Alternatives to Plastic Product Ideas: Keep It Local!!
The easiest way to begin the journey from plastics to alternatives, I have found, is to begin with one item or habit. Once that change becomes part of your routine, consider a second alternative to try. And so on. I’ve been asked to offer some suggestions on products that I have used and find acceptable – or better – than products that are packaged in plastic.
The most sustainable way to purchase plastic alternatives is to find local suppliers. My one-stop shop store is KnoxFill, a refillery located in South Knoxville. I now use a number of their products and look forward to trying more in the future. Check out their website at knoxfill.com or visit them at 3211 South Haven Rd., Knoxville, 37920. You can order online and have it delivered to a pickup site, located in and around the Knoxville area.
Toothpaste was the first product I experimented with as an alternative purchase. Tooth bites replace paste, thus eliminating plastic tubes from landfills. Tooth bites are similar to a candied mint. Chomp down once or twice, add a splash or two of water, and brush as usual. Initially, I purchased through bitetoothpastebits.com. I was very satisfied with the product, but as tooth bites became more popular and available locally, I switched to KnoxFill Refillery. They can occasionally be found at some mainline stores -- I’ve seen them at Trader Joe’s once or twice.
Toothbrushes were the next product I experimented with replacing. Typically, wherever tooth bites are found, bamboo toothbrushes can also be found. This was true of bitetoothpastebits.com and knoxfill.com. I’ve also found bamboo toothbrushes at The Dollar Store, Three Rivers CoOp, and Trader Joes. No more plastic handles!
Plastic Straws can easily be replaced. I have purchased metal straws that are very affordable, and I try to always carry one with me. Refuse straws in restaurants. Either go without or bring your own metal straw, but don’t forget it when you leave!!! A quick google search will point you I the right direction. Locally, KnoxFill carries them, and I’ve also seen them at Kroger.
Toilet Paper plastic packaging can be avoided by ordering online through companies that offer sustainable TP as well as sustainable packaging. Bamboo TP is a great alternative and saves trees – a twofer. I’m most familiar with the brand whogivesacrap.org, and I’ve also heard good things about reelpaper.com.
Laundry Detergent. Plastic containers of liquid laundry detergent can be replaced with dry sheets purchased at earthbreeze.com. This is a mail order service that works well and is delivered per your preference. One downside is that this product is manufactured in China (a fact I’ve only recently discovered). So, as soon as I use up my current order, I plan to switch to the liquid detergent from KnoxFill. If you’re interested, Three Rivers Market currently has a self- service kiosk of three liquid cleaning products from KnoxFill. It is a trial and I believe it runs for another month or so.
Shampoo & Conditioner. Plastic bottles can be replaced by shampoo and conditioner bars. Again, knoxfill.com carries both bars and liquid (refillable) shampoo and conditioner. A quick web search will provide a number of companies selling bars. Check out sustainablejungle.com, which contains an article entitled “13 Zero Waste Shampoo & Conditioners for a Plastic Free Do.”
Alternative Practices – Think Like Your Grandparents!!
Use whatever plastic containers you currently have in your home until they can no longer be reused. Gradually replace plastic containers with glass containers. Or, get creative and reuse glass jars that once held food or drink.
Try to eliminate purchasing plastic whenever possible.
REUSE plastic packaging as long as possible, for leftovers or to hold craft items, loose items around the house. Plastic packages that are resealable are particularly good for holding leftovers.
BYOB while shopping. Use tote bags to carry home purchases. Reuse one-use clear plastic bags for produce, bulk beans, or grains).
Deodorant. Make your own, it isn’t difficult. Here is a recipe that works for a three-month supply:
Combine the following in a short, wide-mouth jar:
2 tablespoons baking soda
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 tablespoon melted coconut oil (or more to reach desired consistency)
10-20 drops of an essential oil you find appealing
Apply about a pea-sized amount. I use a recycled popsicle stick as an applicator.
What are some of the products you’ve discovered in your alternative to plastic journey? Please share your stories of what worked and what didn’t work.