Read on for our top tips for Plastic-Free July (& Onwards!)

Plastic Free July is an annual global movement that challenges individuals to refuse single-use plastics for an entire month. This initiative aims to raise awareness about the detrimental effects of plastic pollution and encourage people to adopt long-term habits that reduce plastic waste. 

“Plastic Free July truly elevates the power of the individual and spotlights the core truth that anyone can have an impact in building a better future for all.” - Sandra Uwera, founder of Plastic Free July. 

In 2022, there were 140 million participants making conscious changes and reducing their waste by a whopping 2.6 million tonnes – that's the equivalent of around 13,000 blue whales! Let’s do even better this year. In this article, we will share five effective plastic-free hacks for your home and daily routine to help you contribute to a greener future. 

One of the easiest ways to eliminate plastic waste is by switching to reusable shopping bags. Plastic bags are a significant contributor to environmental pollution, but by using reusable alternatives such as cotton or canvas bags, you can significantly reduce your plastic consumption. Our Swag grocery bag is made from 100% natural materials, is heavy duty and can even be compostable at the end of its very (very!) long life. Top tip: keep a few reusable bags in your car or by the front door, ensuring you never leave home without them. 

Plastic water bottles are a common sight in households, but they contribute to the staggering amount of plastic waste in our landfills and oceans. Invest in a durable, reusable water bottle from stainless steel or glass. Not only will you save money in the long run, but you'll also be a hero by helping to keep plastic out of our environment.

Plastic food storage containers can be convenient but are extremely harmful to our planet. Instead, choose eco-friendly alternatives like glass containers or silicone wraps. Glass containers are not only better for the environment but also safer for storing food, as they are free from harmful chemicals found in plastic. Silicone wraps provide an excellent alternative to plastic wrap, allowing you to keep your food fresh without contributing to plastic waste. Our vegan Swag wraps help you ditch the toxic cling wrap once and for all! They’re perfect to cover your leftovers or cut fruit. You can even cut them up into different shapes and sizes to tailor them to your needs. 

Our Swag bag is another ideal plastic-free alternative to storing your fruits and vegetables, extending the life of your fresh produce for two weeks or more! By reducing food waste, The Swag not only helps you build a cleaner and greener planet, it also helps you to save thousands of dollars a year. 

Many conventional cleaning products come in plastic bottles and contain harmful chemicals that are not only bad for the environment but also for your health. Switch to eco-friendly cleaning products that are packaged in recyclable materials. Or even better, our Swag dish soap bar is designed to replace six regular bottles of liquid dish soap and will last about six months! Handmade in Australia using pure essential oils, our plastic-free dish bars are packed with essential oils and designed to cut through grease and grime naturally. Alternatively, you can make your own cleaning solutions using natural ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils. These options are not only better for the environment but also safer for your home. 

Single-use plastics, such as straws, utensils, and food packaging, contribute significantly to plastic pollution. Make a conscious effort to say no to these items and seek alternatives. Carry your own reusable straw or utensils when eating out, and choose products with minimal or recyclable packaging. By reducing your consumption of single-use plastics, you are taking a significant step towards a plastic-free lifestyle.

To really get a head start on your plastic-free journey, why not buy our beginners bundle? The bundle contains The Swag Twin Bundle, keeping your fridge organised and allowing you to store any combination of fruits, veggies, or herbs. These beauties are scientifically proven to keep your fruit and veg fresh, crisp, and nutrient-rich for 2+ weeks! We’ve also included our beloved Swag Certified Organic Non-Paper Towels, great for cleaning up spills or draining fried foods. Our Swag Dish Soap Block and Brush combo is the eco alternative to keep your dishes clean without the plastic, and our Tea Swag Set gives any tea lover the opportunity to enjoy their loose-leaf teas and remove single-use tea bags from their household. Our award-winning Organic Bread Swag is our final addition to our bundle, ensuring your favourite sourdough or artisanal loaves stay away from toxic plastic.

Adopting a plastic-free lifestyle is a responsibility we all share in preserving our planet for future generations. By implementing these five plastic-free hacks for your home, you can make a positive impact on the environment. Remember, small changes can lead to significant results, and by embracing a plastic-free mindset, you're not only benefitting your home but also inspiring others to join the movement. Let's work together towards a plastic-free world, starting with our own homes.