Nesting With Grace

by Brooke Christen

6 Everyday Items we Ditched and Switched

I get a lot of questions when I share a behind-the-scenes look at our kitchen. No paper towels, and the most shocking, yep—no microwave either! We honestly do just fine without those things, and today I’m sharing 6 things you can probably live without too. It’s my version of going green and saving money without going full zero-waste perfectionist. Do I still drive a car, forget my reusable bags, and get my nails done? Yep. But I’m making small swaps where I can, and that totally counts!

1-Microwave

We didn’t have a microwave in our old 1950’s Connecticut cape, and honestly, we never missed it so we didn’t include one in our Utah kitchen. We have this wonder oven and air fryer that we can cook and reheat food. Oven-heated food just tastes better anyway! Whether or not microwaves are truly “safe” is still debated, do your own research. For us, skipping it works just fine.
Wondering how we reheat hot drinks without a microwave? We use a milk steamer, it heats your drink to the perfect temperature and gives it a nice mix (bonus: frothy lattes at home!).
And for quick breakfasts like instant oatmeal? Just boil water in a kettle and pour it over the oats. Easy! 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! 
You know those tiny kitchen tools you never knew you needed until you have one? That’s exactly how I feel about my butter warmer (or mini pot). It’s one of those small but mighty items that I reach for all the time. Beyond butter, I’ve used mine to melt chocolate, warm milk, make a single-serve hot cocoa, or reheat just a bit of leftovers.

2-Paper Towels

I do not remember the last time I bought paper towels. 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’ve been slowly building up a cute little collection of cloth napkins that I mix and match for different meals and occasions—it’s such an easy way to add a little charm to the table (and ditch the disposables)!

3-Tin Foil or Plastic Wrap

I try to avoid using aluminum foil whenever I can—mostly because it feels wasteful, and honestly, I just don’t like buying it. I’ve noticed that when food is heated in foil, it sometimes takes on a slight aluminum taste (which is why I also avoid those foil takeout containers). While research isn’t entirely conclusive, some sources suggest that aluminum can leach into food when heated. It’s something to be aware of, especially since trace amounts of aluminum are already present in many things we consume. I always recommend doing your own research and deciding what feels right for you.
If a recipe says “cover with foil” I simply pop another pan on top—it works just as well!
Another item I’ve phased out is plastic wrap (cling wrap). Honestly, I can’t even remember the last time I bought it! Instead, I use beeswax wraps to cover bowls, or I store food in glass containers with matching lids. I’m also a big fan of reusable cloth covers, they’re super convenient and easy to clean (just toss them in the washing machine or give them a quick hand wash). Once you make the switch, it’s one of those things you realize you really don’t need.

4-Store Bought Room Spray

We avoid anything with synthetic fragrance and take a more eco-friendly route by reusing glass spray bottles and making our own with essential oils. It’s super easy, budget-friendly, and better for your health and the planet.
I love having a fresh spray in the bathroom (especially for guests!) and a natural body mist on hand. Here’s a quick DIY spray you can try:
Anthro Room Spray
In a 4 oz Spray Bottle add
20 drops Christmas Spirit
20 drops Bergamot 
10 drops Clove
10 drops Grapefruit
Add a splash of Witch Hazel or pinch of salt
Top with water
Shake before each use & spray in the air to freshen up any space. Can be used as a perfume and linen spray too!!

5-Tampons

I’ve been using a menstrual cup for about six years now, and let me just say I am 100% SOLD. I’ve tried a few different brands and this is my favorite. Honestly, the switch has been a total game-changer. Why isn’t everyone talking about how amazing these are?! They’re way easier to use than I expected, no leaks, just comfort, freedom, and way less waste. I truly have nothing but good things to say!
Why I Love My Menstrual Cup-
Eco-Friendly: One cup can last for years = way less waste.
Non-Toxic: No bleach, BPA, or weird additives like most pads and tampons.
Longer Wear Time: Up to 12 hours—no leaks, no stress.
Lower Risk of TSS: Unlike tampons, no cotton fibers or tiny cuts = safer.
May Reduce Flow: Some say cups can naturally help lighten your period.
Always On Hand: No more panic store runs
I tried a few brands and ended up loving the Saalt Cup—easy to use, two sizes, and simple to remove. Pro tip: Make sure to twist the cup after insertion so it fully opens. Total game-changer. Not sure where to start? There’s a handy quiz to help you pick the right one.

6-Zip-lock Bags

We do keep a few zip-lock bags on hand for emergencies, but most of the time, my kids’ lunches go in stainless steel containers and these washable, BPA-free bags. I love that they’re dishwasher safe, freezer-friendly, and totally leak-proof, perfect for snacks. Honestly, I love them!

Bonus- Fragrance Candles for Diffusers

More and more people are realizing that candles, while cozy, pose a real health and fire risk, even the small ones. Most buy them for that comforting scent and stress relief. You can get the same warm, cozy vibes with a diffuser. No flames, no worries! Our diffusers are going 24 hours a day. One of the best things about essential oils is that they not only smell incredible, they have a huge positive impact on our health! We can diffuse blends that support immunity, our respiratory systems, healthy sleep, focus, emotional support and more. (find HERE).
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