without harmful chemicals.

Soap nuts

Soap nuts, or dried berries, are made from saponin-containing trees. They serve multiple purposes: you can use them by adding them to the washer, dryer, or on their own.

Saponin contained in soap nuts helps remove dirt from clothing during the washing process and releases a fresh scent during drying.

Simply add a few soap nuts to a muslin or cotton drawstring bag to use for washing and transfer the same bag to the dryer.

After use, remove the bag and let it completely dry – soap nuts can be reused for several more wash cycles.

Special note: Soap nuts are also compostable and can be added to your garden after you’re done using them.

DIY Dryer Sheets

Feeling ambitious? Try making your dryer sheets.

This is an especially useful option if you’d prefer an alternative that closely matches traditional dryer sheets. All you need is an old cloth – think a worn-out t-shirt or some old hand towels – and cut a few squares to size.

Place them in an airtight container, adding a little vinegar (until damp) and essential oils. Next time you have a load of laundry to dry, you can toss one of these in without any extra prep.

One of the simplest DIY options is just hanging your sheets out to dry. Yes, it’s very traditional, but the sun naturally sanitizes. Make sure to shake your clothes before hanging, and if you have allergies, consider hanging to dry indoors.

Dryer sheets are a commonly used to keep laundry fresh and fluffy post-dryer, but the harmful ingredients may give you pause. If you have sensitive skin or just prefer a more sustainable zero waste option, there are plenty to choose from vinegar to aluminum foil. Here’s to happy washing (with less worry).

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