Eco-friendly swaps, without getting rid of plastic straws

How on earth can you be eco-friendly and use plastic straws? It feel like a contradiction, but I’m willing to explain.

Some people rely on plastic straws to drink safely. It might be essential, or like me, lower the risk of choking. I care about the turtles and try and do my bit to look after the planet, but I’m deemed selfish for using a plastic straw. Disabled people can use plastic straws and still care greatly about the environment.

Read more — Don’t Pre-judge the Pre-cut!

If you’re wondering about the alternatives to plastic straws, they’ve all been considered. For some people, the safest option is to use single use plastic.

The plastic straw ban & how it harms disabled people (Shona Louise)

The impact of plastic straws

There are many changes we can make to look after the planet. All while using plastic straws. Here’s a list of possible eco-friendly swaps. Some of them I already have, others I hope to start using in the future.

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Bathroom

Makeup pads

I used to use cotton makeup pads on a daily basis. It just became so normal and I didn’t think anything of it. However, I’ve switched to reusable makeup pads and haven’t looked back.

Super easy to clean, just goes in the washing machine with everything else.

You can buy them from most beauty outlets, as well as from Etsy and eco shops.

Ear buds

Did you know that a reusable ear bud existed?

If, like me, this concept seems bizarre, then you’d be surprised at how good they are.

I’ve had a LastSwab for about a year. It’s easy to use, easy to clean, and comes in a little carry case. When you’ve used it, you simply wash under the tap and you’re good to go!

Recommendation: LastSwab — The World’s First Reusable Cotton Swab

Shampoo and body wash bars

These just make sense! Why put something in a plastic bottle when a bar of soap does the same job?

Not only that, I’ve found shampoo bars easier to use as I don’t have to open different bottles.

There are loads of different brands out there, but I’ve been using the Eco Warrior range. I am yet to use the body wash as I’m using older ones first. However, they smell amazing and I can’t wait to give them a go.

The shampoo bar works so well and doesn’t have loads of chemicals which is an added bonus.

Recommendation: Eco Warrior Cleansing Bars (Little Soap Company)

Deodorant

It’s something you use every day. Not only that, you probably have a few that are half used. Previously I’d just pick a random deodorant, mainly based on its scent.

In a bid to be more mindful about the products I was buying, I came across eco-friendly deodorants that were made with natural ingredients. Then I came across Wild, who seemed to take things one step further.

Recommendation: Wild Natural Deodorant (Affiliated link: Get a free Wild case or enter Chloe Tear at the checkout)

First you buy a case that’s made from anodised aluminum and recycled plastic. From then on, you’ll only need to buy refills which are 100% plastic free and slim enough to fit through your letterbox. They have a range of scents that are all made from natural ingredients.

I’ve been using this product for nearly 6 months and have no intention of changing. This isn’t a sponsored post, I just genuinely love the product.

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Personal items

Charity shops for clothes

I love all things vintage and a 1950’s dress will always catch my eye. Yet it’s even better if I find one in a charity shop or at a vintage fair. I’m not going to lie, I own a few too many items of clothing…

I love clothes as a form of self-expression and have a weakness for striped tops. However, over the last year I’ve tried to be more mindful and intentional about the clothes I buy. Asking yourself things like:

• Do you already have something similar?
• Do you need this?
• Are you tempted to buy it because it’s on sale?

I’ve also donated things to charity and purchased things second hand when I could. I’ve not been perfect, but I’m getting there!

E-books

Last year I read so many books! Due to my sight, e-books and audiobooks are the most accessible format. Yet these books also take up less space and reduce the amount of paper, not to mention the fact that they are often cheaper. I love actual books, I’d quite happily live in a library! I then found an app called BorrowBox.

BorrowBox is an app that can be downloaded to your phone or tablet. Using a library card you can then log into your library’s collection of audiobooks and e-books. You can reserve titles you like and it works exactly how a library does.

Recommendation: BorrowBox app

This app saved me loads of money, gave me access to books in my preferred format and had so many great titles.

Using what you have

I suppose this doesn’t need that much explanation. Do you have a draw full of fancy body wash and bath bombs that have been sitting there? I know I certainly do!

Last year I worked my way through hand creams, bath salts and body wash. Many of them had been bought as gifts, with more luxurious things being saved for an occasion that justified it. When you save things for a special occasion, it probably won’t be used.

Anyone else keep hold of the fancier things? Or even travel sized bottles that have been taken from hotels? Well, it’s time for these things to shine. Dig them out of the draw and enjoy them.

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On the go

Shopping bag

Grabbing a tote bag before leaving the house has become second nature to me. I’m not going to start recommending which tote bag you should use, as they are pretty self-explanatory.

Like most things, it’s more about getting into the habit of doing things a little differently.

Lunch box and sandwich bags

When I think of a lunch box, I think of plastic containers. Do you have a draw that’s full of random lids and containers? You’re certainly not alone. I’m not saying that plastic containers should be banished. Yet there are alternatives if you are going to buy some. Materials can include:

• stainless steel
• fabric and beeswax wrapping
• rice husk
• bamboo

Reusable cup and water bottle

Nowadays most people own a water bottle. But how often is that left at home? Like a lot of swaps, it’s about building new habits.

Recommendation: Chilly’s — reusable water bottles

Many coffee shops allow you to bring your own cup and water fountains are becoming more common. At King’s Cross station you can fill up your water bottle for free by using a Refill stop. It even tells you how many plastic bottles have been saved by people using the water machine.

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Disabled people can help to support the planet. With the plastic straw ban leading to disabled people being targeted, we’re often seen as the enemy. Any change you’re able to make will contribute to a more sustainable world.

I hope this has given you some ideas and highlighted there’s more to being eco-friendly then banning plastic straws.

~ Chloe x