The world is currently dealing with increasing problems related to global warming and closely linked to this worldwide problem is the continued use of single-use plastics. The world is slowly responding to the plastics problem, by banning its use, with countries such as Canada and Peru making moves to do so. From plastic straws to food wrappers and water bottles, National Geographic estimates that as much as 90.5% of plastic waste ever made has never been recycled. This means it either ends up in the ocean or in landfills, places that pose as threats to the health of humans and the environment. As we move into 2020, more and more people are becoming aware of global warming and its implications on our health and safety as a global community. Creative inventors have come up with more sustainable ways to live to lessen the environmental damage we are causing through the use of disposable items. Here, we’ve rounded up the best products to help you live more sustainably in 2020. Share this with others to help enlighten them about sustainable living.
Sustainable Living: Best Products for Your Home and Kitchen
1. AwesomeWare Beeswax Wrap Assorted 5 Packs
Crafted from only eco-friendly ingredients such as organic cotton, sustainably harvested beeswax, organic jojoba oil, and tree resin, these reusable Beeswax Wraps are a sustainable way to store food in and outside the home. Say goodbye to cling-wrap plastics and single-use plastic bags with these beeswax wraps that are so easy to use. They are reusable so you don’t have to throw them away all the time. Whether wrapping cheese, fruit, vegetables, cookies, or sandwiches, these food wraps are great for storing any kind of food at home, in the office, or at school. Its fabric and printing are certified by the Global Organic Textile Standard and even the packaging is made from 100% recycled paper and biodegradable cellulose. This pack of 5 includes 1 Small (7″ x 8″), and 3 Medium (10″ x 11″), and 1 Large (13″ x 14″) reusable beeswax food wraps. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars on Amazon.
Promising review: “Cute and functional. Recommend for anyone who wants to try to be a little more eco friendly on a daily basis. The print is cute as well. In fact, I’m attending a dinner where I’ll be bringing my dish with this wrapped on the top. Seals nicely and cleans well.” Brittani&John
2. Purely Basic Bamboo Charcoal Air Purifying Bag, Set of 3
Air fresheners and car fresheners tend to come in metal or plastic containers that are disposed after use. This results in garbage in landfills. To lessen the waste from such products, consider Purely Basic’s Bamboo Charcoal Air Purifying Bag, which can be recycled in the garden to help plants absorb nutrients. At home, use these bags to clean and freshen the air in up to 100 square feet of living space. It’s made of activated charcoal derived from sustainable Moso bamboo, which effectively reduces airborne bacteria, allergens, mold, and more. Also great for use in the car! Rated 4.2 out of 5 stars on Amazon.
Promising review: “I’ve been trying to get rid of a strong stench of greens in my car, popped one in the trunk and backseat and cleared the smell within the next hour! Super eco-friendly too and you can compost it in your garden afterward. I also have one in my bathroom!” Curious Jeorge
3. True Natured Co. Reusable Produce Bags for Grocery Shopping
Produce often comes in single use plastics that are non-biodegradable. Next time you go shopping, refuse plastic and bring your own eco-friendly shopping bag instead, just like these from True Natured Co. These machine washable and reusable grocery and produce bags are perfect for veggies, fruit, and other bulk food. This farmer’s market bag set includes 1 cotton net reusable grocery bag, 3 mesh produce bags for vegetables and fruits, and 3 bulk bin food bags for coffee, nuts, grains, rice, and others. Features double stitching for ultra durability and tare weights on its labels for easy identification. Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars on Amazon.
Promising review: “Our city recently outlawed plastic grocery bags, so I bought these for keeping my produce organized and bagged up. I love these bags, they’re super durable and the biggest net sized one is perfect for potatoes, onions, apples etc. The various sizes are useful for smaller things like jalapeños or longer things like celery and carrots. Definitely recommend these for anyone wanting to waste less plastic!” Alexandra Dalton
4. Scotch-Brite Greener Clean Natural Fiber Non-Scratch Scrub Sponge, 6-Pack
Make your kitchen an eco-friendlier place at home with these scrub sponges made of natural fiber. Regular scrub sponges are often made of some type of plastics or polyurethane, which is a petroleum-based ingredient. These natural fiber scrub sponges from Scotch-Brite are made of 100% natural materials, with 23% recycled paper and 50% natural agave plant. This non-scratch scouring pad effectively cuts grease and grime without damaging pots, pans, and glassware. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars on Amazon.
Promising review: “I wash all of my dishes by hand and I really like these sponges. They may be a little less abrasive than the traditional green and yellow ones but I’m happy with them. I think they last just a long and do a comparable job. They do tend to shed a little bit but I would say probably a similar amount to any other sponge.” Bwill541
5. UNNI 100% Compostable Extra Thick Trash Bags, 2.6 Gallon, 100 Count
Help build a cleaner, greener future right at home with these eco-friendly, compostable trash bags from UNNI. These compostable bags can be composted in municipal, industrial, and backyard facilities and has been awarded U.S. Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI) certification under the ASTM #6400 standard. These trash bags are made from the starch of plants, and contains no polyethylene. It’s great for collecting compostable materials, especially in the kitchen. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars on Amazon.
Promising review: “We had been using brown paper bags for a while, but once those ran out, we switched to these bags. They’re much larger capacity for our compost and work great! We keep a section of our freezer to store our compost between pickups, this prevents smell.” Dominic Salbatera
Sustainable Living: Hygiene and Personal Products
1. EcoLifestyle by Am Nolimit Trade Reusable Makeup Remover Pads
Personal care and beauty products are also a major contributor to waste. It doesn’t have to be that way anymore, as more and more reusable alternatives are available in the market today, including these reusable makeup remover pads from Am Nolimit Trade. This set of 4 scrub and 12 soft eco friendly organic pads are perfect for removing even long-wear makeup. It even exfoliates and cleanses the skin! They are more absorbent than traditional cotton rounds and last longer. It is soft to the touch and feature a three-layer structure that prevents deformation during use. Made of organic cotton and bamboo. These are also washable at 40°-60° C in the washing machine inside a cotton bag. Rated 4.2 out of 5 stars on Amazon.
Promising review: “These are great. Fit perfectly in my old makeup remover wipes container for storage. It comes with 4 bamboo exfoliating wipes and 8 cotton soft wipes. Sometimes you just need a little extra exfoliation, but I really wish they were all the bamboo wipes. I prefer them. Comes with a mesh bag for laundering. Great product for someone who is looking to reduce their carbon footprint.” Sixpence516
2. TreeBird Biodegradable Dental Floss With a Refillable Glass Holder, Mint Flavored
If you want to be more eco-conscious, go for these biodegradable, 100% compostable dental floss from TreeBird. Packed in a refillable glass holder, these revolutionary floss is made of 100% silk that’s 33 yards long, so your whole family can use it! It also comes in a packaging that is compostable. The inks used to make the packaging are also soy-bean based. What a great way to encourage good hygiene and eco-consciousness in the family! Rated 4 out of 5 stars on Amazon.
Promising review: “Really happy I found this floss. I’ve always avoided flossing because it cuts my gums or rips apart. This stuff is superior. The floss is fine enough not to rip up my mouth, but it’s also durable enough to stay together throughout all my teeth. I highly recommend it.” Alex Moroz
3. Isshah Biodegradable Eco-Friendly Bamboo Charcoal Toothbrush, Family Pack
Toothbrushes are some of the biggest plastic waste contributors in the world. To help prevent them from ending up in landfills, switch to these eco-friendly bamboo charcoal toothbrushes from Isshah. This family pack includes two adult toothbrushes and two child toothbrushes. These eco-friendly toothbrushes will not splinter and are strong enough to endure even the toughest brushing. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars on Amazon.
Promising review: “Happy with my set of toothbrushes. The bamboo handle is comfortable to hold, light, but sturdy, dries quickly. A bamboo ventilated brush holder for travel would be a good addition to the set. I did not expect the charcoal brush to whiten teeth, but it does clean effectively.” Susan Lindner
4. Coralov Bamboo Cotton Swabs, 200 Count
Enveloped in a recycled paper box, these cotton swabs are 100% biodegradable because its stick is made of natural organic bamboo, a sustainable, renewable resource. It’s also made with GOTS Certified Cotton and are chlorine- and fragrance-free. Each pack contains 200 organic cotton buds in standard size. These are hypoallergenic so it’s safe to use on both baby and you! Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars on Amazon.
Promising review: “I like that these cotton swabs come in a box that slides open because it makes it easier to use. I don’t need to put them in a separate container because the container they come with works fine. The cotton swabs themselves are great quality and really clean the ears.” Zuzu
5. Saalt Soft Menstrual Cup (Grey, Regular)
Say goodbye to single-use pads, tampons, and say hello to the best reusable menstrual cup you’ll ever use. Unlike other menstrual cups that are stiff and difficult to insert, the Saalt Menstrual Cup is super flexible thanks to its ultra-soft silicone formula designed to be both gentle and more comfortable for women with bladder sensitivity, cramping or discomfort with firmer cups. It features a unique, velvety soft finish, rounded transitions, and proprietary bulb shape that makes insertion and opening easier and less uncomfortable. Its stem does not have ridges that may irritate the skin. It comes in a mist grey color that prevents discoloration and is made of 100% medical-grade silicone and dyes that are FDA tested for skin sensitization, so you’re sure it’s safe for you to use in your most sensitive area. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars on Amazon.
Promising review: “I highly recommend this brand! This fits perfectly and is very comfortable – you cannot even tell it is in place. Most importantly NO LEAKS! That wasn’t the case with other brands I tried. The instructions were helpful with some user friendly tips. I thought I would need a back up, especially on heavy days, but so far this product has worked perfectly. I love this product for its convenience and trustworthiness…important qualities for a product like this!” Valerie
Other Sustainable Living Products for You and Your Family
1. Go Go Green Eco Friendly, Biodegradable, Compostable Cutlery
Change the way you host birthday parties and get togethers at home or in school with this set of eco-friendly, biodegradable, and compostable cutlery from Go Go Green. This 300-piece set includes 120 wooden forks, 90 wooden knives, and 90 wooden spoons made from birchwood, which is stronger than oak and is FDA-approved. Once used, compost them at home or at a facility and you’re good to go! Save single-use plastic from ending up in landfills with these biodegradable cutlery sets. Rated 4.7 out of 5 on Amazon.
Promising review: “I buy these for every event! They handle bbq, sides, salads, fruit, everything! Even people who scoff at eco friendly things liked these!” Amber
2. Simple Modern 17 Ounce Wave Water Bottle
Reusable water bottles need not be expensive. The Simple Modern Wave Water Bottle, which can accommodate 17 ounces of beverages, includes amazing features that are also present among more expensive options. The bottle is double-walled and vacuum insulated and is made of food-grade 18/8 stainless steel. It is even coated in a durable finish. Inside, there is a copper coated insulation layer to keep beverages at their ideal temperature and prevent moisture and temperature from seeping out so you can hold your bottle regardless of how hot or cold the beverage inside is. Comes in an array of beautiful colors and designs, including Cumulus, pictured here. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars on Amazon.
Promising review: “I was looking for a small water bottle to put inside my lunch box and this met the requirements. It keeps drinks warm or cold for a long time! Definitely recommend this product!” Ali Fermin
3. Ecozoi Plant Based Cleaning Brush Set, 4 Piece
Switch out plastic-based cleaning tools with this set of plant based cleaners that are made from the highest quality plant fibers from sisal and coconut, and bamboo. These plant-based brushes are biodegradable, making it more environmentally-friendly towards the end of its life, as it won’t end up in landfills or in the ocean as plastic waste. Rated 4.3 out of 5 stars on Amazon.
Promising review: “I have to say I’m impressed with this cleaning set. The bristles on these guys Are tough and really get the job done especially on my pans which is great. It does not leave and greasy residue like the plastic one does. I used the brush to clean out my fridge even though the bristles are tough they did not scratch the glass or plastic. The best thing of all they are plant based which helps save the oceans and planet being plastic free.” Jacky Tamayo
4. Ethique Eco-Friendly Solid Shampoo Bar for Normal-Dry or Frizzy Hair, Frizz Wrangler
Did you know that there are over 80 billion plastic shampoo and conditioner bottles thrown out annually all around the world? Help stop these plastic bottles from ending up in the ocean with this shampoo bar from Ethique. Especially crafted for frizzy hair, this shampoo bar is made with Samoan coconut oil and cocoa butter to smooth out hair without weighing it down, resulting in smooth, silky, easy to style hair. This product is plant-based, vegan, soap-free, and compostable. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars on Amazon.
Promising review: “I’m never going back to my old shampoo. I have frizzy, wavy hair and I HAVE to use high quality conditioner or else it’s hard to brush my hair. This brand has been amazing. I’m switching over forever.” Rebecca Seim
5. Ethique Eco-Friendly Deodorant Bar, Rustic
Revamp your hygiene this 2020 with better, more earth-friendly products that come in packaging that’s safe for the environment, such as the Ethique Eco-Friendly Deodorant Bar. This revolutionary product is made of bamboo, which absorbs sweat and sebum, magnesium hydroxide to keep smells away, zinc oxide to fight bacteria and inflammation, and jojoba and sweet almond for softer underarms. This product is plastic-free, palm oil-free, sustainable, and vegan. Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars on Amazon.
Promising review: “This is hands down the best natural deodorant I’ve ever tried, and I’ve tried most (if not all) of the major natural brands. It smells great and I don’t stink at the end of the day, even after a hard workout. AND it’s packaging free. That’s hard to beat! I totally recommend this!” Niki
More sustainable living products await in the links from our archive below. Don’t forget to bookmark The Teelie Blog for more inspiration on sustainable living in 2020.
10 Reusable Containers So You Can Stop Using Plastics Once and For All
10 Biodegradable Family and Home Products That Will Help You Care for Mother Earth
International Plastic Bag Free Day: Eco-friendly Reusables to Invest in Right Now
10 Best Reusable Water Bottles to Keep Hydrated This Summer
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