20 Reusable Items That Will Save You Money (And Help the Environment!)
Updated: Dec. 04, 2023
Trying to ditch single-use products? These reusable items are more sustainable and save you money in the long term.
Produce Bags
Instead of reaching for the disposable plastic bags when picking up fruits and veggies, bring reusable produce bags to the grocery store. Like many reusable items, the organic cotton bags are machine-washable and last for years. Bonus: They’re perfect for farmers market trips, too. Just don’t forget to clean your fruits and veggies post-shopping!
Coffee Pods
If you use your single-serve coffee maker every morning, it’s worth buying reusable coffee pods. Not only do they save money and prevent waste, but you’ll be able to use your favorite coffee beans for single servings. Talk about a win-win!
Paper Towels
Much like Swedish dishcloths, these reusable paper towels will save you a ton of money. Plus, they come in a variety of fun colors and prints! Simply throw them in the wash once they are dirty. Then, reuse them time and time again!
Sandwich Bags
Packing your own lunch is a great way to save money. Go a step further and pick up some reusable sandwich bags. These reusable silicone bags hold fresh fruit, sammies, snacks—or anything else you’re craving. Cleanup’s a breeze, too, because they’re dishwasher-safe.
Damp Duster
Take this as your sign to stop throwing out dusters. This reusable duster (aka damp duster) rinses with water to feel like new every time you go to dust. It has grooves to trap dust, crumbs and dirt. Just rinse it under water, wring it out and you’re good to go! Here’s why one editor swears by the damp duster.
Sponge
As opposed to traditional sponges, this reusable sponge is mildew-resistant and hypoallergenic. Simply throw in the washer or dishwasher when it’s getting a bit dirty, and you’ll be able to continue using it. Still not convinced you need one? Kitchen sponges made the list of the dirtiest items in your home. Eek!
Food Huggers
Instead of throwing that leftover half of a lemon or onion into a plastic baggie, these food huggers grip onto produce like a pro. They offer an airtight seal to keep fruits and veggies from spoiling after a couple days. Here’s why you should try produce delivery this week.
Beeswax Wrap
Swapping plastic items with reusable items is a great way to be more eco-friendly. Beeswax wrap is an alternative to plastic wrap that keeps your food fresh. It fits containers and even works to wrap cheese, vegetables or a bowl of dough that’s rising. The list of reasons to love beeswax wrap is endless.
Travel Coffee Mug
Whether you’re always grabbing a coffee from coffee shops or making coffee at home and then taking it on the go, you can cut back on waste significantly by bringing this travel coffee mug with you. We love the floral print of this tumbler and the fact that it’s triple insulated. Hot coffee or tea is always at the ready while on-the-go. We love these coffee accessories, too.
Food Covers
These pretty food covers replaces the need for aluminum foil when throwing leftovers in the fridge. Their elastic band allows them to cinch onto any bowl, which makes them one of the most helpful reusable items to have on hand. Plus, they come in a variety of fun prints to complement your kitchen decor.
Mason Jars
Canning jars are good for more than just, well, canning. Use ’em to stash flowers, beverages, leftovers, utensils and more. This trick works with traditional Mason jars, as well as glass salsa, sauce and yogurt containers. Find even more creative jar ideas.
Mop Pads
While they might initially seem like a bargain, the cost of single-use mop pads can add up over time. Instead, try these machine-washable pads. They work wet or dry, and they’re safe for all floor types. Did you know these common household items are reusable?
Glass Straws
Love sipping through a straw? You’re not alone. But instead of buying (and then tossing) plastic ones, grab this pack of reusable glass straws. They’re perfect for iced coffees, sodas, milkshakes and more.
Coffee Filters
You might not give your morning cup of joe much thought, but a reusable filter helps keep hundreds of paper filters from the landfill each year. Just make sure you buy one that properly fits your coffee maker. Here are some creative ways to repurpose your coffee grounds.
Dryer Balls
This pack of reusable wool dryer balls costs about the same as a carton of dryer sheets. And they last forever! They leave clothes, towels and bedding soft and static-free.
Baking Liners
A more sustainable version of parchment paper? Sign us up! These silicone liners fit perfectly on baking sheets—and their nonstick surface makes cleanup a cinch. You’ll be amazed at how cookies glide off the mats.
Shopping Bags
By now you likely have a collection of reusable grocery bags, but you can make your shopping trip even easier with this organized trolley bag. It fits directly in your cart and has separate compartments for all of your needs—including separate egg and wine pockets! These bags, plus a well-organized grocery list, are the secret to saving time while shopping. They’re one of many “TikTok Made Me Buy It“-worthy purchases that make life easier. Now all you need to find are cheap groceries!
Water Bottle
Whether you’re going on a hike or staying hydrated while running errands, this pretty bottle is a more cost-effective choice than disposable options. Bonus: Customize it with your favorite stickers! You can’t go wrong with these reusable water bottles, either.
Decorating Set
You can still achieve bakery-worthy cakes and cookies without tossing tons of plastic pastry bags in the garbage. This reusable decorating set features a silicone bag that can be washed again and again. Plus, it’s more durable than the single-use plastic versions.
Tea Infuser
Tea lovers, listen up. This easy-to-fill tea infuser will help you brew the perfect cuppa. Fresh leaf tea is simply better than the disposable bags, after all.
Originally Published: June 30, 2020
