When I first started getting into sustainability, I thought I had to buy a bunch of expensive “eco” products to live low-waste. But over time, I realized that low-waste living isn’t about buying your way into a lifestyle. It’s about shifting your habits, rethinking what you already own, and doing the best you can with what you have.
Here are 7 affordable ways I’ve learned to reduce waste — no perfection (or $40 water bottle) required.
1. Use What You Already Have
Before you buy any new “sustainable swap,” check what you’ve got. That old jar? Perfect for leftovers. A tote bag from a school event? Your new grocery bag. Living low-waste starts with not wasting what you already own.
Tip: Make a “reuse bin” under your sink for jars, rubber bands, bread ties, and containers.
2. Buy Secondhand (Especially for Kitchen + Clothes)
Thrift stores, Facebook Marketplace, and local thrift stores for low-waste living. You can find baking trays, mason jars, storage bins, and even Tupperware sets — all secondhand and plastic-free(ish).
3. Start with Easy Swaps
Skip the zero-waste starter kits and start with one or two low-cost swaps:
- Reusable water bottle or mug
- Cloth napkins from cut-up old t-shirts
- Refillable soap or shampoo from a local refill store (if available)
Check out: Find a refill store near you (Litterless has a U.S. directory).
4. Reduce Food Waste
Food waste = wasted money. Some quick wins:
- Freeze veggie scraps to make broth
- Plan meals and shop with a list
- Learn to store produce properly
Helpful guide: How to Store Fruits & Vegetables to Reduce Waste (NRDC)
5. Ditch Single-Use When You Can
It’s not about never using plastic again — it’s about cutting out what you can. Say no to plastic utensils, bring your own bag or cup, and pack snacks in containers instead of plastic wrap. These little swaps add up over time.
6. DIY What You Can
Homemade cleaners are super cheap and effective:
- All-purpose spray: vinegar + water + citrus peels
- Baking soda as a scrub for sinks and tubs
You can also DIY wax wraps, deodorant, and lip balm if you’re feeling crafty (and want to save money).
7. Choose Quality Over Quantity
Sometimes, buying one durable thing now saves money later. A reusable razor, a leakproof lunchbox, or quality cloth pads may have a higher upfront cost but last for years. Prioritize what you use most often, and build slowly.
🔗 Product round-up: 10 Affordable Reusable Items Worth the Investment (Going Zero Waste)
Final Thoughts
Living low-waste isn’t about doing everything perfectly or buying all the “right” stuff. It’s about being resourceful, intentional, and a little creative. The truth is, the most sustainable habits are often the cheapest — because they ask us to consume less, not more.
Wherever you are on your low-waste journey, start small. And don’t let a tight budget stop you from making an impact.
slow growth 
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