Ever feel like big brands are more interested in profits than in truly helping you live sustainably? You’re not wrong. Here are 18 secrets to sustainable living that they’d rather keep under wraps.
1. DIY Cleaning Products
Why spend money on expensive “eco-friendly” cleaners when vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice do the job just as well? These simple ingredients are effective, cheap, and chemical-free.
2. Reusable Cloths Over Paper Towels
Big brands push disposable paper products, but using washable cloths saves money and reduces waste. Old t-shirts make excellent cleaning rags.
3. Buy in Bulk
Purchasing in bulk reduces packaging waste and often costs less per unit. Store items in reusable containers to keep them fresh and organized.
4. Repair, Don’t Replace
Brands profit when you buy new, but many items can be easily repaired. Learning basic repair skills can save you money and reduce waste.
5. Grow Your Own Food
Even a small garden can provide fresh, organic produce. Herbs, tomatoes, and greens are easy to grow and reduce your grocery bill.
6. Make Your Own Beauty Products
Natural beauty products can be made at home using ingredients like coconut oil, shea butter, and essential oils. It’s healthier for your skin and the environment.
7. Use a Clothesline
Drying clothes on a line uses no electricity and can make them last longer. It’s an old-fashioned method that still works wonders.
8. Upcycle Old Furniture
Before you toss that old chair, consider giving it a new life with some paint or fabric. Upcycling saves money and adds a unique touch to your home.
9. Cook from Scratch
Processed foods often come with excessive packaging. Cooking from scratch reduces waste, saves money, and is healthier.
10. Use a Refillable Water Bottle
Bottled water is a huge waste of money and resources. Invest in a good refillable bottle and enjoy clean water without the waste.
11. Shop Secondhand
Thrift stores and online marketplaces offer great deals on clothes, furniture, and more. Buying secondhand reduces demand for new products and lowers your carbon footprint.
12. Make Your Own Compost
Composting kitchen scraps and yard waste creates rich soil for your garden. It reduces landfill waste and enhances your plants’ growth.
13. Choose Energy-Efficient Appliances
They might cost more upfront, but energy-efficient appliances save money in the long run through lower utility bills.
14. Say No to Fast Fashion
Fast fashion is cheap but costly to the environment. Invest in quality, timeless pieces that last longer and have a smaller environmental impact.
15. Use Natural Light
Maximize the use of natural light in your home to reduce the need for artificial lighting. It’s free and creates a pleasant atmosphere.
16. Create a DIY Solar Oven
A solar oven can cook food using just sunlight. It’s a fun project that can reduce your energy use.
17. Carpool or Use Public Transportation
Reduce your carbon footprint and save money on fuel by carpooling or using public transportation whenever possible.
18. Learn to Sew
Basic sewing skills can extend the life of your clothes. Patching upholes or replacing buttons means less waste and more savings.
Live Smart, Live Green
Big brands may not want you to know these tips, but sustainable living doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. With a bit of creativity and effort, you can save money and reduce your environmental impact. Start making these changes today and see the difference!
Remote No More: 19 Companies Returning to the Office
As the pandemic wanes, companies are recalling remote workers back to the office, sparking debates on fairness, costs, and convenience. However, there are also notable productivity, coworking, and mental health benefits to consider. Feeling the effects of these changes? Remote No More: 19 Companies Returning to the Office
8 Costco Must Buys and 8 to Leave Behind
Ever wandered Costco’s aisles, questioning if that giant jar of pickles is a real bargain? Or debated buying tires where you get your rotisserie chicken? Welcome to the definitive guide to Costco shopping—a journey to save money, prevent regrets, and offer quirky insights into bulk buying. 8 Costco Must Buys and 8 to Leave Behind
23 Reasons Texas Is the Next Big Thing
Texas is becoming a beacon of opportunity, blending cultural heritage with economic growth. From its landscapes to its industries, the Lone Star State offers a dynamic lifestyle. Here are 23 reasons why Texas stands out, attracting entrepreneurs, artists, tech professionals, and families seeking new beginnings. 23 Reasons Texas Is the Next Big Thing
15 Top Sites to Sell Your Unwanted Goods Besides Craigslist
Selling your unwanted items can declutter your space and boost your income. While Craigslist is popular, there are many alternatives with unique features and wider audiences. Explore these 15 Craigslist alternatives for selling everything from furniture to electronics, finding the perfect platform to turn clutter into cash. 15 Top Sites to Sell Your Unwanted Goods Besides Craigslist
Work from Anywhere: 19 Companies Still Supporting Remote Work
Tired of commuting and craving work flexibility? You’re not alone. Many companies now offer remote work, benefiting both employees and employers. Ever wondered how this shift could enhance your work-life balance? Work from Anywhere: 19 Companies Still Supporting Remote Work
The post – 18 Secrets to Sustainable Living That Big Brands Don’t Want You to Know – first appeared on Career Step Up.
Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / AboutLife.
The content of this article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute or replace professional financial advice.
For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.
