21 Best Reusable Items I Keep at Home to Help Save Money and the Planet

We produce a lot of waste every day from everyday items like paper towels and plastic bags. These products are often used once and then tossed, contributing to the growing waste problem. It’s time for a change. Switching to eco-friendly, reusable items not only helps reduce our carbon footprint, but it can also save you money.

Plastic bags, for instance, are one of the most commonly used items. But did you know that animals like birds and sea turtles often mistake plastic bags for food? Even more concerning, Americans use hundreds of billions of plastic bags every year!

I’m starting this post with these sobering facts about single-use plastics because the plastic bag is just a symbol of the many items we can replace in our daily routines. By doing this, we can not only save money but also drastically reduce waste. Transitioning from disposable products to sustainable alternatives can help create a healthier environment for all of us.

I’ve put together a list of the best reusable products you can bring into your home to replace single-use plastics and other wasteful items.

21 Best Reusable Products for Your Household

1. Reusable Produce Bags
   These bags replace the single-use plastic bags often used at the grocery store. They come in mesh, making it easy to see your fruits and veggies and use them before they go bad. Plus, you can use them over and over!
2. Reusable Grocery Bags
   Many stores are banning plastic bags, which makes bringing your own reusable grocery bags even more practical. They’re convenient, sturdy, and fold up easily, so you can keep some in your purse or car.
3. Reusable Wool Dryer Balls
   Instead of using dryer sheets, try reusable wool dryer balls. They’re natural, help reduce drying time (which saves on electricity), and soften your clothes without the waste.
4. Reusable Water Bottles
   Still buying bottled water? Switch to a high-quality reusable water bottle! They come in different sizes and designs, and many are insulated to keep your water cold for hours.
5. Reusable Straws
   Plastic straws are another major source of waste. Many places are already banning them, but if you still use straws, choose reusable options made from glass, silicone, stainless steel, or bamboo.
6. Reusable Paper Towels
   Paper towels contribute to deforestation. Instead, use reusable paper towels. These towels can be washed and reused, saving trees and money in the long run.
7. Cloth Diapers
   Disposable diapers contribute to a huge amount of waste and are not biodegradable. Cloth diapers, though, can be reused for years. They’re a bit of an investment upfront, but they’re made from organic materials and are better for your baby’s skin.
8. Reusable Baking Mats
   Instead of using parchment paper for baking, use reusable baking mats made of food-grade silicone. These mats last for years and are easy to clean, making them a much more eco-friendly option.
9. Reusable Cutlery
   Rather than using plastic cutlery, invest in reusable options like stainless steel or bamboo. Keep a set in your bag or desk drawer, and you’ll always have it on hand when you need it.
10. Reusable Cotton Rounds
    Cotton rounds are a common single-use item, but they don’t break down easily in landfills. Try reusable cotton rounds for your skincare routine. They’re gentle on the skin and can be washed and reused.
11. Menstrual Cups
    Disposable sanitary pads contribute to landfill waste, but menstrual cups are an eco-friendly alternative. They’re reusable, save you money, and last for years.
12. Beeswax Wrap
    Instead of plastic wrap, use beeswax wraps to cover food. These wraps keep food fresh and are reusable, so they help reduce plastic waste.
13. Coffee Tumblers
    Ditch the disposable coffee cups and get yourself a reusable coffee tumbler. Many are insulated to keep your coffee hot or cold for longer, and they’re a great way to reduce single-use waste.
14. Rashguard with SPF
    Instead of applying sunscreen constantly, wear a rashguard with built-in sun protection. This saves on sunscreen (which can get pricey) and helps protect your skin.
15. Reusable Nursing Pads
    New moms can switch to reusable nursing pads instead of using disposable ones. They’re more comfortable, absorbent, and eco-friendly.
16. Handkerchief
    Tissues are made from recycled materials, but they still use resources to create. A simple handkerchief is a reusable alternative for wiping your nose or drying your eyes.
17. Reusable Lunch Box
    Stop using plastic bags or brown paper bags for your lunch. Switch to a reusable lunch box made from glass, stainless steel, bamboo, or even eco-friendly plastics.
18. Reusable Cooler Bag
    If you’re headed to a picnic or grocery store, use a reusable cooler bag. These are much better than using styrofoam coolers, and they help reduce plastic waste.
19. Reusable Toiletry Bottles
    When traveling, bring your favorite shampoo and body wash in reusable, travel-sized toiletry bottles. They’re easy to pack and pass airport security.
20. Reusable Kitchen Towel
    Replacing paper towels with reusable kitchen towels can make a huge impact on reducing waste. These towels can be washed and reused over and over.
21. Reusable Stainless Steel Razor
    Rather than buying disposable plastic razors, switch to a stainless steel razor. These give a cleaner shave and last much longer.
22. Bidet
    Toilet paper is a huge waste contributor, and it’s not the most eco-friendly option. A bidet can help eliminate the need for toilet paper, and it’s more hygienic as well.

Final Thoughts

From reusable bags to eco-friendly cutlery and kitchen towels, there are so many options to reduce your plastic usage and minimize waste. You don’t have to change everything overnight, but even small steps can make a big difference. By making the switch to reusable alternatives, you’re not only helping the environment but also contributing to a more sustainable future for everyone. So why wait? Start making the switch today!