Minimal (Zero) Waste Swaps & Repurposing

I am currently writing an opinion piece on the Zero Waste Movement and minimalism.  Until then, I thought I would post up some of the things I have purchased that help control the chaos in my tiny space.  While I have some issues with zero (I prefer minimal) waste, there are some things to be said for it.  Here are some products you may be interested in:

1.  Facekins

Image courtesy of Connie @ Facekins.

I really love these, and have purchased a few packs (7/pack).  Yes, they come packaged in plastic, but that's okay.  Each pad is cut, hand-sewn, and packaged by hand in the USA by founder Connie and her team--no factory involved at all.  These reusable, washable face pads are ultra-soft and virtually stain-resistant.  They are perfect for travel, and will last ages.  Facekins will save you from having to buy cotton balls, and can be used twice before washing.  Use one side in the morning, the other at night, wash it, and let it dry.  You can also toss them in with your washing.

2.  Reusable Bags

image courtesy of badpickletees.com

We have been lucky to have received several reusable bags/totes from various events.  I have used them for shopping, as a purse, and while we travel.  I love how compact they are, and most are relatively durable.  When they get dirty, just pop them in the wash with your next load of clothes!

3.  Jars

I just love this jar from Mini Monster at the Anaheim Packing District!
It holds about the same amount of liquid as a Trenta at Starbucks.

Before hipsters popularized jars, we would keep and reuse the glass kind, especially if they had a metal cap.  We still do, but over time I have had to buy some to replace those that have broken.  I use them for drinks, picnics, and travel (except on airlines since some won't allow them).  It's a spill-proof way to take what you need.  They also take up less space, and they can be washed & reused after.

4.  Feminine Hygiene Products

Hopefully this helps to
show the capacity differences.

Large (green) and Small (clear).

Yes, I periodically purchase liners (I don't like the feeling of reusable pads/liners.  They remind me of those huge bricks that we had before ultra thin pads came out), and I have tampons in case someone needs them since I no longer use them at all.  That being said, I prefer to use a period cup.  Years ago I had tried them (read more about that, here) and it was the worst experience ever.  I also dislike tampons in general-- a plug that absorbs blood seems more gross to me than a cup that will hold it, plus, I was more prone to leaks with tampons.  For years I only used pads.  I figured I would just let it flow out, since that's what nature intended anyway, but it's not always easy to get to a restroom every 30 minutes or so.  The first 2-3 days are extremely heavy for me, so I am always in need of a restroom.  My favorite cup is Anytime (yes, they are manufactured in China, and have the testing reports if you want them).  I have four (4) total:  2 small and 2 large-- it's better to have a couple of extras in case of travel or they get lost.  The large cup holds more than the Lena, which I also have, and is the most comfortable for my body.  Menstrual cups will stain over time (it happens), but that doesn't mean they need to be thrown out.

5.  BeautyBlender & Blotterazzi

Image courtesy of
BeautyBlender & Sephora.com

Image courtesy of
BeautyBlender & Sephora.com

Since BeautyBlender was introduced, I have been using them.  I love that they are reusable, washable, and perfect for personal and professional use.  Depending on the set, it may be easier to use disposable sponges, but I've found that these little beauties last for ages, and provide a flawless finish.  They also work well in place of oil blotting papers.  They've recently launched Blotterazzi, which I like, but could have just used a sponge since they are essentially the same thing.

6.  Miscellaneous/Re-purposing

I also purchase drinks that come in packaging where I can get the CRV back. The packaging is recycled, and we get some money back in return.  I use LUSH knot-wraps as handbags, lunch sacks, and hair accessories.  Empty medication bottles are perfect for storing toothpaste tablets, Q-tips, and more when you travel.  They are also great for storing screws, nails, bolts, and other hardware in your toolbox.  Just don't forget to label them.  It's not a swap, but a repurposed item, which saves money.  I have also repurposed my letter trays for makeup and skincare, which stacks easily on the bathroom counter.

-----

What are your favorite zero-waste swaps?  Do you re-purpose?  Let me know in the comments.

Stay beautiful!