Zero Waste Kit: (Almost) Everything You Need To Live Sustainably Image by Sustainable Jungle #zerowastekit #Zerowasteeverydaykit #sustainablejungle
Image by Sustainable Jungle
Zero Waste Kit: (Almost) Everything You Need To Live Sustainably Image by Sustainable Jungle #zerowastekit #Zerowasteeverydaykit #sustainablejungle
Image by Sustainable Jungle
And a good place to start living the life of less waste is a zero waste kit Image by Spruce And Pine Co on Etsy #zerowastekit #Zerowasteeverydaykit #sustainablejungle
Image by Spruce And Pine Co on Etsy

Zero Waste Kit: (Almost) Everything You Need To Live Sustainably


Global waste is out of control. But if you’re here, you a) already know that and b). want to minimize your environmental impact.

It also means that you’re likely considering adopting (or already have adopted) the principles of a zero waste lifestyle. And a good place to start living the life of less waste is to build a zero waste kit

While zero-waste is an amazing idea, we believe it’s important to know that “zero waste” is an ideal.

Which also means that no-one can achieve that ultimate goal, completely.

But progress over perfection, right?

Implementing small changes over a period of time matters tremendously. It moves us from one end of the waste spectrum to the other. 

But once you have a zero waste plan in place, sometimes you just need the right tools (or toolkit) to help you be as effective as you can. Think of this zero waste everyday kit as a survival kit.

The stuff you really can’t live without when trying to go zero-waste.

It is, by no means, everything you need to be fully prepared for this lifestyle, but it’s a great way to get into it. To help build the habit.

When we first made the switch, these were the things we found invaluable to make the transition, things we use on a daily basis. However, remember to first use what you have already – the ultimate zero waste hack!

So without further ado, here’s what’s in our zero waste kit (or at least what we’re working towards!).

*This post contains affilate links

1. REUSABLE CUP

Zero Waste Kit: (Almost) Everything You Need To Live Sustainably Image by Sustainable Jungle #zerowastekit #Zerowasteeverydaykit #sustainablejungle
Image by Sustainable Jungle

About Reusable Cups

Zero waste containers (including a reusable cup) of all shapes and sizes are critical.

Let’s stop with the single use coffee cups and plastic bottles already! 

Eco friendly water bottles and cups are the easiest sustainable living swap to make, if you haven’t already.

Coffee, tea, hot chocolate, whatever your poison, this is a must-have item (for anyone, not just zero-wasters). It also makes a lot of financial cents (excuse the pun).

Think about it: really good ground coffee costs about $7 per week.

Buying coffee out every day, alternatively, would be roughly $30 per week at least. Over a year, that’s like a $5,000 saving!  It pays to make at home and use a reusable cup!

And if you must buy out (because let’s be honest, the coffee does taste better), then look out for cafes that offer discounts for bringing your reusables.

Where to buy a Reusable Cup

We recommend a stainless steel insulated cup because it keeps your drink HOT or COLD, ALL DAY.

We’ve tried a bunch over the years, like the Zioroshi, the Keep Cup, the Hydroflask and most recently Frank Green. As you can tell we love our reusables.

We’re big fans of the Hydroflask as it’s super robust, great for coffee and cold liquids. We’ve used ours for years for everything from camping to days at the office.


2. REUSABLE UTENSILS & STAINLESS STEEL STRAW

And a good place to start living the life of less waste is a zero waste kit Image by Spruce And Pine Co on Etsy #zerowastekit #Zerowasteeverydaykit #sustainablejungle
Image by Spruce And Pine Co on Etsy

About Reusable Utensils

Replace disposable plastic utensils with sustainable cutlery like these stainless steel or bamboo alternatives.

This is all about the habit. Keep a set in your purse or briefcase and never find yourself picking up plastic at the office cafeteria.

Or worse, having brought your own lunch but realizing you’ve forgotten the tools to eat (come on, we’ve all been there). If you’re a straw person, don’t forget the stainless steel straw!

Where to buy Reusable Utensils

There are loads of options on Etsy. Our favorite store is Spruce And Pine Co who make a whole range of zero waste cutlery kits that come in super stylish and handy pouches (as pictured above).


3. REUSABLE GROCERY BAGS

And a good place to start living the life of less waste is a zero waste kit Image by DR Hand Knit Goods on Etsy (recycled denim, handmade bag) #zerowastekit #Zerowasteeverydaykit #sustainablejungle
Image by DR Hand Knit Goods on Etsy (recycled denim, handmade bag)

About Reusable Grocery Bags

Instead of building up that annoying and environmentally destructive pile of plastic bags beneath your kitchen sink, switch to reusable bags.

Even if you’re not going zero-waste, everyone should make the switch. Plastic pollution is rife, including in your house, so it’s a win win.

Where to buy Reusable Grocery Bags

Chances are, you probably have some bags lying around that will work, but if you have to buy, they’re cheap and available online.

DR Hand Knit Goods makes a stylish recycled denim bag. Otherwise, these look like the best reusable bags we could find in each country: USA, Canada, UK and Europe.


4. PRODUCE BAGS

And a good place to start living the life of less waste is a zero waste kit Image by Oh Little Rabbit on Etsy #zerowastekit #Zerowasteeverydaykit #sustainablejungle
Image by Oh Little Rabbit on Etsy

About Produce Bags

Those little thin plastic bags you put produce in really add up.  

While many things can be collected without a bag at all, some things (like leafy greens) are a little awkward to transport without it.  

These are easily replaced with small organic cotton or mesh bags, which you can even make yourself out of scraps of fabric or old t-shirts you don’t wear anymore.

Where to buy Produce Bags

If you’re not DIY-crafty (not to worry we aren’t great at this either) you can easily pick one up on Etsy for some homemade artisan reusable totes. We love the look of the above pictured from Oh Little Rabbit on Etsy.

Otherwise, here are some of the best options we could find on your local Etsy store in the US, Canada, UK and Australia.


5. BAMBOO, ZERO WASTE TOOTHPASTE AND FLOSS

And a good place to start living the life of less waste is a zero waste kit #zerowastekit #Zerowasteeverydaykit #sustainablejungle

About Bamboo Toothbrushes

On average, one person will go through about 300 toothbrushes in their lifetime.  

Check out this video on the Life of a Toothbrush if you don’t believe us. It’s horrifying!

Instead of a plastic handle, just swap to a bamboo one, which is biodegradable and sourced from fast-replacing resources.

Just be careful to remove the bristles before composting as no bamboo toothbrush (so far, anyways) has truly compostable bristles (have a read here for more info).

There are heaps of zero waste toothbrushes available.

About Zero Waste Dental Care

If you’re going to get a bamboo toothbrush you may as well tick all the boxes and get zero waste toothpaste and zero waste floss to complete the package. 

Zero waste options for each of these were not so common place (still not that common place) until recently. Both are admittedly pretty hard to manufacture in such a way as to avoid any landfill waste. 

Where to buy Zero Waste Dental Products

We’ve written in-depth articles on all the dental poducts, to save you the time, the top picks would be:

  • For toothbrushes, our pick is Brush with Bamboo where the bamboo handle is paired with plant-based bristles made from 100% Castor Bean Oil and is USDA Certified 100% Biobased
  • For floss it’s the Lucky Teeth – it’s 100% vegan, cruelty-free and comes packaged in a glass jar. Once you’re done with the product, throw it in your compost and it will biodegrade in 60-90 days. Refills come in a small compostable cardboard box
  • For fluoride-free toothpaste, Etee makes their own vegan, zero waste toothtabs
  • For toothpaste with fluoride, Denttabs Toothbrush Tablets would be the best bet. They’re cruelty free, vegan friendly and are sold in fully compostable bags

6. REUSABLE SPRAY BOTTLE

And a good place to start living the life of less waste is a zero waste kit Image by Replenish Co on Etsy #zerowastekit #Zerowasteeverydaykit #sustainablejungle
Image by Replenish Co on Etsy


About Reusable Spray Bottles

Here’s another single-use item that needs to go.

Surprisingly, not a lot of people think about this, but there are many uses for one around the house.

Just get one or two reusable ones (you may have a bunch lying around the house already) and fill them with cleaner from your local bulk store or your own all-natural cleaning agents, essential oil mists, and more!

Here are some recipes for home-made cleaning agents and scents:

Where to buy Reusable Spray Bottles

If you don’t have any spares lying around at home or you need an extra spray bottle pronto, then check out this option by Replenish Co on Etsy (as pictured).

If you live in the UK this amber glass spray bottle looked like a simple yet sturdy option.


7. REFILLLABLE PEN

And a good place to start living the life of less waste is a zero waste kit Image by Lamy #zerowastekit #Zerowasteeverydaykit #sustainablejungle
Image by Lamy

About Refillable Pens

Another item that goes under the radar.

Plastic tubes and lead, these have just as many greenhouse gases emissions as any other plastic product.

Much like the comeback of safety razors, join the latest trend, go back in time and get a classy looking refillable fountain pen you can refill and reuse for years and years (just be sure not to lose it!).

Where to buy Refillable Pens

You can find some pre-loved options on ebay that look like a steal and are still in excellent condition (*remember to look for one with a converter for the ink).

If you want to buy new though, the Lamy Safari is a great option, available in the USUK and Australia (remember to get the converter and a bottle of ink – zero waste gift anyone?).

Take a look at our eco friendly pens guide for more options.


8. COTTON OR REUSABLE CLOTHS

Image by Marley’s Monsters

About Reusable Cloths

These super versatile cloths replaces all sorts of every day papers. Wet wipes, paper napkins, paper towel, Kleenex, cotton balls to name a few.

Another hack that saves a bomb over time.

Keep a couple with you on the go (one as a hanky for your nose and one to dry your hands) and a few more at home for things like make-up removable and zero waste cleaning.

Then just a simple wash is all you need!  

Where to buy Reusable Cloths

You can use old washcloths, cut-up retired t-shirts, or just plain old handkerchiefs. 

But if you need to buy new and want some fun colors that don’t make you feel like your a grandpa, have a look at Marley’s Monsters on Etsy. It’s our favorite and is also available on EarthHero.


9. REUSABLE FOOD WRAPS

And a good place to start living the life of less waste is a zero waste kit Image by Bee Pure Apiary #zerowastekit #Zerowasteeverydaykit #sustainablejungle
Image by Bee Pure Apiary

About Reusable Food Wraps

Instead of using foil, Saran Wrap, and zip-lock bags for food and snacks, switch to reusable and washable beeswax wraps.

They keep food sealed, fresh, and tasty. And pro tip – here’s our guide on how to clean beeswax wraps so they last longer.

Of course, not everyone will jump on board with these, as they’re not vegan friendly, but they definitely eliminate plastic.

If you are vegan, fear not; you can also buy similar wraps that substitute beeswax for plant-based waxes or just go for organic cotton reusable snack/sandwich bags.

Where to buy Reusable Food Wraps

For all types of wraps Etsy definitely has the best artisan home-made selections with some really cool designs. EarthHero also has a decent range of options (including alternatives to food wraps), many of which are vegan.


10. FOOD STORAGE CONTAINER

And a good place to start living the life of less waste is a zero waste kit Image by Earth Hero #zerowastekit #Zerowasteeverydaykit #sustainablejungle
Image by EarthHero

About Food Storage Container

Zero waste containers can be pretty much anything, from reused jars to even that old stained plastic Tupperware in your cupboard.

Just because the zero waste lifestyle tries to minimize plastic use doesn’t mean you can’t continue to use plastic you already own and try to mitigate further waste.

If you want something a little fancier, you can buy plastic free food storage containers in the form of stacking glass or stainless steel bento containers with dividers and airtight lids to keep your food fresh and separated.

Not only can you use at home or for packing in your eco-friendly lunch bags, but you can also bring them to restaurants for leftovers or ordering take-out.  

You can even use them to do bulk shopping or purchase things at the deli counter. It’s easy to forget this on the fly, so get in the habit of keeping one in your bag just in case.

Where to buy Food Storage Containers

It’s always preferable to use what you have but if you need to buy new, EarthHero has an excellent range to choose from.


11. MENSTRUAL CUP

And a good place to start living the life of less waste is a zero waste kit Image by Saalt #zerowastekit #Zerowasteeverydaykit #sustainablejungle
Image by Saalt

About Menstrual Cups

We’re getting a little personal here but a menstrual cup is honestly the best thing ever. They last for about 10 years, replacing about 2,400 tampons worth of waste!

This means no more plastic applicator and wrappers. No more synthetic scented cotton. It’s better for you and for the planet.

Lots of options here, but we like the look of Saalt, because they donate 2% of their revenue to fund programs on sustainability, education, and women in need.

Where to Buy Menstrual Cups

You can find Saalt at ZeroWasteStore. However there are plenty of other options: US and UK.


12. PERIOD UNDERWEAR

Zero Waste Kit: (Almost) Everything You Need To Live Sustainably Image by Sustainable Jungle #zerowastekit #Zerowasteeverydaykit #sustainablejungle
Image by Sustainable Jungle

About Period Underwear

While we’re on the topic of menstruation, period underwear perfectly complements the menstrual cup for your complete zero waste period kit.

Great for overnight or when you just need a break from the cup! We like Modibodi who again, gives back but also, they just really work well!

They have a range of options, including G-strings for lighter days. Big fan over here!


13. COMPLETE SUSTAINABLE KITS

And a good place to start living the life of less waste is a zero waste kit Image by Spruce And Pine Co on Etsy #zerowastekit #Zerowasteeverydaykit #sustainablejungle
Image by Spruce And Pine Co on Etsy

About Complete Zero Waste Kits

If you lead a busy life, you can get ready-to-go pre-made sustainable starter kits.

They usually have all the basics and are a good option for experimenting with a zero waste or sustainable living kit. Of course, if there’s something in particular you need make sure the kit has it covered.

They all come with somewhat different zero waste tools.

Available

Seasoned zero wasters will probably have their favorite products but our best zero waste starter kit is Spruce and Pine Co (again) as we love their designs and there are so many options to choose from.


FINAL THOUGHTS ON BUILDING A ZERO WASTE STARTER KIT

What we love about our zero waste kit is the simplicity of using each of these items. And much like our zero waste swops for toothpaste, haircare, makeup and more, it’s actually very easy.

And the easier it is to make that switch the easier it is to build the habit (which will lead to more motivation and even more improvement on  your path to zero-waste living!).

As always, remember that zero-waste is a journey not a destination, not perfect but totally achievable. By starting with just one (or a few) zero waste changes you’ll make a huge difference.

Sustainability is best achieved not by leaps and bounds, but rather one step (even one as small as a stainless steel straw) at a time.

Feedback / ideas / thoughts welcome in the comments below. If you’d like to receive regular updates from us, subscribe to our newsletter here.


And a good place to start living the life of less waste is a zero waste kit. #zerowastekit #Zerowasteeverydaykit #sustainablejungle

2 thoughts on “Zero Waste Kit: (Almost) Everything You Need To Live Sustainably”

  1. I haven’t tried one yet, but the Dot Cup seems like a great menstrual cup brand since for every one sold they donate one to a person in need.

    Reply

Leave a comment