15 Easy Swaps for a Low-Waste Home

Transitioning to a low-waste lifestyle might sound like a major overhaul, but it’s often about making simple, thoughtful swaps. You don’t need to go zero-waste overnight — in fact, starting with easy, manageable changes can be the most sustainable approach. If you’re looking for small steps with big impact, these 15 easy swaps are a great place to begin.

15 Simple and Practical Swaps

Each of these low-waste alternatives replaces a common disposable item and helps you live more sustainably — without sacrificing convenience or comfort.

1. Paper Towels → Reusable Cloth Towels

Instead of reaching for a roll of paper towels, opt for reusable cloth towels made from cotton or bamboo.

• More absorbent than disposables
• Machine washable and long-lasting
• Reduces landfill waste from single-use items
• Looks nicer in a well-designed kitchen

2. Plastic Wrap → Beeswax Wraps

Beeswax wraps are a game-changer for covering leftovers and wrapping snacks.

• Reusable for up to a year
• Compostable at the end of life
• Works for fruits, cheese, and bowls
• Easy to clean with cool water

3. Zip-Top Bags → Silicone Food Storage Bags

Silicone bags are durable, seal tightly, and reduce plastic waste in lunches and leftovers.

• Freezer and microwave safe
• Lasts for years
• Ideal for snacks, sandwiches, and liquids
• No BPA or harmful chemicals

4. Plastic Grocery Bags → Reusable Shopping Bags

Keep cloth or canvas bags in your car or by the door to remember them on store trips.

• Holds more than flimsy plastic bags
• Sturdier and washable
• Reduces ocean-bound plastic
• Often accepted for store discounts

5. Disposable Coffee Cups → Reusable Travel Mugs

A stylish reusable mug reduces waste from your daily caffeine fix.

• Insulated to keep drinks hot or cold
• No lid waste or cup sleeves
• Barista-friendly sizes
• Save money at many cafes

6. Plastic Toothbrush → Bamboo Toothbrush

Bamboo toothbrushes are biodegradable and just as effective as plastic ones.

• Compostable handle
• Soft bristles available
• Stylish, natural look
• Plastic-free packaging

7. Liquid Soap Bottles → Bar Soaps

Bar soap cleans just as well and eliminates the need for plastic pump bottles.

• Comes in paper or no packaging
• Longer lasting than liquid soap
• Great for body, face, and hands
• Easy to store and transport

8. Disposable Razors → Safety Razors

Safety razors use replaceable metal blades and can last a lifetime with care.

• Less plastic waste
• Smoother shave
• Economical over time
• Classic, durable design

9. Plastic Dish Sponges → Compostable Scrubbers

Compostable dish brushes or loofahs clean dishes without microplastic shedding.

• Natural materials like coconut husk
• Biodegradable after use
• Doesn’t hold bacteria like sponges
• Longer lifespan than synthetic sponges

10. Plastic Produce Bags → Mesh Produce Bags

Reusable mesh bags keep fruits and veggies organized without extra waste.

• Breathable and washable
• Lightweight for produce scales
• Multiple sizes available
• Durable and stylish

11. Dryer Sheets → Wool Dryer Balls

Wool dryer balls soften laundry and reduce static — no chemical coating required.

• Reusable for hundreds of loads
• Cuts drying time
• Fragrance optional with essential oils
• Non-toxic for sensitive skin

12. Plastic Water Bottles → Stainless Steel Bottles

Invest in a good quality reusable bottle and never go back to single-use plastic.

• Keeps drinks cold or hot for hours
• Dishwasher safe
• Reduces cost and waste
• Stylish and portable

13. Tissues → Handkerchiefs

Old-school? Maybe. Effective and low-waste? Absolutely.

• Machine washable and soft
• More absorbent than paper
• Eco-friendly gift idea
• Lasts for years

14. Cleaning Sprays → DIY Cleaners

Make simple cleaning solutions using vinegar, water, and essential oils.

• Non-toxic and child-safe
• Zero plastic bottles when refilled
• Customizable scents
• Cost-effective and effective

15. Disposable Menstrual Products → Reusable Alternatives

Menstrual cups, cloth pads, and period underwear save money and landfill space.

• Comfortable and leak-proof
• Can last for years
• No plastic wrappers or applicators
• Reduces exposure to chemicals

Takeaway

Low-waste living doesn’t require perfection — just progress. By starting with these 15 simple swaps, you’ll begin to see just how easy and empowering it can be to reduce your waste at home. These changes ripple outward, inspiring friends and family, and creating a cleaner, healthier planet for all.