my idea for a zero-waste swap video: grandma knows best! grandmas were using cloths to clean house, they were sewing/mending their own clothes, were washing and re-using jars, etc. they were doing ALL this stuff before it became trendy. what else might they know? i say go find yourself some grandmas and interview them! doesn't have to be your grandma - can be anyone's grandma. please do this. i can't wait to see it!
Awesome idea. This is how I think when I get stuck on a swap... what would my grandmother have done? For example, people bringing food to a pot-luck -- they would have brought their own bowl/plate/pan with a lid or teatowel over top. NEVER would they have gone to get a tinfoil, paper or worse, a sturdy-ish but cheap plastic platter at the Dollar Store which they would consider 'disposable' and leave behind for the host to dispose of.
I love this idea! I've always been a grandma at heart, but I have definitely noticed the more I move towards living sustainably the more "old school" skills and habits I aquire. I even watch videos and read blogs by elderly homemakers and old articles for ideas. Though you definitely have to mentally filter out the inevitable quips about "a woman's place/job/purpose" when diving down that hole.
So you mentioned school supplies so I thought I’d throw in another more “sustainable swap”. I’m a teacher and the amount of paper we use on a regular basis is UNBELIEVABLE. My coworker told me about Rocketbook Notebooks and they are life changing! I like to write out notes rather than type them up. Rocketbooks are unique because they have reusable pages. Yes, they do require a specific pen but once you scan the page with your phone, you wipe away the ink with a wet cloth and have a completely blank page to use all over again!
OxundHeiner Yeah, paper and pencil is compostable just the amount of paper used by students and teachers is wasteful. I find that this helps to eliminate the need for paper. There are a few types of the notebooks, one that you microwave to erase the ink but those don’t last more than a few times. The second is the type where you erase the ink with a wet cloth. These, from my understanding, don’t have an “expiration” after a certain amount of uses.
Using a glass file helped me with split nails. I tried so many things and nothing helped me for over a year if not two years. I am on my second one because I've broken mine while I was traveling so be careful with them.
@@lostrawkos If you're worried about breaking your glass file (which I did... twice...) you can find stone nail file. I've used mine for three years now and I would never go back :)
THANK YOU for talking about the "non-glamorous" zero/reduced waste swaps, such as trash bags. It's the #1 reason I keep coming back to your channel, because your content is for real, imperfect people who are trying to make any difference we can!
I'm encouraging all of my friends to remember their reusable bags for shipping but when they forget, they save their plastic bags for me to collect. I'm collecting them to convert them to "plarn" so I can crochet sleeping mats for the homeless.
My mom has been using a stainless steel nail/metal file since before I was born. She still has it. Still uses it. I bite my nails. Teeth are also reusable. 😹
cheerup Christina I only knew the steel ones for many years, then emery boards (wood). Then I found my crystal one in the local supermarket a few years ago and that just lives in my handbag so I always have it, about 10 yrs now. Concept of one thanks to Elaine St. James from the 90s. Have only one and it‘s easier to keep track of...
There is a very obvious swap I never here people talk about. I actually grew up using classic handkerchiefs. Then at some point my family started using the typical throw-away paper tissues. But now that I'm more aware of all the waste, I went back to using the cloth handkerchiefs. We still had quite a lot of them at my parent's, so it was an easy swap, and it didn't take long to convince my boyfriend to use them as well. And it's also saving us a little bit of money.
I asked my grandma to make me a whole stack of cloth hankies from old sheets. They are so awesome for cutting down waste. I carry one in my backpack and keep them in the bedroom and bathroom. I wish more people talked about this too! Thank you for bringing it up!
I made the swap earlier this year! My dad’s always used them so I thought it was pretty uncool growing up, but making the switch was easy and I always keep one with me.
Biodegradable poop bags or biodegradable kitty litter are options for waste disposal. Don’t get your pet 1000 toys, they only need like 3. You can get “dead” tennis balls from tennis clubs as they are only used for 1 game then discarded.
I try to only buy dog food in paper bags rather than plastic but as we have been trying to focus on the quality of the food and my dogs are just too big for me to make their food for every day, I've had to get some that was in plastic bags
To expand on the metal nail files, some models of nail or toenail clippers have them built into them. They are underneath the foldable lever(?) of the clipper.
I have 2 swaps: 1: for people who have a forced air furnace, you can get reusable furnace filters. Instead of disposable filters, you just rinse them off when they get dusty. 2: essential oil diffusers for the car to replace the plastic vent clips or the cardboard “trees”. I’ve seen them made from both glass and ceramic on Etsy.
Yes! I also recieved some metal difusers (similar to the pendants for necklaces)as a gift that you can put the little stone discs into and refill and reuse! Love mine!
I have bought the glass nail file 6 weeks ago and I love it. They didn't mention that it last longer than the disposable one but it did! And what I really love love love is that its smother and colder on the nail. The one with sand paper are harsh and can hurt my skin around the nail. But I still can't distinguish which is the best cuz I bought one last year and it expire after a month or so :)
I really like this series because it is definitely kinda boring to watch zero waste videos constantly if you're not a 'beginner' anymore. So thank you for that 😊
About bags: the packaging that some of our essentials come is already a bag. I use the bag from toilet paper as the garbage bag in the bathroom. Usually they are not very big but for the bathroom they are perfect!
If you have pets and you need to have a bag for thier waste, just use the bags you already get from other things, grocery, or chips, or whatever. No need to buy a special pet waste bags when you can just reuse something you already have! :)
I'm using the metal ones my whole life. They can last over generations. (literally: mine is from my grandma) I tried glass files but can't get used to the feeling *goose bumps*
I'm from Italy and in my family we always used the same metal one, we had to buy the disposable ones once for medical reasons and it felt so weird to throw them away after une use that we ended up cutting them into pieces and using them until they were basically destroyed
I use a Nespresso because when you’ve used the aluminum pod, you get a prepaid shipping bag to fill with your pods and send back to Nespresso. The company then breaks down the pods and reuses the aluminum, and composts the coffee grounds. So worth the slight amount more for coffee
But HOW is this more 'convenient' than making coffee any other way? I just don't get it. So many steps (sending it back and forth, reprocessing the aluminum, repeatedly buying them and storing and sorting and sending...). It certainly is not very environmentally friendly when you think how far a pod travels from manufacture to use to re-manufacturing....no?
Elizabeth Glenday uhh... I drink at least one coffee a day and have to send back a bag maybe once every 6 months. It’s not inconvenient at all. You’d continually buy any other coffee the same way and you’d have to manage composting / recycling on your own so clearly, Nespresso is significantly more convenient considering how little I have to put into it in actuality.
Silvana Oh well then. No matter what you spend your money on or who you spend it with, you will be supporting someone who doesn’t deserve it. That’s a fact of life and my coffee habit isn’t going to change the ethical practices of Nestle, our government needs to work on that. Don’t attack random folks on the internet who are just trying to do their best, this is why other people can’t stand “zero waste snobs.” Zero waste is much more effective when millions do it imperfectly, not when a few do it perfectly.
I use wrappings from some groceries (like toilet paper, some breads etc) as bags to non-recyclable trash. And the less you produce trash, the less bags you need :) Haven't bought a single trash bag for over a year.
Same! My family of 4 produces about the amount of trash that fits in one bread bag per week. I only take our trash can to the curb about once a week instead of every week!
Giggles Forter I’ve heard of a brand that sells a thick silk thread in a glass bottle- While I don’t think it’s reusable, it is biodegradable and can go into your compost!
@@catherinemoore7578 although that’s a fabulous alternative the actual mechanical movement across teeth is still needed to maintain good oral hygiene. Waterpiks and floss are supposed to be used together
I can use my floss several times before tossing. Exceptions would be if it breaks in half. I also use those tiny bristles brushes that go between your teeth. The combination makes for happier gums. If used carefully they can last several times. Unfortunately not zero waste. I like the idea of the silk. Will check into that...
@@aspenedgewalker That is actually a bad idea to do, unless you are soaking your floss in something that’s going to kill the bacteria you are just spreading around the germs that cause periodontal disease
@@vs2956 Yes they only do certain brands so you have to check but you just go to the photo center. You can also get printers now that don' t use cartridges at all just refillable tanks.
@Amy Sternheim all children in the netherlands learn to write with a fountain pen, it just takes a little getting used to. I still always write with a fountain pen, but I never have any spills unless I drop it which seems to be the case for most people
@Amy Sternheim that might have to do with the quality of the pen. I've used my kaweco fountain pen for six years now and never had a problem. I mean, it's a continuous flowing ink if the nib is touching something, so you shouldn't leave it uncapped on a discarded item of clothing or something, but you shouldn't leave pens uncapped anyway.
You can also get ballpoint pens that have replaceable ink cartridges, they are very big in the wood working community, most common in the US is Cross. The cartridge is still disposable, but a single (brand name) cartridge will write more than a disposable plastic pen, and the cartridge is less waste and usually more metal than plastic. The base of the pen is all metal and wood (usually, some people do make them out of plastic) and will last until you loose it.
We just started using a bidet attachment for our toilet, paired with a wash cloth to pat dry, it saves so much toilet paper and the plastic it is wrapped it! I know the water use isn't great, but just a little water does the trick and it's better than the paper version or having cloth versions you have to store and wash.
only avoid vacines if you have a compromised imune system or an allergy to an ingrediant, better to tollerate a few aches than DIE to a preventable disease.
people kiss dolphins? wouldn’t that give the dolphins anxiety?! FOR GOODNESS SAKES. they’re wild animals who aren’t used to people hugging on them. -.-
Rhiannon no they’re in captivity and trained, they basically just stay in one spot and then you lean in and lightly kiss them, it’s really not traumatic for them. Some people rehabilitate dolphins and the ones that can’t be released are trained, but others take healthy dolphins. And some use those funds to help go towards conservation and education and rehabilitation efforts and others do it just for profit
If you buy flavored coffee beans or ground coffee, it's the same as the little pods they sell. You can get a stainless steel pod and use whatever you want in it , even tea! Love all the good you spread!
They sell different flavors of coffee in the big bags the same way that they have K Cups. :) Edit: I have no idea why y’all like this so much but thanks for the likes!
It's also cheaper to buy in bag vs individual kcups and there are so many varieties. I like godiva brand coffee but we only have a Keurig at work, so I just bring my bagged coffee and reusable kcup.
I was actually gifted a keurig with the reusable pod. I never invested in a keurig because I always thought they were so wasteful but now I can buy whatever coffee I like and enjoy the convenience of the keurig.
I have always used reusable Kcups. I just think people are lazy and don’t want to clean out the coffee grounds so the just use regular kcups so they don’t have to clean up after themselves
As someone who drinks at least a cup of coffee per day and owns a Keurig, the reusable pod is so nice especially since I only like basic coffee for when I'm at home. It's a lot cheaper and less wasteful to buy a bag of ground coffee rather than buying fancy disposable pods. I highly recommend.
Shelbi, I had no idea that microfiber filters existed! That makes me excited since like you, I have a lot of second hand polyester clothes. I will definitely read your blog post about it, but I suggest you make a video on just that subject as well, because I agree that not enough people know about the impact of microfibers *and* that there is something you can do about it. Thanks again!
i don't know if there's a lot more of these out there but there are needleless staplers where they just work almost like a puncher... helps me a lot at work
What do you do with the microfibers after they've been filtered out of the washing machine? Like when the filter fills up, do you put the microfibers in the trash?
If you are a camper, collect your fibers, then make little balls from them. They make great fire starters. You can also collect your fiber waste and use it for felting. Be creative 😊 there's always another purpose for things.
godivagal1 I have a thought/question. So I’ve been using my dryer lint as a fire starter but is it a good idea to burn micro plastic fibers? Ugh I think I’m over thinking again. 😔
@@jbobkat4742 well those same poly fibers are in your dryer lint you are using as fire starter already, so you are burning them currently unless you are using strictly cotton clothing, linens etc. It's not ideal, but it's something which one can use the lint collected in the secondary filter.
@@jbobkat4742 carbon is easier used in the environment than polyester. At least if you burn them they are changing chemical properties and being used by pur environment.
Danielle Grenell thank you. That is something I had not considered and feel more comfortable using it as a fire starter. ☺️ I appreciate your feedback!
you could maybe talk about using zippo lighters or refillable lighters over traditional disposable lighters! they still have waste but produce less waste than the typical plastic lighter
Love all of this! So realistic! After Christmas this year, I'd love to see some reusable wrapping options - besides reusing paper bags, although that's not terrible but then the tissue paper isn't great. I saw a friend who actually just laid out everyone's presents in beautiful, curated, IG worthy groups on the floor or table and then everyone came in the room at once on Christmas morning to see what they got!
I was talking to a lady who runs a sustainable youth activism program (she was guest lecturing at my uni) and she hates the bio-degradable plastic alternatives. Her biggest problem with them is no-one talks about what they are made from (which is normally corn starch) and how rain forest in countries like Indonesia are being cleared to meet the new demand for all this corn. I haven't fact-checked whether she is correct or not, but I did think it was an interesting point that no one thinks to question the increase in demand for plant-based products, and what impact that has on the environment.
I did a project on this in a Global Environmental Science course in uni (about using corn based fuel more than plastic, but still relevant). She is right. The problem is the sheer amount of corn it takes to produce these products. Not only is the land being cleared, but this is viable food that could feed people in need that instead goes towards products. It's not exactly a secret that in the corporate world, Western consumerism is valued over the lives of the people in exploited countries. It just goes to show that these issues aren't black and white, they're very complex. It's actually kind of terrifying when I think about it. I think it points to the fact that all products produce a certain amount of damage in their production. That's why I generally tend think reusable is the best option. Not even because the waste is being lessened but because less product has to be made and resources used overall when we can just purchase something once.
Kayla M. Thats such a gross but important point. We are literally growing food to turn into trash while so many go without. I 100% agree you that reusable is the best option, for things like bin bags I am still unsure what the best option would be.
Not to mention all of that corn is GMO and sprayed with scientifically proven ( in the California courts) cancer causing pesticides ( glyphosate). All making a horribly unethical company ( Monsanto/Bayer) extremely rich and more powerful.
aley baldoni very good point. I think its also worth mentioning that many people don’t compost those biodegradable products anyway. I know at my university they switched to compostable cups and takeout containers, which was a nice effort, but they all ended up in the trash cans. When something goes to landfill, it does not get a chance to biodegrade anyway.
A bit of an odd one but a bidet! The brand TUSHY sells great ones and bidets are so much better for you on so many levels. Saves you from needing so much toilet paper! Also a guppy friend washing bag is what I use to catch the microfibers from my clothing, it’s not made of plastic and may be more sustainable. I feel like another one that’s not talked about often is unpaper towels. I’ve seen ones where they’re cloth but rolled up like paper towels and attached to each other with buttons. You could look them up on Etsy to see what I’m talking about!
For some reason, I’m really glad to hear you live with your sister who isn’t zero waste. I do the majority of the shopping for our household, but all three of us are varying degrees of Zero Waste. I cringe when I buy most of their stuff, but it’s not up to me to tell other adults what they shouldn’t buy. I try to counter it all by recycling everything, but I have no confidence that those items don’t end up in a landfill anyway. If it weren’t so expensive, I would Terracycle all of it.
My mom grew up in Dominican Republic. I grew up hearing menstrual pads Kotex even though we used Always in my house. I guess that's what they're called over there. I still call them Kotex instead of pads lol.
Tbh I say „taschentuch“ (=tissues), not Tempo :D And I live in Austria. Nobody says tempos here actually. But that might be an German thing so yeah lmao (we also don‘t say the other things)
Ugh this would have been so useful when I was there I was all like "wo sind die Papiertücher?" Like an obvious foreigner looking at my google translate hahaha (granted with my accent I wouldn't fool anyone)! But it's fun to know
I use pine as well! Shavings, not pellets, though. And those BioBags she put on screen when talking about trash bags? If you didn't know, they make pet size ones, too! I've been using them for the litter box for at least a year and I adore them.
Y'all. We switched to pine pellets and were buying Feline Pine brand but then we peeped a video on TH-cam and Tractor Supply or Feed and Seeds in your area LEGIT will have a huge bag for $10 and will save you maximum ca$$h. It's incredible.
We just switched to pine pellets. It's only been a little over a week, so I am mixing the pine pellets with the clay litter in a 50/50 mix. No problems at all so far, and we have 3 cats.
Shelbi, your whole aesthetic in this video is TO DIE FOR. I hope you know how gorgeous of a human you are, inside and out ✨ I’m over here just like 😍 As far as the swaps go: my aunt got me a crystal nail file when I was in middle school so I’ve always had one and they’re great! I also really liked what you said about compostable trash bags and how while they don’t have a HUGE impact they can be beneficial for the reasons you mentioned. And I just want to say that I’ve been subscribed to you for six months or so now and you’ve helped me a lot. I went to school for environmental conservation & sustainability but (as I’m sure you know) we weren’t always talking about day to day personal lifestyle changes. I was always wishing for a class like that and there wasn’t one at my school. You’ve helped me so much to be able to find ethical places to shop from and make swaps that I’d never even heard of. So I just wanted to take a minute to say a sincere ✨thank you✨ to you for that. I’m sure TH-cam can get intense at times and I wanted to remind you that you’re making a difference. 💜
Love both of your points about second-hand clothing and trash bags! I share those thoughts of, "Well, yeah, it's not PERFECT, but it's definitely BETTER!" I really struggle with feeling guilty that I'm not doing enough, so it's great to hear. I also LOVE my glass nail file.
I line my small compost bin on my counter top with old newspaper (there’s a free advertiser newspaper in my area). I can empty the food scraps and paper in one go so makes it easier to clean the bin
Hey girl, Love your videos, keep it up! I do use a reusable "Q-tip", made of silicone, (the first picture you used to describe this product) and its great, for anyone wondering!! It works the same as the disposable ones, and I haven't had a problem with using it at all!! Another 'zero waste swap no-one talks about' that I use is reusable cotton tea bags. Obviously at home, I just use a tea strainer with my loose leaf tea. But for work and when I'm travelling (which is a lot for work), I use my loose leaf tea in these reusable tea bags. They work really well, and I can't tell you how many awesome conversations I've managed to start with random people about waste (and hidden plastic in disposable teabags) just from using these on the plane. Thanks for all your inspiring videos, and hope this helps!!
I honestly respect you so much for the fact that you don't just talk beyond where your knowledge extends (like with the seahorse Q-Tip images). It really shows your genuine care for the environment and the pursuit of truth. Thank you!
Aweh you included my nail file comment! 😂I’m so glad it was able to help people! I LOVE these videos! Please keep them coming! It’s great for those of us who have already got the basics down and could use ideas to take it further! ❤️
Ashley Lawrence, I saw your comment on the last video, too, and that's what I asked my husband to get for my birthday. It's still an adjustment for me to have a file that doesn't have the "gritty" look that I'm used to, but the glass file does work surprisingly well.
I also read your comment and bought one and I love it! It’s a little less satisfying, in some weird way, but it works beautifully. Wouldn’t go back, so thanks!
penngheeney ahhaa I know what you mean! None of that sandpaper feel! My husband actually used to cringe at the sound of the disposable ones. The crystal he doesn’t even notice I’m doing it 😂
Anahid Kassabian 😂😂😂 I know what you mean! It’s an adjustment because it almost feels wrong that it feels smooth instead of like sandpaper 😂😂😂 so glad you’re liking it!
I have sensory issues with the sound and feeling from using the sandpaper ones and even the metal ones but now with glass ones, it's a much more pleasant experience!! Thank you so much!
Love the series! I have another one: clothespins! I found some really cool metal ones that will probably last me for years. On top of that, they don’t leave marks on my clothes (had problems with that in the past).
I know it might demonetize your video in about 0.5 seconds but if you have recommendations for zero waste/less plastic bedroom supplies I would love to hear them
@@nikkihitchcock7020 If you're in a stable relationship and not using condoms, then coconut oil will do the job (and smell better and not become sticky). The problem is you cannot use it with condoms because it breaks down the latex... (and you don't want that !!)
Carmen Alns Same I was so confused. I think she could have used the word intimate instead of bedroom. But I think that this would be a very good video idea
@12:38 Stores do sell different flavored coffees in regular sized bags, so maybe it's just a matter of buying some of those if you're the kind of person who likes flavored coffee. I use other coffee-making devices at home, but my office has a Keurig so I do sometimes use the reusable pods if I haven't brought my own pre-made coffee from home.
I love the idea of highlighter pencils, plastic ones can dry out and be a waste. I was given a keurig, I don’t drink coffee so I wasn’t sure I would use it but I was glad it came with the reusable filter so I can try loose teas!
I was literally thinking to myself today 'I should try and find a TH-camr that covers zero waste swaps that aren't spoken about'... because the videos I keep finding in regards to these swaps are getting a bit repetitive (personally) and I am ready to take the next step but I don't know where to go from the classic 'bring your own bags to stores' 'bring your own mug and cutlery' 'start composting' etc... Then I magically stumbled apon your channel hours after these thoughts! Love this video, girl. You have such a relaxed and informative approach and I dig it. Please continue this series!!! xoxo
I would love if you did a ditl video of installing the microfiber filter liek you did the rain barrels. :) I've been looknig at those and loved how easy you made the rain barrels look.
In regards to the K Cups, I used to work in an office that only had a Keurig and that’s why I used the reusable pods. I don’t have one in my own home, but it was nice to be able to use a reusable option for when I was there.
Another great option for making coffee is a nespresso machine. They also have a reusable pod but if you wanted to go the single use pod option they are made of aluminum and you can send them back to the company for reuse. In my home I tend to use the reusable pod but I introduced the single use pods at my job since companies seem to be the worst when it comes to K Cups going straight into the trash (These machines do espresso as well as a normal cup of coffee to keep everyone happy)
I think a simple kettle and French press situation works better for me than a whole machine and k-cup situation. I buy a coffee that I really love flavour wise and make as much as I’m going to bring in my French press 1-4 cups. I end up using it way more than my coffee maker. The only time the coffee maker comes out is when we have a large gathering of friends that all want to drink coffee.
I never saw a disposable nail file until I was maybe 17. I have a mineral nail file since 7 years a love it. My mom has a metal nail file and they were the only nail files I knew in my childhood. (and I'm not that old, I'm in my 20s, but maybe the products in a small villages in Germany were just old fashion back than ...) And I wanted to mention that there are also complety compostable reusable bamboo 'Qtips' available. At least in Germany, of course I don't know if the company is also selling in the US. But they are really great. I bought mine around 1 year ago and it still looks pretty new. Thank you for the great content. Lots of love 💚
I already own the metal ear-cleaners! I've used them over a year and love them. But I can't believe I finally already own something mentioned in a video. I'm so proud 😂😂😂😂
Uh that's awesome! I've just learned about them now and I'm not gonna lie, I don't know how I feel about pushing metal around my ear, not that the conventional ones are better😂 I have two questions about your experience with it. Does it feel cold? Can it scratch your ear?
I’ve had some for about a year and I love them. It does take some time to get used to them though. I feel like they do a better job at cleaning. They do feel a bit cold and it does feel like a little scratch especially if you have a scab
MsRainingDays Hmmm. Personally I don’t find them cold. But they definitely CAN scratch your ear. It depends on how hard you push and which ones you use. The kit I bought has 6 or 7 tools. Some for scooping, some for scraping, small and big. You experiment and get to know which tools to use when so by the end it does a much better job cleaning than a cotton swap. If you’re worried there is this one, looks kinda like a coiled spring shaped like a Qtip. It’s soft and no matter how hard you push doesn’t do any real damage. It’s the easiest to use and usually the first you use till you decide you need more. Sorry if that’s too much detail 😂
I ordered mine a few wks ago on ebay...got a gift card from work for xmas and got a dry shaver the stainless steel ear curetttes and a waterpik without spending my $ all sustainable products to reduce the onset of disposables 😊
I definitely think there is more of a benefit to using compostable trash bags than you lead on. Not because of the after effects of the plastic, but the extraction of petroleum to make the plastic and the emissions that come along with that. I’d think using a compostable bag would have a much lower carbon footprint regardless of how it breaks down in landfill.
I do love my Keurig but always use my reusable filter. You can find lots of flavored coffees now but I just use good old Maxwell House. Also, the plastic pods and foil covers are both recyclable. Learning so much from you and I’m 63 so you can teach an old dog new tricks. A photo can be used as a thank you note and if it’s the right photo it will never be thrown away!
Another zero waste swap(kinda) is a plant milk maker. Like they sell them and you can buy bulk what your gonna make your milk out of. Instead of buying a million milk cartons and espically because some plant milk bottles are so small.
Reusable k-cups are one of my all time favorite swaps! I used to use the disposable ones all the time because I'm the only decaf drinker of my friends and family, but they were so wasteful I stopped drinking coffee all together for a while. Then someone gifted me a coffee maker that came with a reusable k-cup and it changed my life! I used it all the time now.
One way that you can keep from wasting coffee is putting whatever sweetener or sugar alternative that you use into it and pouring it into ice cube trays and then keeping those on hand for any type of cold coffee that you drink.
Yes!! Keep this series going!! Need these obscure swaps in my life !! Haha I have never EVER seen a glass nail file. What!? An idea: reusable aluminium foil sheet (amazing for cooking all sorts of things in the oven!)
I use a reusable k-cup and love it! I first bought my Keurig when I lived alone and didn’t want to brew a whole pot of coffee for just myself. Now that I’m married with kids, it’s even handier! I buy my hazelnut flavored coffee in big bags, my husband uses the pod for his decaf coffee, I can make tea with it and even hot chocolate for my kids.
You don't have to make a whole coffee pot. Just pour a cup of water in there and the amount of coffee for yourself and you are good to go! I do this way.
I crochet and I found some patterns for reusable face scrubbies, like those little cotton rounds to remove makeup. Just need some 100% cotton yarn, wanna find a jar with a nice wide mouth to keep a set in. Also crocheted cotton dishcloths instead of buying plastic sponges.
You're the person who got me into zero waste and gives me the ability to keep going on my journey!! Thank you so much for being such an inspiring person and making such phenomenal videos :)
so glad you talked about trash bags!!! another pro to compostable, even though they end up in the landfill, they're often less resource intensive to manufacture than your generic plastic trash bag!
zero waste chapstick ? perfume without the little plastic tubes ? idk a lot of beauty products i feel like don’t get talked about and for some i don’t know where to look.
Thanks for the video! Nothing particularly new for me this time, but most probably because I look around for things a lot. Already had my glass nail file before trying to create less waste, as it is just much better for the nails. Two things to maybe look into: the everlast notebooks to stop creating paper waste from note taking. As well as the leaf shaver, for people who like more then one blade.
Just cause you said you read ALL your comments just wanted to let you know I binged watched about 50 of your videos in the last 48h after discovering your channel randomly 🤗 😂😘
Late to the party, but I love Nespresso as an alternative to Keurig! Their pods are 100% aluminum, so they can be recycled essentially infinitely. They have a free recycling program that makes it super easy!
Careful of aluminum, especially heating it as it is a toxin that disrupts your endocrine system. Most all people who have alzhiemers have aluminum deposits in their brains at autopsy. Nix the antiperspirant too.
I have a crystal nail file at work and a stone/ceramic one I keep in my purse. The ceramic I've had for years and it's the best I've ever used. Still works wonderfully to this day.
Snow in North of North America but then it is actually technically fall until the winter solstice if you follow the astronomical definition. ( Using the meteorological definition of winter season, fall ended end of November so not far off)
Erika Ramirez well yeah but I mean during the “emptying the trash” stage. The sticky stuff is gonna stick to the sides of the trash can and then you’re gonna have to dig it out lol. Not unreasonable but potentially super gross
brittianica yes I get it and using more toilet paper or tissues to wrap them up is kind of against the point. I usually use left over plastic bags or even empty tissue boxes.
Literally watching this video drinking coffee I made at home with my pour-over lol.... As an engineer, I'm a HUGE coffee drinker, and so are my coworkers. Every office I've ever worked in has had at least 2 coffee machines, and usually 1 of them is a Keurig. Some of my coworkers have a reusable k-cup that they use for that. There's actually a whole world of fun coffee flavors (and alot of brands are zero-waste) that you can buy to put in your k-cup, your pour-over, your French press, or whatever sustainable coffee making process you prefer. You can buy in bulk metal containers or even different sizes of paper/compostable baggies. I often feel like sustainable coffee is a huge subgenre of the sustainability community. I love your videos! xoxo
An advanced swap I learned about recently is that U-Haul has message boards for people to give away used moving boxes when theyre done! Also would LOVE to see a video about where to donate different stuff when you move/want to clean out. Other than goodwill and salvation army who Imo have some questionable practices (goodwill discriminates against people with disabilities and SA against the LGBT community)
Yes, I have a reusable K cup and we buy Coffee in Bulk and you can also get different flavor coffees in big bags to just scoop into your reusable cup. However I prefer regular coffee and just adding my own flavored creamer into it.
Re: Nail files. When I was about 14 (I'm 45 now) I got a nice metal one with a plastic handle. The plastic broke off after about 10 years, but the metal part remained intact AND I still use it to this day. I haven't found ANY this good. I tried to replace it a few times just to have a handle, but after a while I gave up. I do also own one of the crystal ones. It's nice to 'finish' the edges once the metal one has done it's job :)
This is very late, but have you tried asking a carpenter what it would cost to make a wooden handle for your nail file? I guess you're used to not having a handle by now, but that would be my first thought if the plastic handle of something breaks (and I could afford it).
I've used my crystal nail file for years - since I first saw them on a market stall. I also bought one each for my daughters when they were teenagers and used them as a stocking filler. The crystal file is so much better than the sandpaper type, a very s filing process that gives a lovely finish.
the eco friendly trash bags seem awesome! i do beach/parks/road cleanups often and always use trash bags to hold the trash i pick up and always feel bad about it, i’ve been thinking about getting burlap bags but then when i go to throw away what i’ve picked up it would just fly out of the truck like you said, i’ll definitely look into them!!! ❤️
Oooo those highlighting pencils are awesome !!!! 🙌🏼 I’m a full time student and I have been in need of a replacement for highlighters those are perfect 😍👌🏻💕
A couple ideas from à Montréal dog & cat mom for city living! - paper recycling bags, were obligated to put recycling in bags in my area. We buy big leaf bags that aren’t lined with plastic and they accept them for recycling - news paper origami/paper bags for city compost instead of the compostable faux-plastic ones - wood chip/paper cat litter. I can flush or throw away the poop and then compost the litter so no need for the clay one. - I live in a housing cooperative in the city, for the dog we have compostable bags that we can compost for #2 but we also have a burrying spot in the backyard we’re ne leave the poop and switch up the spot from time to time. Thank you for the great content!!
my idea for a zero-waste swap video: grandma knows best! grandmas were using cloths to clean house, they were sewing/mending their own clothes, were washing and re-using jars, etc. they were doing ALL this stuff before it became trendy. what else might they know? i say go find yourself some grandmas and interview them! doesn't have to be your grandma - can be anyone's grandma. please do this. i can't wait to see it!
Pam Schofield go grandmas!
Awesome idea. This is how I think when I get stuck on a swap... what would my grandmother have done? For example, people bringing food to a pot-luck -- they would have brought their own bowl/plate/pan with a lid or teatowel over top. NEVER would they have gone to get a tinfoil, paper or worse, a sturdy-ish but cheap plastic platter at the Dollar Store which they would consider 'disposable' and leave behind for the host to dispose of.
@pam schofield Shout out to the Grandma's and Grandpa's! Great idea!
I love this idea! I've always been a grandma at heart, but I have definitely noticed the more I move towards living sustainably the more "old school" skills and habits I aquire. I even watch videos and read blogs by elderly homemakers and old articles for ideas. Though you definitely have to mentally filter out the inevitable quips about "a woman's place/job/purpose" when diving down that hole.
Love this idea!
So you mentioned school supplies so I thought I’d throw in another more “sustainable swap”. I’m a teacher and the amount of paper we use on a regular basis is UNBELIEVABLE. My coworker told me about Rocketbook Notebooks and they are life changing! I like to write out notes rather than type them up. Rocketbooks are unique because they have reusable pages. Yes, they do require a specific pen but once you scan the page with your phone, you wipe away the ink with a wet cloth and have a completely blank page to use all over again!
Does the ink smudge??
Jaime Gilchrist Hardly!
OxundHeiner Yeah, paper and pencil is compostable just the amount of paper used by students and teachers is wasteful. I find that this helps to eliminate the need for paper. There are a few types of the notebooks, one that you microwave to erase the ink but those don’t last more than a few times. The second is the type where you erase the ink with a wet cloth. These, from my understanding, don’t have an “expiration” after a certain amount of uses.
Unfortunately the pens you world use with rocketbooks are pure Plastic :(
Sunday shoes true 😞
The glass nail files are so much better than the “disposable ones”!! I love mine😍
Oona M I have a metal one that I’ve had for yeaarrrss. And I still prefer it over the disposable ones 🤷🏼♀️
The glass ones feel so much gentler in my opinion, and you can get really pretty ones! They are a great gift idea actually!
Gel Marie I’ve heard great things about them! I would definitely like to try them 🙂
Using a glass file helped me with split nails. I tried so many things and nothing helped me for over a year if not two years. I am on my second one because I've broken mine while I was traveling so be careful with them.
@@lostrawkos If you're worried about breaking your glass file (which I did... twice...) you can find stone nail file. I've used mine for three years now and I would never go back :)
THANK YOU for talking about the "non-glamorous" zero/reduced waste swaps, such as trash bags. It's the #1 reason I keep coming back to your channel, because your content is for real, imperfect people who are trying to make any difference we can!
I like these more advanced zero waste swaps. Keeps me on my toes of other things I may not think is as wasteful or that there's a better alternative.
I'm encouraging all of my friends to remember their reusable bags for shipping but when they forget, they save their plastic bags for me to collect. I'm collecting them to convert them to "plarn" so I can crochet sleeping mats for the homeless.
My mom has been using a stainless steel nail/metal file since before I was born. She still has it. Still uses it. I bite my nails. Teeth are also reusable. 😹
cheerup Christina I only knew the steel ones for many years, then emery boards (wood). Then I found my crystal one in the local supermarket a few years ago and that just lives in my handbag so I always have it, about 10 yrs now. Concept of one thanks to Elaine St. James from the 90s. Have only one and it‘s easier to keep track of...
nail clippers, scissors and jeans. 🙃
There is a very obvious swap I never here people talk about. I actually grew up using classic handkerchiefs. Then at some point my family started using the typical throw-away paper tissues. But now that I'm more aware of all the waste, I went back to using the cloth handkerchiefs. We still had quite a lot of them at my parent's, so it was an easy swap, and it didn't take long to convince my boyfriend to use them as well.
And it's also saving us a little bit of money.
Poppi Holmes I bought a few really cute sets on Etsy, they come with a fabric box to fold all your tissues in. Love this swap!
I asked my grandma to make me a whole stack of cloth hankies from old sheets. They are so awesome for cutting down waste. I carry one in my backpack and keep them in the bedroom and bathroom. I wish more people talked about this too! Thank you for bringing it up!
I made the swap earlier this year! My dad’s always used them so I thought it was pretty uncool growing up, but making the switch was easy and I always keep one with me.
I much prefer hankies, no sore noses.
I use handkerchiefs! So do my husband and kids. I do still own Kleenex, but it is for guests. It would be weird to ask a guest to use a handkerchief.
can you please talk about zero waste pets and pets waste? 🐶🙌🏻
electricbird2411 they make compostable dog poop bags! so they degrade with everything else
There are biodegradable poop bag available :)
Biodegradable poop bags or biodegradable kitty litter are options for waste disposal. Don’t get your pet 1000 toys, they only need like 3. You can get “dead” tennis balls from tennis clubs as they are only used for 1 game then discarded.
We feed our dog on a raw diet so his poops are tiny and way more compostable.
I try to only buy dog food in paper bags rather than plastic but as we have been trying to focus on the quality of the food and my dogs are just too big for me to make their food for every day, I've had to get some that was in plastic bags
To expand on the metal nail files, some models of nail or toenail clippers have them built into them. They are underneath the foldable lever(?) of the clipper.
Oooh yeah
I have 2 swaps:
1: for people who have a forced air furnace, you can get reusable furnace filters. Instead of disposable filters, you just rinse them off when they get dusty.
2: essential oil diffusers for the car to replace the plastic vent clips or the cardboard “trees”. I’ve seen them made from both glass and ceramic on Etsy.
Yes! I also recieved some metal difusers (similar to the pendants for necklaces)as a gift that you can put the little stone discs into and refill and reuse! Love mine!
I never even thought about the reusable filters! I’m a realtor and I think I’m going to give those as gifts now they are so cheap!!!
that diffuser swap is awesome! my brother uses the single use clip on ones. this will be is xmas gift!
Thanks for this! I didn't know either of these things existed. :)
My family used to use a reusable one, but the furnace guy said it wasnt filtering well enough so we ended up having to switch
I have bought the glass nail file 6 weeks ago and I love it. They didn't mention that it last longer than the disposable one but it did!
And what I really love love love is that its smother and colder on the nail. The one with sand paper are harsh and can hurt my skin around the nail.
But I still can't distinguish which is the best cuz I bought one last year and it expire after a month or so :)
How do you resharpen it please? I bought one but it’s dull now!
I really like this series because it is definitely kinda boring to watch zero waste videos constantly if you're not a 'beginner' anymore. So thank you for that 😊
About bags: the packaging that some of our essentials come is already a bag. I use the bag from toilet paper as the garbage bag in the bathroom. Usually they are not very big but for the bathroom they are perfect!
Melina I do the same thing and as a shower cap.
If you have pets and you need to have a bag for thier waste, just use the bags you already get from other things, grocery, or chips, or whatever. No need to buy a special pet waste bags when you can just reuse something you already have! :)
They also make metal nail files: I've used mine for about four years now
MentalHealthNut my parents have one and I use it
Same, but apparently glass ones are better for your nails and last longer. When my metal one is done, I'll try a glass one.
This video is the first time in my 28 year long life that I hear about non-metal or non-glass nail files
I'm using the metal ones my whole life. They can last over generations. (literally: mine is from my grandma)
I tried glass files but can't get used to the feeling *goose bumps*
I'm from Italy and in my family we always used the same metal one, we had to buy the disposable ones once for medical reasons and it felt so weird to throw them away after une use that we ended up cutting them into pieces and using them until they were basically destroyed
I use a Nespresso because when you’ve used the aluminum pod, you get a prepaid shipping bag to fill with your pods and send back to Nespresso. The company then breaks down the pods and reuses the aluminum, and composts the coffee grounds. So worth the slight amount more for coffee
But HOW is this more 'convenient' than making coffee any other way? I just don't get it. So many steps (sending it back and forth, reprocessing the aluminum, repeatedly buying them and storing and sorting and sending...). It certainly is not very environmentally friendly when you think how far a pod travels from manufacture to use to re-manufacturing....no?
Elizabeth Glenday uhh... I drink at least one coffee a day and have to send back a bag maybe once every 6 months. It’s not inconvenient at all. You’d continually buy any other coffee the same way and you’d have to manage composting / recycling on your own so clearly, Nespresso is significantly more convenient considering how little I have to put into it in actuality.
But then you're still supporting Nestle which is one of the most unethical and unsustainable companies in the world.
Silvana Oh well then. No matter what you spend your money on or who you spend it with, you will be supporting someone who doesn’t deserve it. That’s a fact of life and my coffee habit isn’t going to change the ethical practices of Nestle, our government needs to work on that. Don’t attack random folks on the internet who are just trying to do their best, this is why other people can’t stand “zero waste snobs.” Zero waste is much more effective when millions do it imperfectly, not when a few do it perfectly.
That's amazing that a company actually does this. At least they're helping in creating less waste!
I use wrappings from some groceries (like toilet paper, some breads etc) as bags to non-recyclable trash. And the less you produce trash, the less bags you need :) Haven't bought a single trash bag for over a year.
i love this idea!!
I do the same thing!
I do that too!
Yes! I also use smaller plastic packaging to dispose of my cat’s poop
Same! My family of 4 produces about the amount of trash that fits in one bread bag per week. I only take our trash can to the curb about once a week instead of every week!
I would love to know about reusable floss alternatives. I’m a hygienist and would love to be informed for my zero waste patients.
Giggles Forter I’ve heard of a brand that sells a thick silk thread in a glass bottle- While I don’t think it’s reusable, it is biodegradable and can go into your compost!
Try a water flosser.
@@catherinemoore7578 although that’s a fabulous alternative the actual mechanical movement across teeth is still needed to maintain good oral hygiene. Waterpiks and floss are supposed to be used together
I can use my floss several times before tossing. Exceptions would be if it breaks in half. I also use those tiny bristles brushes that go between your teeth. The combination makes for happier gums. If used carefully they can last several times. Unfortunately not zero waste. I like the idea of the silk. Will check into that...
@@aspenedgewalker That is actually a bad idea to do, unless you are soaking your floss in something that’s going to kill the bacteria you are just spreading around the germs that cause periodontal disease
I just had my printer ink cartridges refilled at Costco! It was super cheap and ready for pick up by the end of my shopping trip
Did NOT know this was a thing!
@@vs2956 Yes they only do certain brands so you have to check but you just go to the photo center. You can also get printers now that don' t use cartridges at all just refillable tanks.
buy recycleable cartridges!! if u don't have the refillable kind
Omg this is life changing knowledge!! So glad i know this now.
This is magic. Good to know for sure!
I love my French Press for coffee. Zero waste. I take the used coffee grounds to city recycling to compost.
And coffee grounds make amazing compost or anti cellulite scrub!
Coffee is great compost and anti cellulite scrub
Plus an added bonus is that there is No huge coffee maker on my counter.
That’s a big win!
Me too!
Coffee grounds keeps cat away frim you garden so you need take cear of that poop😂😂
I thought of two more swaps while I was hanging out in the comments: fountain pens and Auspen (a refillable dry-erase marker in an aluminum body).
I got both for school and they have been so handy
@Amy Sternheim all children in the netherlands learn to write with a fountain pen, it just takes a little getting used to. I still always write with a fountain pen, but I never have any spills unless I drop it which seems to be the case for most people
I mean, FPs can leak/bleed/feather on papers that are highly fibrous but thats it?
@Amy Sternheim that might have to do with the quality of the pen. I've used my kaweco fountain pen for six years now and never had a problem. I mean, it's a continuous flowing ink if the nib is touching something, so you shouldn't leave it uncapped on a discarded item of clothing or something, but you shouldn't leave pens uncapped anyway.
You can also get ballpoint pens that have replaceable ink cartridges, they are very big in the wood working community, most common in the US is Cross. The cartridge is still disposable, but a single (brand name) cartridge will write more than a disposable plastic pen, and the cartridge is less waste and usually more metal than plastic. The base of the pen is all metal and wood (usually, some people do make them out of plastic) and will last until you loose it.
We just started using a bidet attachment for our toilet, paired with a wash cloth to pat dry, it saves so much toilet paper and the plastic it is wrapped it! I know the water use isn't great, but just a little water does the trick and it's better than the paper version or having cloth versions you have to store and wash.
I think it'd be great if you make a video of things to avoid on vacation, ex: cruise lines, "kissing" dolphins, zero-waste travel tips, etc. :)
only avoid vacines if you have a compromised imune system or an allergy to an ingrediant, better to tollerate a few aches than DIE to a preventable disease.
people kiss dolphins? wouldn’t that give the dolphins anxiety?! FOR GOODNESS SAKES. they’re wild animals who aren’t used to people hugging on them. -.-
Rhiannon no they’re in captivity and trained, they basically just stay in one spot and then you lean in and lightly kiss them, it’s really not traumatic for them. Some people rehabilitate dolphins and the ones that can’t be released are trained, but others take healthy dolphins. And some use those funds to help go towards conservation and education and rehabilitation efforts and others do it just for profit
Katy Sullivan ohhh lol i was imagining someone going up to a wild dolphin and kissing them.
My favorite travel hack is that I use old glasses cases to store my razor, jewelry, and other small items!
If you buy flavored coffee beans or ground coffee, it's the same as the little pods they sell. You can get a stainless steel pod and use whatever you want in it , even tea! Love all the good you spread!
They sell different flavors of coffee in the big bags the same way that they have K Cups. :)
Edit: I have no idea why y’all like this so much but thanks for the likes!
It’s also really easy to make your own coffee syrup that you can flavor however you want.
Or just drink coffee like a grown up.
It's also cheaper to buy in bag vs individual kcups and there are so many varieties. I like godiva brand coffee but we only have a Keurig at work, so I just bring my bagged coffee and reusable kcup.
I was actually gifted a keurig with the reusable pod. I never invested in a keurig because I always thought they were so wasteful but now I can buy whatever coffee I like and enjoy the convenience of the keurig.
I have always used reusable Kcups. I just think people are lazy and don’t want to clean out the coffee grounds so the just use regular kcups so they don’t have to clean up after themselves
As someone who drinks at least a cup of coffee per day and owns a Keurig, the reusable pod is so nice especially since I only like basic coffee for when I'm at home. It's a lot cheaper and less wasteful to buy a bag of ground coffee rather than buying fancy disposable pods. I highly recommend.
Shelbi, I had no idea that microfiber filters existed! That makes me excited since like you, I have a lot of second hand polyester clothes. I will definitely read your blog post about it, but I suggest you make a video on just that subject as well, because I agree that not enough people know about the impact of microfibers *and* that there is something you can do about it.
Thanks again!
Microfiber sheds fibers too and is made of plastic fibers
i don't know if there's a lot more of these out there but there are needleless staplers where they just work almost like a puncher... helps me a lot at work
We had metal "nail files" my whole life. Disposable one is an "Emory board" I remember a pack of those in the medecine chest unused for my whole life.
Colleen Duffy We use the metal ones too.
Metal is the best/lasts longest
I cant use the metal ones lol Even when I'm careful I cut myself with them. But I will give a try to the glass ones
What do you do with the microfibers after they've been filtered out of the washing machine? Like when the filter fills up, do you put the microfibers in the trash?
If you are a camper, collect your fibers, then make little balls from them. They make great fire starters. You can also collect your fiber waste and use it for felting. Be creative 😊 there's always another purpose for things.
godivagal1 I have a thought/question. So I’ve been using my dryer lint as a fire starter but is it a good idea to burn micro plastic fibers? Ugh I think I’m over thinking again. 😔
@@jbobkat4742 well those same poly fibers are in your dryer lint you are using as fire starter already, so you are burning them currently unless you are using strictly cotton clothing, linens etc. It's not ideal, but it's something which one can use the lint collected in the secondary filter.
@@jbobkat4742 carbon is easier used in the environment than polyester. At least if you burn them they are changing chemical properties and being used by pur environment.
Danielle Grenell thank you. That is something I had not considered and feel more comfortable using it as a fire starter. ☺️ I appreciate your feedback!
you could maybe talk about using zippo lighters or refillable lighters over traditional disposable lighters! they still have waste but produce less waste than the typical plastic lighter
Check out arc lighters. :)
Also maybe pros and cons of using something like that versus matches. I’m assuming matchsticks would be compostible?
Or hemp wick :)
There is also rechargeable electrical lighters! :)
Matches my friend. They will light your cigarette light your bbq light your bonfire etc
Love all of this! So realistic! After Christmas this year, I'd love to see some reusable wrapping options - besides reusing paper bags, although that's not terrible but then the tissue paper isn't great. I saw a friend who actually just laid out everyone's presents in beautiful, curated, IG worthy groups on the floor or table and then everyone came in the room at once on Christmas morning to see what they got!
I was talking to a lady who runs a sustainable youth activism program (she was guest lecturing at my uni) and she hates the bio-degradable plastic alternatives. Her biggest problem with them is no-one talks about what they are made from (which is normally corn starch) and how rain forest in countries like Indonesia are being cleared to meet the new demand for all this corn. I haven't fact-checked whether she is correct or not, but I did think it was an interesting point that no one thinks to question the increase in demand for plant-based products, and what impact that has on the environment.
I did a project on this in a Global Environmental Science course in uni (about using corn based fuel more than plastic, but still relevant). She is right. The problem is the sheer amount of corn it takes to produce these products. Not only is the land being cleared, but this is viable food that could feed people in need that instead goes towards products. It's not exactly a secret that in the corporate world, Western consumerism is valued over the lives of the people in exploited countries.
It just goes to show that these issues aren't black and white, they're very complex. It's actually kind of terrifying when I think about it. I think it points to the fact that all products produce a certain amount of damage in their production.
That's why I generally tend think reusable is the best option. Not even because the waste is being lessened but because less product has to be made and resources used overall when we can just purchase something once.
Kayla M. Thats such a gross but important point. We are literally growing food to turn into trash while so many go without. I 100% agree you that reusable is the best option, for things like bin bags I am still unsure what the best option would be.
Not to mention all of that corn is GMO and sprayed with scientifically proven ( in the California courts) cancer causing pesticides ( glyphosate). All making a horribly unethical company ( Monsanto/Bayer) extremely rich and more powerful.
aley baldoni very good point. I think its also worth mentioning that many people don’t compost those biodegradable products anyway. I know at my university they switched to compostable cups and takeout containers, which was a nice effort, but they all ended up in the trash cans. When something goes to landfill, it does not get a chance to biodegrade anyway.
I wonder if there is an alternative to corn starch. I'm gluten intolerant and a lot of things that call for flower, you put corn starch in it.
A bit of an odd one but a bidet! The brand TUSHY sells great ones and bidets are so much better for you on so many levels. Saves you from needing so much toilet paper! Also a guppy friend washing bag is what I use to catch the microfibers from my clothing, it’s not made of plastic and may be more sustainable. I feel like another one that’s not talked about often is unpaper towels. I’ve seen ones where they’re cloth but rolled up like paper towels and attached to each other with buttons. You could look them up on Etsy to see what I’m talking about!
I would LOVE to see a full review and tutorial on that microfiber filter. I think it could be really helpful for people wanting to purchase one.
For some reason, I’m really glad to hear you live with your sister who isn’t zero waste.
I do the majority of the shopping for our household, but all three of us are varying degrees of Zero Waste. I cringe when I buy most of their stuff, but it’s not up to me to tell other adults what they shouldn’t buy. I try to counter it all by recycling everything, but I have no confidence that those items don’t end up in a landfill anyway. If it weren’t so expensive, I would Terracycle all of it.
In Germany we call tissues Tempo’s, Tampons O.B.’s, and paper towels Zewa’s lol all after the brand names 😅
aberdeen yeah I’m always like “Hast du ein Taschentuch?” cuz I learnt German in Italy and my classmates go “do you mean a Tempo?”😂😂
My mom grew up in Dominican Republic. I grew up hearing menstrual pads Kotex even though we used Always in my house. I guess that's what they're called over there. I still call them Kotex instead of pads lol.
Tbh I say „taschentuch“ (=tissues), not Tempo :D And I live in Austria. Nobody says tempos here actually. But that might be an German thing so yeah lmao (we also don‘t say the other things)
In the UK and Ireland, A vacuum cleaner is usually called a "Hoover" which is a brand name. It's even used as a verb - to hoover the house.
Ugh this would have been so useful when I was there I was all like "wo sind die Papiertücher?" Like an obvious foreigner looking at my google translate hahaha (granted with my accent I wouldn't fool anyone)! But it's fun to know
I love that you shine a light on this topic that I haven’t seen anyone else do. I appreciate your advice so much !!!!
I would love to see an updated video on low waste pet/cat care! I swapped clay litter for pine pellets and it has been awesome so far.
I use pine as well! Shavings, not pellets, though. And those BioBags she put on screen when talking about trash bags? If you didn't know, they make pet size ones, too! I've been using them for the litter box for at least a year and I adore them.
I've been thinking of switching to pine pellets. Any tips on the transition?
I would love this, too!
Y'all. We switched to pine pellets and were buying Feline Pine brand but then we peeped a video on TH-cam and Tractor Supply or Feed and Seeds in your area LEGIT will have a huge bag for $10 and will save you maximum ca$$h. It's incredible.
We just switched to pine pellets. It's only been a little over a week, so I am mixing the pine pellets with the clay litter in a 50/50 mix. No problems at all so far, and we have 3 cats.
Shelbi, your whole aesthetic in this video is TO DIE FOR. I hope you know how gorgeous of a human you are, inside and out ✨ I’m over here just like 😍
As far as the swaps go: my aunt got me a crystal nail file when I was in middle school so I’ve always had one and they’re great! I also really liked what you said about compostable trash bags and how while they don’t have a HUGE impact they can be beneficial for the reasons you mentioned.
And I just want to say that I’ve been subscribed to you for six months or so now and you’ve helped me a lot. I went to school for environmental conservation & sustainability but (as I’m sure you know) we weren’t always talking about day to day personal lifestyle changes. I was always wishing for a class like that and there wasn’t one at my school. You’ve helped me so much to be able to find ethical places to shop from and make swaps that I’d never even heard of. So I just wanted to take a minute to say a sincere ✨thank you✨ to you for that. I’m sure TH-cam can get intense at times and I wanted to remind you that you’re making a difference. 💜
Can’t wait to hear about the filter for laundry.
Love both of your points about second-hand clothing and trash bags! I share those thoughts of, "Well, yeah, it's not PERFECT, but it's definitely BETTER!" I really struggle with feeling guilty that I'm not doing enough, so it's great to hear. I also LOVE my glass nail file.
I line my small compost bin on my counter top with old newspaper (there’s a free advertiser newspaper in my area). I can empty the food scraps and paper in one go so makes it easier to clean the bin
This is a great idea!
Hey girl,
Love your videos, keep it up!
I do use a reusable "Q-tip", made of silicone, (the first picture you used to describe this product) and its great, for anyone wondering!! It works the same as the disposable ones, and I haven't had a problem with using it at all!!
Another 'zero waste swap no-one talks about' that I use is reusable cotton tea bags. Obviously at home, I just use a tea strainer with my loose leaf tea. But for work and when I'm travelling (which is a lot for work), I use my loose leaf tea in these reusable tea bags. They work really well, and I can't tell you how many awesome conversations I've managed to start with random people about waste (and hidden plastic in disposable teabags) just from using these on the plane.
Thanks for all your inspiring videos, and hope this helps!!
I use reuseable silicone muffin cups instead of disposable ones!
Me too! Love them!
I honestly respect you so much for the fact that you don't just talk beyond where your knowledge extends (like with the seahorse Q-Tip images). It really shows your genuine care for the environment and the pursuit of truth. Thank you!
Aweh you included my nail file comment! 😂I’m so glad it was able to help people! I LOVE these videos! Please keep them coming! It’s great for those of us who have already got the basics down and could use ideas to take it further! ❤️
Ashley Lawrence, I saw your comment on the last video, too, and that's what I asked my husband to get for my birthday. It's still an adjustment for me to have a file that doesn't have the "gritty" look that I'm used to, but the glass file does work surprisingly well.
I also read your comment and bought one and I love it! It’s a little less satisfying, in some weird way, but it works beautifully. Wouldn’t go back, so thanks!
penngheeney ahhaa I know what you mean! None of that sandpaper feel! My husband actually used to cringe at the sound of the disposable ones. The crystal he doesn’t even notice I’m doing it 😂
Anahid Kassabian 😂😂😂 I know what you mean! It’s an adjustment because it almost feels wrong that it feels smooth instead of like sandpaper 😂😂😂 so glad you’re liking it!
I have sensory issues with the sound and feeling from using the sandpaper ones and even the metal ones but now with glass ones, it's a much more pleasant experience!! Thank you so much!
Love the series! I have another one: clothespins! I found some really cool metal ones that will probably last me for years. On top of that, they don’t leave marks on my clothes (had problems with that in the past).
I've never seen metal clothes pins. Where did you find them?
They’re from a French company called Pincinox. Here in Europe you can find them in many sustainable online shops! They’re amazing.
I know it might demonetize your video in about 0.5 seconds but if you have recommendations for zero waste/less plastic bedroom supplies I would love to hear them
why would it demonetize her video??
Sarah Mahnke-Baum omg yes this! Lube in none plastic packaging is crazy!
@@nikkihitchcock7020 oh shit I'm dumb I thought that by bedroom supplies you meant like bedsheets and stuff like that💀😂
@@nikkihitchcock7020 If you're in a stable relationship and not using condoms, then coconut oil will do the job (and smell better and not become sticky).
The problem is you cannot use it with condoms because it breaks down the latex... (and you don't want that !!)
Carmen Alns Same I was so confused. I think she could have used the word intimate instead of bedroom. But I think that this would be a very good video idea
@12:38 Stores do sell different flavored coffees in regular sized bags, so maybe it's just a matter of buying some of those if you're the kind of person who likes flavored coffee. I use other coffee-making devices at home, but my office has a Keurig so I do sometimes use the reusable pods if I haven't brought my own pre-made coffee from home.
I love the idea of highlighter pencils, plastic ones can dry out and be a waste. I was given a keurig, I don’t drink coffee so I wasn’t sure I would use it but I was glad it came with the reusable filter so I can try loose teas!
I was literally thinking to myself today 'I should try and find a TH-camr that covers zero waste swaps that aren't spoken about'... because the videos I keep finding in regards to these swaps are getting a bit repetitive (personally) and I am ready to take the next step but I don't know where to go from the classic 'bring your own bags to stores' 'bring your own mug and cutlery' 'start composting' etc... Then I magically stumbled apon your channel hours after these thoughts! Love this video, girl. You have such a relaxed and informative approach and I dig it. Please continue this series!!! xoxo
I would love if you did a ditl video of installing the microfiber filter liek you did the rain barrels. :) I've been looknig at those and loved how easy you made the rain barrels look.
In regards to the K Cups, I used to work in an office that only had a Keurig and that’s why I used the reusable pods. I don’t have one in my own home, but it was nice to be able to use a reusable option for when I was there.
I use the reusable kcup (: I just used this morning. you can use any type of coffee flavor, you just pour it in the cup and put it in Keurig
Reyna Melgar I’m going to start using one :)
@@MarielaMerino you should! it's super easy to use
Another great option for making coffee is a nespresso machine.
They also have a reusable pod but if you wanted to go the single use pod option they are made of aluminum and you can send them back to the company for reuse.
In my home I tend to use the reusable pod but I introduced the single use pods at my job since companies seem to be the worst when it comes to K Cups going straight into the trash
(These machines do espresso as well as a normal cup of coffee to keep everyone happy)
I thought you were talking about those menstrual cups and I was like "hol' up 😯☝️"
@@micahfoote7270 😂😂😂😂
I think a simple kettle and French press situation works better for me than a whole machine and k-cup situation. I buy a coffee that I really love flavour wise and make as much as I’m going to bring in my French press 1-4 cups. I end up using it way more than my coffee maker. The only time the coffee maker comes out is when we have a large gathering of friends that all want to drink coffee.
I appreciate your perspective on compostable trash bags!! I have always been torn about that idea; thanks for sharing!
I never saw a disposable nail file until I was maybe 17. I have a mineral nail file since 7 years a love it. My mom has a metal nail file and they were the only nail files I knew in my childhood. (and I'm not that old, I'm in my 20s, but maybe the products in a small villages in Germany were just old fashion back than ...)
And I wanted to mention that there are also complety compostable reusable bamboo 'Qtips' available. At least in Germany, of course I don't know if the company is also selling in the US. But they are really great. I bought mine around 1 year ago and it still looks pretty new.
Thank you for the great content. Lots of love 💚
I already own the metal ear-cleaners! I've used them over a year and love them. But I can't believe I finally already own something mentioned in a video. I'm so proud 😂😂😂😂
Uh that's awesome!
I've just learned about them now and I'm not gonna lie, I don't know how I feel about pushing metal around my ear, not that the conventional ones are better😂
I have two questions about your experience with it. Does it feel cold? Can it scratch your ear?
I’ve had some for about a year and I love them. It does take some time to get used to them though. I feel like they do a better job at cleaning. They do feel a bit cold and it does feel like a little scratch especially if you have a scab
MsRainingDays Hmmm. Personally I don’t find them cold. But they definitely CAN scratch your ear. It depends on how hard you push and which ones you use. The kit I bought has 6 or 7 tools. Some for scooping, some for scraping, small and big. You experiment and get to know which tools to use when so by the end it does a much better job cleaning than a cotton swap. If you’re worried there is this one, looks kinda like a coiled spring shaped like a Qtip. It’s soft and no matter how hard you push doesn’t do any real damage. It’s the easiest to use and usually the first you use till you decide you need more. Sorry if that’s too much detail 😂
I ordered mine a few wks ago on ebay...got a gift card from work for xmas and got a dry shaver the stainless steel ear curetttes and a waterpik without spending my $ all sustainable products to reduce the onset of disposables 😊
Please make that microfiber filter video, I've just started hearing about it and I would love to know more.
I used to have a crystal nail filer when I was a kid
I definitely think there is more of a benefit to using compostable trash bags than you lead on. Not because of the after effects of the plastic, but the extraction of petroleum to make the plastic and the emissions that come along with that. I’d think using a compostable bag would have a much lower carbon footprint regardless of how it breaks down in landfill.
I love this series! Keep them coming they're so helpful and your energy is contagious! Love ya Shelbie!
I do love my Keurig but always use my reusable filter. You can find lots of flavored coffees now but I just use good old Maxwell House. Also, the plastic pods and foil covers are both recyclable. Learning so much from you and I’m 63 so you can teach an old dog new tricks. A photo can be used as a thank you note and if it’s the right photo it will never be thrown away!
Another zero waste swap(kinda) is a plant milk maker. Like they sell them and you can buy bulk what your gonna make your milk out of. Instead of buying a million milk cartons and espically because some plant milk bottles are so small.
You can also make milk with a blender and nut milk bag or cheesecloth
Charlie R Oh yeah! I totally forgot about those options too. Thanks!
I'm glad you touched on the topic of trash bags because I was looking for solutions and didn't see many people talk about them
I never liked nail files. The feeling and sound makes me want to die 🤣
Reusable k-cups are one of my all time favorite swaps! I used to use the disposable ones all the time because I'm the only decaf drinker of my friends and family, but they were so wasteful I stopped drinking coffee all together for a while. Then someone gifted me a coffee maker that came with a reusable k-cup and it changed my life! I used it all the time now.
One way that you can keep from wasting coffee is putting whatever sweetener or sugar alternative that you use into it and pouring it into ice cube trays and then keeping those on hand for any type of cold coffee that you drink.
Yes!! Keep this series going!! Need these obscure swaps in my life !! Haha
I have never EVER seen a glass nail file. What!?
An idea: reusable aluminium foil sheet (amazing for cooking all sorts of things in the oven!)
Fall was a while ago where I live in Canada . Winter started over a month ago ☃️❄
Mont Bleu nail files. I LOVE mine. Came with a full size and travel size. Decorated with swarovski crystals. No more junky disposable files for me!
I use a reusable k-cup and love it! I first bought my Keurig when I lived alone and didn’t want to brew a whole pot of coffee for just myself. Now that I’m married with kids, it’s even handier! I buy my hazelnut flavored coffee in big bags, my husband uses the pod for his decaf coffee, I can make tea with it and even hot chocolate for my kids.
I bought mine just for tea and hot chocolate. It wonderful for that and I don't waste energy heating up an entire pot of water.
You don't have to make a whole coffee pot. Just pour a cup of water in there and the amount of coffee for yourself and you are good to go! I do this way.
I crochet and I found some patterns for reusable face scrubbies, like those little cotton rounds to remove makeup. Just need some 100% cotton yarn, wanna find a jar with a nice wide mouth to keep a set in.
Also crocheted cotton dishcloths instead of buying plastic sponges.
I love those pencil highlighters! Sometimes they are difficult to find offline. So in a pinch, a coloured pencil crayon works well too!
I’ve had my crystal nail file for 7 years now. I love it! UNNI biodegradable trash bags work really well too and they’re packaged in cardboard.
You're the person who got me into zero waste and gives me the ability to keep going on my journey!! Thank you so much for being such an inspiring person and making such phenomenal videos :)
so glad you talked about trash bags!!! another pro to compostable, even though they end up in the landfill, they're often less resource intensive to manufacture than your generic plastic trash bag!
I always used a metal nail file, and jeez do they last forever.
zero waste chapstick ? perfume without the little plastic tubes ? idk a lot of beauty products i feel like don’t get talked about and for some i don’t know where to look.
The seahorse photo was printed in National Geographic, so I really doubt that it was photoshopped.
Thanks for the video! Nothing particularly new for me this time, but most probably because I look around for things a lot. Already had my glass nail file before trying to create less waste, as it is just much better for the nails.
Two things to maybe look into: the everlast notebooks to stop creating paper waste from note taking.
As well as the leaf shaver, for people who like more then one blade.
Just cause you said you read ALL your comments just wanted to let you know I binged watched about 50 of your videos in the last 48h after discovering your channel randomly 🤗 😂😘
Valerie Saubrement same 😂
Asked for a microfiber filter for Christmas! Cant wait
Late to the party, but I love Nespresso as an alternative to Keurig! Their pods are 100% aluminum, so they can be recycled essentially infinitely. They have a free recycling program that makes it super easy!
I was wondering why nobody had mentioned this yet!
Careful of aluminum, especially heating it as it is a toxin that disrupts your endocrine system. Most all people who have alzhiemers have aluminum deposits in their brains at autopsy. Nix the antiperspirant too.
I have a crystal nail file at work and a stone/ceramic one I keep in my purse. The ceramic I've had for years and it's the best I've ever used. Still works wonderfully to this day.
Snow in much of Europe... „Hey, it’s fall!“ 😂
Snow in North of North America but then it is actually technically fall until the winter solstice if you follow the astronomical definition. ( Using the meteorological definition of winter season, fall ended end of November so not far off)
I have been taking about microfiber filters a lot. Such a huge thing and people don’t know about it
I switched to a glass file and love it!
I like to use old pillow cases for bedroom/bathroom trash cans and then empty into the big trash can later.
Crystal Peil how do you deal with sticky or gross stuff?? Like period products, used tissues, etc etc??
brittianica wash it in the washing machine.
Erika Ramirez well yeah but I mean during the “emptying the trash” stage. The sticky stuff is gonna stick to the sides of the trash can and then you’re gonna have to dig it out lol. Not unreasonable but potentially super gross
brittianica yes I get it and using more toilet paper or tissues to wrap them up is kind of against the point. I usually use left over plastic bags or even empty tissue boxes.
Literally watching this video drinking coffee I made at home with my pour-over lol.... As an engineer, I'm a HUGE coffee drinker, and so are my coworkers. Every office I've ever worked in has had at least 2 coffee machines, and usually 1 of them is a Keurig. Some of my coworkers have a reusable k-cup that they use for that. There's actually a whole world of fun coffee flavors (and alot of brands are zero-waste) that you can buy to put in your k-cup, your pour-over, your French press, or whatever sustainable coffee making process you prefer. You can buy in bulk metal containers or even different sizes of paper/compostable baggies. I often feel like sustainable coffee is a huge subgenre of the sustainability community. I love your videos! xoxo
An advanced swap I learned about recently is that U-Haul has message boards for people to give away used moving boxes when theyre done! Also would LOVE to see a video about where to donate different stuff when you move/want to clean out. Other than goodwill and salvation army who Imo have some questionable practices (goodwill discriminates against people with disabilities and SA against the LGBT community)
Yes, I have a reusable K cup and we buy Coffee in Bulk and you can also get different flavor coffees in big bags to just scoop into your reusable cup. However I prefer regular coffee and just adding my own flavored creamer into it.
Re: Nail files. When I was about 14 (I'm 45 now) I got a nice metal one with a plastic handle. The plastic broke off after about 10 years, but the metal part remained intact AND I still use it to this day. I haven't found ANY this good. I tried to replace it a few times just to have a handle, but after a while I gave up. I do also own one of the crystal ones. It's nice to 'finish' the edges once the metal one has done it's job :)
This is very late, but have you tried asking a carpenter what it would cost to make a wooden handle for your nail file?
I guess you're used to not having a handle by now, but that would be my first thought if the plastic handle of something breaks (and I could afford it).
@@VanLouProductions I just might do that someday! It's already an 'antique' (lol) so it deserves special treatment hehe :)
Have to admit I giggled at the beginning. Fall haha! Where I live we already have a foot of snow. Love these advanced swap videos :)
Yeah and a metal nail file. And I heard sand stone is good for filing nails
I've used my crystal nail file for years - since I first saw them on a market stall. I also bought one each for my daughters when they were teenagers and used them as a stocking filler. The crystal file is so much better than the sandpaper type, a very s filing process that gives a lovely finish.
Oh I remember when my mum hosted Japanese students in London and they used to use those metal ones!
the eco friendly trash bags seem awesome! i do beach/parks/road cleanups often and always use trash bags to hold the trash i pick up and always feel bad about it, i’ve been thinking about getting burlap bags but then when i go to throw away what i’ve picked up it would just fly out of the truck like you said, i’ll definitely look into them!!! ❤️
Oooo those highlighting pencils are awesome !!!! 🙌🏼 I’m a full time student and I have been in need of a replacement for highlighters those are perfect 😍👌🏻💕
A couple ideas from à Montréal dog & cat mom for city living!
- paper recycling bags, were obligated to put recycling in bags in my area. We buy big leaf bags that aren’t lined with plastic and they accept them for recycling
- news paper origami/paper bags for city compost instead of the compostable faux-plastic ones
- wood chip/paper cat litter. I can flush or throw away the poop and then compost the litter so no need for the clay one.
- I live in a housing cooperative in the city, for the dog we have compostable bags that we can compost for #2 but we also have a burrying spot in the backyard we’re ne leave the poop and switch up the spot from time to time.
Thank you for the great content!!