31 Quick Everyday Swaps For Plastic Free July

Nov 24, 2023

We earn a commission for products purchased through some links in this article.

One for every day of the month

It's officially Plastic Free July and time to ditch single-use plastic and try out some plastic-free alternatives around your home and on the go.

From linen bread bags, beeswax wraps and shampoo bars to reusable facecloths, there are plenty of ways to reduce your use of plastic.

Plastic Free July is a global movement that helps millions of people be part of the solution to plastic pollution, working towards cleaner streets and safer oceans. The organisation provides resources and ideas to help people reduce single-use plastic waste every day at home, at work, at school and while out and about.

Here are 31 plastic-free swaps for the month of July...

Swap plastic wrap for reusable bowl covers.

This set of three linen bowl covers keeps food fresh and protected from insects. They can be used in the fridge and for food left on worktops. They are designed to be used again and again, simply pop them in the wash between uses.

Swap plastic water bottles for a stainless steel alternative.

Single-use plastic water bottles may seem convenient when you're on the go, but choosing a reusable and refillable option is an easy way to reduce waste (and saves you money, too).

This drinks bottle is made of double-walled stainless steel to keep your beverage cold for up to 24 hours or hot for up to 12 hours.

Swap bottled shower gel for a bar of solid body wash.

Instead of buying shower gel that comes packaged in plastic bottles, try out toiletries in the form of solid bars. We particularly like the delicious-smelling range from trii, which also happens to be entirely vegan.

They have everything from solid moisturiser to body wash. Plus, each product is perfect for travel, as the slim-line bars are leak-free and are packaged in recyclable and reusable plastic-free packaging.

Swap tape for a plastic-free alternative.

Your usual sticking tape contains plastic, but there's now a great alternative available.

Sellotape® Zero Plastic is a plant-based tape made with 0% plastic. It is made with cellulose film and naturally-based glue, both of which are derived from plant-based renewable resources. It's even compostable!

Swap cleaning wipes for plastic-free dishcloths.

These high-quality dishcloths are made from 100% organic cotton. Designed to last, they are machine washable as well as very versatile. We think these are a much better option than single-use surface wipes.

Swap plastic food containers for glass storage.

There are plenty of options available for storing food, and a lot of them are totally plastic-free.

We like this glass container from IKEA, which comes with a handy bamboo lid. It's made from oven-safe glass and can be used as an oven/serving dish (just remember to remove the lid).

Swap wrapping paper for fabric gift wrap.

Although plenty of wrapping paper is technically recyclable, it involves the use of sellotape (which contains plastic). A beautiful alternative is fabric gift wrap, which can be tied to secure the gift inside.

We love the pretty floral design on this set, which can be reused to wrap presents, or be worn as a headscarf, neckerchief - whatever you like!

Swap your tea bags to plastic-free varieties.

Not only do Teapigs create tea temples that are plastic-free, they package it all in recyclable cardboard boxes. Not only that, but they use only 100% Rainforest Alliance Certified™ tea.

Plus, 5p from this pack goes towards education and medical care for vulnerable young people in Rwanda.

Swap plastic food bags for reusable bread bags.

If you love to pick up a fresh loaf from your local bakery but don't have anything to transport or store it in, a linen bread bag is a brilliant reusable option.

Swap your plastic hairbrush for a bamboo one.

This bamboo hairbrush is made with bamboo bristles and a natural rubber cushion for gentle brushing. Natural rubber is biodegradable, making it a great alternative to plastic.

Swap your household sponge for this plastic-free option.

Most household sponges are made from plastic, but these aren't. In fact, these clever sponges are made from responsibly sourced wood fibre.

Swap makeup wipes for reusable makeup pads.

Say goodbye to makeup wipes and hello to this set of 10 reusable bamboo makeup pads - the perfect addition to your everyday cleansing routine.

These soft pads are great for the removal of makeup or your cleansing products. They're made using two layers of super soft bamboo, helping to remove makeup gently and easily - ideal for sensitive skin.

After use, just pop the pads in your washing machine at 30 degrees or launder them by hand.

Swap laundry liquid to a biodegradable option.

Laundry liquid is on the list of household products that are commonly packaged in plastic.

However, this clever alternative consists of a paper bottle with an internal coasting of seaweed and natural plant latex - making it leak-free and completely compostable.

Swap air fresheners for wax melts.

Instead of reaching for plug-in air fresheners to add a fresh scent to your home, try out wax melts. Not only do they smell lovely, but by choosing wax melts that are packaged in recycled and recyclable materials, you cut down hugely on waste.

Swap plastic food bags for reusable wraps.

Forget plastic sandwich bags and cling film. Instead, choose a reusable food wrap made of 100% natural beeswax.

It's a natural substitute to single-use plastic and is made of handcrafted organic cotton sheets combined with 100% natural ingredients including sustainably harvested and pesticide-free beeswax, tree resin and jojoba oil.

Simply use in place of traditional plastic sandwich bags, cling film and tin foil to store sandwiches, bread, fruit, vegetables and cheese.

Swap bubble bath for bath salts.

Bubble bath is another product that comes packaged in a plastic bottle. Instead, opt for bath products (such as bath salts) which are packaged in recyclable materials, such as glass.

This particular option is infused with a relaxing blend of essential oils to help you unwind and soothe your skin. Reuse or recycle the bottle after use.

Swap plastic straws for paper straws.

The Cheeky Panda’s Bamboo Paper Straws are made from fast-growing 100% FSC Bamboo. They are 100% biodegradable and recyclable, as is their packaging.

Swap plastic bags for produce bags.

A set of three stylish linen storage bags, for all your food shopping needs. Take to the shops and fill with delicious produce, then hang in the kitchen or pantry once back at home.

Swap disposable cutlery for a reusable alternative.

When heading out on a hike or for a picnic, it can be tempting to take plastic cutlery that can be disposed of, rather than taken home.

However, we recommend trying out a reusable travel set. This classic waxed cotton utility roll is filled with ecological cutlery from Kupilka which is made from Kareline® a Natural Fibre Composite.

Swap from your usual brand to natural deodorant.

Deodorant is an everyday essential, but did you know that there are plastic-free options available?

This 100% natural deodorant stick is available in 6 different scents. The natural and certified organic ingredients will keep you feeling dry and smelling fresh all day long.

Thoughtfully packaged in biodegradable cardboard for a plastic-free and zero-waste deodorant stick.

Zero-waste beauty and bathroom essentials to buy

18 beeswax wraps to help you go plastic-free

How to make your bathroom plastic-free

Eco-friendly apps for a greener life

16 ethical Mother's Day cards for 2023

The best plastic-free Easter eggs for 2023

The most common plastic items found in the Thames

England to ban single-use plastic cups and plates

15 eco-friendly cleaning brands to know about

Banish cling film forever with this one easy swap

12 food, beauty and cleaning subscription boxes

How to join a beach clean near you