My Favorite Low Waste Swaps

​Happy Earth Day! In honor of the occasion, I thought I would share some of my favorite low waste swaps. These are all things that I have personally tried an enjoy. Also this post is not sponsored, I really do like this stuff!

Obviously it should be said that the most sustainable choice is using up what you already have rather than buying more stuff. I love to have a list of what I'd like to try once my current product runs out so I hope this can be helpful whether you're in the market for something new or not.

Additionally, I think it helps to take it slow and try to swap out one product at a time. Rushing off and buying all new items or hand making a whole new set of cleaning products seems overwhelming. I suggest trying one (maybe two?) swaps at a time until you find what you love for that need before moving on to the next one.

Toothpaste- Georganics Toothpaste Tablets English Peppermint
Unlike the toothbrushes, I have tried MANY different types of toothpaste and so far these tablets are my favorite both in cleaning ability and minty flavor. 
Bamboo Toothbrush
I'm gonna be honest, I have no idea what brand I use. I think I tend to buy whatever is in stock from various stores I've shopped at. The one I currently use is this one, but it's because it's what was in stock at the last store I went to. The thing I wanted to note was that I was wondered the bristles wouldn't be right for my teeth or that the the toothbrush would be a novelty item that wasn't "as good" as a regular toothbrush. My dentist has never had any complaints since I've switched to the bamboo toothbrush about 3 years ago. 

Deodorant- I switch between 3 different deodorants which is maybe more than some people want to deal with, but sometimes products are sold out and I like to have back ups!
The first one is this Peach Refillable Deodorant however I believe it's an exclusive to Grove so that may not work if you don't order online with them.
This Meow Meow Tweet Deodorant Cream has been a favorite for a couple of years and is more readily available at a variety of shops as well as being able to order it directly from the brand. 
When all else fails, you can make your own! My recipe is as follows: equal parts baking soda and arrowroot powder to fill the container about 3/4 of the way (roughly 1/8 cup each), 1 tablespoon melted coconut oil, 4ish drops of essential oil. That’s it! Mix it all together and stick it in the bathroom cabinet.
Conditioner- Alpine Provisions Rosemary & Mint
I would love to be sharing the best dang package free conditioner bar with you right now, but I have never found one I like. I have barely even found one I think works. In the absence of a bar, this conditioner in an aluminum container is pretty great!

Loofah- Mayan Loofah
I don't have too much commentary about this one. It's works great and is plastic free! Plus they arrive dried and flat so keeping extras are easy to store.
Sunscreen- Meow Meow Tweet and All Good
I have two favorite sunscreens. Everyday Sunscreen from Meow Meow Tweet is great and lives on my bathroom counter. This one from All Good is a great too and the compact container makes it easy to keep in a bag for reapplication throughout the day. And yes, natural sunscreens tend to be thicker and leave a visible residue on the skin. 
Shaving- Leaf Razor with Albatross Blades
I was terrified of switching to a metal razor and forgoing the comfort of a disposable razor with built in moisturizing strips and all the bells and whistles. I shaved so slowly and carefully the first several times but it seems like no big deal. If you're nervous to make the change like I was, I'm here to say you can do it!
Cotton Swabs - Last Swab
I usually use a fabric cotton round to wipe the outside of my ear, but occasionally you need a q-tip! Last Swab has several different varieties including ones for make up and babies. 

​Cotton Balls/Make Up Rounds: HandcraftedGoodies
I've had two sets of cotton rounds for a few years now and they've held up great. I wash them in a small lingerie bag so they get lost in the dryer.
Laundry & Dishwasher Detergent- Dropps
My local zero waste store actually sells these individually, but before I knew where to find them locally I joined their subscription service. My son has sensitive skin and we've never had a problem even with the fragranced pods. 
Menstrual Pads- PussyPads Shop
I know some people dislike pads because they claim they feel like diapers, but I've never had a problem with them and have been using reusable pads for over 10 years. I have a variety from PussyPadsShop as well as a few pairs of Thinx to get my through my cycle. 
Dryer- Wool Dryer Balls
This isn't really a swap and more of an addition. I don't think dryer balls are a replacement for anything, but adding them do your drying routine can help dry your clothes fast, saving time and a few bucks off your energy bill. 
Washing Bag- Guppyfriend
The Guppyfriend bag is a helpful solution to what to do with synthetic materials. Buying natural fabrics is great, but we've got some polyester hanging in our closets. So how do you clean it without worrying about microplastics? The Guppyfriend bag is great solution that helps catch microplastics before they wash away down the drain.

Straws- Koffie Straw
There's all different types of straws you could use based on your preference, but I had to give a shoutout to the Koffie Straw! It's great for drinking hot coffee as the silicone straw doesn't get hot plus the opening is small so you don't get a mouth full of lava.
That's what I've got for right now. Let me know what products you've been using and what works for you!