Transitioning into a sustainable lifestyle doesn’t have to be expensive – it can actually save you money! We have gathered 10 of the most cost-efficient product swaps that can get you started with saving money and the planet.

1. Reusable Dishwasher Safe Ziplock Bags

It’s no secret that Ziplock bags are wasteful, they’re only used once or twice and then thrown away. The average American family uses 500 Ziploc bags per year, amounting to a massive amount of plastic waste. These reusable Ziplock bags are safe for your dishwasher and fridge. These are not only good for the environment but will also save you money in the long term because these can last years and eliminate the need to keep buying disposable Ziploc bags.

2. BeesWAX Wraps

These compostable wraps are the natural alternative to plastic wraps for your food storage. They are washable, reusable, and sustainable! Even their packaging is made from 100% paper and biodegradable cellulose. These will keep your food safe and are made from all-natural and organic materials.

3. Reusable Paper Towels

Consider swapping your disposable paper towels for reusable ones. The average American family uses 2 rolls per week, which cost approximately $182 per year. The cost of a reusable paper towel roll is $30, and if you buy the recommended 2, it would be a total of $60. They last 5 years, totaling the price of $60, meanwhile disposable paper towels will cost a total of $910 over 5 years.

4. Bidets

Consider swapping your toilet paper in favor of bidets. A single roll of toilet paper uses 37 gallons of water, meanwhile, a bidet uses 1/8th of a gallon of water per use. If every US house used just ONE less roll of toilet paper per year, we would be able to save 423, 900 trees. Now imagine the impact you would have if you cut down your toilet paper use by 70% with a bidet. The yearly cost of toilet paper is $180, while the average bidet ranges from $30-$80, and since they can last many years, they save you money in the long run. More doctors are recommending switching to using bidets for improved hygiene. Many countries have already made the switch, and it’s time for us to catch up! Overall, a bidet is a cost-efficient, more hygienic, and environmentally friendly option.

5. Safety Stainless Steel Razors

The Environmental Protection Agency once estimated that 2 billion razors and refill blades get tossed out in the U.S each year. Disposable razors are also challenging to recycle because of the several materials used to make them. Safety razors are built to last for years, and the only waste is the steel blades, which can be recycled. They are better for your skin, your wallet, and the environment! Plus, they look much sleeker on your bathroom counter than the plastic razors!

6. Washable Rounds

A sustainable alternative to disposable cotton balls and makeup wipes are washable rounds that are designed to last for years of use. They come with a reusable mesh bag so you can just throw them in the washer and dryer, and then they are ready to be used again! According to their website, 1 box of Reusable Bamboo Cotton pads saves approximately 8,987 Gallons of Water, replaces 4000 single-use Cotton Pads or 160 packs of disposable makeup wipes. So you’d be saving money and the environment! Win-win!

7. Dryer Balls

Instead of using dryer sheets, consider changing to dryer balls. These shorten the dry time, which will save you time, money, and energy! Studies have shown that traditional dryer sheets (because they contain fragrances) emit chemicals associated with asthma. Dryer balls will not leave any chemical residues inside your dyer, and are healthier for you too! They can last 1,000 loads or more, and usually last 2-4 years.

8. Low-Flow Shower Head

It is estimated that nearly 20% of our household water consumption comes just from our showers. Instead of using 4-5 gallons of water per shower, you could be using less than two with low-flow shower heads. Save on your water and energy bill, without compromising the quality of your showers. If you’re a home or apartment owner and you’re looking to cut on potentially hundreds of dollars and be more sustainable, this cost-effective product will help you achieve both. There are a lot of options out there for low shower heads that will save you money and fit your needs, you just have to find the one that works the best for you!

9. Energy Efficient LED Light Bulbs

If you change your traditional light bulbs for Energy-Efficient LED light bulbs, you’ll be reducing your carbon footprint AND saving money on your energy bill. While the upfront cost of LED light bulbs can be a little bit higher, remember that they last longer and, if you replace all your light bulbs at home, you will save thousands. LED light bulbs last approximately 15-25x longer, they use 75-80% less energy, and if you replaced your 5 most used lightbulbs you can save $75+ per year.

10. Swap Your Utility Company

As a society, we are slowly turning green and bringing more awareness to climate change and its effects. Because of this, many more companies are putting sustainability at the forefront. Does your utility company share your values on reducing greenhouse emissions? This can be an easy step to overlook sometimes, but remember that many utility companies can provide you with green energy, water, and gas! Learn more here about how you can change your utility company to one that aligns with your values on sustainability.

Conclusion

Starting a greener lifestyle doesn’t mean you have to spend more money. Even though at first some of these prices may seem higher than the ones you’re used to, these are usually a one-time cost for many years of usage and they WILL save you money in the long term. We hope that we have inspired you to implement at least one of these swaps into your life.

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