Cutting down on plastic doesn't mean a complete lifestyle overhaul.
Published on July 1, 2025
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As a species, our plastic consumption is pretty abysmal. We’ve reached record highs of plastic pollution, according to the EPA, contributing to landfills and waterways waste that will take hundreds of years (or longer) to decompose. Recent studies have also demonstrated that microplastics pose a significant health risk. The stats can be scary, but you do have some control over how much plastic is in your life and used in your home.
With a society so based in plastic, it may feel daunting (or impossible) to completely cut the substance from your daily life. But a few easy steps can help drastically reduce plastics in your typical day-to-day. Here's how to reduce plastic use with ease.
, sustainable event producer and consultant, founder of Andy King Events
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“Eliminate all plastic bottles in your house and invest in reusable water bottles,” encourages Andy King, a sustainable event producer. “It’s so easy to purchase a water filter for your kitchen sink and fill your own reusable bottles. There are also some good and inexpensive sparkling water makers for your evening cocktails.”
The plastic clamshell containers in which grocery produce is often packaged are single-use and wasteful. While individuals with low dexterity rely on easy-to-open packaging, when possible, shop at local farmers markets, where more sustainable food packaging is often available. You can also purchase or make reusable produce bags to tote loose produce.
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"We use reusable glass food storage containers with airtight lids," shares King, "no more plastic containers or plastic wrap." In addition to being the more sustainable choice, clear glass containers are also safe for reheating leftovers in the microwave or oven. Being able to see the contents of a container can make it easier to remember to eat your leftovers and organize your fridge, too.
Forgetting bags to shop with is a common problem, even though many of us have an overflow at home. “Keep a basket in the back of the car filled with reusable shopping bags,” King suggests.
If you don’t have a vehicle, keep the bags in a basket by your front door or stash a compact one in your daily work bag or clipped to your keys.
Single-use products are convenient for entertaining—no dishes to wash!—but they create a lot of waste. If you don’t want to deal with a dish pile-up, try to buy compostable plates, utensils, and cups.
For an even more sustainable option, look for plates, silverware, and glasses at the thrift store. A collection of vintage pieces can offer a curated, eclectic look and provides enough extras for party guests without the need to splurge. (You can even resell or donate extras after hosting an event if you don't have the storage space.)
A small purchase can help save plenty of plastic. Add some reusable metal or glass straws to your utensil drawer for use with drinks at home or on the go. Compostable straws are an option, too, if you prefer.
Instead of reaching for plastic takeout containers, heating pre-made dishes, or opening pre-cut ingredients, channel Martha herself and commit to cooking more from scratch.
"[Cooking] really helps eliminate the need for packaged foods. It’s so important to look for every opportunity to eliminate single-use plastic," explains King. The more steps you take at home, the less plastic you’ll end up using.
Sure, plastic coffee pods are convenient—but they also spend years in landfills after saving you mere minutes in the morning. Opt for refillable pods that use your own coffee grounds, or choose a coffee maker that doesn’t create so much waste every morning.
Both home and body cleaning products can be refilled rather than replaced by the bottle. Many cleaning brands offer concentrated refillable pods for their spray bottles. Simply mix with water and shake well. Similarly, some cosmetic brands offer refillable body care products, created to be both eco-friendly and ultra-pampering.
