10 Simple Swaps for a More Sustainable Home
Living sustainably doesn’t have to be complicated. Small, intentional changes can significantly reduce your environmental impact while saving you money in the long run. Whether you’re just starting your sustainability journey or looking for new ways to make your home greener, these 10 simple swaps will help you create a more eco-friendly lifestyle.
1. Plastic Bottles -> Reusable Water Bottle
Alternative
Use a stainless steel or glass reusable water bottle. Brands like Klean Kanteen and Hydro Flask offer durable, stylish options.
Why?
💧 Single-use plastic bottles contribute to massive plastic waste and pollution.
Ekotera recommends: Klean Kanteen: durable, stainless steel bottles that are perfect for eco-conscious hydration on the go. With high-quality insulation and a commitment to sustainability, it’s a great choice for reducing single-use plastic waste.
2. Paper Towels -> Reusable Cloths
Why?
🧻 Paper towels create unnecessary waste and require energy-intensive production.
Alternative
Use washable bamboo cloths, organic cotton towels, or dishcloths that can be reused multiple times.
Ekotera recommends: Kierti is a family-owned business that makes handmade and sustainable cleaning textiles, including bamboo and hemp dishcloths. Their eco-friendly products blend style with sustainability.
3. Plastic Wrap -> Beeswax Wraps
Why?
🍽️ Plastic wrap is non-recyclable and ends up in landfills or oceans.
Alternative
Beeswax wraps keep food fresh and are reusable.
Ekotera recommends: Little Bee Fresh is an eco-friendly and practical alternative to plastic wrap. Handmade in Germany from organic cotton, beeswax, and tree resin, these reusable wraps keep your food fresh longer and add a touch of natural beauty to your kitchen.
4. Liquid Shampoo -> Shampoo Bar
Why?
🛁 Most shampoo bottles are made of plastic and rarely get recycled.
Alternative
Use shampoo bars from brands like Ekotera’s recommended options to cut down on plastic waste.
Ekotera recommends: Finnish Flow Cosmetics makes biodegradable shampoo bars for all types of hair colors and textures out of natural materials. Safe for nature and you!
5. Disposable Razors -> Safety Razor
Why?
🪒 Plastic razors create tons of waste and are expensive over time.
Alternative
A stainless steel safety razor lasts for years and only requires blade replacements.
Ekotera recommends: The Swedish brand Nukka makes reusable razors out of bamboo, offering a sustainable alternative to disposable plastic razors.
6. Plastic Grocery Bags -> Reusable Bags
Why?
🛍️ Plastic bags take hundreds of years to decompose and harm wildlife.
Alternative
Opt for durable cotton, jute, or recycled fabric grocery bags.
Ekotera recommends: The Finnish design couple Saana ja Olli makes bags out of sustainable hemp materials with authentic Nordic designs.
7. Conventional Cleaning Products -> Eco-Friendly Cleaners
Why?
🧼 Many commercial cleaning products contain toxic chemicals and come in plastic packaging.
Alternative
Use refillable, biodegradable, or DIY natural cleaners made from vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils. Brands like Ekotera’s top sustainable brands offer great options.
Ekotera recommends: The Finnish brand Saaren Taika offers a wide range of cleaning supplies that are a better choice for the envionment.
8. Plastic Toothbrushes -> Bamboo Toothbrushes
Why?
🦷 Over 1 billion plastic toothbrushes are thrown away each year.
Alternative
Bamboo toothbrushes decompose naturally and are just as effective.
Ekotera recommends: Humble Brush is a Swedish brand that makes sustainable alternatives for your dental hygiene routine.
9. Switch to LED Light Bulbs
Why?
💡 Incandescent bulbs use more energy and burn out faster.
Alternative
LED bulbs are energy-efficient, last longer, and reduce electricity consumption.
10. Disposable Cups -> Refillable Coffee Cup
Why?
☕ Billions of disposable coffee cups end up in landfills each year.
Alternative
Bring a reusable coffee cup to your favorite café.
Ekotera recommends: Circular & Co. make durable and stylish reusable cups from a minimum of 90% post-consumer recycled stainless steel. These 100% leakproof mugs keep beverages hot for up to six hours, making them perfect for sustainable on-the-go use.
Transitioning to a more sustainable home doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By making these 10 simple swaps, you’ll reduce waste, save resources, and contribute to a healthier planet.
Which swap will you try first? Let us know in the comments! 🌱