10 Easy Swaps for a Successful Plastic Free July 2024

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Plastic Free July is an annual global movement that has been created to help people all over the world focus on reducing their disposable plastic use in order to make a positive environmental change. It’s a fantastic time to find new products, audit your bins, see what reusables can replace those pesky disposables and connect with like-minded people online. I love this time of year, there is always such a fantastic buzz around it and lots of success stories which everyone loves to see, don’t they?! By making simple swaps in our daily lives, we can significantly reduce our plastic footprint and here are 10 easy swaps to help get you started on your own plastic free journey.

1. Reusable Water Bottles

Instead of buying plastic water bottles, invest in a durable, reusable water bottle. Stainless steel or BPA-free plastic bottles are both excellent choices and will last you for years to come. This simple swap can significantly reduce the number of single-use plastic bottles that end up in both landfills and oceans.

2. Cloth Shopping Bags

Say no to plastic bags and bring your own cloth or canvas bags when you go shopping. These bags are stronger, more durable and can be used countless times.

3. Reusable Tea/Coffee Cups

If you’re a tea or coffee lover, carry a reusable cup. Many cafes now even offer discounts for bringing your own cup along so you can help the planet whilst helping your wallet!

4. Beeswax Wraps

Replace plastic cling film with beeswax wraps. These wraps are natural, reusable and perfect for covering food items and keeping them fresh.

5. Stainless Steel or Bamboo Straws

Ditch single-use plastic straws in favour of stainless steel, bamboo or silicone straws. They are easy to clean and can be carried with you wherever you go.

6. Reusable Wipes

Even now, many disposable wipes (and there are many out there for a myriad of jobs) are made up of a synthetic material meaning these are also classed as a single-use plastic. Ditch your disposables for reusables and soon you’ll be significantly reducing your waste whilst saving money.

7. Bulk Buying and Refilling

To help reduce your plastic use/waste you could either look into purchasing food and household items in bulk which will reduce the amount of packaging going into your bin or you could opt to go packaging-free by using refill stores for products like soap, shampoo, dry foods and cleaning supplies.

You May Also Like:

• 14 Easy Ways To Reduce Your Plastic Waste
• What is Plastic Free July?
• How Can You Make An Impact This Plastic Free July?
• Zero Waste Week: 55 Reusables That Can Drastically Reduce Your Household Waste

8. Natural Fibre Cleaning Cloths

Replace synthetic plastic cleaning sponges and cloths with those made from natural fibres like coconut husk, cotton or bamboo. They are biodegradable, home compostable, will not release microplastics into the waterways or onto your cups/plates and are often more effective at cleaning. I personally love the selection over at Seep and you can get 15% off with my code emmawrites.

9. Plastic-Free Toiletries

Try switching to plastic-free toiletries such as bars of soap, shampoo bars, refillable shower gels and bamboo or sustainable electric toothbrushes like the SURI (you will get 10% off with this link). These products usually come with minimal or no packaging and are made from sustainable materials.

10. Homemade Cleaning Products

Make your own cleaning products using natural ingredients like white vinegar, baking soda, castile soap and essential oils. This not only reduces plastic waste from packaging but is also better for your health.

By making these easy swaps, you can play a significant role in reducing plastic pollution and promoting a healthier environment. Remember, every small change adds up and can make a big difference. For more information and tips on how to live plastic-free, visit Plastic Free July.

*This post contains affiliate links which means I will earn a small commission if you purchase via them. This does not affect your shopping experience or how much you pay. For further information please refer to my disclosure page.

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