This is how much money a zero waste life can save you part 1

[@chrstopherblighton-sande2981]

What blows my mind is that almost all of these ideas where how things used to be done, even when I was growing up (and I'm 44). It just goes to show the power that corporations have had to convince people to buy stuff that we didn't really need, that cost us more of the money we may already not have had much of, to feel that there was no alternative to buying these things and damage the environment in the process! Videos like these that show how these low waste options are actually saving money are super important as the give people options and challenge the power of advertising.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

rigth!!! I wish this all remained the norm but I'm determined to make it normal again haha!

[@sarahkinsey5434]

I was watching Call the Midwife and a character was crying in a hospital. When she was offered a box of disposable tissues she said something like “I don’t think these will ever catch on”. Welll…

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

@@sarahkinsey5434 hahaha too funny. I love that show!

[@mariadesantiago8696]

The rags instead of paper towels is truly such a money saver. It would hurt my heart to buy paper towels today. For me, there is truly no need. If something is truly too gross, that is what my stash of napkins from restaurants is for. We don’t go out often, but when we do. I always bring home the tons of extra napkins they always give us.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

truly!!! omg and free napkins?! game changer!

[@ctmom2114]

I have 3 categories of home made rags: hemmed flannel (old clothes/sheets) as hankies; old terry cloth towels from kitchen/bath that are cut down, also hemmed to avoid a tangled mess in laundry (experience speaking here) as the real work horses in the home for all cleaning and wiping up needs except for the last category: use and toss rags (usually spent rags with a ton of holes, beyond ability to be patched/mended (yeah, I mend everything I can), old undies/T's. Good for pet mess type situations, which are rare but do take place. Haven't bought paper towels in decades, never have used paper napkins (cloth heavy home here) Tip: for draining what little fried food we make, I save kraft food paper bags from things like sugar, flour. Works great.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

@@ctmom2114 nice!!

[@Spitfire-je1jy]

I used paper towels for painting 🖌️🎨.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

@@Spitfire-je1jy useful!

[@letsgetmental6934]

The menstrual cup has been a life saver. I don’t feel anxious about my pad showing when I wear certain clothes, it’s more comfortable, I feel cleaner, and I think the blood naturally flowing into the cup rather being stopped up by a pad has my cramps more manageable if not nonexistent some cycles when I used to have terrible ones each month. Even the money saved can’t beat that

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

they're amazing!

[@neonpandas]

The disc is a good solution also. The suction from the cup made me hate it.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

@@neonpandas for sure!

[@arieltallen5732]

I genuinely wish I could use a cup, but period underwear is a great option for me.

[@melissam4954]

My old coffee maker broke a couple weeks ago, So after some research I bought an aeropress and I love it! I'm the only one that drinks coffee in my house and I only do so about twice a week, so it's perfect for me.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

oooh cool! I have never heard of that swap before!

[@halslibrary]

Nice! I have a keurig machine so right now I am using that since I am the only one who drinks coffee and I have the reusable kcup

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

@@halslibrary love that option!

[@MeridaEllaSinnottDBurtram]

Yup, french press with instant or reusable k cup.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

@@MeridaEllaSinnottDBurtram !!!

[@varinafulcher5898]

My library does coffee for £1.50, but if I take a flask, with coffee or tea in, I can use the hot water, with their permission, virtually free drink, and stay to read the papers and magazines.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

oooh how nice!

[@frogge2579]

I read about 3-7 books a week so a library card has been a lifesaver!!

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

oh for sure!

[@katebeemakes]

Same! I also use Libby, so I can get my books on my phone which is SUCH a time saver. Also stops me from forgetting to return my books 😅

[@lyndacrossley9548]

We discovered reusable pods for our coffee machine. A gamechanger for us.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

truly!!

[@anastasiabondsfield1709]

I always make my own hankies (reusable tissues) out of old clothing that isn't good for donation/selling. This has saved me money, even if I only use hankies when at home!

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

it's just too easy!

[@ourfamilyaccount]

You have inspired me to take my kiddo to the library more. I really enjoyed the last visit during last year.. they had an temporarily exhibit featuring upcycled thread/textile framed art. I just tend to forget it's a place to go and utilize. Now I feel bad I bought "The Wild Robot" this week but at least I bought it used; I felt compelled because the film is coming out this fall.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

yayyy libraries are AMAZING!!! And soo great for kids, enjoy!

[@celecha]

I grew up reading books from the library, and I never understood why some people insist on buying every book they want to read rather than just get it for free from the library! I understand wanting to buy like a textbook or reference book, but not novels :')

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

right!! it's wild like what if you don't like it??

[@celecha]

@@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist IKRR!

[@kilendil]

I'm personally trying to use the library more often, and then buy my own personal copy for ones I (or my kids) absolutely love. (This I can support those authors, and the kids can love on those books without accidentally destroying library copies) But I totally used to buy all the books I read, and so many books I ended up not liking!

[@anuraelle1948]

Yes please make this a series! I like that this first video was regular things and things you'll have already i.e. old t-shirts for rags, and not just new 'sustainable' products to buy to swap (even though they have their place). Great to promote libraries!

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

I sure will, thank you!

[@shannonhudgins]

We did get a Keurig because my husband and I do not drink coffee at the same time. We also bought reusable k-cups, so we wouldn't be buying and using disposable K-cups. The low end Keurig we got was around $40. Just an option for people out there who do like the Keurig convenience and don't want the Keurig extra cost. (filling the reusable pods is worth the savings, and not making as much waste)

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

yay for reusables!

[@juniperjabber]

i would LOVE a part 2, possibly more!

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

so many more coming soooooon!

[@KS-jf2jf]

I love this! Yes, make as many of these as you can 🤓💚 I started watching your channel when you did the ways of living zero waste for free. What about comparison of not wasting food, thrifting, used car (or no car!), swapping, borrowing, using what you got! You could make a show on each of those alone 😊 I am always inspired by your videos. Thank you 💕

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

I will be making PLENTY to encourage people to live zero waste to save money haha! Oh I STILL do zero waste for free I have one coming soon, part 14 (!!) I think! Love these ideas, thank you!

[@socialdeviant13]

Coffee: the percolator we got for Christmas came with a reusable filter, and since I bought a grinder, our coffee tastes SO much better! We haven't gotten rid of paper towels, but since the kids and I started using rags, we go through a roll every 2-3 weeks instead of every week. In that same vein, I started making kid washrags, kitchen handtowels, and dish sponges out of cotton yarn and batting. I'm also in the process of making a mat to go on my bed so I don't have to buy a new mattress. Still working on getting everyone to turn off the lights, but i've come to love my quiet bathroom time in the dark. Still looking for PUL fabric to make my own menstrual pads and overnight pull-ups for my bedwetter. She had a dry night last night, so hopefully we may not need that soon!

[@sarahkinsey5434]

PUL fabric can be found at Joanns. It's usually in the nursery fabric aisle and there is a protective fabric that could be used in bed. It’s a thicker vinyl in between flannel

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

total reduction may not be possible but a little reduction is better than NO reduction, good for you! omg reusable pull-ups is a genius idea for eco parents!

[@wendy-zarate]

Yay a new series! This idea was great. Really makes you think that being environmentaly conscious has its financial perks. Also Mochi is upset about inflation 💜 😻.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

thank you!! excited to dive into this more this year :)

[@laurenalise3488]

I love the cost comparison videos! It’s so true and eco lifestyle can be and to is core is a frugal lifestyle. Love the video!

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

yayy glad you like it, thank you!

[@persephone213]

Love that this will be a series‼️ I’ll always sing the praises of reusables. Even though I did originally invest in many of the cuter zero waste swaps, it feels SO good to have so many little things I just don’t have to buy anymore (tissues, paper towels, makeup wipes, etc)

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

reusables for the win! I'm excited to make more of these :) omg adding makeup wipes to part 3!

[@avac392]

yesss! i love this idea and i can’t wait for the next episode in the series!

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

woohoo thank you!

[@TheBLGL]

03:26 You should only open the blinds/curtians for light when it is cold outside, because then it helps warm house. If you open up your blinds/curtains in the summertime, all those savings will go out the window because your cooling system, because it AC, swamp cooler, or simply fans, will have to work harder/you will need more of them. Keeping the curtains closed to keep the sun out has literally saved me so much in cooling costs. I live in Albuquerque, it gets hot in the summer, and even spring. I did this with all windows, except my kitchen windows only had blinds, no curtains. Even adding dark curtains has seriously kept my house so much cooler, I have even had to turn on my AC this year, and it’s gotten to almost 90.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

makes sense

[@evilbarbie2160]

I used natural sea sponges as tampon alternative. This was before cups came out, tried didn't work with my angled cervix. The sponge worked very well for me.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

how ncie!

[@Gopher5000]

I've been using the same sponge for about 20 years! I just boil it at the end of each cycle. I use a cloth pad for back up if Im out for many hours, but Ive never had any leaks.

[@carolg5800]

Hi Emma. Catching up on videos post hip replacement. The library card is the best. I read way more books than I can afford to buy and usually only read a book once. I found I love kindle because I can get something to read at any time. I do have some paper towels but only for a few specific tasks. My kitchen runs on kitchen towels and rags. Thank you for the videos.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

thanks for watching, sending you healing vibes!

[@judith6133]

Hi, it`s always nice to save some money in these days. I use only reusable hankies, secondhand, unused with handcrocheted lace. But, unfortunatly you have to use a storebought handkerchief about 600 times, before the impact is equal compared to a paper tissue.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

which is why I always recommend making them from scrap fabric!

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

I would love to see the source on this please :)

[@aurorapapillon4883]

I have a few clothes that I will turn into hankies once they finally meet a stain or damage I cannot mend. May even have some embroidery already in them after a few repairs so they'd be pre decorated too!

[@judith6133]

@@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist I tried to put in a link. It doesn`t work as planned. I will send you an email.

[@judith6133]

@@aurorapapillon4883 Before I get these hankies, for free from a houseclearence, I tried to make them as you plan to do. But since I`m not brillant with the sewing machine they turned out ugly. I`m sure, you are more sucessfull.

[@strawbearie_bunnies]

I bought my mom a reusable kcup. That you can put your own coffee in and it's it's dishwasher safe. I only paid $5 for a 2 pack of thoes.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

woohoo amazing!!

[@juniperjabber]

9:35 and this isn't even considering if your library has other things available to borrow like dvds, tools, etc. :D

[@persephone213]

Yes, I love my libraries‼️

[@francaaaaaaa]

Definitely! I have borrowed about a hundred books last year. Some cookbooks to make one recipe, some travel books, some sheet music, some books I put down after 10 pages, some books I could not put down. I also have some seeds from its seed library and some little plants from the plant exchange. I have gone to a lunch concert and last week I wrote in the communal diary they just started. I can use the printer for 10 cents a page and go to the repair café. There are kids activities, knitting afternoons, evenings to learn about nature, and help with language, government, computer skills.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

TRUE!! This is JUST books!!!

[@cherylT321]

@@francaaaaaaa Your library sounds amazing!

[@theblaqueekarenn5600]

Bless u. Plz continue. Much appreciated

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

no thanks!

[@miss_m_yt]

Thank you for making videos like these which show how certain swaps can do more than just helping the environment!!

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

yes for sure!

[@internetopinion3043]

Zero waste with keurig can be done healthfully. My work has a keurig machine, so I bought myself a stainless steel k cup and a scoop with and funnel on it. I buy coffee and put it in a glass container with a sealing lid (seals the coffee, but also easier to scoop with). When I'm done with the grounds, take the lid off of my k cup and use a sandwich pick to scrape out the grounds onto the landscaping. My main dumping spot was a plant that was not doing very well, and I think i brought it back.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

how cool!

[@ctmom2114]

I have a Stainless steel, percolator, bought YEARS ago, at GW for like $4. Still going strong, stove top model. I fill the inner basket with coffee, let it perk for 5 timed minutes, done. Cooled coffee grounds are later added to the compost bucket, eventually being toted outside to the compost bin and finally, once actual compost, it's my own, free garden soil.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

i love that!

[@theknittinkitten2954]

Those are also great for noodles if you clean it really well!!! I used to live in a TINY rv and had limited space for pans. If you take out the percolating part you can boil noodles in it and pour out the water through the spout!

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

@@theknittinkitten2954 oh cool!

[@CobaltGoose9854]

I bought my french press for a dollar at a garage sale! It’s my favorite way to make coffee and I love using it instead of a teapot when making tea for guests!

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

woah amazing!!

[@catperson776]

For the keriug you can buy cheap reusable k-cup, that's what I did you still save a lot of money too. All you have to do is dump out the coffee grounds and then wash it to use it again.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

great idea!

[@Patchouliprince]

About two or three years ago my coffee pot broke and all I had was an old moka pot passed down from my in laws side I had never touched or used before, I have been using that ever since my god I am so glad my machine broke! It’s so good! And it’s great only have grounds to dispose of not even needing to buy filters or reusable filters, I use the grounds in my garden and also occasionally for diy scrubs

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

yay that's amazing!

[@indigodenim]

Also liquid soap vs bar soap!

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

true!!

[@melissamadison8738]

Love this series keep it going

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

I sure will!

[@airwreckaaaaaaaa]

I absolutely love the cardigan you have on here! Great video!

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

omg thanks, I MADE IT!!

[@geanetteandrea]

Yes please make more of these..l. I love it! I have a $2.99 pour over coffee “maker”. Yes I do have to purchase paper filters but they are compostable and cost me about $12 per year. I also always use either a reusable coffee mug or, now that I am retired, I drink most of my coffee at home. Thanks so much for sharing the terrific tips!😊

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

good to hear!

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

more coming SOON!!

[@lisabaubeau8440]

I swap my toilet paper for reusable for when I go #1. I just throw them in the wash with my white loads so they are bleached and reused. I also make my coffee at home, I have keurig and I use a reusable kcup. to keep my cost down I buying my coffee beans in bulk and keep them in the freezer and grind only what I need. I had solar installed this pass summer so I will not see a return on that for a few years but you have to start somewhere, right?

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

a great way to save money for sure!

[@katiekielman824]

Cafe Bustelo come in a 10oz brick of espresso ground coffee for $4. Use a mokapot for espresso style coffee.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

nice!

[@branflanbutler6133]

Do a swap of going from toilet paper & baby wipes to a bidet and washable toilet paper (sometimes called reusable baby wipes or family clothes) This is a swap as recently did and we feel a lot cleaner after using the bathroom now

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

yes those are great!

[@leanneono6237]

Love this! I hope there are more parts. I also think the savings could be used elsewhere e.g. to buy more organic

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

already have part 2 planned and part 3 will probably come eventually! love that idea!

[@seagirl0384]

For the water shouldn’t we include a water filter expense? Most people are not going to be drinking there tap water :/

[@karinhart489]

I’ve seen advertised a water filter that is cleanable/reusable that fits into the name brand pitchers. I keep hoping someone reliable (like Emma or CR) would review it to see if it also filters out microplastics & forever chemicals.

[@kandyboyd6245]

Genuine question. Can you not drink straight tap water in the US?

[@karinhart489]

@@kandyboyd6245 depends on where you live. On one hand where I live we get our water from melted snowpack ❄️ in the Sierra Nevada mountains & it is quite delicious. On the other, there are pesky plastic particles in drinking water worldwide that needs to be filtered out. Add to that the concerns about Forever Chemicals seeping into water.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

it depends on the region for sure. I don't use one so I didn't factor it in but even so, filters are much less waste and money than bottles

[@Judith-b3t]

​@@kandyboyd6245 My city puts so much chlorine in the water that I can not drink it. It causes my palette to peel. Yes gross. A nurse friend said I am allergic to it (the bleach). I buy filtered water at those large blue boxes outside grocery stores. 50 cents a gallon now.

[@queenbunnyfoofoo6112]

I always use homemade hankies at home, but if I'm out I will use disposable tissues.....less chance of spreading germs to other people. Bonus that the homemade ones don't make your nose red and chapped.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

makes sense!

[@alexandriaelwell1780]

I have a Melitta for my son and just bought a reusable filter for it. We actually discovered this for camping originally

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

how cool!

[@WhattheFatisHappening]

Part 2 plsss

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

coming asap!

[@DixieDebarr]

I have a off brand kurig but I use a reusable k cup in it and omg it saves so much and less waste❤

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

that's great to hear!

[@FredMcIntyre]

Awesome stuff Emma, great suggestions! 😃👍🏼👊🏼 .... I was wondering, what do you think the difference in waste is (if any) between using a k-cup with a thermos versus using a single use paper coffee cup (plastic coated) with a plastic lid?

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

yay thank you! hmm a kcup is LESS waste than a coffee cup so I'd say it's a step in the right direction but the goal should be to reduce as much as possible!

[@susanaalves6934]

Hi from Portugal new subscriber. I would absolutely love to see more vídeos like this😊

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

yayyyy thank you so much for being here! more coming soon!

[@lauracastro6967]

Great series idea!

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

can't wait to make more!

[@datamusic4923]

My office used to charge extra for using your own coffee cup. Drove me mad. It was about 15-20% extra. It was a subsidised canteen, and the extra was because some peoples coffee cups were a lot larger than the standard sit in cups and to account for the extra coffee. I used to use one of their ceramic cups and pour it in to mine, so no waste, but seriously my cup was the exact same size :( I still used my own. I've been doing the rest on your list everything except the tissues, but we use about a box a month between us.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

WHAT?! THat is WILD!!!! Good for you tho!

[@bekadavisstudios]

I love videos like these! :)

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

woohoo thanks!

[@SaraHughes-kz2zx]

Love this video. Looking forward to rest of series

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

yayyy thanks!

[@samwilde777]

Keep going! Love the ideas!

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

I'm on it!!

[@nt6719]

Not all books are available in the library. We’ve only found a few business books there.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

i see

[@VeronicaRichardson1980]

Most libraries have can borrow books from other libraries for you. There’s also library apps

[@nt6719]

@@VeronicaRichardson1980 the libraries don't have the majority of these books. They have limited funds and they spend it in the areas that most people want to use and that is NOT business books. I've tried. Also sometimes a book is needed now-not 6 months to a year from now. And yes, I've waited a year to get to borrow a book.

[@nt6719]

@@VeronicaRichardson1980 they may have the more popular business books such as Who Moved My Cheese but the majority of them are missing a lot of business books. That's not what most people in the US want to read and they have to put most of their limited budgets towards what the majority wants. Many times we need a book now-not 6 months to a year from now. And yes we have waited for a book for a year several times. We're in a situation where a group of us is reading the same book in the same month and if we don't have it to read that quickly becomes apparent. We buy our books unless we have no other choice and we've found sources that are sometimes cheaper than Amazon and E-bay.

[@zabmcauley5647]

You can also request that books get added to your library.

[@samanthalawton6972]

Instant coffee doesn't even use grounds so even less waste for those who can't compost for whatever reason

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

so true!

[@angesoie]

I am enjoyed the kayaness period pants ❤ the menstrual cup needs way too many empties to make it convenient most days- especially when using a public bathroom

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

I need to try those!

[@GeeklingNo1]

A lot of these things are stuff I already do for this very reason. The only time I use paper towels is if my cat does something gross. Even then it's rare and I use sparingly. I bought my mom unpaper towels and I'm starting to convert her too! Still can't get her on the reusable period product train tho...

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

one swap at a time!

[@MM-te8fu]

I love this video I love watching you. I got my French press at the store for two dollars There are so many things that you think of that I don’t think of. Because of you, I’ve started composting more. I love it and my yard loves it. there’s so many things that you do you do that I do there are a couple things that you do that I can’t do but that’s OK you do you I do me where are both still saving the planet have a great day.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

omg thrifted swaps save even MORE money! Love that you found one second hand, also less environmental impact!

[@terryhenderson424]

Ypu can get a reusable filter for a couple of different shapes of drip coffee makers; the metal mesh are worth the slightly extra cost. You can also get a reusable K-cup pod filter; we have one of these thoemthjngs in the detached garage. We ended up buying 6 so we could fill each and put in a resealable baggie for use. We have a second baggie for the spent filters which when full (or sooner depending upon the time lag) we take to the kitchen, empty, wash the filters, rinse or wash the baggie, and refill the filters when they are dry. This one provided a readily recognizable savings back in 2018-2019. We switched to cloth napkins years and years ago. We predominately switched to cloth kitchen towels years ago. Can't tell you how much we've saved but over 20 years ago, I was with someone who was buying mostly paper towels and napkins and the order rang up at right about $30; I was all but shocked. If you sew, a better quality, King, 100% cotton bed sheet can make quite a few of either complete with double fold hems. We use hard cotton napkins, clever and holiday kitchen towels, and home made towels in the bathroom because they dry when hung; amn are 1/4 or less the cost of a decor bathroom hand towel. We also have the white, micro fiber autocare cloths cut to the shape of a disposable paper Swifter covers; this saves a ton of money.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

reusable filters are a great way to eco-fy the coffee pot you already have :)

[@GrumpyManatee]

if you get a keurig or pod style coffe maker get a reusable k-cup/ pod cup, stainless steel ones are the best and are less than $20

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

yesss great idea!

[@darklordmenet]

as someone with a large family.....there are some messes (kids) you don't want to use a towel on. you want those paper towels, yes it's cheaper to use the regular towel on, but you're using the same amount of money on the washing of that towel and the soap to clean that nasty towel, or throwing that towel away all together and having to replace it, even if you second hand buy it. take it from someone with a large family...paper towels you want when you have children. for regular messes yes, use regular towels and rags

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

very fair! but it is NO WHERE close to the same amount o fmoney to wash them

[@darklordmenet]

@@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist you apparently don't have kids....

[@ChromeSkeletons]

A reusable razor has saved me so much money! I used to buy a 3 pack of razors for $10 every month. I bought a leaf razor for around $90 which was a lot up front but it paid for itself in less than a year and I've had it for over 6 years now. The refill blades only cost like 15 cents per blade, it's crazy I've saved hundreds of dollars at this point

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

omg so true!! adding that one to pt 3 (pt 2 coming SOON!!)

[@ciannacoleman5125]

Same! I was putting of replacing my razor blades way too long due to the cost. I spent $30 on Amazon ($20 for the safety razor & 2 blades, $10 for a pack of 100) I dont have to buy replacement razors for about 5 more years since for me they each last about a month.

[@lilred312benett6]

I have a single serving French press. I prefer to mix my coffee flavors. The coffee grounds are saved for my plants. Save goes for tea. My favorite Cafe and farmers market stall both give discounts when I bring my own cup.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

cool i love that! I also love how multi purpose a french press can be

[@aurorerich]

I dont live zero waste, but I have lived frugally for years now and I am sure I have saved thousands of euros a year. Might not sound like much to some, but those are multiple monthly wages to me, wages I do not have to work for. I can live from a part time job and still live the good life. I recommend books like The Art Of Frugal Hedonism.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

there is so much overlap! You ARE eco whether you want to use the label or not :)

[@sct4040]

I use paper towels for drying chicken/meat/seafood, clean up, and use a bar towels for water on the counter.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

nice!

[@sandibroad4099]

Thanks!🙌🤗

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

thank YOU as always :)

[@aubreejobizzarro1208]

As a former anti-kuerig person (before I knew they made reusable pods), the French press method actually is more expensive in terms of resource usage like electricity and water. I got a 2-cup press for 7$ second hand and used it for a year and half so I definitely love a good French press now and then. Its fractions of penny’s in savings switching to a machine but I approached it from an environmental standpoint. Using a refillable k-pod reduces the amount of coffee grounds and potential waste with a French press which can be messy and grounds wasted if you’re not using them for the garden, as well as water conservation like bringing the water to a boil and having too much if not measured properly. (Also you can buy a small kuerig used as they make cleaning pods, we found one in our second hand shop for $12 dollars!!!!) The reusable k-pods are made with metal however which does require more money up front and more resource extraction, but when factoring out for the long term including ease of use of the keurig, and water saving abilities, I think they’re almost equal. But I’ll also point out that ease of use increases usage which is Jevons Paradox 😅 and I definitely have fallen for it 😢

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

how does it use more energy and water??

[@aubreejobizzarro1208]

I love cleaning rags and hankies. My only ick is if I’ve left the bathroom cleaning too long(darn adhd) and the toilet is pretty icky, then I use paper towels. I just can’t get over the ick poop particle factor 😢 But it means our households paper towels hardy ever! I definitely need a better storage system in the kitchen though haha.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

oooh fair!!

[@chelsiemorris3746]

The k cups really are crazy expensive the reusable cup is so much more cost effective

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

so expensive!!

[@That.Lady.withtheYarn]

Learn about peak hours with the electric company. There’s a discount for using power on their off peak

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

woohoo!

[@HolisticTake]

Loved it! 2nd part please ❤

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

I'm already on it!

[@kimd.7846]

I haven’t completely eliminated paper towels, but I have reduced my usage. I only use them for yucky dog things. I have two senior dogs and things happen!

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

that's great!

[@christinamccarty7225]

Love your sweater!

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

thanks! I made it ;)

[@lnr1002]

Saving money is my main reason for making changes that are zero waste as it just makes sense if you are broke.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

for sure! zero waste living can be budget living and vice versa :)

[@ironically_iconic9848]

Using a menstrual disk has been a game changer for me. I personally use the hello disk (I recommend the black one because the others show stains!) not only is it more sustainable but it’s also cheaper and personally way more comfortable than using a pad or tampon. A disk or a cup (although I personally recommend a disk) and period underwear / a reusable pad IMO is amazing. If you’d like to learn more about reusable period options I recommend checking out Period Nirvana. (not sponsored 💀)

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

that's great to hear!

[@bridgetleonard6702]

I have never tried the menstrual cup it might be comfortable but I was never able to stand the sensation of tampons so I use period underwear.

[@kleptomelly]

I tried a cup and didn't like it. I could always feel it which was never an issue with tampons. I switched to reusable pads and they would great. It can be hard with some of these swaps that you really can't try before you buy.

[@sf2studios]

I tried Ruby Cup and I never went back! It's been almost 15 years.

[@sarahkinsey5434]

@@kleptomelly I've been thinking about making my own pads. My body likes to mess with me so after like 3-4 days there will be a day or two with no bleeding, then it'll be really light. I'll still wear stuff longer than I should just in case, which is annoying when it turns out there is nothing after half a day

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

I also use period underwear and they still save money!

[@provingpossible]

If you have a high cervix normally and it drops significantly over the timeframe of your entire period (some of us have periods that last 6-10 days) then you will likely require 2 menstrual cups - this will depend also on your cervix "direction" and your flow.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

is that doctor recommended? I've never heard of such a thing

[@provingpossible]

@@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist Not sure what you mean by dr recommended? What I mean by that is my dr does not play a part in my choices of menstrual products. How I know this fact about a person's cervix... It is a well documented fact that a woman's (or whatever you're choosing to call yourself) cervix can change positions during the entire cycle (for those of you unaware, your entire cycle includes both bleeding and non-bleeding days). In my case, it drops significantly and shifts to my left side (with opening pointed right)... I've managed to prove this (to myself anyway LOL) just by testing during different parts of my cycle. Apologies for tmi but... I can barely tap the very tip of it during most of my cycle and it's roughly in the centre. By the time I've hit my heaviest days, it's dropped to where I call it "mid-height", which allows my cup (Merula XL - I needed something firmer to STAY open and bigger to hold enough fluid that I wouldn't have to empty every 15-30mins) to collect fluid easily. However, by the end of my menstruation (bleeding period), I can't use the Merula XL anymore because it sits too high and my cervix basically fills it. I usually switch to my regular Merula - although I've switched mostly to period underwear and am also looking into a disc because the smaller Merula has a tendency to suction directly onto my cervix, turn completely sideways and can be absolute AGONY to get it out again. Now that I have some really good period underwear - and have watched your video on cleaning the suckers (I just wasn't succeeding in this too well without your video) - I mainly prefer the underwear, but sometimes just get tired of gushing (I'm one of those lucky ones that seems to hold fluid for a while and then all of a sudden the gates are released and it's a veritable blood bath LOL) and choose my cup/s. A side note: The problem of a cervix that moves significantly during menstruation and using a cup could probably be solved by using only a disc but some individual's bodies don't hold onto a disc the way it should.

[@theblaqueekarenn5600]

Bless u

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

no thanks!

[@MeridaEllaSinnottDBurtram]

My fave other tips for saving $9.5k/yr: How I save $2.5k+/yr on connectivity : Refurbished Apple (iphone XR) Saved $500, will use for 4-5 years, not 1-2. Thermal printer: no ink, can be BPA free paper, saves $40-$120/yr. Mobile hotspot for wifi: saved $950/yr. Mint mobile (or Tracfone, 3 mobile) saved $560-$960/yr unlimited single line plan. Quality headphones last years and spare me $200/yr for constant 😅replacements. Chargers are 3 for $8 cheapos that work perfectly. Other favourites: Ceramic water filters saved $180/yr on water filters. Tumeric tea (loose spice bulk $15, in water with some lemon) over tumeric capsules saved $3000/yr. Junp bulk electrolytes save $1000/yr from liquid IV Costco prices. Éthique shampoo bars save my fussy fine wavy hair from $370 more on Perfect Hair Day products. My skincare swaps with Pixi, Noble, & shea moisture (some plastic) save me $2500+/yr and 15 plastic pump bottles. ❤Great Video ❤

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

these are amazing, thank you! and good job on all the eco savings!

[@cziegle3794]

Yay top 32 and top 7 likes and comments. Thanks for making this video. Best to you and your family. Clicked on video 1 hour after it was posted. 10:16a.m. Wednesday April 17th, 2024. Watching from Maryland.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

yayyy welcome! I was just in MD :)

[@cziegle3794]

What were you doing in MD - visiting family, doing something related to your channel, something else?

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

@@cziegle3794 just traveling :)

[@vegemitegirl1971]

I'm a cloth hanky girl. I've got bad allergies and have had desensitization treatment, I used to be worse. Using single use tissues means that I go through several boxes of tissues a week. Instead, I invested in 50 cloth hankies. They only need replacing every 5-8 years. Financial savings win. The only time I do buy, and have bought paper tissues, are when we have had covid in the house and I can't keep up with the laundry. I've also been using cloth panty liners for several years. The only reason I buy disposable is when I travel by plane as the body scanners always red flag the press studs.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

yay for reusables!

[@aimeeseek]

You're smart!

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

hey thanks :)

[@LaineyBug2020]

If you already have a Keurig, they do sell reusable k-cups

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

yes shoulda mentioned that!

[@ear1421]

I found my hydro flask in the trash too (college move out trash). 😊

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

hahah what a score!

[@vegemitegirl1971]

We love our coffee pods and bought the Aldi coffee pod machine. However, ours is zero waste because I don't buy their coffee pods. 4 years ago I spent AUD$100/USD$65 (approx) and bought 4 stainless steel reusable pods. Much faster this way than using the French press and restaurant style espresso machine, which we also have. There is a cheaper book owning option too. It's The Little Neighbour Library. Private citizens will have little boxes on their fence line, usually near the driveway. You donate books you no longer need and take what you want.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

love to hear it!

[@alexandriaelwell1780]

On top of me saving I asked friends or pick up at our local free Swap Shop flannel sheets for tissues. I even made myself some reusable tissue boxes and fold the tissue so they pop out like normal. For paper towels I did buy some washcloths. I use no disposable dishes or silverware. One day I literally got tired of going to work to throw my money in the trash can. At first the adjustment seems kind of weird now I prefer it. My friends think I'm crazy that I have reusable tissues. I gave my friends and family a reusable Christmas this year nobody was impressed. Although the most unimpressed was definitely my 82 year old grandmother who lived in the days before disposable era and she's thankful for the Disposable era

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

yay for community!

[@SalsaNube]

I am doing almos all of what you mentioned. Except, using reusable pads, instead of the underwear. And I do not use much tissues, using tp instead (most of the times). But some things I will not be swipping guess ever, if not forced to, are exaxtly tp, tissues and, unfortunately, paper towels. For the tp, we do not have good alternatives, and I will not be stopping using the paper one (even if I have a bidet). For tissues, I do not use them much, but are useful now and then, when out or traveling. And for paper towels, well, I have pets. One of them is old ans woth some "troubles", and I board sometimes (one arriving as we speak), also sick pets. No, I will not be washing vomit or pee/poo from regular rags. Just plain no. Oh, and I do use wet wipes in the car and in case I travel. Some things will have to be like this. But this is the point. We can do as much as we can, and if this is not perfect, it is still a great thing to do as much, as we can.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

not every swap is for every one and that is okay!

[@theknittinkitten2954]

I'd love a video on more swaps! We saved hundreds years ago by using cloth diapers and this was before inflation. We were gifted out diapers through a swap group. I'd love to see a cost vs waste video on loose tea vs bags at the store, my husband loves tea and practically drinks it all day! Or things like refillable items vs single use!!! I've been using reusable menstrual products for almost a decade, so I've saved tons. We live in a place where trash companies don't come and pick up the trash so we have to manually take our trash in and dump it ourselves, which really makes you notice how much trash you actually go through! Edit: also for y'all homesteaders with chickens, you can use the coffee ground to make a black soldier fly farm for you chickens!!!

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

so many good swaps to save money I for sure will be doing a pt 2 and 3 but hopefully more!

[@theknittinkitten2954]

@@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist I think those reusable bags would be good too! I love doing the math for basically everything (even cost vs time to cook from home). More city people would probably like things like the reusable ziplock bags, beeswax wraps, reusable cleaning products, pads, and stuff. I'm drawing a blank on more because we just kind of live this lifestyle so we don't really realize what most people throw away.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

@@theknittinkitten2954 so true!!

[@nam.v9098]

This is helpful 👍

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

yay thank you!

[@alanbirkner1958]

My clothes are mostly second-hand. My craft supplies are mostly second-hand. Haven't bought paper towels in over 50 years. Tina, Al's wife

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

that's amazing!

[@emilymeyer7788]

For me, it's the menstrual cup and washable pads. My cup was 7€ and the 6 pads I have were under 30€. And now I just... don't ever have to buy period products again because both last like 10 years

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

it's truly incredible!!

[@emmagriffiths2423]

My boyfriend got a sinus infection a few weeks ago and said that my reusable Kleenex was way better cuz the regular paper ones hurt his now after a few uses. He asked if I could make more to replace all the Kleenex boxes in the house. I bought a flannel sheet from the thrift store for $1! And cut it up and now I have more than enough rags for Kleenex, cleaning, napkins, paper towels.. all stuff I never have to buy again and made for ONE DOLLAR

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

yes paper hurts so bad, it's so rough! yay!

[@Alina_Schmidt]

3:52 300 dollars a year would mean 76% of my electicity bill in total for light. Nowhere near 20). How? Is America really that different? Maybe there‘s something off, to my knowledge the biggest part by far of electricity use comes from heating, cooling and big devices (fridge, oven, tv, etc.). Turn off the lights anyway, but maybe focus on those other parts or at least don‘t forget those.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

wow sounds nice! It's expensive over here haha

[@tenaoconnor7510]

You should have added stop using toilet paper. I cut up old towel to hand size squares zigzag the edges and stoped buying paper. Throw them in the wash and dryer like anything else, saves so much money.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

note how this video is part ONE! There is more to come :)

[@carkarlaw]

Good video ❤. One note to menstruate underwear. Need to factor in life cycle cost depending on individual (how rough on washing, exercise or activities, weight change, quality of undie). Some underwear just won't last beyond +2 years. 😅

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

which is why i alwys advocate for taking care of your items! but yes things to consider for sure

[@arieltallen5732]

Unfortunately the water in my area is absolutely disgusting- even after being filtered. We buy large gallons and refill them, then use it to fill up our glasses and carafes.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

that's still a good option is refilling!

[@celestialmajesty2053]

None of these help if youre already too poor for things like going out for coffee. My bags at grocery store are free cause of EBT

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

okay!

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

I actually didn't even mention going out for coffee, this was all making coffee at home. Also I'm pretty sure saving electricity and water is FREE and doesn't require you to buy anything. Actually neither does using reusable bags, I got mine for free!

[@celestialmajesty2053]

@@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist you told us our savings cost for using a reusable cup at a coffee shop, you said some places give up to a dollar discount. People that are poor already make coffee at home. And can't afford coffee going out even if it's discounted a dollar.

[@celestialmajesty2053]

@@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist also my water is free it's cost is included in my rent which I am on housing to be able to afford. I can't afford my electricity and trying to figure out what to do on that. I only found your channel cause I was trying to find videos to help save money. I'm not trying to save the environment, just my family from doom

[@erinrising2799]

just on the homophones thing: Bow, so you can have an archery bow or a hair bow. I then there are the homonyms: Bow, where you can have the bow of a ship or bow in reverence

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

both of those are homonyms actually! Homophone is like to, too, two or weekend and weakened!

[@scryptid7897]

So what I'm learning is I'm already eco friendly because I'm so cheap 😅

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

YES!!

[@stephaniem1107]

I bought 10 Hanahpads and they said they would last 10 years so I bought another 10 ($20 each at the time so it was a steep investment). That was in 2018 and its now 2024 and the first 10 are still going strong. So I've saved money AND since inflation they are now between $30-$40 so I got in while they were 'cheaper'. They're a great alternative to period cups and period underwear. Exactly like a regular bag but you just wash them instead of bin them. Which means you don't have to take your whole pants/stockings/tights/etc off when you're at work or out and about just to change them (period underwear) or be certified of them getting stuck up there because they're suctioned on so tightly (period cups).

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

such a great investment for sure!

[@raisan5989]

@@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist I don't understand the period underwear savings, I would need 3 pairs, wash 2 pairs while wearing the 3rd, get them dry and wear them again the next day. Hand wash doesn't sound sanitary, I would either end up needing to buy 24 pairs of the underwear to wash them at the end of a period which is a much larger investment or I need to run my washing machine daily which isn't environmentally friendly either.

[@Ursi8744]

Coffee mug - water bottle - reusable bags- sun light - dry clothes hanging them - use rags instead paper towels or tissues - coffee at home or office (dripping machine permanent filter ) - I do all these things except the menstrual cup …. And library card , I will add these 2 into my life btw I’m from LATAM we have sooooo many hacks for save money , our entire life depends on that 😅

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

so many good ones! I love it!