Guide to Going Plastic-Free

Transitioning to a plastic-free home is a journey of "progress over perfection." It is less about throwing away every piece of plastic you own (which actually creates more waste) and more about making intentional choices as items need replacing or when you’re ready to upgrade to a safer, more eco-friendly option.

Here is a room-by-room guide to cultivating a luxe, sustainable, and plastic-free sanctuary.

The Kitchen: The Heart of Sustainability

The kitchen is often the largest source of single-use plastic in the home. Focus on high-quality, natural materials that are durable, functional, and beautiful enough to leave out on your counters.

Food Storage
Swap plastic containers and cling wrap for glass jars, stainless steel bento boxes, glass dishes with bamboo lids, and beeswax wraps. Reuse glass yogurt jars for salad dressings, food prep, spices, and more. These options keep food fresh, reduce waste, and create a clean, intentional look inside cabinets and the refrigerator.

Dish Washing
Replace plastic sponges and bottled dish soap with wooden dish brushes that have replaceable natural fiber heads and solid dish soap or glass dispensers filled with bulk plastic-free refills. Choose organic cotton or linen dish towels, washcloths, or cellulose cloths that are biodegradable, reusable, and easy to wash.

Pantry Staples
Shop the bulk aisle using organic cotton or muslin bags. Transfer dry goods into uniform glass jars for a streamlined, luxe pantry aesthetic that also makes it easier to see what you have on hand.

Reusable Paper Goods
Many conventional paper towels contain hidden plastic, often added as strengthening fibers to make them more durable when wet. Replace them with organic cotton or linen napkins like these from Marley’s Monsters, or reusable Swedish dishcloths. Store them in a small basket or drawer near the sink so they are easy to grab and rotate through the wash. If paper towels are a must, look for compostable options made from recycled or plant-based fibers and packaged in eco-friendly materials.

Coffee and Tea
Avoid single-use pods and tea bags that contain plastic fibers. Opt for a French press, pour-over, or stainless steel reusable pod, and choose loose-leaf tea with a stainless steel infuser.

Produce Shopping and Storage
Use reusable produce bags made from cotton or mesh when shopping. At home, store fruits and vegetables loose in drawers or breathable cloth bags instead of plastic produce bags.

Cooking Utensils
Choose wooden or stainless steel utensils instead of plastic. These materials last longer, do not shed microplastics, and look great displayed in a countertop crock.

Trash and Compost
Use compostable trash bags and consider a small countertop compost bin for food scraps. This reduces plastic liners and cuts down on overall household waste.

Cleaning Supplies
Replace disposable wipes and plastic spray bottles with refillable glass or metal bottles and concentrated or tablet-based cleaners packaged in paper or cardboard.

The Bathroom: A Plastic-Free Spa

Plastic-free swaps in the bathroom create a minimalist, high-end feel by reducing clutter and mismatched packaging.

Personal Care
Switch to shampoo and conditioner bars, many of which come in compostable, elegant packaging, like these from Ethique Beauty.

Shaving
Replace disposable plastic razors with a weighted stainless steel safety razor for a closer shave that lasts a lifetime.

Oral Care
Use a bamboo toothbrush and toothpaste tablets stored in glass jars or compostable pouches.

Refillable Soap and Dispensers
Choose liquid soaps, hand washes, and body washes in refill formats or concentrated versions. Pair them with glass or ceramic dispensers for a clean, cohesive look.

Plastic-Free Deodorant
Opt for deodorants in paper tubes, metal tins, or refillable cases. Many natural options work as well as conventional brands.

Reusable Cotton Rounds
Replace disposable cotton pads with washable cotton or bamboo rounds. Store them in a glass jar or fabric pouch to keep your space organized and spa-like.

Solid Skincare Bars
Facial cleansers, exfoliating bars, and moisturizers are now available in solid form with minimal packaging. Display them on a stone or wooden tray for a polished look.

Wooden or Bamboo Accessories
Swap plastic toothbrush holders, soap dishes, and organizers for bamboo, wood, or ceramic versions to elevate your bathroom aesthetic.

Cleaning and Laundry

Most conventional cleaning products are water in plastic packaging. Switching to refillable or concentrated cleaners not only cuts down on single-use plastic but also reduces the chemicals going down your drain. Choosing sustainable options helps your home stay clean and eco-friendly at the same time.

DIY Sprays
Mix your own cleaners using vinegar, water, and essential oils and store in glass or brass spray bottles.

Laundry and Linen Care
Use wool dryer balls instead of dryer sheets and choose plastic-free laundry detergent sheets or powders packaged in cardboard. This keeps towels and linens fresh while reducing waste.

Natural Fibers
Choose textiles such as towels, linens, and rugs made from 100% Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) certified organic cotton, linen, or hemp. These materials prevent microplastics from entering water during washes.

Conscious Home Decor and Gifting

Plastic-free living can extend to how you decorate and celebrate.

Natural Materials
Choose furniture and decor made from wood, stone, ceramic, rattan, or metal instead of plastic. These materials are durable, timeless, and add warmth and texture to any space.

Textiles
Select rugs, throws, and pillows made from organic cotton, linen, hemp, jute, or wool. Natural fibers are long-lasting, low-waste, and look refined.

Lighting
Opt for lamps and light fixtures made from glass, metal, or wood. Avoid fixtures with plastic shades or bases. Use LED bulbs for energy efficiency.

Art and Frames
Display artwork in wood, metal, or glass frames rather than plastic. Consider supporting local artists for unique, high-quality pieces.

Vases and Planters
Use ceramic, clay, or glass vases and planters for flowers and greenery. They last longer and elevate the look of your plants.

Decorative Storage
Replace plastic bins and boxes with woven baskets, wooden crates, or metal containers. They organize your space while adding texture and style.

Wall Decor and Mirrors
Choose mirrors with wooden, metal, or ceramic frames. For wall hangings, opt for woven, macramé, or tapestry pieces instead of synthetic materials.

Sustainable Seasonal Decor
For holidays or seasonal updates, choose decor made from natural materials such as dried flowers, wood, stone, or recycled paper instead of single-use plastic decorations.

Gift wrapping
Use the Furoshiki method with fabric scraps or recycled kraft paper tied with jute twine and sprigs of dried eucalyptus or lavender.

Check out our plastic-free gift wrapping guide here.

Indoor Plants
Add greenery to your home using potted plants in non-plastic containers. Plants improve air quality and bring a fresh, organic feel to your space.

Scented Accents
Use beeswax or soy candles in glass or ceramic holders, essential oil diffusers, or dried botanicals like eucalyptus and lavender to naturally scent your home.

Pro Tips for Success

Use Safely and Replace Thoughtfully
Continue using items that are safe and functional. For plastic containers or kitchenware that may leach chemicals, replace them with safer, long-lasting alternatives such as glass, stainless steel, or ceramic.

Audit Your Trash
Track your household plastic waste for one week to identify your biggest sources. Target the items that create the most waste first.

Choose Forever Materials
When buying new home goods, prioritize durable, sustainable materials such as glass, stainless steel, wood, ceramic, and stone. These can last longer, look timeless, and are safer for daily use.

Intentional Upgrades
Replacing a plastic item is not just about necessity. Choosing a natural, high-quality alternative adds beauty, functionality, and sustainability to your home even if the plastic could technically last longer.