25 Zero Waste Swaps That Save Money
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Looking to reduce waste and save money at the same time? You’re in the right place. Adopting a zero waste lifestyle doesn’t have to be expensive or overwhelming—in fact, it can actually save you hundreds of dollars each year. By making a few smart, sustainable swaps, you’ll not only cut down on household waste but also keep more cash in your wallet.
In this post, we’re sharing 25 powerful zero waste swaps that are eco-friendly, budget-conscious, and easy to implement. Whether you’re just beginning your low-waste journey or you’re a seasoned sustainability pro, these tips will help you ditch disposables, embrace reusable alternatives, and live a more sustainable lifestyle without sacrificing convenience or comfort.
From the kitchen and bathroom to cleaning routines and on-the-go habits, these zero waste products and habits are the perfect way to live greener while spending less. Ready to save money and reduce your environmental impact? Let’s dive in.
Why Zero Waste Can Be a Smart Financial Move
There’s a common myth that living a zero waste lifestyle is expensive—but that couldn’t be further from the truth. In reality, going zero waste can help you save a significant amount of money over time. By replacing single-use items with reusable alternatives, you’re making an investment that pays off every time you don’t have to buy the disposable version again.
Here’s how making zero waste swaps can actually help your wallet:
- Lower repeat purchases – No more restocking paper towels, plastic wrap, or disposable razors every month.
- Less trash = lower waste bills – Reducing your household waste can also reduce your garbage costs.
- Smarter spending habits – When you’re more intentional about what you buy, you tend to buy less.
- DIY potential – Many zero waste alternatives (like homemade cleaners or beauty products) are cheaper and healthier than store-bought versions.
Small changes can lead to big savings—while also reducing your environmental impact. Let’s take a look at some of the easiest (and most effective) swaps to start with.
Kitchen & Food Storage Zero Waste Swaps That Save Money
The kitchen is often where we generate the most waste—but it’s also the easiest place to start making impactful changes. Here are five smart, zero waste kitchen swaps that will help you save money while reducing your trash.
1. Reusable Silicone Food Bags (Instead of Ziplocs)
Those convenient little plastic baggies add up—both in waste and cost. A single family can go through hundreds per year! Reusable silicone bags are a durable, eco-friendly solution. They’re freezer-safe, leak-proof, and dishwasher-friendly.
Stasher’s silicone bags are durable, leak-proof, and versatile—great for packing meals, freezing bulk goods, or storing leftovers. I adore the mess-free, reusable design and how they outperform flimsy Ziplocs.
2. Beeswax Wraps (Instead of Plastic Wrap)
Tired of buying plastic wrap that sticks to everything except your food? Swap it out for beeswax wraps—a sustainable, breathable alternative that can be used again and again. Just wash with cool water and reuse.
These wraps keep food fresh longer and are 100% compostable at the end of their life.
3. Glass or Stainless Steel Containers (Instead of Takeout Containers)
Invest in quality food storage that lasts for years. Glass or stainless steel containers are perfect for leftovers, meal prep, and even grocery shopping in bulk.
Bonus: Reusable containers reduce the need to order takeout (and pay those extra container fees!).
4. Cloth Napkins (Instead of Paper Napkins)
Think cloth napkins are only for fancy dinners? Think again. Reusable cloth napkins are perfect for everyday meals and can be tossed in with your laundry. They’re stylish, absorbent, and eliminate the need to keep buying disposable ones.
One-time cost, years of use.
5. Reusable Produce Bags (Instead of Plastic Produce Bags)
Those flimsy plastic produce bags? You don’t need them. Keep a set of reusable produce bags in your shopping tote. They’re washable, lightweight, and perfect for fruits, veggies, and even bulk bin items.
They reduce your plastic waste and help your produce breathe better, which means longer freshness.
Cleaning & Laundry Zero Waste Swaps That Save Money
Cleaning products and laundry supplies are often packaged in single-use plastic and designed to run out quickly—so you’ll keep buying more. The good news? You can clean just as effectively (if not more so) using zero waste swaps that are cheaper, safer, and more sustainable.
Here are five simple swaps to overhaul your cleaning routine and save money in the process:
6. Reusable Cleaning Cloths (Instead of Paper Towels)
Paper towels are one of the biggest household money drains. A roll or two a week adds up fast. Reusable cloth rags or microfiber cloths are just as effective—and can last for years.
Toss them in the wash after each use and repeat. No more paper waste, no more repeat spending.
7. DIY Cleaners in Refillable Bottles (Instead of Store-Bought Plastic Cleaners)
Why pay for plastic packaging and water when you can make your own cleaners at home for pennies? Mix vinegar, baking soda, lemon, and essential oils in a glass spray bottle to create powerful, non-toxic cleaners.
Better for your health, your wallet, and the environment.
8. Wool Dryer Balls (Instead of Dryer Sheets)
Dryer sheets are single-use and full of synthetic chemicals. Wool dryer balls can be used for hundreds of loads, help reduce drying time, and naturally soften clothes.
These dryer balls are a game-changer—they naturally soften clothes, reduce static and dry time. Plus, they’re biodegradable and eliminate hundreds of dryer sheets over their lifespan.
9. Laundry Detergent Sheets or Pods (Instead of Liquid in Plastic Jugs)
Traditional laundry detergent often comes in bulky, wasteful plastic containers. Eco-friendly detergent sheets or refill pods offer a concentrated, low-waste alternative that’s just as effective.
These eco-friendly detergent tablets are 100% plastic-free and tough on stains. They dissolve cleanly, cut clutter, and Radically reduce packaging compared to bulky detergent jugs
10. Refillable Cleaning Tablets (Instead of Buying New Bottles Every Time)
Companies like Blueland and Etee offer concentrated cleaning tablets that dissolve in water. You keep the same spray bottle and refill it over and over with tablets that cost a fraction of standard cleaners.
Just add water—literally—and save money with each refill.
Bathroom & Personal Care Zero Waste Swaps That Save Money
Your bathroom might be stocked with single-use items that seem cheap in the moment—but those costs really add up. By switching to reusable and sustainable personal care products, you’ll reduce your waste and your spending, all while choosing products that are better for your skin, your health, and the planet.
Here are five powerful zero waste swaps for your bathroom routine:
11. Safety Razor (Instead of Disposable Razors)
Tired of buying overpriced plastic razors that dull after a few shaves? Upgrade to a stainless steel safety razor. The blades are super cheap (just a few cents each) and recyclable, and the handle can last a lifetime.
The Merkur 34C is my go-to eco razor—its precision German engineering gives a smooth shave every time. The sturdy metal handle and recyclable blades eliminate plastic razor waste for good.
12. Bar Soap (Instead of Body Wash in Plastic Bottles)
Body wash is often watered down and packaged in bulky plastic. Switch to solid bar soap—it lasts longer, takes up less space, and is available in plastic-free packaging.
Bonus: You can find handmade options with simple, skin-loving ingredients.
13. Shampoo & Conditioner Bars (Instead of Bottled Hair Products)
Say goodbye to wasteful plastic bottles. Shampoo and conditioner bars are compact, travel-friendly, and last much longer than liquid alternatives.
Ethique’s solid bars are concentrated, plastic-free ads in just one product replace multiple bottles. I love the volumizing formula—it leaves my hair full and fresh, travels perfect, and smells heavenly.
14. Reusable Cotton Rounds (Instead of Disposable Makeup Wipes or Pads)
If you use cotton rounds or makeup wipes daily, the waste adds up quickly. Instead, go for reusable cotton pads—washable, soft, and perfect for makeup removal or applying toner.
Use, wash, repeat. Your skin (and wallet) will thank you.
15. Reusable Menstrual Products (Instead of Tampons & Pads)
This is one of the most impactful swaps—both financially and environmentally. Consider using a menstrual cup, period underwear, or cloth pads. These options last for years and eliminate the need for monthly purchases.
The DivaCup is a high-quality, reusable menstrual cup made from medical-grade silicone. It lasts for years, saves money, and is far more sustainable than disposables—utterly life-changing for eco-conscious users.
On-the-Go & Lifestyle Zero Waste Swaps That Save Money
Many of the disposable items we use while out and about seem cheap, but those small purchases can become big money drains. These zero waste lifestyle swaps are designed for life on-the-go—and they’re perfect for reducing both plastic waste and unnecessary spending.
Here are five easy, budget-friendly swaps to carry with you every day:
16. Reusable Water Bottle (Instead of Buying Bottled Water)
Buying bottled water on the go? It adds up fast. Invest in a high-quality reusable water bottle—stainless steel options keep your drinks cold (or hot) for hours, and many public spaces now have refill stations.
I’m in love with this Hydro Flask bottle—its double-wall insulation keeps water ice-cold for 24 hours, and the cupholder-friendly design makes it perfect for road trips, hikes, or everyday errands.
17. Travel Coffee Mug (Instead of Disposable Cups)
Whether it’s your morning coffee or afternoon tea, those daily café trips often include a single-use cup and lid. Bring a reusable travel mug and many coffee shops will give you a small discount—plus you skip the waste.
This Stanley mug keeps beverages hot (or cold) for hours with its vacuum insulation. The leakproof lid and comfy handle make morning coffee runs a breeze—and there’s often a discount when you bring your own cup.
18. Cloth Tote Bags (Instead of Plastic Grocery Bags)
Plastic grocery bags are often thrown away after one use—and they’re banned in many places. Carry a few foldable tote bags in your purse or car for shopping trips, errands, or takeout.
Many stores now charge for plastic bags, so reusable totes = instant savings.
19. Refillable Pens (Instead of Disposable Ones)
We rarely think about it, but disposable pens are one of the most common forms of plastic waste. Opt for refillable pens or fountain pens instead. They’re stylish, long-lasting, and much more eco-friendly.
Perfect for students, professionals, or journal lovers.
20. Rechargeable Batteries (Instead of Single-Use Batteries)
From TV remotes to kids’ toys, batteries are a regular purchase in many households. Switch to rechargeable batteries and a small charger. It’s a higher upfront cost, but you’ll break even quickly.
Better for your wallet—and keeps toxic waste out of landfills.
Miscellaneous Zero Waste Swaps That Save You Money
Not all zero waste swaps fit perfectly into a room or routine—but these smart, sustainable changes can still have a big impact. Whether you’re looking to cut down on plastic waste, reduce your spending, or just live a bit more mindfully, these bonus ideas can help you get there.
Here are the final five zero waste swaps that will save you money in surprising ways:
21. Reusable Straws (Instead of Plastic Straws)
Plastic straws are one of the most wasteful single-use items—and now banned in many places. Keep a reusable metal or silicone straw in your bag or car for drinks on the go.
Cheap, portable, and way more stylish than plastic.
22. Digital Books & Subscriptions (Instead of Paper Versions)
If you’re a reader or magazine lover, consider switching to e-books or digital subscriptions. You’ll save on shipping, reduce paper waste, and often find cheaper deals online.
Audible’s Amazon-based audiobook service delivers one credit per month—enough for any book you choose. I adore the library of exclusives, offline listening, and the 30-day free trial that hooks you in!
23. DIY or Repurposed Gifts (Instead of Buying New)
Get creative and reduce your spending by making homemade gifts or repurposing items you already have. Think candles in upcycled jars, baked goods, or handwritten letters.
Low cost, high impact, and more meaningful.
24. Composting (Instead of Buying Fertilizer)
Turn your food scraps and yard waste into nutrient-rich compost for your garden or plants. It’s free, zero waste, and a great way to reduce landfill contributions.
Skip store-bought soil enhancers and feed your garden naturally.
25. Thrifted Clothes (Instead of Fast Fashion)
Buying new clothes regularly can take a toll on your budget—and the planet. Choose secondhand or thrifted clothing instead. You’ll find unique items, save money, and support a circular economy.
Fashion-forward and eco-conscious? Yes, please.
FAQs About Zero Waste Swaps
What are the best zero waste products that actually save money?
The best zero waste products that save money include reusable food storage bags, safety razors, cloth napkins, wool dryer balls, and menstrual cups. These items replace disposables, last for years, and eliminate repeat purchases.
Is going zero waste more expensive?
Not at all. While some zero waste products have a higher upfront cost, they often pay for themselves within months. Over time, switching to reusables is much cheaper than buying single-use items repeatedly.
How can I start zero waste on a budget?
Start small by replacing the items you use most. Try DIY cleaners, thrift shopping, reusing jars, or switching to cloth napkins. You don’t need to buy fancy products—many zero waste swaps can be done for free or low cost.
What’s the most impactful zero waste swap?
Switching to a reusable water bottle is one of the most impactful swaps. It reduces plastic waste, saves you from buying bottled water, and helps reduce pollution—while saving money every single day.
Where can I buy affordable zero waste products?
You can find budget-friendly zero waste items on Amazon, Etsy, local refill shops, and secondhand stores. Look for starter kits or buy in bulk to save even more. Always check for eco-friendly brands with refillable or package-free options.
Can zero waste help me live more sustainably?
Absolutely. The zero waste lifestyle helps you reduce landfill waste, lower your carbon footprint, and become more mindful of your consumption habits—all while saving money and simplifying your life.
