10 Zero Waste Swaps I DO NOT Recommend and REGRET Buying

[@inkandcaffeine]

YALL ive been using rags forever & i just got an ad (by bounty maybe?) that called rags/resuables "unsanitary" & said we all need to be buying paper towels instead because they dont smear germs around. Just blatant anti-sustainability marketing smh

[@supernova622]

But.. That's why we wash them..?

[@inkandcaffeine]

exactly! i also almost always use a disinfectant spray with it anyway, or wash it if i had to pick up grimy stuff, crazy that they're really pushing their product that way

[@truepeacenik]

I saw the ad. And wondered, what exactly are they eating thats is so toxic? Do they not know you just get a ton of washcloths and wash them often? I’ll swap after any messy clean up, especially oily things, and always daily. So, I’d say I use 10-12 in a week. In contrast, my hand towels are daily-ish.

[@biancajingles2690]

I saw the same ad and thought the same thing! Just another commercial to scare people into thinking using dish cloths are unsanitary even though people wash them and have multiples of them 🙄

[@LunaNatz]

I seen something similar talking about reusable sanitary products, surely they're only unsafe if you don't clean them 🙈

[@baysidedaze]

I love my reusable straws! For some reason, I can trick myself into drinking more water when I have a straw 🤷‍♀️

[@cozycasasmr4510]

Same here , its so much nicer drinking with a straw, but I also hate washing straws so idk anymore 😂

[@spacequeen8329]

Same. I drink water in bed when I use my silicone bent straws.

[@halletheresa23]

@@cozycasasmr4510 I use bio degradable paper straws, and metal and silicone straws so I kinda choose on the day

[@9melissal]

After having clear aligners for orthodontia which necessitated using straws, it's a habit that's so ingrained in me and I'm now hyper aware of what will stain my teeth over time. By using a straw, I also remove the urge to want to have to whiten/remove stains from my teeth.

[@laurenking5080]

Instead of the reusable cotton rounds, I bought a bundle of baby wash cloths. They are larger in size, are made of the same material as the cotton rounds, but they don't irritate my face like a washcloth.

[@krispy777]

Omg why didn’t I think of this. Thanks!

[@LongHairCarolyn]

I did the same thing!

[@isidorakrsmanovic9244]

I like in the UK do this probably isn't relevant to most people. But Boots make cotton rounds which are a really good size for removing make up and they do a microfiber and a towel texture in the set which is great.

[@marygard4608]

Getting waterproof mascara off is the worst. The oil-free eye makeup removers work best, but I haven't figured out a way to apply it without a cotton pad.

[@Semzi10]

Thank you for your honesty! It can be really frustrating when people are just not truthful about what swaps they actually dislike and then the guilt creeps in when you buy something and hate it!

[@voldkae]

I like using the stasher bags for freezing vegetables ends to eventually make veggie stock. Or for freezing herbs. I can see how they'd be difficult with powders etc though.

[@savannahleslie3515]

I would really appreciate if you did a video on low waste/zero waste alternatives when camping and hiking since you've talked about doing that often.

[@SedonaChristina]

Definitely coming up! Working on a camping vlog right now :)

[@mshoneyy]

The microphone is 👍 makes the audio so smooth and looks 😎

[@vegronica9006]

Yes! Might be the former journalist in me, but I love a handheld mic.

[@nelliebly6616]

But sadly makes it Sound Like the clicking noise some make While eating... I took of the Sound and use subtitles😕

[@rebeccat1828]

“If you’re someone who transports powders in baggies” Cocaine? XD

[@SedonaChristina]

Every person who travels with protein powder and gets stopped at airport security knows this joke too well 😹

[@priscillajimenez27]

😅🤣

[@orangeblossom3315]

A lot of my flight attendant coworkers transport their protein powders in the shaker bottles. Add liquid, shake, and it’s ready!

[@loveelashell3196]

🤣🤣

[@limitlessbianca]

idk how much protein powder is used for one serving of shake, but those formula powder container is a good option (if you need to carry 2-5 servings), it has separate compartments and a cone-like top so no need to worry about spilling!

[@CocoShin]

Different things work for different people, and that's okay!

[@SedonaChristina]

Exactly! :)

[@kera-oregan]

Thank you for raising the issue around straws and disability rights! I've been in climate and environmental movements for over 15 years and it's been so disappointing seeing the plastic straw issue blow up & hearing from so many disabled friends how they've been disadvantaged by these campaigns. It's super yuck seeing disabled people's access to essential food and nutrition be removed because people have decided plastic straws are the number one public enemy, and then disabled people including disabled climate activists being targeted for pushing back. Like if you don't personally need a straw you can just not use them? I sometimes enjoy using a straw and am happy with my glass and metal ones, but there are plenty of disabled folks who literally can't use those alternatives & are now suffering because of plastics campaigns. This is why it's so important to have diverse and inclusive environmental movements. Anyway just was surprised to see this perspective being raised in a zero waste video, and as a disabled climate campaigner (though one who doesn't need straws for nutrition) is cool to see this. So thanks! :)

[@ravendaragon8968]

@Sunday Girl exactly!

[@kera-oregan]

@Sunday Girl That's great that it doesn't apply to you, and they've never been in short supply for you. However there are many equity issues where people with disabilities will be disadvantaged by having to ask for one - incl. if they are not verbal, or if the wait staff are not educated and don't think they're disabled enough to deserve a straw. If you're still uncertain, I'd really encourage you to go research this topic, because there is a lot of information available about it from disabled experts who do need straws, and who are also environmentalists in their own right. It's also a human right which is meant to be protected under the UNCRPD the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities so you can read up on disability rights from the UN if you need. Hope that helps, and please remember that for a climate and environmentally safe future, we need to ensure that those most impacted by climate change already aren't further marginalised in the actions we take to try to prevent it. Disabled people are in that category. Cheers!

[@pippinlatham4857]

@Sunday Girl hi, disabled person here. They are becoming very hard to get in many places including wjere I live in australia where most cafes, pubs and restaurants have stopped even having them in stock. There are even government calls to completely ban them from sale here. Like Kera said, great that you haven't encountered it but that doesn't mean is not an issue.

[@basharalbutseggs8056]

@@pippinlatham4857 may I ask why you aren’t able to get a reusable straw? They fold easily so they can be travel size etc. Genuine question

[@EllieofAzeroth]

@@basharalbutseggs8056 I am also wondering because I see this argument a lot but don't really understand why they can't just use the reuseable versions that are available. Like what is specifically wrong with the reusable versions that is not encountered by plastic?

[@Lisaand11]

The beeswax wraps are perfect for baked goods in my opinion. Usually when I buy a muffin fresh from a bakery and store it in a beeswax wrap it’s still moist and fresh like it was made that day. When I used to use plastic wrap to wrap up a fresh muffin the texture would actually change by the next day; it would be a noticeable difference that the muffin is still soft but not as moist as the previous day. I don’t have stasher brand bags specifically but I love the silicone freezer bags I have to freeze fruit for my smoothies or to store a sandwich or some chips for my lunch. I have reusable straws and tbh I like them. They’re not used everyday but when I have a cold drink I enjoy using the straw since I have sensitive teeth or just bringing it out when going out to eat with friends

[@gabrielleolson4756]

I agree with all of these, glass containers work great and almost never need to be replaced. Regular reusable napkins and towels are fine for anything you would use a paper towel for. I do use reusable cotton rounds, they are the large sized ones for removing mascara or eyeliner.

[@anna-michellethivierge6004]

Love my reusable cotton rounds! I use them with my pre make up micellar water and taking off my eye makeup. And I found out that if I roll them into a point the sewn border can replace the q tips I was using for smudges.

[@buckeyedav1]

I have to use the cotton rounds for cleaning my dogs ears.. I have 2 that get the occasional ear infections so we have to be diligent about swabbing out their ears with vinegar and water mix to clean out the gunk. I have not been to a fabric store in a long time but thinking maybe cotton batting sewed in to circles might work as a alternative to throwing stuff in the trash. Anna In Ohio

[@LifeOfAndreaGodoy]

lol I freaking love my stasher bags their probably my favorite swap they're so good for freezing things and for holding cut up fresh veg! Same with reusable straws, glass ones are so good for smoothies I probably use them almost everyday. A lot of swaps are def not for everyone it really just depends on individual lifestyles!

[@SedonaChristina]

Totally agree! Love that you love them!! Love that there's something for everyone 💛

[@jodywhite351]

Love mine too!

[@Kelbel5995]

Yep, haha I love my stasher bags and glass straws for smoothies! Definitely depends on the person.

[@pianopalooza]

Yes!! I use stasher bags for cut up veggies in the fridge, and they take up wayyy less space than the Tupperware I used before! I also use one for my toiletries when I travel!

[@kailashmendiratta6178]

Shelbi also likes them. Everyone is different

[@alexfrenchgirl]

I ADORE silicon bags. I no longer use tiny plastic bags and they truly changed my life. I use them to carry my reusable mug, cutlery, period cups, frozen prepped food. Love love love.

[@amysofia5783]

I bought wax wraps thinking I'd use them in place of cring wrap all the time- I hate how the wax feels. It gets on my hands. I freak out about it getting in my food. Was a waste of money. I'm with her on this: containers are the best.

[@madiisuun]

“people who transport powder in baggies” petition for stasher to make dime bags

[@alainar5241]

@Isa Tailor they can only be washed a certain number of times before 1) they get holes or tears in it, or 2) you have to throw it out because that plastic isn’t made to reuse, so if you use it too many times, the plastic can become toxic and go into your food. i do reuse any ziplock bags i have left for non-food items like storing batteries or scrap paper :)

[@starlost.queenie]

I feel like we all forget that some things work for someone & others don't for others. 😂 I was sitting her offended that she didn't like the Stasher bags 😂 it's okay, we all do our best & we all like what we like ya know. Great video Christie I love seeing your vids.

[@lifemyway200]

I dont like them either. I gound other silicone bags I like way more for freezing foods. To each their own😁

[@NormyTres]

I've got a different brand but still with the rounded corners - I find it makes them so much easier to clean and dry.

[@StefaniZeiger]

I love this style of video because it's important to address that not every swap is right for every person! I love the mentality to only buy what you need/will use even if it is a sustainable product. I also just love seeing what swaps other people dislike :)

[@gabrieller4474]

A suggestion for making your regular cloths feel more like paper towels: you can put them in a sort of tissue box system! That way they have the same convenience as paper towels :) Though I recommend thin or small cloths, and having your other cloths that are maybe more absorbent or used for stuff other than just quick wiping in another place

[@bookwyrmn]

Yes! We have a little basket on the counter so it's super easy to grab

[@buckeyedav1]

I see sometimes in the thrift stores tissue box covers made out of wood that might be a good system though I think I'd go with a basket. I just set up one at my sink for all my cleaning stuff.. dish soap, scrubbers, etc so I'm not chasing them around my counters all the time also cleaning rags ( I use cut up jogging pants that my husband has worn out and I recycled). I have to laugh I've become my mother in law she use to have a bag of rags including cut up mens boxers). she grew up in the depression nothing was wasted. Anna In Ohio.

[@LongHairCarolyn]

@@thekatvita I had some like that and re-snapping them was such a pain. Now I just have a little basket with cloths laid in it

[@Viennafly1]

The Patch bandaids are actually perfect for checking blood sugar. I have to finger-stick myself quite often, and it's nice having one on there for a bit, and then by the time I was my hands they fall off, but I don't need it absorbing blood anymore. They stick between washes for me at least.

[@SedonaChristina]

oooooh that is so perfect!! And so good to know to recommend to my friends, thank you! 💛

[@tracy_in_primary]

The Patch bandaids seem less sticky. This is because they use "pressure sensitive adhesive" instead of regular chemical sticky stuff. If you press them firmly they will stick better. For those of us who are highly allergic to all medical adhesives, Patch bandaids are perfect, because they use a different method to adhere to the skin.

[@9melissal]

I especially love my stasher bags because they're the only way I can get my boyfriend to not use plastic ziplock bags.

[@yupperz6494]

We got a metal coffee filter over a year ago and love it. It came with this little plastic brush which I was initially irritated about since I was buying it to be more sustainable, but we quickly realized that the little brush was to help clean the grinds from the filter. Works amazing and never had an issue

[@SedonaChristina]

ooooh that would have been handy for ours 🙈 Glad to hear there's a solution!

[@YKKY]

Different strokes for different folks. I love my wraps as I wrap my hubby's snacks in it. I ADORE my reusable storage bags as I can freeze in them and since we have a massive producing garden, where berries, cooked foods like veggie stews and soups, freeze so well in them. The reusable make up removing rounds are superb, I have saved so much money switching to these. I made my own un-paper towels too :D Why even bother with body lotion when we have shea butter, coconut oil, jojoba oil, etc? Honestly, I don't think you don't recommend these products, you are saying don't buy stuff you don't need and that is such more positive message.

[@liamooney342]

I tend to use the reusable cotton rounds for applying treatments like acids. I love them for that because using a big cloth would absorb a lot of product. So they can be great for treatments! I use bigger facial towels taking my makeup off too the little ones would be annoying.

[@christinesarkis4029]

Yeah, I mostly use the reusable cotton rounds for applying toners and treatments. I've always just used a regular wash cloth for removing makeup and washing my face.

[@Rain_Reign]

@@christinesarkis4029 yep same!

[@zocansew]

with the patch bandaids, my friend used one for his T shot and said it was awesome! i find that they work best on flat surfaces that don't get wet.

[@princessadrigirl6774]

I never really got into using the reusable paper towels. We have a little kiddo who is constantly staining/ripping/outgrowing clothes so we just cut up our own rags for cleaning/spills

[@BramSam1031]

Completely agree with the Stasher Bags. I couldn't get past the fact that I ALWAYS taste the bag... they are way too pricey for that to be an issue. I mostly use them for freezing stuff and they're handy to take with me on hikes when I end up with trash (orange peels, banana peels, etc). They're also good for taking stuff down to the pool - just not food! lol

[@cjguinan1]

I learned after buying my reusable straws (seriously I've never been a straw person... wtf) to take these swaps with a grain of salt. I agree with almost everything you said though. Except the metal coffee strainer. That thing has saved so much waste!

[@HayleyTief]

I love my unpaper towels. I don't have the ones with magnets, and opted for a basket I use to store them folded up. I use them as reusable napkins, which at the end of the day yes, you could just buy reusable napkins. I did that "check what's in your trash can" and there were just so many paper napkins and paper towels that this swap worked wonders on reducing my trash. We use rags for cleaning, which works fine.

[@thefeistymunchkin]

Great alternative to bandaids is New Skin! Comes in a glass bottle and sticks until the new skin has healed then it just falls off and dissolves since its a liquid

[@maggiehargis1782]

I love that you’’re 100% real with it and are honest with your reviews. Edit: adding the apostrophe in “you’re“

[@karinagutierrez7134]

I use Stasher bags for dry snacks so it is doesn’t have any residual flavors and for storing my extra face masks safely in the car. I would recommend getting the snack size over the sandwich just because the sandwich one is more clunky and takes a LOT more space.

[@swethainty7667]

Completely agree with you on making your own lotion. It all comes with plastic packaging, and the oils were also not enough for my skin during winter. I need a lot of cream for my dry skin.

[@SedonaChristina]

Wooo! We made it to the last episode in this saga! (3/3) What are your least favorite and most favorite swaps!? LEMME KNOW! 🙂🦋🌸🥳🪴🤗🦩🤟 Herro friends! Just here to remind that the disclaimer I didn't go over in this video, but did in episode one of this saga was that what works for me, might not work for you, and vice versa. And I don't hate any of these products or companies, by any means! They just weren't perfect (and ya girl is a big of a seeker of perfection when it comes to the things I own :) I think the main thing I always want to get across with sustainability, is being okay with messing up -it's okay to buy something that didn't work for you! It's okay to accidentally create waste, etc. And that my biggest lesson has been to listen to myself, and what I really need, not what I see in a zero waste inforgraphic or because it works for other people. And that happens to also save me time, energy, and waste -buying the things that I actually need. While all of these products work for the person who designed and made them (and perhaps you love them too!), they didn't work for me. Hopefully sharing my opinions helps others make purchases they love to save time/money/waste if they resonate with my preferances :)

[@angesoie]

i found a linen coffee filter from the kitchen garden series for my chemex and i love it so much. it is so much thicker and more sturdy than the coffee sock

[@NormyTres]

And things that don't work for you, you can offer in your zero waste groups, so nothing gets wasted 😊

[@tessfjhj4584]

Nice video!! I’ve tried all the reusable cotton rounds, cloths and micro fiber towels, like different brands of each of these, and they just really irritated my skin. I have super sensitive skin and my skin just hated me! So now I just do a double cleansing method and yeah that’s that.

[@NormyTres]

I couldn't afford Stasher so I got a different brand, and I use them for so much more than food! Anything that I would have thrown into a plastic bag in the past goes into one of these, and they're so convenient for keeping things separated. Also for clean and used facemasks.

[@QueenMagslieofSweden]

For the metal coffee filters, I’ve found the only way to get all the grounds out is washing them in a dishwasher. I can’t wash it well enough by hand to get it unclogged but after going through the dishwasher its like new!

[@slefievero5336]

Stashers are dishwasher safe! That's def the easiest way to clean them

[@orlamacgrath8409]

I felt like I was the only one who didn't love bees wax wraps. It has like a weird texture and smell to it I don't love and puts me of using them. I have food huggers and bowl covers that do the job for me without the textural issues. Also I only use the small stasher bag as a mask holder (to keep them separate from the contents of my bag) and the standard one as an ice pack. Other than that, like you, I have no use for them. I use old jars or take away containers to freeze things and lunch boxes to transport food.

[@Rain_Reign]

I have a kid and let me confirm that Stasher bags SLAP. However my husband hates them with the burning passion of a thousand suns. I’ve had mine for maybe 4 years and they’ve held up incredibly well.

[@lydiaasaec5707]

Really great points, thanks for bringing this up! I feel like I've been having trouble believing in the effectiveness of a lot of eco-friendly swaps that everyone seems to love. And everyone just talks about how great they are. I love the concepts. I literally had a conversation about the bees wax wraps yesterday with my partner/mom (who have been trying to live more sustainably). Consensus was that the wax wraps have a lot of limitations and lose the stickiness. We much prefer those silicone reusable food covers. I got gifted the stasher bag as a gift and actually like it a lot...only problem is the price tag. Thanks for reading my rant :)

[@ltellis63]

I have tried Zip Top bags and I like them for some things only. The seals don't always hold so I had things leak and sometimes go stale. YMMV, just a heads up. Sigh.

[@duboissherry9529]

Idk I think my unpaper towels are synthetic (and definitely imported…sorry) but the static kind of helps them cling together and create a roll on the detachable paper towel roll thing. My only regret is not buying more

[@stephanied9112]

Love our metal coffee filter. I had the same problem with it clogging until I tried oxiclean- just soak it overnight or a couple of hours.

[@NormyTres]

Good tip!

[@plainsimplefaith]

Here in India we dont really use most of these wasteful things like stashers or beeswax wraps or even cling wraps for that matter, what we do is we take a stainless steel container and put a plate or a smaller flatter container on top. And thats about it! We store curries, yogurt, cut veggies, cut fruits everything like this in the fridge. Terra cotta containers are available roadside to store food with lids as well. Simple eh? And we dont use aluminium wrap in almost 80-90% of the households. Instead we take a canvas or muslin cloth(kitchen cloth as we call it) and wrap our rotis, cut breads and sandwiches in that and just put that in a small casserole.

[@bridgetgidget72]

Thanks for sharing! I hope your comment moves further up so more people can read it 😊 I do have a question though: if you were to go out to the wilderness and need to bring your lunch, how would you pack it?

[@AdrianChang-q5f]

Exactly the same in Peru.

[@plainsimplefaith]

@@bridgetgidget72 we do go for picnics but not in the wilderness, that isn't common at all in my country. We use glass tupperware containers or stainless steel lunch boxes, with stainless steel cutlery. Thermos/insulated bottles for chai (tea) and shikanji(lemonade). Just wash em up when we come back 😊

[@carleighlanders274]

My nut milk bags came in a pack of two, so I use one for my oat milk and the other for my coffee. I usually make cold brew, so I just let the coffee ground steep in the water, then take them out after 24 hours!

[@valerielozano50]

I’m glad I’m not the only one who loves stasher but tasted the silicone on my products/foods like my mixed nuts or granola 😔

[@zellesev1240]

thank you for doing time stamps!! It's not the first time that I watched this video and I just really needed to hear your review and alternative to one particular swap which only recently became relevant to me.

[@laurelinmoeller7147]

For big batch cooks and those of us who need to use freezer space efficiently, Stasher bags are great freezer bags.

[@emmaadams5905]

I love my stashers especially with as much food my body building husband takes with him. I cook meat and store them in 5oz packages in the freezer so single servings can be microwaved to add to a meal. I save chicken carcasses and veggie bits in them to make stock. I make popcorn in the medium stand up one. As well as just for sandwiches and snacks to pack my lunch.

[@izy0321]

I never thought of using dr bronners bar soap for dishes! Good tip!

[@spannajupiter]

Looking forward to the review of ziptop bags. Looking for some to go in freezer for bagels

[@schjlh93]

I thought I was the only one who didn't love stasher bags. I have a few of them but have found that I prefer containers for a lot of things or for hiking or the like I usually use a compostable zip top bag or a compostable paper bag instead. Also, I would love your ZW hiking/backpacking tips. Any thoughts on whether a cat hole (if allowed) is better than wag/blue bags? While we're on the topic, also interested in your ideas for packing out your TP.

[@AutumnHarvest1]

I 1,000% love my Leaf razor. I had the regular butterfly safety razor first, and used to cut myself like crazy. The Leaf was a game changer for me. I actually enjoy shaving compared to previously.

[@misspeaches1144]

I legit wouldn’t shave before I got the leaf razor, not because I didn’t want to but because I cut myself so much with the basic safety razor. Now i like to make a big deal about it using a scrub and lotion and feel like i’m taking care of myself :)

[@AutumnHarvest1]

@@misspeaches1144 Nice. It's really just so much better than the traditional safety razor. That pivoting head was what the safety razor has always been needing. I too, was avoiding at all costs using my traditional safety razor. Glad we can shave our legs again with a razor.

[@Rain_Reign]

This is intriguing! I was so excited to get a safety razor for Christmas from my SIL but I end up looking like I’ve been attacked by a cat after every shave 😸

[@gabihuff2352]

The person who came up with the Zip Top containers is a somewhat distant relative of mine! (I think maybe the kid of my great uncle maybe?) anyhow, they’re super cool! My grandma preordered a set before any were created and they’re nice. Pretty durable and great design.

[@deannawalsh5886]

I have ziptop. They are not airtight and can pop open. Would not recommend for things like powder. I like them for other things but would not recommend for liquids. I have some cheeper ones which are more the weight of a traditional plastic bag and they would probably be better for something like that. Came from marshals or something so don't know the brand.

[@SedonaChristina]

ooooh! This is v good insight, thank you!! 💛

[@L1ttlef0ot]

I used Meloria dish block and it also left a film on my dishes no matter what I did Edit: I had to temporarily go back to liquid because it was the only option nearby because I ran out of soap but when that runs out im about to try the powder Blueland dish soap, and if that doesn’t work i will use the bronner’s and see how that goes

[@jessicasantos6690]

I just bought a locally made dish block and I'm so sad that I don't like it. We have crazy hard water, and I think combined with that, everything looks so dirty. 😭 I'm going to try Dr Bronners, and I really really hope I like it. I don't want to go back to liquid.

[@supernova622]

Most of these solid soaps are made from saponified oils like a Castile soap. This more traditional soap is not a great option if you have really hard water. The reaction of soap with the dissolved minerals is what creates soap scum.

[@raewebb7761]

You could do a vinegar rinse to get rid of the film

[@L1ttlef0ot]

@@raewebb7761 I’m sure it works for some people but it didn’t work for me. I also live in a place with really hard water so I was getting hard water build up along with the residue.

[@L1ttlef0ot]

@@supernova622 makes sense, my city has pretty hard water.

[@FennecTheRabbit]

I bought a few of the patch bandaids since they were on sale, they don't stick to my hands either but they work ok for when I inevitably knick my legs shaving... always, every single time. I swear me and this safety razor will eventually reach an agreement where they don't try and remove my leg skin. (I do still love my safety razor, just that learning curve for me is steep apparently and I am also impatient). I personally like the Stasher bags but they take up so much less space in my fridge that I share with 3 other people, and I put them in the dishwasher but they don't get dry in there, I have to put them in the dish rack afterwards to fully dry. I don't get the un-paper towel thing... just buy a pack of regular kitchen towels and keep them in a drawer.

[@orangeblossom3315]

I use a metal filter and haven’t had a problem with that. Maybe she was using a grind that was too small? I love how easy it is to wash! Still loving my leaf. I don’t cut myself up quite as much as I did with the safety razors 😊

[@spacequeen8329]

Some waste-purchases are already substitutes for existing things. Instead of Q-tips, I clean the outside edge of my ears with the corner of a warm damp washcloth. The inside should only be cleaned by a medical professional! I use a damp washcloth to remove makeup, a cut-up wornout bath towel as paper towels/Swiffer pads, a damp washcloth in a wet-bag as a meal napkin/hand wipe, and I throw a spoon and fork from my tableware drawer into my bag to eat my lunch.

[@gmt5664]

I love my stasher bags and use them all the time. I never taste the soap or silicone but maybe that’s a quality of my dish soap. I have zip tops but they don’t seal shut as well as stasher in my experience, but I do love the wider openings. My small coffee pot came with a metal filter and it works great.

[@belerinah]

It's always so interesting to me to watch your content because I started being interested in the zero waste movement around the same time you did, and came accross basically the same conclusions. Well, we live and we learn!

[@napoleonsgarden5162]

You can reuse those bulk plastic containers as free plant containers as long as it’s a food safe plastic. Just drill a couple holes in the bottom!

[@ellad5041]

I love my leaf razor and highly recommend it! I used a classic safety razor (albatross) for a while before getting the leaf one. I used it because I liked the sustainability, but it was always a hassle and it was kind of hard to get a good angle on my legs (especially around my ankles) because I didn’t want to cut myself. The leaf razor is a lot easier to transition to when you’re used to a plastic razor because of the pivoting head, so I think it’s a good swap for people who really like plastic razors (the multiple blade ones with soap/silicone on the edges).

[@americanbarbie18]

I loveeeeee the sound from the microphone!

[@mandyhackman9740]

The grove collaborative version of stashers are good! I haven't tried the original but I like theirs. Also - I was gifted some Trader Joes' wrap and it's waaaay worse than my DIY beeswax wraps. So if you have beeswax and scrap material, try the DIY version - it's the nicest smelling craft you'll ever do, at the very least.

[@thechroniclesofkweencoth]

Ahem. I too had exploded oatmeal when travelling too. 😐 the good thing was that it was mixed with cocoa powder as well. Soo.... things smelled like cocoa powder. I’m currently comparing no tox life dishblock and dr bronners myself. Both froths up. But the dr bronners here is more affordable in comparison. Can’t say how long it lasts for both, as I only just started using no tox life. I just use an oil cleanser for makeup removal. 🤣 i’m too lazy to use a flannel and oil for that unless i’m in a pinch. I relate to most of these “sustainable swaps”. I only own one stasher bag cause i used to bring grapes / berries ror work snacks, or carried food waste for home compost before. 🥲 otherwise I use it as extra storage or an extra bag for wet market shopping. 😂 much prefer my coffee cup as a spare container. 👀 I never understood about “unpaper towels” - it’s just.. tea towels?? U can ise tea towels?? They’re just tea towels with buttons?! And thank youuuu for mentioning about reuseable straws and disability. Aggravates me when zero wasters acts like an ableist. 😤 (I’m not disabled but i do have close disabled friends.) About sustainability and skincare (not diy). I’m just waiting for some genius to get a science based skincare packaged in genuine sustainable packaging. One with refills if it was possible. Maybe?? In the future?! 🥲

[@Breeski1]

I make a lot of smoothies and iced tea & coffee at home and I love reusable straws! Metal straws make my lips swell for some reason so I have a couple of bamboo ones and a couple reusable ones I got fro Starbucks lol. I love them :)

[@SedonaChristina]

I feel this! The reason I most commonly use mine too! 💛

[@ashleyj7598]

there is such a thing as metal allergy. Maybe you have that 😊

[@Breeski1]

@@ashleyj7598 yeah that could be!

[@kalliemj]

stasher bags are hard to use too. The opening isn't very wide. They do have a new bowl design which I decided to buy because it seems a lot easier to put things in there. The standing ones are also easier but the sandwich shape is like impossible. They do have a recycle program with terracycle which I appreciate.

[@aromaofhope]

Yes! I can smell the soap on silicone things, too.

[@charlottedarcy2026]

It’s really interesting to see how different we all are! Products that are very convenient for some people might not be used by others! I got wax wraps about a month ago and totally love them! I’ve never really used the not sustainable alternatives but rather kept bread in the paper bag you get at the bakery. But since using wax wraps I feel like the bread stays fresh way longer than before so it really was a good purchase for me ☺️

[@lyndsiantoinette]

Hmm I definitely see the issue w the stasher bag and powders. Have you thought about the blender bottle pro staks? It works perfect for my powders and it comes with a small vitamin/pill container. It has also lasted me longer than any blender bottle itself LOL.

[@alexandravanpaassen5441]

I use the silicone food bag called compleat. It looks super cute like a pretty purse, I've been using that one 7 years. It's really great quality from a Norwegian brand I believe, I bought it in Denmark once. And you can easily wash it in a dishwasher. It is a little less compact than the bags you showed. But absolutely great quality and it lasts a long time. And I don't know how they designed it, but food stays surprisingly intact so you won't have completely flat bread if you put it in your backpack. 10/10 would recommend for people looking for a reusable foodbag.

[@kristinotto102]

I have kids and I really don't like Stasher bags. They're so hard to clean and hard to store. I really like fabric zipper snack bags (like Bumkins ones) and they're way way better. Fold up small, take up less room, don't have any taste to them, and they can go in the washer (clothes washer) and come so clean every time.

[@Rain_Reign]

I love Stashers for kid stuff but the fabric ones sound very useful too! Thanks for the intel ☺️♥️

[@TS-eo9uf]

I was just telling my partner about my frustrations with my 3-4 year-old stasher bag yesterday! It's so old it's leaking/not sealing anymore, it's stained, it's impossible to wash correctly, it's growing some weird stuff in the inner seams and top corner seams, and I can't really trust it not to open/leak (bell pepper juices, stuff like that) in a backpack anymore. I find myself just opting to wash/reuse "single use" plastic bags for months to years. Since I can rely on them (and they're lighter and more crease-able for when I'm backpacking/going on long hikes). Plus... the price. Ouch.

[@ghhhhhhhhhh]

I use the metal coffee filters to strain ioghurt, homemade cheese and bulghur wheat for my tabboulehs. I LOVE that thing. I don't even drink coffee

[@myjaney]

i use oil rather than lotion and it works way better, olive is best (i make medicinal herb infused oils but just plain works too) coconut tends to clog my pores

[@ToxicSmiles1]

I absolutely love my metal straws. They’re the best. I’ll keep them for life.

[@IHaveNoClue1234]

I haven't tried all of these things but I do like stasher bags, reusable cotton rounds and the leaf razor. The bees wax wrap that I had kept pilling and left wax all over my bowls but I like the concept of it. I'm open to trying a different brand though.

[@skym.3362]

My mom made reusable cotton rounds, napkins, dish towels and they work so so so well. I'll have them for years to come.

[@SpicyRedCork]

I love my Rubbermaid tiny plastic containers for transporting protein powder and chia seeds. I got like a 3 pack from dollar tree and they work great.

[@Sarah-pd7bx]

I made that mistake with the straws, I simply don't use them. I use cotton rounds to remove waterproof mascara and eyeliner simply becuase I'd prefer them getting stained over my nice face towels. What I've learnt is if I run out something that's wasteful I see if I can live without it before sourcing a "sustainable" alternative. E.g. I use old socks to remove nail polish.

[@kturnerzzz]

The reusable cotton rounds are best for removing eye makeup up or applying toner rather than removing make up on your whole face (ie not for foundation).

[@360shadowmoon]

Ah crap I just bought that dish soap block lol. The other online reviews seemed positive.

[@jozeperson]

your voice is nice and crisp in this vid xx has some asmr energy in it :o oh and great content oc lol

[@sustainableteacheryt]

It happens a lot with those swaps. And sometimes its a matter of the moment in your life too...

[@animalmania2381]

I love your take on the kitchen roll. I think that too many times they get compare to normal paper kitchen roll and thats not what they should be compared to. Once they are off the roll they become towels/cloths at which point are they any better than the ones you already have. I think people forget paper kitchen roll is popular because you don't have to clean it afterwards

[@nicoleholguin6109]

i've actually used the patch bandages and they stick really well for me lol

[@kittyfloss3343]

I feel the exact same about bees wax wraps. I bought them new and they were so expensive. I wanted them to work for sandwiches, but it never sticks together even though I take really good care of them, so I always end up using a glass container anyway

[@arson3630]

I love ur voice through the microphone maybe that’s an unpopular opinon

[@CelticAilleacht]

The patch bandaids are a little expensive but I love them! Not for everyone, totally cool, but I have a latex allergy and an adhesive sensitivity and these are one of the very few brands that don't give me any issues!

[@irena6317]

I got a safety razor..... and I do actually like it, but it has taken me a while to use it properly and not cut myself every time I use it. First time I used it, I cut a big gash in my leg. I honestly still get a little nervous when I use it. I also tried to use a castile soap for my hair and it didn't work well in my hair... oddly it left it feeling "sticky" all over and oily at the scalp... 😕 😪

[@SaraCaitlinBerg]

I use stashers for everything! I buy a lot of produce and freeze extra in them. And then I just put them in the dishwasher and I've never had an issue with washing them. So interesting how we can all have different experiences with the same products.

[@user-di6cn2ne7u]

I have some knock off stashers that I love... I couldn't bring myself to pay the disgusting price of stashers when I only used ~1-2 boxes of disposables in a year (so it'd take like 10 years to recoup the savings) , but the knock offs were $12 I think for 10? And now I use them lots for snacks and such. Never had a leak or spill. Only downside is difficult to open if they are frozen

[@biancajingles2690]

What brand did you get? I’m not willing to pay the ridiculous price of stashers lol

[@Aurriel]

I do have the same problem with the patch bandages. They just don't stick. I tried them because I am allergic to the adhesive other bandages. But I am allergic to those too....

[@audrey9561]

Yeah I was also not a fan of stasher bags either. They made all my food taste like soap and were hard to clean. I’ll just stick with my solid container :(

[@aubrey-rosestacy3827]

Same! Washing them made me sad.

[@ritzafrancois4863]

I have stasher bags for just F+V and stacks only. I plan on getting more stasher bags just for non food items. The see-through feature is all I really need.

[@anne8663]

yeah, the washing 😅 I just find that washing my ziplock bags is easier!

[@FFF-xz6wn]

Yes, microfiber makeup remover wipes! God, yes! Somebody told about it! It's best thing I ever tried

[@kel1477]

cloth coffee filters are my absolute favorite!

[@aubrey-rosestacy3827]

Zip top bags are so much better, at least the shape.