I’m always on the lookout for ways to save money, or spend it more efficiently. I also try to be conscious of the ingredients in products I use on my body and in my home. Reducing the amount of waste I produce is also something I’m trying to be better about. The combination of these three things is what led me to find many of these products I’m sharing below. Whether you’re concerned about your health, the environment, or just your wallet, these products are sure to help!
First up is something I use daily– the MakeUp Eraser! This product has eliminated the need to purchase makeup remover wipes and eye makeup remover. I was really excited to receive this as a gift over the holidays. I don’t understand how it works, but it does! With just warm water and the MakeUp Eraser, all of your makeup comes off. I have a couple that I rotate between. I use each one for a few days before tossing it in with the dirty towels. It is machine washable and their website states each one lasts for 3-5 years! I love that this little towel has saved me money, reduced waste, and eliminates products from my nightly routine.
Another favorite replacement product of mine is the Spiff Cloth. Similar to the MakeUp Eraser, this is a washable and reusable cloth that lasts years and requires only water to use. However, instead of cleaning faces, this cleans the windows and surfaces in your life. I haven’t purchased glass cleaner in years thanks to the Spiff Cloth, as it works to clean mirrors and windows with only water. I’m all for any product that eliminates unnecessary and potentially harmful chemicals from my home. The Spiff Cloth saves money by reducing the amount of paper towel used during cleaning, and eliminating the need for any product.
Next up, wool dryer balls. While there are many different types to choose from and places to purchase dryer balls, I purchased mine from Grove Collaborative. (You can click here to get a free 5-piece Mrs. Meyers cleaning set with your first Grove Co order!). Popular dryer sheets and fabric softeners contain fragrance, which can be a combination of many different ingredients that companies do not need to disclose to consumers. Wool dryer balls are a great alternative to both dryer sheets AND fabric softener. They’ll keep your clothing static-free, and they are long-lasting, which will save you money. They can also reportedly reduce drying time, though my apartment dryer is terrible, so I can’t speak to that claim personally!
If you use cotton rounds in your skincare routine, consider replacing those with reusable rounds!(Side note: If you don’t have a skincare routine, or are looking for a safer one, take the quiz here to see what routine is right for you!) I love these cotton rounds because they’re super soft and the colorful edges make me happy. The canvas bag they come in is also super cute. There are many other options on Amazon to choose from. Make sure to choose a set that comes with a laundry bag so they stay together during washing! I use these to apply my toner instead of cotton rounds, which were always more expensive than expected when I did purchase them. If you don’t have a MakeUp Eraser, these rounds can also be used with your favorite eye makeup remover.
Without going into too much detail, I’d also like my lady readers to consider whether or not a menstrual cup might be right for you. This product has probably saved me the most money of all, and once I learned that some tampons contain unnecessary ingredients, I was on board for a change. Cups are made of medical grade silicone and nothing else. While it takes a little time to get used to, I’m glad I made the switch!
The last couple of reusable items I use have to do with food storage. I do still use plastic baggies and plastic wrap, but I’ve started to lessen the amount I use thanks to Bee’s Wrap and reusable baggies. I was introduced to both of these through Grove Collaborative, but they’re available from Amazon, too. I’ll admit it is a LOT easier to just use disposable wrap and baggies, but if you’re trying to positively impact the environment, these are great options.
Yes, I love this place