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A lot of people we’ve spoken with over the years often argued that environmentally conscious is just another term for overpriced or a ploy to make you sort recyclables for the ‘corporations’, but investing in durable everyday items can save you money in the long run, cutting down the need for excessive purchases and harmful waste.
There are many reasons for people to adopt a more sustainable approach to their everyday lives. In fact, it’s more common by today’s standards to see the need for a customer’s morals to align with their everyday purchases. The issue is it often comes attached with this assumption that you need to commit to an intense lifestyle overhaul in order to contribute to change.
Consider that myth debunked. The only reason anybody needs to try, well, anything is that it purely interests them; it piques their curiosity and that is exactly how we like to view this topic. We aren’t perfect but we are willing to learn and that’s all it takes to get started.
Chances are that you’ve clicked this blog post because you too are curious about what sustainable living entails or are already practicing it. We put your knowledge of recycling to the test on our Instagram account to see just how in practice you are…No fear! Whether you’re a green aficionado or living under a wifi-accessible rock we’re sharing some of our favourite sustainable home essentials to replace single-use products.
* Click the highlighted areas of text for links to the specific products +/ companies mentioned in this post.
A material of popular debate in the sustainability stream is silicone. Compared to plastic, silicone can withstand temperatures above 300°F, is considered FDA-safe and doesn’t release harsh chemicals at the end of its lifespan, making it a great option for use in the kitchen. It’s superior durability means that you’ll get extensive use out of any silicone product before ever contemplating getting rid of it. Although technically recyclable it's a fairly expensive process to repurpose silicone but there are recycling programs to help you out when the time comes.
Why not try replacing Ziploc with Stasher's reusable bags? Although these silicone containers run a pretty penny at $15 a piece, they’re becoming more regulated and available at various price points. The best part for us is not only how easy it is to store smaller foods but how leak proof these are! No messes in your handbags, briefcases or backpacks.
In a similar vein we love silicone baking sheets! They not only work for baked goods but also anything savoury you desire and are incredibly easy to clean. We've used ours almost daily for years. And if you're thinking about ways to store those delicious leftovers or are simply looking to finish off the chips another day, these modern wire clips are quite the foodsaver!
For the undeniable cleanup following any cooking marathon - or just about any other mess life throws at you - we’ve found these great paper towel/sponge replacements. The Skoy brand featured below are made of recycled materials, are machine washable and biodegradable once you’re done with them. These are becoming more & more popular with an array of local Canadian manufacturers rolling out wonderful patterns and prints to encourage you to buy green.
Speaking of machine washable...There is a lot of criticism surfacing the internet on liquid laundry detergents, softeners (which are often highly diluted) and dryer sheets (which are wasteful). A welcome addition to the routine are these wool dryer balls that alleviate static cling, wrinkles and make clothes oh-so soft. Traditionally these are recommended to last about a year before you can recycle them and they do the trick!
One complaint we did notice surrounding this product is that they’re usually odourless and for those hoping to get that fresh linen scent, why not try a few diluted drops of essential oil on the dryer balls before your next tumble? Be weary that some additives might not be best suited for your garments, causing stains or containing flammable ingredients.
Read the label!
Laundry often leads to a lengthy folding ritual that perhaps could be spruced up with a dance party...or just some really soothing lighting to set the tone. It may be obvious that LEDs are the bulb fad of the century, cutting down on energy consumption and electrical bills, however, with the Wiz/Philips Hue varieties you have options to also change the colour, brightness and even schedule your lights from your phone! While this might not seem like a wonderful feature to some, it does mean you have the ability to dim the light or set a sunrise alongside that work alarm to help you wake up on those dark winter mornings. And for the occasions when you're uncertain you turned off all the lights, you can switch them remotely!
Another classic hack that makes pantries, storage closets and bathrooms alike look like an organizational expert's dream are glass jars. (Take a look at our Pinterest to see how our pantry turned out!) We love decanting our supplies because it's space-saving, you can clearly see everything you have, it's accessible and cuts down on unnecessary packaging. This can make buying in bulk more achievable especially if you bring your reusable containers along with you when refilling.
Et Voilà!
Here you have some simple ways to implement subtle but lasting change into the daily hustle-&-bustle and hopefully save some money in the long run.
We want to know: What are some sustainable practices or items you’ve been loving in your home recently?
Stay Creative,
TLA
Some other links to pique your interest:
View this article on the millenial consumer & how shopping habits are evolving.
Read about some of the chemicals found in common household cleaning agents.
Learn why Castille soap is a great alternative to harsh detergents.
Browse tips on efficient laundry practices to save energy & money.
Find out about 'Downcycling' & recycling standards in North America.
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