4 Ways to Waste Less  

If you're visiting our site you are probably planning ways to create less waste, but sometimes the actual execution of that plan can be a little harder than anticipated. That's why we’ve created a guide to help you waste less so you can spend more time doing what matters! 

Buying Less

It might sound a little on the nose, but sometimes we just need to stop buying things we don’t need. Here are a few categories of items that tend to be over-bought and wasted:

Clothing

• Attend or host a seasonal clothing swap

• Skip fast-fashion trends and prioritize secondhand shopping

• Try “no-buy” months to reduce impulse purchases

• Choose long lasting natural fabrics vs. cheap synthetics

Food

• Create weekly meal plans and shop with a list

• Choose seasonal produce—it lasts longer and tastes better

• Prep meals ahead to avoid food waste

• Use reusable jars and containers for snacks instead of disposable packaging

Toys

• Buy secondhand at sites like Toycycle.co

• Encourage gift exchanges of pre-loved toys from friends and family

• Choose versatile, multi-age toys made from durable materials like wood 

Reuse, Refill, and Repair

The 3 R's represent the 3 fundamental parts of sustainable living. While traditionally Recycle has been included in this, the collective community would argue that relying on recycling is no longer as helpful as we would like it to be. Reuse, Refill and Repair are our 3 R's that we feel are most helpful to reducing waste. 

Reuse

Buying items that can be reused or repurposed are a great way to reduce your overall waste. We offer a variety of everyday essential items that can be reused. Here is a list of commonly used items that can be swapped. 

Paper Towels

Unpaper Towels

Reusable cloth paper towels that stick to themselves and can be rolled onto a paper towel holder and used like regular paper towels. Instead of throwing away, just toss in the wash for infinite uses. 

Disposable Pads and Tampons

With recent research revealing the toxic metals in tampons and pads from every brand tested, it's a no brainer that reusable non-toxic menstrual care is the way to go. 

• Saalt Menstrual Cups and Discs

• GladRags Reusable Pads and Saalt Leakproof Period Underwear

Shop All our Menstrual Care

 

Plastic Loofahs

Plastic Loofahs harbor tons of bacteria due to its moist and pores environment. Plastic loofahs must be replaced every month as basic hygiene. However, our washable mesh loofah offers a sustainable alternative. Simply just wash with your towels and its good to go! 

Reusable Loofah

Disposable Razors

Leaf Razor Kit

High quality metal razor with pivoting head. Offered with lifetime warranty. The kit includes the razor, 50 blades, razor stand, and recycling tin for old blades.

Albatross Stainless Steel Safety Razor

Single Use Plastic Baggies 

Stashers 

Our Stasher bags come in 5 different sizes to accommodate all your needs. They are made from 100% pure non-toxic platinum silicone they contain no BPA, no PVC, and no latex to keep you safe from contaminants. To top it all off they are microwave and dishwasher safe!

Refill

Refilling is another great way to reduce waste as it forfeits the need for another bottle or container to be made and prevents them from ending up in landfills. 

Refillable Skincare

Refillable Household Cleaners

At The Waste Less Shop, we offer numerous household cleaners in our BulkBar including:

• All Purpose Cleaner
• Floor Cleaner
• Glass Cleaner
• Laundry Detergent
• Dish Soap
• Dishwasher Pods and Powder

Get our cleaning concentrates for All Purpose, Glass, and Floor cleaner when you sign up for the membership. Each bottle makes 2 gallons worth of product. 

Refillable Toothpaste Tablets

Refillable Hand Soap

Repairing or Restoring

Fix items instead of discarding them or DIY a makeover to give them new life!

• Join local or online repair workshops

• Use YouTube tutorials for DIY mending

• Support local repair shops

Share Your Journey!

This summer, every step you take to waste less from smarter buying and intentional reuse to thoughtful refills and heartfelt repairs brings you closer to a more sustainable, mindful lifestyle. By simplifying your choices and embracing eco-friendly habits, you're not just reducing waste; you're redefining what truly matters.