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Mother Nature sends her thanks for choosing eco-friendly dryer balls over sheets that'll outlive your great-grandchildren in landfills. We've rounded up 21 super simple swaps that let you save the planet without actually trying – because doing good should feel as easy as your Sunday morning coffee run. Whether you're wrapping leftovers in cute beeswax instead of clingy plastic or upgrading to reusable containers that won't leave your grandkids dealing with your sandwich bag choices, each switch proves going green doesn't require growing your own organic kale or living in a treehouse.

Kick those one-and-done products to the curb while keeping your lazy streak intact. Trade chemical-bomb mothballs for cedar rings that smell like a fancy closet, or swap those endless paper towel runs for a roll of reusable ones that actually look cute on your counter. Watch your ChomChom roller eliminate pet hair (and the guilt of tossing sticky sheets), while silicone air fryer liners make paper ones look positively prehistoric. From makeup wipes you can actually wash to plant-based trash bags that decompose faster than your New Year's resolutions, every swap helps you level up your eco game without sacrificing convenience.

#1

Your Leftovers Deserve Better Than Clingy Plastic, So Wrap Them In The Wax Wrap For Food That’s Way Cooler (And Eco-Friendlier) Than Plastic Wrap

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Review: "This is super great, I’m trying to get rid of single use items in my home and this is a great option." - Joshua Gardner

amazon.com , ChanLee , Honest Reviewer Report

jonathan
Community Member
9 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Or, get reusable storage containers with lids. No waste.

Itsmeagain
Community Member
9 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Save margarine tubs to use for storing all sorts of things from laundry powder to freezing food, to pens and pencils to Lego bricks😊

Frank&Beans
Community Member
9 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

And twice the price. When are people gonna get that?

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    #2

    Your Dishes Don’t Have To Cost The Earth, So Swap Out That Disposable Sponge For The Biodegradable Sponge That Cleans Up Without The Guilt

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    Review: "These sponges are great!! I used this one to clean a pan with baked on food, the scouring pad is so durable and I didn’t have to over scrub like when I use my usual sponges. They rinse off really well and don’t hold on to food either!
    I love that I can just toss these in my compost once they’ve reached their max use." - Allison F

    amazon.com , Jo Nathan , Allison F Report

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    #3

    Your Sandwich Deserves Better Than A One-Way Trip To The Landfill, So Swap Those Flimsy Ziplocks For The Reusable Silicone Food Bags That Are Tougher And Way More Eco-Friendly

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    Review: "I love these bags! And I LOVE they are not easy to open! It means my food is going to stay safe, secure and no freezer burn!" - D. Mccutcheon

    amazon.com , Ellekat , adventuredancer Report

    Stephen Lyford
    Community Member
    9 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    How hard are they to clean tho? I guess you have to always turn them inside-out and cllean them VERY well before using again.

    April Pickett
    Community Member
    9 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I saw a picture of these on another "kitchen gadget" page and they cleaned them in the dishwasher.

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    #4

    Your Meal Prep Deserves Better Than Soggy Plastic, So Upgrade To The Glass And Bamboo Food Containers That Are As Stylish As They Are Sustainable

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    Review: "I was looking to replace my plastic food storage containers. These are fantastic. The set of 4 sizes gives you plenty of options and the largest size is quite ample. They stack nicely when empty and when in use, they stack nicely in the fridge." - Donna Chirico

    amazon.com , Roxana , ThatOrganicMom Report

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    #5

    Your Kitchen Just Got A Zero-Waste Glow-Up, Because The Reusable Kitchen Towels Are Here To Clean Up Spills Better Than Paper Ever Could

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    Review: "I’m a single 42yo man who wanted some better kitchen towels. These really are a nice upgrade over the Costco ones. Great feel, look nice, very absorbent. I’m super happy with them. Even got a nice Home Goods basket for them." - Anonymously

    amazon.com , Matt Black , Anonymously Report

    Itsmeagain
    Community Member
    9 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I've used cotton tea towels for decades!

    Frank&Beans
    Community Member
    9 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    We use terry cloths. Washable. Haven’t used disposable ones since 2005.

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    Review: "It’s just simply amazing. What more can I say? I have a multi pet household so hair always accumulates like crazy and I’m guilty of washing my bedding way too much to try to remove let hair from it and it still sticks even fresh out of the drier. This thing on the other hands, removes it in seconds. It is so easy to use. " - Camiron

    This new-school vs. old-school showdown is just the tip of the iceberg. Check out these 16 other matchups that definitively decide if we like new-tech or classic solutions.

    amazon.com , David Report

    A girl
    Community Member
    9 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Overrated. I have one. It's eco-friendly but nothing beats tape for dog hair

    person (i think)
    Community Member
    9 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Really? I like this so much more than tape (unless I’m using it on clothes I’m wearing)

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    #7

    Your Laundry Routine Just Got A Little Greener, Because The Dryer Balls Are Here To Soften Your Clothes And Cut Static Without The Waste Of Dryer Sheets

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    Review: "I've used them a couple times now. They do make the laundry softer, and the smell is surprisingly fresh. I don't need dryer sheets anymore!" - S. Y. Baker

    amazon.com , Mikey Mike , InOtterSpace Report

    Bacon Tentacles
    Community Member
    9 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Been using these for over 10 years. The rubber ones are weird, but the pure wool ones are awesome. And our clothes last just as long, if not longer, thank you very much.

    LakotaWolf (she/her)
    Community Member
    9 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    And if you have thin fabrics, these just beat them into holes and pieces way faster XD my mom's been using these (and the weird nubbly-spiny rubber ones) for years and she always wonders why her clothes "fall apart" so fast.

    Dorothy Reiser
    Community Member
    Premium
    9 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    These left my t -shirts with a lot of lint. I don't use them anymore.

    Sustainability meets simplicity as we explore more ways to green your routine without disrupting it. The following swaps demonstrate how small changes multiply into major impact, proving you don't need to overhaul your entire lifestyle to make Mother Earth proud.

    #8

    Your Trash Doesn’t Have To Outlive You, So Swap Out Regular Bin Bags For The Biodegradable Trash Bags That Break Down Without Guilt

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    Review: "Breaks down naturally - good for compost for larger events. Sturdy enough to be used for a lot of people." - Bryson Hadley

    amazon.com , Kait , JC Jones Report

    Zaach
    Community Member
    9 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Not all trash is biodegradable

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    Review: "We love our pour coffee and this little filter works perfectly. Cleans easy and dries quickly. Gets used daily." - Amazon Customer

    Do you know a coffee lover who would love one of these? Check out these 34 other gifts that are perfect for the coffee addict in our life.

    amazon.com , Amazon Customer , Sara Lidstrom Report

    Vincent Bevort
    Community Member
    9 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Don't know if it me, but as far as I know, the paper filters are recycled together with the coffee. So no harm done the “old” way.

    person (i think)
    Community Member
    9 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Unless being composted properly, neither breaks down properly in a regular landfill

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    Randy Sanders
    Community Member
    9 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Coffee grounds and filters, along with eggshells, veggie trimmings, etc. go in the compost bin.

    Lisa Barbeau
    Community Member
    9 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Looks like some type of fabric that has to be washed? They’ve been making reusable metal filters for decades. Takes seconds to wash and dry.

    Janiece Teichmann
    Community Member
    9 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Isn't any coffee maker a "pour coffee"? Scalding water+coffee grounds via gravity= liquid coffee bliss? Just asking.

    patricia patricia
    Community Member
    7 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    No. There are other types, that don't work via gravity, like Moka pots and French press. In my opinion, the Moka pot makes the tastiest coffee.

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    #10

    Your Pup’s Accidents Don’t Have To Mean More Trash, Because The Reusable Pee Pads Are Here To Clean Up Messes In A Way That’s Kinder To The Planet Than Disposable Ones

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    Review: "These pee pads are beautiful and of excellent quality. I bought a few in different colors. So much better than disposable pee pads. They wash and dry well too. Really, no complaints." - Mleon

    amazon.com , Mleon , Rutland97 Report

    Francesca Annoni
    Community Member
    9 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I don't know... But with this don't you teach your dog to pee on the carpet? How it can tell them apart?

    Bonnie Buttons
    Community Member
    9 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I used disposable pee pads with one of my dogs (I've had 5). It taught him to pee on anything on the floor that was fabric. So, the intentions and idea of this reusable pee pad are good, but you are right. And that dog will end up in the shelter because he "can't be potty trained".

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    #11

    Your Notes Don’t Have To Cost A Tree, So Ditch The Boring Paper For The Rocketbook Reusable Notebook That’s Smarter, Sleeker, And Way More Futuristic

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    Review: "Great notebook, easy to write and erase. I really like this product, and it’s a great way to take notes without wasting a ton of paper." - Petar Glisovic

    amazon.com , Connie M. , C Ford Report

    Bonnie Buttons
    Community Member
    9 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Nope. Electronic waste has to be way worse.

    haragog
    Community Member
    9 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Did u guys even look up the Rocketbook? It is NOT an e-gadget. It is a reusable notebook (that can be imaged to digitalize the text).

    Wonko the sane
    Community Member
    9 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    lol Haters, it’s wipe down with an app on your phone. So no extra electronics than you have already.

    Vincent Bevort
    Community Member
    9 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Batteries do not harm the environment, you say?

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    Review: "I was feeling bad using liquid detergent in plastic bottles til I found this product on Amazon. It cleans perfect and I can’t believe that one thin strip is enough for a full load 😮 I love it, this product makes me happy and helps me to protect our Earth." - Gunes

    amazon.com , EGutier , Gunes Report

    Dianne Lee
    Community Member
    9 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    use soap nuts. yes, you can get them on amazon. these really are nuts from a tree.

    patricia patricia
    Community Member
    7 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Getting stuff on Amazon is not environmentally friendly!!!! Please, people, support local businesses as far as possible.

    Vincent Bevort
    Community Member
    9 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    The chemicals laded paper pads go in the waste bin after use. Cannot be recycled! The plastic bottle goes in the plastic recycling bin when empty! What is best?

    haragog
    Community Member
    9 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Not making huge trucks carry thousands of liters of liquid detergent around…

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    Review: "I’ve been wanting a set of coconut smoothie bowls for awhile and I’m so glad I finally got them! These are beautiful and I love that they are environmentally friendly!" - Marcia

    amazon.com , Zach S. , Marcia Report

    haragog
    Community Member
    9 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Sorry, but this one is taking it to ridiculous extreme… Ceramics can last a long time, but not such a long time that they become pollution if disposed un properly. At least to my knowledge… But feel free to use to use coconuts around your house, as you’re a then a few malibus/ kahluas from a luau!

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    Review: "Highly recommend these! Super natural way to keep your space fresh and odor free. I have 2 dogs and a cat, along with an air purifier. I also have allergies. And you can tell the difference these make to get the odors and extra moisture out of the air. I even put one in my car because I have the dogs in there too. I just put it out in the sun for an hour or two once a month to reset and dry out. I have also used another brand before and this one is very aesthetically nice and you can hang it anywhere." - Anna Cardoso

    amazon.com , Scott C. , Anna Cardoso Report

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    Environmental consciousness gets a convenience upgrade through our next round of eco-friendly alternatives. Whether tackling kitchen waste or bathroom basics, these switches show how easy it is to reduce your carbon footprint while maintaining your regular rhythm. Because saving the planet shouldn't require a lifestyle revolution – just smarter choices.

    #15

    Your Food Scraps Are Too Good For The Trash, So Bring In The Composting Bin For The Kitchen And Turn Those Leftovers Into Garden Gold

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    Review: "This is perfect for my condo kitchen! It looks nice and is not an eye sore. Great quality too! I use compost bags to make it easy and less cleaning. There is no smell." - Lammerz

    amazon.com , Molly , Lammerz Report

    Divado
    Community Member
    9 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    If it composts beer cans I'll take twenty

    Vincent Bevort
    Community Member
    9 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I like the smell of rotting veggies in the kitchen :P

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    #16

    Your Bathroom Doesn’t Need A Chemical Overload, So Grab The Sustainable Bathroom Cleaner That Gets The Job Done Without The Nasty Side Effects

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    Review: "Easy to use refills, as simple as filling the bottle with water and then drop the tablet for easy dissolve. It got fresh scent and cleans great! The plastic bottles are sturdy and made from recycled products, way to go Blueland! The multi-surface cleaner works great on Kitchen Countertops, Appliances, etc." - Amazon Customer

    amazon.com , Cynthia , Amazon Customer Report

    #17

    Your Skincare Routine Just Got A Sustainable Glow-Up, Because The Reusable Makeup Remover Pads Are Here To Replace Your One-And-Done Cotton Pads For Good

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    Review: "These are very soft and great for removing makeup. They clean up well, and are washable. Even have their own laundry bag! Drop the mike!" - Amazon Customer

    amazon.com , Nadine Vang , Ripptide808 Report

    Lisa Barbeau
    Community Member
    9 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    What happened to washing your face with hands or a cloth?

    patricia patricia
    Community Member
    7 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    You can't remove makeup with your hands, and a cloth can be too harsh or impractical if you need to apply cleansing milk or tonic.

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    Review: "Love these salt and pepper grinders. The quality is awesome!! They work perfect and look pretty!!" - Michelle Miranda

    amazon.com , Aurelia , shaheryar z. Report

    #19

    Your Kitchen Just Got A Sustainable Upgrade, Because The Bamboo Cutting Boards Are Here To Chop, Slice, And Outlast Those Sad Plastic Ones

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    Review: "These cutting boards are not only strong and sturdy but a work of art also. These would make a beautiful gift, but I purchased them for myself and am so happy with them." - ceejay

    amazon.com , Bunni , CDS Report

    Bacon Tentacles
    Community Member
    9 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Bamboo cutting boards also release thin fibers of bamboo into your food. They look neat, but are way too soft. Just get a thick wooden board and take care of it properly. It will last you a lifetime.

    SMom
    Community Member
    9 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Better that than bits of plastic.

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    Dorothy Reiser
    Community Member
    Premium
    9 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Nice, but mine got warped, even after washing and drying

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    #20

    Your Fridge Deserves A Clean Break From Harsh Chemicals, So Hit Refresh With The Natural Fridge Cleaner That’s Tough On Grime But Gentle On The Planet

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    Review: "Best cleaner ever!!! It even cleans grout and it comes with the most durable sponge. It also smells nice. I love this stuff so much." - Jen

    amazon.com , Rebecca , amazon customer Report

    #21

    Your Closet Deserves Better Than That Weird Mothball Smell, So Upgrade To The Cedar Rings That Keep Moths Away Naturally And Actually Smell Good

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    Review: "Some of my clothes fell victim to clothes moths, so I bought these cedar rings/balls to ward them off. I put the balls in drawers and pockets of my wool shirts, and I put the rings over hangers. This had been such a stressor, and I’m glad I can finally exhale! Highly recommend!" - Julia L.

    amazon.com , IchibanVox , Julia L. Report

    Dorothy Reiser
    Community Member
    Premium
    9 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    We actually lined our entire closet with cedar. Strong smell for a while, but after a bit, very nice.

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