In my quest to cut down on purchasing products that come in plastic containers and those that come from trees, I have found a number of greener alternatives. Here are some of the many out there and where to purchase them. I hope you will try some of these.

Bamboo toilet paper & paper towels: CVS and Randalls carry these. You can order lots of bamboo products through companies like Bluland, Better Way, The Grove, etc. Please keep in mind that bamboo toilet paper feels just like paper TP, but it is a denser roll so it is difficult to compare prices.

Bamboo tooth brushes: I have purchased these at Central Market and Walmart. I also purchased a multi pack through Amazon so they cost less per brush.

Bamboo hair brushes: I bought a nice one from Aveda Institute. It is a good quality and should last a long time.

Bar Shampoo and Conditioner: Traditional shampoos lather up and bar shampoo doesn't. This is normal. But, your hair will feel great after it dries.

Laundry detergent sheets: I use Earth Breeze brand which comes in scented and non-scented. The 3 x 4” squares dissolve when they are put in water. One package lasts for 60 loads and comes in a light-weight card-stock envelope.

Liquid hand soap and dish detergent: Many companies carry concentrated soap that comes in tablets or pellets that you add to a reusable container with water. Once you have the dispenser you only need to order more concentrated soap tablets.

Dishwasher soap: This also can be purchased in tablets. The tablets just need to be stored in a container to keep humidity and moisture from “melting” them.

Travel eating utensils: I have a packet of bamboo eating utensils that includes a bamboo straw. I keep it in my car for travel or when I get take out so I can say “No Thanks “ to plasticware.

Reuseable bowl covers: These came from Amazon and there is an assortment of stretchy bowl covers instead of using plastic wrap.

I hope you will try some of these products and be able to cut your use of plastics down. It all adds up.