54 Top Zero Waste Products

Are you becoming aware of the waste you create and want to start living a more eco-friendly lifestyle? Whether you’re just getting started or want to upgrade your set of zero-waste items, check out this list of the top 54 zero-waste products. From reusable straws and shopping bags to fashion & beauty, these are essential tools to help reduce your environmental footprint.

How to Get started With Zero Waste Products

• Start small: Making eco-friendly swaps doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start with one or two items that you use frequently, such as a reusable water bottle or shopping bag.
• Do your research: Look for brands or products that prioritize sustainability and environmental responsibility. Check the ingredients or materials used, as well as the production and packaging methods.
• Find local options: Look for local stores or farmers’ markets that carry eco-friendly products, as they may have a smaller environmental footprint than products that are shipped from far away.
• Make it a habit: Once you’ve made a swap, make it a habit. Keep your reusable bag in your car or bring your water bottle with you wherever you go.

What to look for when shopping

• Packaging: Look for products with minimal or recyclable packaging.
• Materials: Choose products made with natural or biodegradable materials, such as bamboo, organic cotton, or recycled plastic.
• Certifications: Look for certifications like Fair Trade, Certified Organic, or Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) to ensure that products are produced sustainably and ethically.
• Energy and water efficiency: Choose products that are energy-efficient, such as appliances with an Energy Star rating.
• Longevity: Choose products that are well-made and durable, to reduce the need for frequent replacement.

By making small, intentional swaps towards more eco-friendly products, we can all play a part in protecting the planet and building a more sustainable future.

Water Bottle

This seems SO obvious and for many of us taking our water bottle with us is a normal part of our lives. The amount of plastic water bottles that are still being used is evidence that the message has not yet reached everyone. Swap disposable plastic water bottles for reusable water bottles made from glass, stainless steel, or BPA-free plastic.

Reusable Cutlery

Instead of using single-use plastic utensils, switch to a set of reusable cutlery made from bamboo, stainless steel, or even recycled plastic is one of the top zero waste products you can invest in to cut back on the waste you create.

Smoothie Tumbler

To enjoy your favourite smoothies on the go without creating waste, try a reusable smoothie tumbler made from glass or stainless steel.

Coffee Cup

Bring your own reusable coffee cup to your favourite cafe instead of using disposable cups. Look for options made from ceramic, glass, or stainless steel.

Plastic-Free Straw

Ditch the plastic straws with reusable straws such as silicone or stainless steel. Silicone straws are 100% BPA-free and eco-friendly, making them a great choice for sipping sodas, juices, and smoothies without the guilt. Stainless steel straws offer more durability and are perfect for cold drinks like iced coffee or iced tea. They come in different sizes and shapes to fit different drinking vessels, and can also be used in certain cocktails, smoothies, milkshakes and other beverages. Silicone straws are better for hot drinks as the metal straws will heat up and can sometimes burn.

Reusable Grocery Bags

Reusable grocery bags are an easy way to reduce the amount of plastic you use when shopping. Many stores now have a wide variety of stylish and durable reusable bags, so you can find one that fits your style. These bags are perfect for carrying groceries, but can also be used for other errands and activities. With a foldable design, they’re easy to store in a purse or pocket when not in use.

Reusable Produce Bags

Reusable produce bags are a great alternative to using plastic ones when shopping for groceries. Made from eco-friendly, breathable and lightweight materials such as hemp, cotton or linen, these bags are ideal for storing fresh fruits and vegetables without releasing toxins or microplastics. Plus, they can be easily reused over and over again so you’ll never have to worry about running out!

Lunch Box & Snack Kit

Pack your lunch in a reusable lunch box made from materials like stainless steel, glass, or BPA-free plastic. Use reusable snack bags instead of disposable plastic bags.

Thermos

Avoid producing single-use plastic or paper waste by investing in reusable thermos for taking your food and beverages on the go. Whether you’re heading to work, school or out exploring your city, having a warm meal or drink at hand will help you avoid wasteful disposables.

To-Go Container

To avoid using disposable takeout containers, try bringing your own reusable container to restaurants or food trucks. Stainless steel or silicone containers are good options.

Solid Toiletries

Reduce packaging waste by switching to solid toiletries like shampoo bars, soap bars, and solid lotion bars.

Shampoo

Swap traditional liquid shampoo in plastic bottles for shampoo bars, which often come in plastic-free packaging and can last longer than bottled shampoo.

Conditioner

Look for solid conditioner bars, which are a great zero-waste alternative to traditional bottled conditioners.

Body Wash

Try using bar soap instead of body wash in a plastic bottle. Look for soap bars that are made with natural and nourishing ingredients.

Bamboo Toothbrush

Switch to a bamboo toothbrush that is compostable and comes in minimal packaging.

Toothpaste

Look for toothpaste that comes in recyclable or compostable packaging, or try making your own toothpaste with natural ingredients like baking soda and coconut oil.

Read our review: Dr Robb Toothpaste Tablets

Plant-Based Floss

Use plant-based floss made from materials like silk or bamboo instead of traditional nylon floss.

Make-Up Wipes

Use reusable make-up wipes made from soft and gentle materials like cotton or bamboo instead of disposable wipes.

Refillable Makeup

Look for makeup brands that offer refillable packaging to reduce waste. Some brands even have refill stations in stores.

Zero-Waste Coffee Maker

Try a zero-waste coffee maker, such as a French press or pour-over coffee maker, which doesn’t require disposable filters or pods.

Nut Mylk Kit

Make your own nut milk at home with a nut milk kit, which includes a nut milk bag and reusable glass jar for storing your homemade milk.

Tea Strainer

Instead of using single-use tea bags, try a reusable tea strainer made from stainless steel, silicone, or bamboo.

Food Waste Bin

Instead of throwing food waste into the trash, set up a separate food waste bin for composting. This allows you to separate your food waste and turn it into nutrient-rich compost for your garden. If you don’t have space or the ability to compost at home, check with your local waste management service or municipality to see if they offer food waste collection. Alternatively, you can donate excess food to local food banks or community gardens. Separating food waste not only reduces the amount of waste going into landfill, but also provides valuable resources for gardens and farming.

Home Compost Setup

Start composting your food scraps and other organic waste at home with a compost bin or compost pile. This can help reduce your environmental impact and create nutrient-rich soil for gardening.

Cellulose Cloths

Use cellulose cloths made from plant-based materials instead of disposable paper towels for cleaning. These can be washed and reused many times. Also known as Swedish Dish Cloths.

Solid Dish Soap

Instead of using liquid dish soap in a plastic bottle, try a solid dish soap bar that comes in minimal packaging and can last a long time.

Plastic Free Sponge

Replace your traditional plastic kitchen sponge with a natural and eco-friendly alternative, such as a sponge made from biodegradable materials or a reusable dishcloth.

Unpaper Towels

Swap disposable paper towels for reusable “unpaper” towels made from washable and durable materials like cotton or bamboo. We love the Earths Tribe Unpaper Towel.

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Plastic-Free Sunscreen

Traditional sunscreens often contain chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which have been found to damage coral reefs and marine life. Many sunscreens are packaged in plastic containers, which contributes to the growing problem of plastic pollution.

In contrast, plastic-free sunscreens are made with natural and organic ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which are safer for the environment and for human health. They are often packaged in sustainable materials like metal or glass containers, which can be recycled or reused.

By choosing a plastic-free sunscreen, you can protect your skin from the harmful effects of the sun while also reducing your environmental impact.

Safety Razor

Try a safety razor made from durable materials like stainless steel. Unlike disposable plastic razors, safety razors can last for years and have replaceable blades that create less waste.

Low Waste Deodorant

Look for deodorants that come in recyclable or compostable packaging, or try making your own deodorant at home with natural ingredients.

Recycled & Plastic Free Stationary

Choose recycled and plastic-free stationery products like notebooks, pens, and pencils.

Veggie Saver Bag

Keep your fruits and vegetables fresh for longer by storing them in a veggie-saver bag, which allows for air circulation and keeps produce from getting too damp.

Food Wraps, Covers or Pouches

Swap plastic wrap and plastic bags for reusable food wraps, covers, and bags made from natural and sustainable materials like cotton, or silicone.

Read our guide: Silicone Food Storage Pouches

Reusable Period Products

Switch to reusable menstrual products like menstrual cups, cloth pads, or period underwear to reduce waste and save money in the long run.

Hair Ties

Use hair ties made from biodegradable materials like organic cotton or natural rubber instead of traditional elastic hair ties that end up in landfill.

Face Skin Care Products

Choose natural and organic skincare products that are cruelty-free and come in zero or compostable packaging.

Eco Surf Wax

Surf wax is a type of wax used to increase the grip and traction between a surfer’s feet and the surface of a surfboard. Most surf waxes are made from petroleum-based products, which can have negative environmental impacts both during production and when the wax eventually washes off the board and into the ocean.

Switching to an eco-friendly surf wax can help to mitigate these environmental impacts. Eco-friendly surf waxes are typically made from natural ingredients that are sustainably sourced, such as beeswax or coconut oil. These waxes often come in biodegradable packaging and do not contain any harmful chemicals that can harm marine life.

Check out Green Planet Surfer

Eco-Friendly Underwear

Switch to underwear made from organic cotton or other sustainable materials like bamboo or hemp.

Read our guide: Bamboo Underwear

Kettle

Switch from a plastic kettle to a stainless steel or glass kettle. Plastic kettles can release plastic particles into the water, especially when heated, which can be harmful to your health and the environment. Stainless steel or glass kettles are more durable and can be used for many years, reducing waste and the need to replace your kettle frequently. Additionally, they are often more energy-efficient, so you can save energy and money on your electricity bill over time.

Induction Stove Top

Use an induction stove top instead of a gas or electric stove, which can be more energy-efficient and reduce your carbon footprint.

Clothing

Shop for clothing made from sustainable materials like organic cotton, linen, or recycled fabrics. Look for brands that prioritize ethical and sustainable production practices.

Read our guide: Sustainable Fashion – How To Buy Clothes Ethically

Furniture

Choose furniture made from sustainable materials like bamboo or reclaimed wood, and look for pieces that are durable and timeless to reduce waste.

Read our guide: Why buying second-hand furniture is sustainable + 10 things you can buy second-hand!

Kids Toys

Choose toys made from natural and non-toxic materials like wood or organic cotton, and look for toys that are designed to last and can be passed down to future generations.

Dehydrator

Invest in a dehydrator to preserve food and reduce waste. Dehydrated fruits, vegetables, and herbs can be stored for longer periods of time and used in a variety of recipes. This is a great way to stop food waste and keep valuable resources out of landfill.

Soda Stream

Use a Soda Stream to make your own sparkling water at home and reduce your use of single-use plastic bottles. I am obsessed with my Soda Stream and how I can totally avoid packaging even when I’m craving a fizzy drink. I bought mine second-hand on FB Marketplace further reducing my impact. If you love soft drinks then this is a top zero-waste product to look at investing in.

Clothes Line

Hang your clothes to dry on a clothesline instead of using a dryer. This can save energy and reduce your carbon footprint.

Metal Pegs

Instead of using plastic clothespins, try metal pegs that are rust-resistant and more durable.

Read our guide: Sustainable Laundry Swaps For Your Eco-Friendly Home

Loofah

Use a natural loofah sponge instead of synthetic sponges made from plastic or other non-biodegradable materials.

Cards & Wrapping Paper

Use recycled or eco-friendly cards and wrapping paper made from sustainable materials like recycled paper or plant-based materials.

Lunch Bag/Cooler Box

Use a reusable lunch bag or cooler box made from sustainable materials like organic cotton or recycled plastic

Bank, Super & Investments

Choose banks, super funds, and investments that prioritize environmental and social responsibility. Look for institutions that have policies on sustainability and ethical investing.

Fresh & Local Produce

Shop for fresh and locally grown produce at farmers’ markets or through community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs. This can reduce the carbon footprint of your food and support local farmers.

Bread Bag

Use a reusable bread bag made from natural materials like cotton or linen instead of plastic bread bags. This can reduce waste and keep your bread fresh for longer.

Conclusion: Top Zero Waste Products

Living a zero-waste lifestyle may seem daunting at first, but there are many products available that can make the transition easier and more enjoyable. From reusable water bottles and grocery bags to compost bins and solid toiletries, there are countless ways to reduce waste and lessen our impact on the planet.

By incorporating even a few of these top zero waste products into your daily routine, you can reduce your environmental footprint and inspire others to do the same. Not only will you be helping to preserve the planet for future generations, but you will also be supporting companies that prioritize sustainability and ethical production practices.

Remember, every small action counts, and by making intentional choices and supporting eco-friendly products, we can all work together towards a more sustainable future. So let’s embrace the zero-waste lifestyle and live waste-free!