Welcome back! Since today is National Earth Day, I wanted to quickly share some of the little things that I do to take care of our planet. Maybe they will inspire you or give you something to try!
I do not wait until my truck breaks down or its engine blows before I take it to get the oil changed. We should treat the earth the same way. Prevention is key.
Also, I think it is important to mention that as individual people, we can only do so much. Large corporations are responsible for SO much of our pollution, but they shift the guilt to us. Why change your ways and potentially lose money when you can demand more and more from the little guy? It is a blame game that has been going on for ages, and until the large businesses alter their ways, we will continue to be stuck in this vicious cycle. That being said, we should still do our part and set an example.
Keep scrolling to read about the small lifestyle changes that I have adapted!
- Cleansing Oil and Wash Cloths vs Makeup Wipes
I used to buy and use makeup wipes daily, and it was extremely wasteful on top of hurting my wallet. Now I remove my makeup with a cleansing oil or balm and wipe clean with a wash cloth. I have been using this method for over two years, and my skin and bank account love it!
Trader Joe’s Cleansing Oil (purchase in-store to save money)
- Glass Straws vs Plastic:
When I am out and about, I will still use a plastic straw (or paper) with certain drinks, but when I am home, I use glass. They are so easy to clean and are surprisingly durable. The ones that I use are dishwasher safe and cost only $5!
- Menstrual Cup vs Tampons:
I have already talked in detail about my experience with switching to a menstrual cup (click here to read) so I will not bore you with repeating myself. It is not for everyone, but if you are able, it might change your life! Please note that the cup I use is unavailable. I linked a popular one, but do your research to find the right one for your body.
- Dryer Balls vs Dryer Sheets:
I made this switch quite a while ago, and I haven’t looked back since!
- Silicone Body Scrubber vs Loofah:
This is one of my most recent lifestyle swaps. I felt so wasteful constantly repurchasing loofahs, and they harbor bacteria like it’s their full time job. The silicone scrubber is hygienic, gentle and lasts forever.
- Homemade Laundry Detergent vs Store-Bought:
Like the menstrual cup, I have already uploaded a designated post all about how I make my laundry detergent. I was constantly repurchasing plastic bottles, but for over three years, I have been making my own. Better for my wallet, skin and planet!
- Reusable Bags vs Plastic:
For those of you that do not know, California actually CHARGES if you use plastic bags. I personally think that is ridiculous. You will see me walking out of a store looking like Gus Gus from Cinderella balancing his cheese before I give the state another cent. If you knew what I pay for my truck’s registration, you would understand my anger. 😀 Even if plastic bags were free, I would be using reusable. It is an easy lifestyle change that really doesn’t inconvenience me, and I have been doing it for so long now that it is a habit.
Compact Reusable Bag with Carabiner Clip
- Hydro Flask vs Plastic Water Bottles:
My hydro flask has been my travel buddy for five years now, and it is nowhere near retirement. I have dropped and lost it countless times, but it keeps coming back for more! If you are looking for a reusable water bottle that will stand the test of time and keep your water ice cold ALL day, look no further.
Hydro Flask Stainless Steel Water Bottle
- Thrifting vs Fast Fashion:
This is one that I still struggle with and probably will for quite some time. I love shopping at thrift stores when it is applicable, but if I do not have the time, I will venture to a regular store. Every year I grow more aware of my footprint and try to do better than before. As long as we are constantly learning and trying our best, that is enough.
My Most Recent Thrift Store Haul
I hope you enjoyed reading about some of the small changes I have made in my endevour to be a better human. Please understand that I am in NO way trying to guilt anyone. We are all on different journeys, and I am by no means perfect. I still occasionally drink from plastic water bottles and straws or use makeup wipes when I am out of town. The mission is not to be miserable and live in constant guilt. The mission is to do our very best. No one should be harassed or bullied because they used a plastic straw or shopped at Ross.
What are some ways that you take care of Mother Earth?
All my love,
