10 Real-Life Plastic-Free Swaps That Actually Work (From a Mom of 3 Who Gets It)
Hey friends,
If you’re anything like me — a busy mom juggling school drop-offs, snack requests every 15 minutes, and the mountain of laundry that never disappears — the idea of going completely plastic-free can feel, well… impossible. I’ve been on this journey for a while now (let’s just say I started before reusable straws were trendy), and I’ll be the first to admit: it’s hard. Especially with kids.
But here’s the thing — every little plastic-free swap does make a difference. Over time, those changes add up. And what I’ve found is that when I involve the kids, when we talk about the why behind it, they actually get excited about the process. (Okay, maybe not excited, but at least mildly interested, which I count as a win.)
So, in honor of Plastic Free July, I wanted to share 10 Real-Life Plastic-Free Swaps That Actually Work for us — nothing fancy or extreme, just real-life changes that fit into a family lifestyle.
1. Ditch the Plastic Bottles for Reusable Ones
We used to go through those little plastic water bottles like crazy — especially during sports seasons. Now, each kid has their own stainless steel water bottle. They’re sturdy, dishwasher safe (bless), and we haven’t looked back.
2. Reusable Shopping Bags Are a Must-Have
I keep a stash of cloth bags in the trunk and one in my purse. They’re a lifesaver for spontaneous grocery stops. Bonus: my kids love picking out their own “shopping bag,” which weirdly makes errands slightly more fun.
3. Switch to Bar Soap (Even for the Kids)
I used to be a body wash-only person, but bar soaps have come a long way. There are gentle, fun-scented options that the kids like, and no plastic bottles to deal with. And why stop at the soap? you can also use shampoo and conditioner bars instead of plastic bottles. Less clutter in the shower, too — win-win.
4. Bring Your Own Coffee Cup
Okay, this one is for the moms (because let’s be honest, caffeine is survival fuel). A reusable cup means fewer plastic lids and cups, and most coffee shops give you a small discount for using your own. Every little bit counts!
5. Beeswax Wraps Instead of Cling Film
Packing lunches? Beeswax wraps are awesome for wrapping sandwiches and snacks. At first, they felt a little weird, but now they’re just part of our lunch-packing routine. Plus, they come in fun patterns that make lunch boxes cuter.
6. Reusable Cutlery Sets
I toss a set of bamboo utensils in each kid’s lunchbox and keep one in the car for emergencies. Way better than grabbing plastic forks on the go.
7. Safety Razor for the Win
This one’s for you again, mama. I switched to a stainless steel safety razor a couple years ago and haven’t bought a plastic one since. It’s a bit of an adjustment at first, but so worth it in the long run (and better for your skin, too!).
8. Plastic-Free Toilet Paper
You don’t realize how much plastic is on TP until you try to avoid it. We now order in bulk from a company that ships paper-wrapped rolls and as a bonus, it’s does not require any trees to be used to make it. No plastic packaging, and it lasts forever.
9. Natural Cleaning Tools
Those plastic sponges wear out quickly and shed microplastics. We switched to compostable scrubbers and wooden dish brushes, I make my household cleaners from baking soda, soap and vinegar — and honestly? They work better and look prettier on the sink.
10. Refill, Refill, Refill
I bring my own containers to a local refill store for shampoo, dish soap, laundry detergent… all the things. It’s a little extra effort, but now it’s just part of our rhythm. My kids even help pour the soap (which is always a mildly terrifying but memorable experience).
Look, I’m not perfect. We still have plastic in our home. Sometimes the day gets away from me and I grab a snack wrapped in plastic because that’s what I have. And that’s okay.
Plastic Free July isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being mindful. Making swaps where we can. Teaching our kids that small actions matter. Did you know there are many products you might not know you can easily buy plastic free?
If you’re starting out — pick one thing from this list. Just one. And start there. You’ll be surprised at how one change leads to another. And soon enough, you’ve built habits that stick.
We’re in this together 💚
xo,
A Plastic-Free(ish) Mama
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