Now more than ever, families are starting to seriously consider their impact on the environment. If you’re looking to make some small, but mighty, changes to your lifestyle as you head into the new year, we’ve partnered with eco babycare experts Pura to bring you some handy tips on how to be more sustainable as a family.
Are you already on the road to greener living? Do you have any top tips that you’d like to share? We’d love to hear them in the comments below.
How to reduce your plastic consumption
1. Invest in reusable water bottles
Pack reusable water bottles for you and the kids when out and about so that you never go thirsty. If you’re a fan of takeaway coffees, bring a reusable coffee cup with you so that you enjoy your beverage completely guilt-free.
Mumsnetters say: “I absolutely love mine. Everyone in the family has one and some even have two. Would definitely recommend!”
2. Use beeswax wraps
Beeswax wraps are a great alternative to clingfilm when wrapping sandwiches or covering half-eaten snacks. If you’re feeling crafty, you can make your own in next to no time too.
Mumsnetters say: “Wax wraps are easy to make - just cut a square of cotton fabric of the right size and iron on wax (from an art supply shop or grated unscented uncoloured candle). It took about 10 minutes to do three large and six small.”
Related: 10 healthy mushroom recipes
3. Eliminate baby wipes that contain plastic
Baby wipes are handy in almost all eventualities, but 90% of UK wipes contain polluting plastic, including plastic resins that don’t fully biodegrade.
100% plastic-free, 100% biodegradable and 100% compostable baby wipes from brands like Pura will ensure your baby’s bum and the environment are kept clean at the same time. Pura’s baby wipes are highly accredited, allergy-tested and suitable for the most sensitive of skin.
View Pura’s baby wipes
4. Ditch the plastic bags
Swap plastic bags in favour of reusable totes or those made of BPA-free nylon, which will keep your food fresher for longer. You’ll now find reusable vegetable bags available to buy in most supermarkets.
5. Shop ethical toiletries
Fancy a shower with a side of smugness? Shampoo bars could be your new best friend. A zero-plastic haircare option, they are easy to use and last for ages. You’ll find bars for both adults and kids, as well as from well-known brands like Lush.
How to weed out hidden plastics
6. Check your tea bags
You may not realise it, but your daily cuppa could contain billions of microscopic plastic particles, which likely won’t degrade for hundreds of years. Look out for plastic-free tea brands or use compostable loose leaf tea.
Mumsnetters say: “I've gone to PG Tips now they're using plant-based plastic free bags.”
7. Consider eco-friendly sanitary products
Sanitary pads can contain up to 90% plastic and tampons are typically made from plastic too.
Several brands have now created sustainable alternatives to plastic tampons and sanitary pads. These include menstrual cups, which are becoming a hugely popular, eco-friendly option for many women.
Mumsnetters say: “I love my menstrual cup – best decision I ever made. I used to dread every month, but the cup is so liberating. I practically forget I’m on my period.”
How to avoid food waste
8. Plan ahead
Meal planning may well revolutionise your week, allowing you to choose recipes that use the same ingredients. Not only will you feel more organised and spend less time cooking, but you’ll be able to eliminate food waste, use up leftovers and potentially save some money on your weekly shop. Make sure that you’re also using food right up to its Use By date (this differs from the Best Before date).
Mumsnetters say: “My advice would be to meal-plan. Make a list and stick to it when you shop. That way, you buy just for the meals you are making, not for things you fancy making, which will then go off.”
Related: Time-saving batch-cooking recipes
9. Don’t forget your freezer
To make your food last longer and eliminate waste, consider freezing your leftovers. This also includes bread which can be toasted straight from frozen.
10. Embrace imperfection
There’s nothing wrong with ‘wonky’ fruit and veg and it’s often cheaper to buy too. Embrace ‘too small,’ ‘too big’ or blemished food by opting for a veg box subscription. Or keep your eye out for Imperfectly Imperfect ranges at your local supermarket.
Mumsnetters say: “I’m really glad they’ve started selling imperfect fruit and veg. It’s much more affordable.”
About Pura
“We believe being eco-friendly is no longer a luxury, but a necessity. And that we should all be able to look after our planet, simply by looking after our families. We put babies first, with anti-allergy, organic ingredients and sustainable, biodegradable materials. So you’re protecting their skin and protecting their future too. We’re here to empower everyone to protect the future of the planet today, with eco-friendly products that are affordable and accessible for all.”
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