10 steps to use less plastic at home

Plastic is one of the most common materials in our daily environment. Unfortunately, it has a huge impact on the environment and the health of both humans and animals. Every year, millions of tons of plastic waste ends up in the ocean, where it harms marine life and ecosystems. Fortunately, we can all do our part to reduce the amount of plastic in our lives. Below, we offer ten practical steps to use less plastic and contribute to a cleaner planet.

1. Choose reusable bags

Disposable bags are often waste after just one use, but reusable bags can last for years. Choose a sturdy, reusable bag made of cloth or recycled material and take it with you when shopping. By bringing a reusable bag, you avoid having to buy a plastic bag every time.

2. Say no to plastic bottles

Instead of buying plastic bottles, invest in a reusable stainless steel or glass water bottle. You can fill it at home and take it with you everywhere. Many cities also have refill stations where you can refill your bottle for free.

3. Use reusable coffee cups

A large portion of single-use plastic waste comes from coffee cups. Invest in a reusable coffee cup and take it with you to your favorite coffee shop. Many cafes even offer discounts to customers who bring their own cup, saving both money and plastic.

4. Avoid disposable cutlery and straws

Plastic cutlery, straws, and stirrers are often only used for a few minutes before being thrown away. Consider bringing reusable cutlery and metal or bamboo straws when eating on the go. There are also handy travel sets with reusable cutlery that fit in any bag, available in the Kyndly webshop.

5. Buy in bulk and avoid small packages

A large portion of the plastic in our kitchen cupboards comes from packaging. Buying products in bulk and bringing your own bags or containers can help reduce packaging. Many bulk stores offer grains, nuts, rice, and even cleaning products without packaging.

6. Choose beeswax cloths instead of plastic wrap

Plastic wrap is convenient, but there are more sustainable alternatives. Beeswax wraps are reusable, compostable, and can easily be used to cover or wrap food. They're also easy to clean and can last for months.

7. Switch to plastic-free personal care products

Many personal care products, such as shampoo bottles and toothpaste tubes, are packaged in plastic. Try switching to solid shampoo bars, soap, and toothpaste tablets. These alternatives are often packaged in paper or cardboard and are just as effective as their plastic counterparts.

8. Avoid microplastics in cosmetics

Many cosmetic products, such as scrubs and toothpaste, contain microplastics that are washed into the water and are harmful to marine life. Look for products with natural, plastic-free exfoliants, such as sugar or salt, and read the ingredients list to avoid plastic. The selected cosmetic brands on Kyndly are all plastic-free!

9. Store leftovers in glass or stainless steel

For storing leftovers, use glass jars or stainless steel containers instead of plastic containers. Glass and stainless steel are more durable, reusable, and safer for food storage because they don't release harmful substances.

10. Recycle and reuse plastic you already have

While the goal is to use less plastic, it's also important to use the plastic you already have wisely. Don't just throw plastic away; try to reuse it as much as possible and recycle it properly. By disposing of your plastic waste properly, you ensure that it can be recycled instead of ending up in nature.

Reducing plastic use is a small step with a big impact. By making conscious choices in our daily lives, we can contribute to a world with less waste and a healthier environment. Choose a plastic-free habit today and inspire others to do the same. Together, we can make a difference for our planet and future generations.