One of the top things I get asked about whenever I share our kitchen “behind the scenes” is how I live without paper towels, paper napkins and a microwave! It is just part of our life that I never once thought was different, until you started asking me about it. Or when we have a house guest looking for a paper towel to dry their hands. Or they question if they really can use the cloth napkins at dinner “are they not just for decoration?” We actually do just great without those items. I thought I would share the why and how we survive. I rounded it up to 10 things that you could probably do without in your home! My way of going green and also saving money along the way.
If I can find something to repurpose, I will do that 100% of the time. I just don’t like to pay for paper towels, it always felt like I was throwing money away. And believe me, I am not prefect. I did consider the whole washable diapers and then decided against. I am not fully a “green” person. In my heart of hearts I want to be. So this is me slowly converting. I will probably always have a car, forgot my reusable bags, get my hair colored, nails done, buy new things, use batteries, etc. But I can dream.
These are things that we do that are a little more green and on the frugal side. And all things that I think you too, can do without in your life and home!
10 Things You Could Do Without in your Home-
#1- Paper Towels
I do not remember the last time I bought paper towels. Maybe when we first moved to Connecticut and we had a house guest over and I thought I better get them, for our guests. We also just teach out guests our ways:) We cut up old tee-shirts that are stained or have a hole and those tee-shirts become our rags. Those rags are what we use to clean our home. Or we use the rags if there is a milk spill or to clean-up raw meat. If we can’t quickly rinse out the rag and it gets really yucky, we toss it. But mostly things can always be rinsed and washed. I wash my rags all at once with a rug or towels. We use dish towels to dry our hands and to dry the table etc. (I get that there are animal accidents etc. you could use a rag and then toss it after or have paper towels for emergencies?)
#2- Tin Foil
I really try not to use tinfoil, mainly because of the fact that it is wasteful and I don’t like buying it. I do feel like I can taste aluminum on my food, after it has been heated (I also don’t like to eat with those tinfoil to-go containers for that reason). And, it is not conclusive, but I have read that the aluminum in the foil actually transfers into your food when it’s heated. I suggest doing your own research, since there are traces of aluminum in a lot of things we consume. And if you have not switched to natural deodorant, because that has aluminum, now is the time! I wrote about that HERE. Now we just cook right on the pan then clean that pan. ***If you are baking something and the recipe says “cover with tinfoil” I just put another pan on the top!!
#3- Plastic Wrap
Another item- plastic wrap or cling wrap is something I don’t remember when I bought it last. I use beeswax wraps to cover bowls or I put food in my glass containers with the matching lid. I do love reusable container covers (you can wash these in your washing machine, or quickly hand wash). That is something that would be easy to go without.
#4- Zip-lock Baggies
We do have some zip-lock bags for emergencies. But majority of the time all of my kids food get put in stainless steel containers for lunches and use THESE washable bags (they are BPA free). I love that I can pop them in the dishwasher and they can go in the freezer. They are great for Finn’s snacks. They don’t leak. I love them!!
#5- Microwave
No microwave. Say what?!? We did have a microwave in our last home. When we moved to this 1100 square foot cape there wasn’t one and we had no desire to get one. When we remodeled the kitchen I considered it. But really I would rather have more space over a microwave. Plus food tastes better heated in the oven and is a gentler way of heating food. There is a lot of information out there about if microwaves are “safe” to use or bad for our health. I suggest doing your own research, we have opted to do without one.
We re-heat leftovers on a baking sheet and typically put the oven on broil and heat up the food in 5 minutes or less. Or I will heat it up in a pan on the stove and just add a little more liquid so the food doesn’t dry out. The only thing I noticed I missed a microwave for was if I wanted to quickly melt butter or coconut oil. I learned to melt the butter in the oven as the oven pre-heated or I would just pull out a pan and quickly do it. We have a popcorn maker (never liked microwave popcorn) or I just do it on the stove, healthier that way. And I don’t drink coffee for those who ask about reheating your cup. I suggest getting a cup that keeps your coffee warm for hours. Also if you or your kids like instant oatmeal then just heat a kettle of water and pour the water over the oats! Cooks super fast and tastes better.
If you are unsure if you could do without a microwave- unplug it for a week or pretend it is broken, see how you do!
#6- Paper Napkins
I used to love to buy cute paper napkin actually. Now we use cloth napkins. I bough a large set of cloth napkins and throw them in the wash. I do a load of laundry every other day so I just toss them in. No, I do not iron them. I just fold them nicely as soon as they come our of the dryer and they are fine. Plus it feels fancy to have cloth napkins! You could collect a set of miss-matched napkins that you buy on clearance. They really will save you money in the long run.
#7- Plastic or Paper Straws-
Another thing I thought was always so fun to buy and maybe I buy them for a special party (maybe) were paper straws. But everyday we use THESE stainless steel straws. They come with a little cleaner you can clean the inside of the straws with.
#8- Makeup Wipes
Makeup wipes are handy and don’t stain your washcloths with mascara. But they are also wasteful and toxic. I opt to buy dark colored washcloths or you could use the washcloths that require zero makeup remover (but I did hear that they are microfiber, so they are made with plastic, thus defeating the purpose of going green and non-toxic). So sorry! I suggest just going with a dark washcloth and using jojoba oil to remove your makeup (oil that does not clog pores).
#9- Room Spray or Perfume
We don’t buy anything with fragrance and it is more eco-friendly to just re-use a glass bottle and make our own with essential oils. Some do-without any scent in their home. But I like to have a spray in bathrooms, especially for guests. And a spray for our bodies! I shared how to easily make your own room spray on this blog post.
#10- Tampons
I have been using a menstrual cup for about 6 months now. I tried two different brands so I could share what one I thought was best. But overall I am SOLD!!! Like so sold. Like tell everyone. Why did I not change sooner? Why is no body else screaming about this? Ok menstrual cups are genius. Not hard at all and no leaks like I thought. Only good things to say. I will share some reasons- (UPDATE- been using a cup for over 3 years since writing this post and so happy I switched! My girls haven’t used them, yet. But anything I buy for them is organic and chlorine-free and fragrance-free).
Reasons to use a Menstrual Cup-
- Eco Friendly- one cup will last you FOREVER!!!
- Non-toxic- menstrual cups don’t contain latex, BPA, dye or other additives. Almost all tampons contain bleached rayon—yes, that is BLEACH you’re shoving up there. (Menstrual pads are toxic too).
- You can wear the menstrual cup longer- Tampons offer just eight hours before toxic shock becomes a possibility. With menstrual cups, you can go up to 12 hours in between emptyings. And the cup holds more liquid!
- Decrease your chances of toxic shock syndrome. If you don’t know what that is- Tiny bits of cotton can cause small cuts in your vaginal walls—a perfect breeding ground for the bacteria. My mom’s friend got toxic shock syndrome when I was younger. It always freaked me out- thinking she got that from her tampon?? And they said it was because she “left it in too long” which I am now learning is not always the case.
- I did also read that using a menstrual cup is natural remedy to decrease your flow.
- And you ALWAYS have them- no more stressing if you have to run to the store, or the world is coming to an end and you can’t get your tampons!
I tried several menstrual cups. I ended up liking THIS Saalt one best- it was easier to remove and it comes in two sizes. My biggest tip-make sure to turn the cup, once it is inside, so it “opens”. A lot of you suggested this to me and I was so thankful because it made sense and it saved me from wondering if I did it right! There is a quiz you can take to figure out what menstrual cup is right for you HERE.
Love to hear anything you think that we could “do without”! Share below!
PS- We did ditch- dryer sheets, candles and more! They are on THIS post…..
Shop the post-
We don’t use any of those things either. When people come to my house they are always the most shocked that we don’t have paper towels/napkins or a microwave. It’s amusing to see how many people view those things as necessities. We’ve lived without them so long we don’t think of it as strange. Now we are potentially going to be selling our home and a realtor told us we have to put a microwave back on our kitchen or no one would want our house— we were the ones shocked this time since we didn’t think of it as a Can’t Live Without appliance. Weird 🙂
Interesting!! There was not one when we moved into this home- they actually might have had one on a table in the kitchen that I didn’t even notice.
Do you do anything different then what I shared?? Any tips to go without these items?
We use silicone cupcake liners instead of paper/foil ones. They come in so handy for so many things other than cupcakes and muffins. They are perfect little snack holders too. Or use them as dividers in a stainless steal lunch box.
We also use a silicone baking mat instead of parchment paper.
I’m sure there is more but I think you covered all the big ones! Our house is similar to yours, we try not to have too many toxic or wasteful one-use items.
Please explain more about the cups- I have heard about it but never actually considered it til now 🤔
The thought of dumping the cup out 🤢
And how do you clean it??
I would love you to chat about this more!
Thanks so so much!
Hahaha! Ok I think I am going to talk about it more in stories.
I just dump it into the toilet- if I am home I rinse it out, if I am out I just dump and put it back in!
I clean it by putting it in boiling hot water to sterilize it.
I totally recommend trying it!! Try putting it in one day when “flow” hasn’t come- but I will say it goes in and comes out much easier when flow has come!
That was my same question! 🙂
Check out the website putacupinit.com it has a survey to take to suggest which menstrual cup will work best for you.
good tip!!!!
I try and use those items you listed as little as possible. We use washcloths to clean everything, I never buy plastic wrap, and I re use plastic baggies if and when I need to use them. I also use the Diva Cup but find it can be hard to take out. Not problem putting it in. 🙂 I may try one of the other brands just to see how it works. I have 3 daughters so I need to get it all figured out before they have to start using them on a monthly basis! :). Thank you for the post and reminder to be more environmentally friendly!
No need to buy lubricant for those special occasions (wink). COCONUT OIL! It’s life-changing!
what?!!! Ok that is genius. And there is also an oil for that too 😉 ylang ylang
Quick PSA to those it may concern that coconut oil will erode condoms!! Otherwise it’s awesome.
Tip- coconut in solid form can be scooped and rolled into suppository size vaginal inserts and stored in a container in freezer. When needed, grab and insert. Obvious warning… melts at body temp! Coconut oil is a natural antifungal and these inserts are extremely effective for yeast infections- both in clearing the infection naturally and comfort with symptoms. You can def do without buying Monistat or similar type treatments. I’m a nurse, so my tip was medical, but The inserts can def come in handy for other things 😉
I have been using quite a few ziplock bags as I make gluten free waffles for our special needs adult son that lives with us, and freeze them so I can just pop them in the toaster for him…feel bad about how many we use…excited to see your post about the reusable ziplocks…I plan to order some…! I don’t need the menstrual cup(I’m past that stage) but think this is a super idea…I certainly would have given it a try!
Love your posts and stories…you are so positive and give such good information…love your range of subjects and especially your messages of “no matter the size of your home…love where and what you have”!
We use all of those things except the cups! I am running out right now to get one! I’ve been working on de-toxins our house as much as possible, such a Mom thing to ignore the one that affects only me. (I loved your post about toxins in the home and bought himalayan salt lamps for EVERYONE!) We also don’t have a microwave (also no room in our tiny kitchen) and never notice. My husband was SO worried about getting rid of it and it sat in our garage for two months before I donated it without him noticing 😉 I commented on your Instagram post as well – a big one for us is I make my own laundry detergent. It’s cost effective (my first reason for starting) but also so much easier on our skin! Our clothes have a much gentler “clean” smell too – I use orange or lemon essential oils for the scent. Please keep all the inspiration coming!
I need to work on a few of these! But yes to no makeup remover wipes and a giant YES to the cup!!!! It is life changing and like you said, you want to tell everyone about it. 😂
I enjoy your posts and tips and helpful styling suggestions so much but I use most of the things listed here. Enjoyed your perspective though.
I made cloth napkins out of fat quarters of fabric. My people took some time getting used to it but they caught on! They are mismatched and I love it! Also, beeswax wrap is rad! Use that to wrap homemade bread. Love this list! Thanks
We use way too many paper towels and too much plastic wrap. I need to make some changes. It’s totally doable!! Thanks for the tips!
Trying a few! We went without paper towels until we got a dog and it has gotten out of control!!
I totally agree with your post! Nixing the Microwave and getting a Menstral cup were both the most life-changing switches I made. Our food tastes better and my cramps have drastically reduced! 🙌.
I love reading your posts everyday. I am learning so much about helping create a healthier living space for my family. Thank you for always sharing your tips with us. ❤️
Thank you Heather!!
I do most of this too, I hate waste! Though I still have a microwave, I definitely try to reheat food in the oven most of the time. My teens love the microwave for their quick lunches on the weekend, ugh, I hate it but they love their quick tacos, lol. For garbage bags i dont have the perfect solution, but we’ve been using compostable green bags from Amazon, like the ones from TJs for produce.
We just started doing this for our trash. It took me a while to get used to the idea of it–like literally for years I’ve been wanting to do it but I was stuck in conventional “need a bag” thinking. We have solid plastic trash cans, so why use a bag, right? We put a newspaper in the bottom of the kitchen one and it absorbs odors and small amounts of liquid really well. Then we rinse it after we dump out the trash. The other trash cans around the house we just throw stuff in. Our city requires us to buy city trash bags to use for trash pick-up, so that bag goes in the large can in the garage, and we just dump the household trash cans in there. I really can’t believe it took me so long to do this! We do have cat litter to clean up, but eventually I want to use recycled plastic bags for that–like the ones that bread or frozen fruits and veggies come in. I’m still using up Target and grocery bags for cat litter, but I hope to never need to bring home one of those again.
Love you girl ! We have been ditch n switching past year and it feels amazing!
Love you back!!!
Loved watching all these changes, it has slowly helped me not replace things once they are gone, ie paper napkins and towels along with foil and sandwich bags, slowly making the switch! We changed out our plastic for glass at Xmas for storage in the fridge and it’s made a world of difference! I feel like we don’t waste as much food because we can see what is actually in there!
Love this post! I’m already doing a few of them, but ditching the tampons I’m in. I have 3 girls, one 10 years, and I’d love to give it a try before she gets her cycle. I’m hoping this will help ease the frustration of having a cycle not only for me, but for them. Deffinatly will be trying. Thanks!
yes! I plan on teaching my girls early on.
*grace* i so appreciate your light and creativity and authenticity and perspective. thanks for sharing. i’ve been a fan of cloth napkins for a long time – i have the same set as your black checks (but in blue) in my kitchen drawer as we ‘speak’. when i was growing up (in the 1960s), my mom wrapped every gift for every birthday party i ever attended in comic papers from the sunday newspapers. 🌟 i now read my news online but your post brought back that fond memory. keep sharing your light. *anita*
Oh I LOVE your mom!!!! How cute and resourceful!!! Thanks for sharing. xxxxxx
These are great tips! We have been using cloth napkins for years, but I want to give up the plastics….the reusable bowl covers and reusable snack bags are on my list of must haves.
The diva cups look a little intimidating, but I like the concept!
Thanks Brooke! Such a helpful post!
Thanks!! I totally recommend just trying the cup!!! It is a little learning curve the first day- then it gets easy!!
Love that your encouragement on making these changes, people don’t realize That in the long run they are saving so much money as well as being good to the earth
Do you keep a separate towel for drying hands and drying dishes or just use the same one? We use cloth napkins and I have clean up rags but I can’t quite get my husband onbaord with getting rid of paper towels. I would love it if we did!!! Thank you!!!
We just use the same one!
ps. the pink paint on your daughter’s chest of drawers has inspired me to paint the vanity my mother bought when she married my father in 1949!! i’m so excited! bought the paint yesterday: rustoleum blush pink 💃can’t wait!!
Such great ideas! We don’t have a microwave either, it’s been a great move for us. Actually in the midst of a kitchen Reno and we have no microwave planned! We don’t use paper towels, paper napkins, plastic wrap or tin foil. I’m super curious about the women’s cup, so I’ll check those out. Such a good post!!
This is all new to me. I’ve just switched to glass for storing food instead of Tupperware every time (I still keep it for portable food storage) and will try something new. Maybe the substitute for Saran Wrap. Thank you for sharing these tips….little bit by little bit good changes are being made. You’re awesome for being so open and transparent so others can learn and grow and be better humans.
Great tips! I’ve used cloth menstrual pads for over 20 years. They come in all sizes (bedtime, daytime, liners) & last well so far 20 years. I found them my local food cooperative.
We use our microwave as another cupboard…where we had the knives from our two year old twins!
Check out @putacupinit on IG. I’ve been following her since she was doing cloth diapers years ago and now teaches you about all things menstrual cup related! An awesome resource to find your perfect cup!
thank you!!!
Love this all! Total game changers and have been taking steps to do all these 🙂
I got rid of my microwave when I moved into my 1000 sq ft house 5 years ago and I have never missed it! To warm butter, I use a butter warmer which is a very small stainless steel saucepan. I just put the butter in it and warm it on the stovetop. They are easy to find online or at Homegoods- I highly recommend!
thanks!!! I will look!!
Oh thanks for this tip! When a recipe calls for melted butter that is the only time I miss a microwave. Need to get one of those.
I thank you for sharing your life and good tips with the rest of us. Because of you I have bought cloth napkins, reusable baggies and the honey wraps! I love them! I have been contemplating a cup now for several months this and I think after reading this I will make the plunge!! And I can’t wait to buy some olive and linen towels but they are always sold out of the ones I want :(. I will keep trying. Thank you gain for all you do and inspire others to do!
Thank you!! Try the cup!!! It is life changing!!!!
I have a roll of tin foil that is so old! No idea why I’m keeping it. I’m working on paper towels and recently switch to stainless straws. The microwave I’m not ready to give up yet though 😂.
Great post!! My boyfriend and I decided to try and use a different coffee maker. We waste so much on k-cups!! Thanks for the conversation starter!! I love to thrift napkins too!! You inspired me to start using them!!
Brenda
A French Press is 100% the way to go! They make the best tasting coffee, and no waste! Also, look super cute on your counter. 🙂
Yes! Switched to a diva cup over 5 years ago and boy has it been a game changer! I’m not sure you could pay me to go back to tampons. So much easier! Now, I need to get on the train and remove these other things from my home. Thanks for the insight!
Love this post – thanks so much for sharing! Ordered some napkins, black washcloths and the bins to store them in. Now I just need to convince my family that this is better!!
Love these ideas! My family and I have already incorporated some into our home. I’ve heard a lot about #10, and maybe one of these days I’ll get the courage to try it.
Great post! I might ready to ditch the microwave! I’ve been using cloth napkins for years and enjoy finding napkins and tablecloths that do not require ironing. I’m not opposed to a few wrinkles but don’t enjoy the ones that come out of the dryer all bunched up. Thanks for linking yours. Can you comment on how the launder and do you have to iron any of yours?
Been using only cloth for years. The ones that come out bunched up? Take them out of the dryer while still damp and finger press them. Easy!
We are on our way to implementing change, next on our list is zip
Lock bags! The struggle is real. We pack our lunches and packing a backpack for commuting. I tried some of the lidded options and still had issue with spills. Working to find a lightweight solution
Loved reading this–as always, Brooke! I am going to experiment with not having a microwave oven. Most other things we are right along with you on. Yes, it’s super funny when guests don’t use the cloth napkins. I’ve started telling people “we will be insulted if that napkin is as clean as it was when you arrived” haha. I have heard great things about menstrual cups. I am a big fan of thinx period undies, your girls would probably like them when that time comes.
I am loving your new content. It really has been meaningful to me and my family. I feel like I get stuck in the world and just go through the motions. I am grateful for this post and others, it’s been like a little wake up call for me. It makes me realize how little things can be affecting my health negativity. It’s scary!!! But it is empowering taking control ♥️
Thanks again!
Oh I am so glad to hear, thank you Jennica. You can take control sister!!
You really got me thinking with this post. We use a ton of paper towels so this would be a nice one to try to work on first I think we don’t use their microwave a lot but I never really thought about getting rid of it. Thanks as always for the great ideas
Hi Brooke! We have already switched some things, but I am slowly working on other changes too. We no longer use candles, dryer sheets, or make up wipes. But the best change is that I no longer have to use tampons. A little cervical cancer/hysterectomy will solve that issue for you, but I was researching the cup before I knew about my cancer. Lots of love to you!!
Lisa
For some reason the only 2 I struggle with are the menstrual cup and paper towels. I want to try the Diva cup but it kinda freaks me out! Idk why!
I love this post and all it stands for!! I am striving to do all these things! 75% there!!
I remember when I first gave up paper towels, my family thought I had lost my mind.😂 Now at family gatherings, they know exactly what drawer to grab a “rag”, and I have used cloth napkins for years!
You inspire me daily to be just a little better than yesterday! Thank you for your heart, and all you share to help make home, just exactly that . Home 💕
Such great tips! I stopped using paper towels a couple years ago and bought a bunch of flour sack cloths to use instead. I keep them I a little basket right on the counter. I have used cloth napkins for years! I would like to try the beeswax wraps but haven’t bit the bullet yet 😊
We don’t use most of those items either. I hadn’t thought about the tin/aluminum foil hack, so I’ll have to eliminate that one too. I think the easiest place to start is with napkins and rags and then reusable bags. My family also has a compost bucket on our counter. Between compost and recycling and not buying non-reusable products, our garbage production is very small. Most of this started for me when we lived overseas. Our host culture just reused so much more, as well as had much smaller garbage cans that had to be emptied in a dumpster. And yes to #10 ☺️. Life changer!
I was raised in a very frugal home with parents who immigrated from the Netherlands, so we did every single one of these (except for #10 but my mom would have!) . I am very close to your list but need to work on cloth napkins and that’s about it! Thanks for the excellent post!
These are all great but numbers 4 and 5 are my favorite! I see up reusable snack bags from our over supply of reusable grocery bags. Like these: https://pin.it/qwqbteweizbobe
Also, We hadn’t realized how much we wouldn’t need a microwave. We’ve been with for half a year now and don’t plan on getting one. One less thing to clean …am I right, moms out there?
I stopped buying paper towels back in October and haven’t really missed them…. except one time when the dog got sick 😬.
I am using up a very old package of paper napkins from Costco but after that, no more of those either… I’ll actually start using all the cloth napkins I have but have always used on for “special occassjons” which is silly…
Also my OTR microwave broke years ago and we never bothered to fix it, just bought a cheap microwave, but since I have little counter space, I’ve been looking to get rid of it. I’ve been thinking of removing it for a while to see if I miss it, so I liked that you suggested this!
We have lived without a microwave for over 15 years and haven’t missed it at all. Great post!
I love the idea of not using paper napkins, my sister uses bandanas as her napkins, kind of a fun idea !
What a great post! Some of these I’ve never thought about so I’m feeling inspired!
These
These are great ideas!!! I can’t wait to try them especially going without a microwave.
My next change is to get rid of paper towels and napkins. Just need to build up a napkin stash!
Love love love this post! I love that it is almost common sense. Save money that you were throwing away! So funny I just asked you about the microwave as we are moving to a smaller home than what we were in and I just don’t have room for the microwave. I love it. You are amazing!!!
Thank you so much for sharing all these great tips! Also, thank for the encouragement on the menstrual cups 😉 I’ve been wanting to try them for years – but always been unsure…
I have LOVED the Lena cup. I was so nervous about it, but it has been so much better than I thought. I am such a big fan.
Love these ideas! Actually just got the diva cup in the mail from again yesterday and it is the first time I’m looking forward to my period so I can try it out, lol!
This is all such good information to know! I’m a generation ahead of you and some of that is new to me. I don’t like using a microwave tho because of the negative ions in your food. I want to pass on the menstrual cup info to my sons fiancé.
Thank you so much I love your blog!
We try to eliminate waste in both plastic forms and also food waste. We are big on meal prep and eating left-overs (it’s great because there are only two of us). What are your thoughts on storing frozen foods, meals, etc in other ways besides plastic? Are these silicone food storage bags also freezer friendly? Do you have any personal tips?
Yes! I use them in the freezer- I believe they say they are freezer safe….
Love this post. Trying all of these things already (except #10 😬). Paper towels are hardest to give up right now! My pets are making it hard. It’s hard for other people that come to my house to get into using cloth napkins.
We buy meat and fish in bulk and freeze in ziploc bags. Do you have any ideas for this? I’ve seen the reusable bags on Amazon but I really use a lot and just dont want to buy that many. I would like to get rid of all of the plastic. We have given up paper towels and paper napkins too! It’s so liberating!! So many cool changes to save money and be more earth-conscious! Love everything you post, Brooke! You are so appreciated!!
thats a good question!!! That does seem the most practical for that….
hmmmm I will have to think!!!
I’m really struggling with this one too. I like to buy and freeze local fruit (berries) in the summer, and I buy meat in larger packages at Costco too, to freeze into meal portions. I know you can freeze things in glass Mason jars, but it seems like they would take up so much room in my chest freezer. You can use freezer paper for wrapping meat, but that is lined with plastic so it doesn’t seem like a solution. I’m still trying to figure out how to not use ziplocks for this too.
Love this post! We do most of these at home already. We do have some emergency ziplocks, but I found some paper sand which sacs at the grocery store so my kids can just throw them in the recycling after lunch. I switched to a cup a couple of months ago, and same thing. I love it! I even wear it for my cardio work outs with no issues!
Thank you so much for all your wisdom! I love following you and I feel like I always come away feeling refreshed and with a larger desire to beautify and simplify! We recently moved with our 5 kids from a 4,000 sq ft house in the suburbs to a 2,300 sq ft 1910 farmhouse. I fall more in love with it everyday and you have helped! Thank you for all these ideas! I bought the dryer balls this week and now onto replacing paper towels and Saran was rap…baby steps:) thanks again!
Hi Brooke! Ive been following you for a while but finally subscribed to your blog! Yay!!!! I love all of your recommendations. I have never heard of menstrual cups 🤔….hmmm ill check that out. Thank you for sharing!
Thank you so much!!!!
YES, YES, YES!!! So glad to see the move to green. Did cloth diapers with kids and wash cloths no wipes. Have always used cloth napkins, wash rags, old shirts for rags…. ALL OF IT. Hopefully more will start and save some money and the planet!!!! Thanks for sharing!! Love your site.
Love this post so so much! At my last house we had a large kitchen but no microwave.. people were always so confused and thought I was crazy. Well, what do you know I never missed it but maybe two or three times tops.
Also, I was just saying my husband the other day we need to cut back on paper towels to this post was a wonderful reminder! Thanks for all the tips and tricks!
Our microwave broke I don’t even know now how long ago, at least six months and going without it hasn’t been surprisingly easy. We do have one of those old school type air fryer convection ovens which has definitely made all the difference. Reheated food definitely tastes way better and we’re not eating any of those prepackaged microwave meals which is definitely healthier, it’s just a tiny bit less convenient.
So I got my first period at 15 & I’m now 47, I have just worked out that I have spent approximately $6500 (AUS) on tampons! Minus the saving when having my babies. So ladies please invest in a menstrual cup and save the money for a fabulous holiday!
WOW!!!! Thanks for taking the time to share this and calculate!!!
I’m all for trying to cut out paper towels/napkins! I’ve started to notice how much I use and I really don’t like how wasteful it is. I’m worried linen napkins would be too rough or not absorb well. Do you suggest any specific material? Thanks a bunch!!
Yes to the menstrual cup!
My friend just last night convinced me to ditch paper towels so I’m really excited to start that and your post was perfectly timed as usual! Cant wait to try the turkish towel I got (even on sale right now I can only afford 1, but it’s a start! )
I love your blog so much! It’s fun and practical!
I’ve begun with real plants this year, tossed plastic wrap and foil, placed magic light tricks all over and many other things, thanks to you!!!
Thanks for all you do to help others.
Thank you so much for sharing! I’ve made a few changes like the straws and deodorant . But definitely interested in getting rid of our microwave and paper towels and getting the food covers as next steps…baby steps so the hubs doesn’t think I’ve lost my mind lol!!
(In all honestly, that happened when I became a mom 11 years ago!)
On another note, I’m always super excited to read your posts and see your stories – so helpful and relevant to where I am at this point in my life – please don’t ever stop! ❤️
Thank you so much Stacey!!
I also try to eliminate waste but this made me really look at some things I overlook and use. Thanks for the ideas and links.
After reading so many good comments on the diva cup I think I may need to give it a try. To be honest tampons scare me. I am always worried about the toxic syndrome. Thanks for all the tips on less waste in the home. 🙂
So I’ve been wanting to try a cup ever since my friend raved about it (and I’m so tired of buying tampons.) I watched videos and read articles, but got hung up on which brand and size, and never ended up trying it. Thanks for sharing the quiz! Another thing I have LOVED Aid our PlanetBox lunch boxes. Originally I got them at Pottery Barn Kids, but they no longer sell them. I have 4 kids and love having onlu one lunch item to wash per child each day. I was using like 4-5 containers per child before. They are stainless steel and dishwasher safe (although I always hand wash just to get it done and make lunches the night before). The covers I wash in the sink And hang to dry every few months. Check out PlanetBoxes – they are awesome! (I have no affiliation with them.) ❤️
I am slowly making these changes too! Great suggestions!
Super informative! Going to definitely try #2 and #8! Wish I could work up the courage to try #10- maybe someday soon! Lol
Just recently started following you and I love your posts! All the things you post about seem so practical! Question for you? Why do you loveTurkish towels? Do they get that mildewey smell? Thanks!
I tried the menstrual cup – I wanted to use it relaly bad! Unfortunately it didn’t work for me. I have a tilted uterus, which in turn causes a tilted cervix which can make menstrual cup use harder apparently. I so wish I could use it, but alas – I use organic tampons instead.
someone asked me about that! So thank you for posting your story here.It will be helpful for someone!
I agree about wrapping paper. I sometimes pick up a roll for 50 cents at a garage sale, but otherwise, it’s the Sunday comics, wallpaper samples or pretty shopping bags that I either take apart and use as wrapping paper, or in the case of handled shopping bags, I just use as is.
This post is right on time for me…..our microwave broke four days ago!! At first we freaked out, but since we live about an hour away from the nearest city we have the opportunity to run out and replace it. I was think g we would go ahead and buy another one, but your post has encouraged me to continue this wxperiment of going without it and just see if we miss it. Thank you for the excellent info and positivity! I love your stories!
Oh I love these. I bought the beach towels last year when you mentioned them.
Great post! We don’t have a microwave either and people always ask how we manage. Lol! We do dryer balls, and am trying cloth pads. I’d like to try the cup soon.
Great tips here. We ditched napkins 20 years ago when my son was doing an Earth Day project for Cub Scouts. I need to ditch the paper towels for sure.
Gave up most of these things a long time ago except the microwave and occasionally purchase paper plates. We buy inexpensive packs of white washcloths and use them for cleaning and darker washcloths for removing make up. Silicone cupcake sleeves instead of paper or foil wrappers.
Glass spray bottles with our homemade cleaner and no plastic bags when grocery shopping and I pack lunches in reusable lunch containers.
Next on the list will be to try your suggestion of unplugging the microwave and see how we get along without it. I’d love to have more kitchen counter space for my essential oil diffuser and a plant 🌱
Love you blog, thanks for sharing!
I have been on the fence with so many of these! Reading each one makes me wonder 🤔 Thank you for sharing and also suggesting options for what you use in lieu of the things you no longer 🤗💕
Love all these changes! We are doing a few of them ourselves! I totally tried the Lena and legit got the worst pain in my but area it was the s strangest thing ever and freaked me out so i stopped!
ha! Take the quiz to see what is right for you!!!! The diva cup is really good- I did like it, just harder to take out.
I have made of these changes a while ago, except the microwave (I’m a coffee drinker) and the paper towels, because I havent had the money to purchase good cloth towels yet, but I did switch to cloth napkins which I made, and I use old t shirts for rags. These are all great ideas, and I always enjoy your posts!! Thanks for sharing so many great ideas!
I think it’s great that you admit that there are some things that are hard to give up. No one is perfect, but we can all keep trying, right? My dirty little secret is my use of paper towels…. WAY too many. So my primary focus is going to be eliminating/reducing my reliance on them. Wish me luck!!! Now if only the Turkish towels come back in stock!
yes! I agree! no judgment ever!!! We are all learning and growing. I know! I will link them when they come back so all of my readers can RUN!!!!
Ok I have heard about these but have been very hesitant. BUT! If Brooke recommends them, I will try it. ❤️❤️
oh thank you for your trust!!!
I have to admit I need to cut back on a lot of these things! First I think I’ll work on paper towels and zip locks. I took the cup quiz and going to check one out. THanks for the link.
I’m trying my best to get rid of so many wasted Products paper towel straws etc. Hard to get the rest of family on board.
I was warned if you have an IUD to be careful with menstrual cups. The suction can apparently dislodge or pull the IUD out. Thought I would share in case anybody would have this issue!
Great post! I did away with all of this about 10 years ago to be more eco and waste conscious (except the tampons). It was pretty easy once I made up my mind to do it. It’s the way my grandparents lived and I grew up accustomed to it as we lived next door to maternal set and visited the paternal set every week….so why not go back to those ways?! They didn’t have Tupperware like my mother, they had refrigerator dishes (glass or ceramic dishes with matching lids) or a saucer or salad plate was used as a lid on a dish for leftovers. They always reheated in the oven or on the stove. My sandwiches were always wrapped in wax paper or butcher paper (still wasteful) but more friendly than plastic or foil. Now I use some handmade sandwich bags with Velcro closings I purchased from Etsy. I have some refrigerator dishes I use and I use Beeswx wrap too. I have thought about those silicone bags but I’m not sure I like them. I use small glass jars to pack snacks (pretzels, nuts, fruit) for lunch. My family never used straws at home and so I never did either. Restaurants in our area are stopping usage, which I applaud! So when eating out I drink from the glass without a straw, same as at home. Plus, a doctor told me years ago not to drink from a straw because it caused bloating and bad digestion – I guess extra air? – not sure if that is true, but I followed his instructions! So I had already given them up. I actually prefer using linen napkins and dish towels for the kitchen. Pet messes get cleaned up using old T-shirt’s or old towels put aside for that use…luckily not a regular occurrence!
Brooke, thanks for bringing awareness to these easy changes that can make a big difference!! PS – would love to try the Turkish towels!😊
We do all of those things in our home too:). I do keep a stash of zip locks for just in case…but I have to hide them from the kids! I haven’t tried the cup yet, but I’ve been meaning to. Two of my sisters use and they say they’ll never go back. You reminded me to give it s try!
yes!! I have to hide them from Kevin….haha! They are just out of habit to grab those! So making the others once easy to grab helps us too!
Is there any chance the friend who recommended the menstrual up was Rachel Whaley? I had never heard of one of these until she told me about a few months ago, and I’m just wondering if y’all coincidentally know each other.
It was Rachel Tomsick! In Utah 🙂
Still trying to wean off the paper towels, but so much YES to all of this!! We too have a modest house and try to stay away from toxins. I am newly pregnant, otherwise you would have put me over the edge for trying the menstrual cup!! Brooke, you truly embody grace in all that you share. You inspire and never shame!
Growing up, my mom never bought paper towels or paper napkins. If we ever happened to have some, it was such a luxury to us kids! As an adult I’ve gotten into the habit of buying them, but I need to stop. They are so expensive! Do you use a certain kind of cloth to clean your mirrors? Usually I use paper towels, I think that’s when I would miss PT the most.
Also, I never say this about anything, but the cups are definitely life changing! It took me awhile to figure it out, I had several frustrating months, but now I love my Lena.
Question about the Beeswax Wraps – Do they stick to glass dishes? I’ve seen mixed reviews! We don’t use a lot of plastic wrap (I think I’ve had our current roll for a couple of years), but I would love to never buy it again and have a lid/cover for all shapes of dishes.
they do if you rub them onto the glass to “heat up”!
If you have a lighter flow you should try the period panties. I have thinx and knix both are great haven’t used anything but those in months!
These are awesome! Looks like I have some things to work on!
A good reminder to try to reduce our footprint. I’ve thought about trying the cups, but haven’t…maybe I should.
I’ve got a tiny newborn and probably wont get my cycle back for a while but I’m actually excited to try the cup! I saved them to my amazon wish list!
I love this post! We’ve been trying to reduce in our home as well and these are great products to cycle in. Thank you!!! Love your posts and all your wonderful ideas ❤️
What I love is that these are easy transitions to make. Super intrigued by those straws, it’s always more fun to drink from a straw!
Wonderful tips, Brooke! We have also used cloth napkins for our entire 24 year marriage. We even use the same one for several days. We do what my mother-in-law does–everyone gets their own napkin unique ring and we just put the napkins with the rings on in a basket and reuse them until they either get meat grease on them or they get dirty. Most meals just aren’t that dirty so they can be reused.
On the menstrual cup–I tried one years ago and it hurt like heck. I think it’s because I have a tipped uterus or scar tissue or something. So…I can’t use one but I do use washable pads. My cloth pads have lasted like 20 years and they’re awesome. I don’t get a rash from them, and they’re easy to just rinse and then wash with a regular load of towels. I use a covered trash can near the toilet to keep the dirty ones in until I can wash them. Super easy! And that menstrual blood makes amazing plant fertilizer if you ever want to save it in some water and put it on the plants. I don’t always remember to do that, but it’s really no big deal to do so–whether from a cup or rinse of the pads.
Thinx period underwear are another option for non-toxic periods. I’ve used a cup since 1998! But I’ve also recently tried the Thinx, they are great too. Especially if there is some reason why you’re not wanting to try the cup. They even have a line for younger girls. And no, they don’t feel like diapers or pads. You don’t feel wet or anything. If you feel wet at all, then you’ve wore them too long. And no, they aren’t gross to wash, just soak them for at least an hour before tossing them in the machine. They actually feel like you’re wearing bikini bottoms, because of the feel of the fabric. Definitely worth a try to anyone who wants to switch their products but might not be fully into the cup idea.
Giving up instagram among some other things for lent hoping to be more productive and attentive with my free time so I am extremely grateful for you blog post so i do not miss too much. As i run out of these items I will be implementing some of these great ideas you always have! Thank you thank you Brooke!
I’ve been contemplating buying a Diva Cup for 3 years! This post convinced me to take the plunge, and the quiz suggested I get the Lena Cup!! I’m SO excited/nervous!
I am so glad you posted this, because there are so many things we have stopped using, but I didn’t even think of it. Our microwave broke years ago, and we just never replaced it and honestly, I do not miss it at all. We use glass bottles to mix our cleaning supplies in (Vinegar and Water for glass and water, a bit of soap and essential oils for everything else.) We have paper towels but barely use them (I hide them under the sink and no one thinks to look for them.) I really prefer glass straws to stainless. I just don’t like the feel of the stainless steel against my teeth. Oh! and Swedish dishclothes are great! You can throw them in the dishwasher to clean them. We also are slowly transitioning to solid shampoo and conditioner with compostable packaging.
My dirtiest secret is my Keurig. I hate that I use it. I want to make the switch, but I am really bad at making coffee in a traditional coffee pot (which is all plastic anyway) or a French Press. I should see if I can find a perculator like my grandma used to have.
What kind of lunch boxes do your girls use? I use bento boxes for my boys, but I was just curious since you use the round tins for your girls lunches.
They just have a basic lunch box and we put in the individual rounds or wrap a sandwich in a bees wrap or put their thermos in!
Ah! I loved this post!
Just went and purchased 4 of the things you linked here, knowing that we’ll save money and live better in the long haul!
Thank you, Brooke!!
oh awesome Julie!!
We have used cloth napkins for years – I find them at thrift stores all the time. I have the hardest time convincing guests that it is ok to use them lol!
Do you have an Amazon list where you keep all your go to favorites? If not, that would be so helpful!
I had a hysterectomy 23 years ago when I was 44. Due to a medical problem.No need for any sanitary supplies for me. I sure have saved a ton of money on those things. Also as a RN I had good insurance. So it’s been a win win for me.
Thanks for this post. Some of your ideas will even help me save even more.
Look into @latesbykate makeup removing cloths. They are freaking magic!! They are microfiber, so you just use water and the makeup comes off in 2 seconds. Each cloth can survive hundreds of washings, so you don’t have to keep spending money, even on essential oils, to remove makeup. I also highly recommend @bloodybuddycup. It’s like the Diva cup but better.