6 Must have reusable items for your home

A good way of cutting down waste is by replacing single-use disposable items with reusable items that have a longer lifespan. Here are six key items we recommend for your home.

Reusable beverage containers

If you don’t have your own reusable water bottle and coffee cup already, make this a priority. Plastic bottles and single use coffee cups generate a massive amount of waste and are very easy to avoid. There are plenty of options available depending on your need, from stainless steel flasks to locally made reusable coffee cups.

Beeswax wraps

Beeswax wraps are a great alternative to plastic wrap or cling wrap. Made from cloth and beeswax, these products are environmentally friendly and a colorful addition to a kitchen. And if you really are needing an air-tight seal, just use a Tupperware or use a silicone bowl cover.

Cleaning cloths

One of the most common single-use products in the home is the paper towel. So before reaching for one to wipe up a spill or clean a surface, grab a cloth instead. And when you do run out of paper towels, instead of buying another roll, buy a pack of cleaning cloths instead.

Mesh produce bags

We like that supermarkets are reducing packaging, but it’s also nice to have a separate bag for loose vegetables. However, avoid those “free” plastic bags that are so costly to the planet, and go for a reusable mesh bag. These are available for purchase in many major supermarkets and are also available online.

Shopping boxes

Reusable shopping bags are finally popular here in New Zealand. However, how often have you left your bags in the car and just bought another bag? Reduce the need for bags entirely and try a box! A shopping box or crate is harder to forget and can reduce the number of shopping bags you accumulate. They also last longer and they are easier to pack.

Reusable coffee and tea supplies

Making tea and coffee at home can generate a lot of avoidable waste. No matter how you prepare your tea or coffee, there are a variety of products available that will suit your need. Investing in reusable coffee pods, a paperless pour-over coffee dripper, and reusable metal or silicone tea strainers will help you eliminate waste from this common daily ritual.

We hope you invest in at least one of these items. We also encourage you to think about other ethical alternatives to household products. Every effort we make is a small step towards a more sustainable future.