I think a big thing to remember is if you don't use that item already, why would you need a sustainable replacement? You're not replacing anything. I use reusable cotton pads to clean my face all the time, because before I used disposable ones all the time. If you don't need that product, then to you a sustainable version will just be a pointless purchase.
@@alondracarreno1376 i use a microfiber cloth (plushy type pj pants cut up work the same!) and water or micellar and when i tell you it is the BEST makeup remover ive ever used. it takes off waterproof and everything. every person ive introduced it to is hooked first try
I used to remove my makeup with them all the time, I've used reusable ones for a few years and now, since I make my own makeup remover, only use my hands, rinse, wach my face and continue my face care routine. I don't even use them anymore, or if I do, I use the newer and cleaner ones to apply like my liquid exfoliator or my toner, but not to remove makeup. That way they don't become black after one use, they stay pretty and I find it even easier this way. Anyway, whatever works for you, I just slowly went to the (stopping to use them) route over time and I think it's interesting. ^^
@Jennyfer I just wanted to let you know that you don't need anything to apply liquid exfoliators or toners. You can just put it on your face using your bare hands like a serum. It lasts you longer too cause it doesn't soak into the pad or fabric !
Just a note- the phrase “pale in comparison” actually means that the product is not as good as another. To say it “pales in comparison” is to say it’s junk or subpar. The term you’re looking for would probably be more akin to “stands up to,” meaning it holds its own in the game- it’s as good as the competition or at least good enough to put up a good fight. ☺️
I love your candid approach to eco consumerism. There simply isn't a universal list of low/no waste things that every single person needs and it's the weirdest flavour of greenwashing to market a product as if everyone needs it. Everyone should just keep their receipts from their grocery trips and look at what they keep repurchasing. If you buy something more than once a month, look into a eco-friendly alternative for that thing. Take it step by step as you're able. It's that simple.
@@blackmber this is what I started doing! Every time I threw something away I looked at it and wondered if there was an alternative. Almost every time there was. Some are more long term goals but almost everything can be replaced. Now my problem is we're basic level zero waste and I need more info! We make a lot of homemade foods, we already have been using reusable products because it just made sense. We already buy at zero waste stores. Now I need more in depth zero waste products and I can't find anything on going further
My family was going through a roll of paper towels every two days. So I did buy two dozen premade reusable paper towels and a wall mount bag dispenser/holder. I just wash them and stuff them in the top of the dispenser and pull them from the hole at the bottom. Nobody has time to reroll them on the cardboard tube. Having them be wall mounted on the cabinet next to the sink means they are visible so my family actually uses them. Do what works for you!
I know this may be gross but it similar to how if I know I will be crying a bucket of tears, I will use face towels to blow my nose instead of using tissue. My most prominent memory is a few years back, I watched my cat pass away and it was my first time seeing a sentient being pass- I had a giant mound of face towels on the ground filled with snot from crying lol. Use one 4-5 times then throw it on the ground and grabbed another 😂 washed them afterward and everything was all gravy 😬 And I can’t remember th last time I’ve used a dish towel. I grab a face towel if one is needed in the kitchen too 🤷🏽♀️
@@tgtgtgtgtgtgtg Not gross to me! Here in Belgium most people, including me, still use handkerchiefs instead of paper tissues. They are much better too imo. If you blow your nose in a paper one, it can get soggy and break immediately. Also after a lot of use, my nose gets very irritated with paper tissues and not so much with soft handkerchiefs.
Yes, same! I use mine for toner, makeup removal, and nail polish removal (those are a different color just to be safe lol). I made mine out of old clothes before I'd heard of a makeup eraser cloth. Makeup erasers sound great but if what I'm already using works well for me, I'm going to use it until I no longer can lol (3 years and counting)
Tbh I could never get in the habit of using the pads, I just pour the toner onto my hands. I figure I'd rather my hands absorb the excess product than a pad. Ik not everyone likes doing that but for me I feel like just using my hands is easier and makes the pads unnecessary (even though I own some...they go unused lol). I think also the idea of having to make sure I'm putting them back in the little bag and regularly washing them is just too much for me, I have a hard enough time keeping up with laundry as is 😅
Same for me! After removing my make up I go take a shower and wash my face anyways, and since I mostly only wear mascara anyways I only need to throw them in the laundry once a week.
I'm a micellar water in the morning gal, and my reusable pads made from scrap flannel are at least 15 years old and going strong. I also hate, hate, hate the texture of microfiber, so the makeup eraser cloth is not for me. Pro Tip for diy: make squares. They're easier to sew and a more efficient use of fabric.
PSA: sometimes Marshall’s / HomeGoods / TJMaxx carries Stasher bags at a huge discount. If you don’t have care about what color they are, you can often find the snack size for ~$5 and the sandwich size for ~$8
As an European, I'm still amazed by so many different products that people in other parts of the world use on a daily basis. So sometimes when I see "I won't buy plastic water bottles anymore", I'm like "bruh, everyone here just drinks the tap water and uses a normal towels, not the paper ones". Or I have never seen a household in my country which actually uses paper towels instead of a regular towels for their hands or face. But it still feels nice to see that other people think about it too and try to change their habits, because every culture is so different. I like your channel, it's amazing and I will watch the other videos too. Keep going!
There's actually a name for those consumers who's favourite products are always discontinued! they're called bad-omen consumers and they tend to be those who have very different tastes from the majority, so products they like most other people won't.- Also I love reusable period pads! I never had ANY leaks with them, when I used to have leaks from single use ones all the time
@@crackers1039 I think it's that these consumers generally have completely opposite tastes to the general population, and so them linking a product indicates that other consumers (the majority) will dislike it
Love my period pads. I’ve never been a tampon girl, so the period cup was a no go for me. I couldn’t take it out once and got so scared lol. I swear by my period pads, but I get they aren’t for everyone!
You don’t have the issues she mentioned in the video? I’ve been wanting to try them so bad! I use period underwear now and I hate them. They pill and shrink in the wash 😢
@@Theinvisiblehippie they do move around a bit but not that bad. And I rarely ever have leaks! They hold a lot tbh. I bought most of mine on Etsy but recently found a small local business near me that makes them so I bought some from there.
My big swap purchase I didn't need was reusable straws. I only extremely rarely used straws anyway, but fell for the marketing and bought some... Which remain extremely rarely used. My tip is to actually think about your lifestyle and what you use before buying something new!
Just here to to say I saw your video “things not I’m buying in 2023” and you mentioned clothing, this is something I never thought of (crazy I know) I looked at my overflowing closet donated a bunch of it and realized I still had enough clothing to cover any event. So seriously thank you for opening my eyes I have not bought a single new item of clothing and it feels amazing!
I've been trying not to buy clothing myself. Unless I find a dress with pockets big enough to hold a cell phone, then I can buy it. Otherwise, if I don't NEED anything, I'm trying not to buy anything.
I use cotton swabs for makeup cleanups. specifically for me, I can almost never apply mascara without getting transfer onto my lids because of my eye shape, so I use a swab basically every time I do my makeup to clean up the mascara transfer. Sometimes I'll also use them to fix eyeliner wings but that's less often. I've tried the reusable swabs and I've never found one that actually works to clean up makeup mistakes so I still use regular cotton ones, but I do buy from a plastic free brand.
@This is my name Great idea buy also depends on what you put on it. If you're using a commercial makeup remover, the plastics that could be in it wouldn't be something you would want to introduce to compost as it breaks into microplastics. If you're using something like olive oil, you're good
As a Swedish person who has used (swedish) dishcloths my entire life I must say I do prefer them way over fabric rags. They absorb so much more water, and to make them last longer you can boil it with some baking soda and the germs will die. But sure, they won't last forever, but I think I would have a hard time stop using them 😬
Agreed, though I'm also Swedish and therefore partial. I think they're the perfect mix between a rag and a paper towel, they squeeze out easier than a rag and for some reason in my world you wouldn't use a towel to wipe up a spill. I have found a replacement that I love, though, which is a waffle woven cotton dish rag the size of a normal wettex one, but which lasts longer in the wash (I'm still on my first set of 2, and I've had them for over 3 years).
Shelbi, I love all your tips! But I need to tell you: for something to pale in comparison means it’s not as good as. Like X pales in comparison to Y means that Y is way better. Because then X looks washed out or *pale* compared to the glory of Y. You’re so articulate, and I want to make sure that you’re still understood!
I noticed the same. I feel like the expression she was looking for was "hold a candle to"... "i'm trying to find another product that can even hold a candle to this one"
I love my Swedish Dish Clothes! They've totally replaced paper towels for me, since they're much more absorbent than rags and can be thrown in the dishwasher I use them more. And when they start to go, I just stick 'em in the compost.
I agree completely! They're more absorbent than paper towels and clothes. They are the absolute #1 tool for wiping down counters/surfaces for me. I feel like they last a while (several months) but I quite possibly keep them too long lol. I used to live in Chile and they've been a regular product there for as long as I can remember. I'm so happy I can get them easier in the US now.
Also love these, I’ve replaced my dishcloths with them and I’ll never go back. They never get that musty smell that dish cloths get and they last a very long time
I agree completely. We still use knit dishcloths sometimes for doing the dishes, but almost any mess or spill is taken care of with a Swedish Dish Cloth. We have enough that we can use a clean one every day and wash them once a week, which works really well, and staggering when you buy them means that they don't all wear out at the same time. Probably my favourite lower-waste product of the past few years.
I use (the original brand of Swedish dish cloths from Sweden Wettex) and have for decades, never heard of washing them in the dishwasher (I take a new one each morning and throw the old one under the sink in a basket to launder with the other kitchen linens). I don’t wash dishes with them (I use a brush or the dishwasher) but we use them for wiping counters, cleaning spills etc. I have about 14 of them that are in good condition for the kitchen and when they are starting to wear out they get used for cleaning the fire place, mopping dirty spills in other parts of the home as they are extremely absorbent or for if I need to throw away after use (vomit etc).
I use reusable cotton swabs to clean my ear piercings! Especially the one I have has a sort of pointed end that lets me get into nooks and make sure my piercing is clean while not depositing fuzz :)
I never thought to make the swap for piercing hygiene! I had gotten 5 new piercings in September '22 and have gone through HUNDREDS of disposables and 3 of them take at least a year to fully heal. I intend to get more in the upcoming years so that would make more sense. Easy to sanitize and travel with too. Thank you for sharing this!!
this is brilliant! i always have trouble getting behind the jewellery in my rook and cotton swabs always get torn up on it. gonna start using my reusable silicone ones for this! tysm!
@@mariamaldonado2177 yes, just definitely clean afterwards and you'll be golden! I've been using it for my daith and that sucker needs the 5 star cleaning treatment lmao
My cat has really small ear canals which causes wax buildup. We were going through so many qtips, which we did compost at least, but the silicone swab has been a life saver for her. It was approved by her vet as well.
I use Swedish dishcloths because I'm Finnish and so that's the tradition here lol, and yes they are compostable. I like them because they actually soak up spills which for me is the downside of cloth rags, that they usually don't soak up things all that well or quickly. How I make them last longer is I use the nicer looking top side for water and less dirty items and the bottom for staining spills so it doesn't start to look bad too quickly. They should be wrung as dry as you can and let them dry airily so they don't get musty. If they do get stained or a little funky you can use some vinegar or/and boiling water to revive them. Once I really need a new one in the kitchen the rag moves onto a dirtier area like in use on my balcony to clean up furniture or into my bathroom to clean up the shower or toilet, or to clean my shoes. Only after that do I move them into my compost bin. I actually use them in the bottom of the compost bin to suck up any bin juices from my coffee grounds and teabags and such. Then they get composted with the rest of the compost and they help keep my compost bin from not smelling too bad in-between emptying.
I use Swedish dishcloths because they’re less likely to mildew up here in my very damp state. I can wring the hell out of my normal rag and there’s a chance it still won’t dry 24 hours later but I can use a Swedish dishcloth in the morning and have it dry by dinner.
I also love them. I find they are much less likely to have that musty smell after a few days like regular dish cloths do. And they are more absorbent than regular cloths and paper towels
I put mine in a bag and throw them into the wash. I found some on Etsy that lasted so long compared to the ones I used to purchase. I use mine for everything. It's easy to soak them in a little hydrogen peroxide after a day of dishes or cleaning. Makes them white again and sanitizes them.
The small makeup cloths / rounds are really great for applying toners and the like as part of a skincare routine! I love the idea of hand-made editions, too! Either way, one with a small loop/strap across the diameter to hook your fingers through helps get a much better hold for GENTLY swiping (NEVER RUBBING) to remove makeup, as well!
I've found that the reusable paper towels are a great way to get people who won't stop using paper towels in your house to switch. It's more work, like you said, but I'm willing to do it to get them to stop buying paper towels.
I love mine. I roll them up on the dispenser that's under my cabinet anyway and I don't even think about it. It's been like three years since I bought paper towels and have never had to throw out any of my flannel ones.
hi shelby! just wanted to point out bcos i noticed you suddenly used the phrase a lot in this video (and bcos i thought you’d prefer to know for future reference!) that to “pale in comparison” means to be less good in comparison, not more. so i think you may have been accidentally using the phrase inversely. just an fyi 🥺
She kind of used it both ways. I feel like her brain locked onto the phrase and was like "yes this is mine" I was starting to question, as a writer, if I was the one that was wrong about the phrase so thanks for commenting
swedish dish cloths replace paper towels better than a regular towel in my opinion. they absorb super quickly and i keep one on my desk for when i inevitably spill my coffee so it doesn’t ruin everything!
I think you meant "everything pales in comparison to Chico bags" XD I didn't even know about the reusable cotton swabs! I do have reusable napkins, and I love 'em! And I totally agree with you on the food huggers
The brand Makeup Eraser makes the little pads that actually work with just water! I even get waterproof mascara off with them. I don't like the bigger hand towel sized version because it gets all wet and drippy. The little pads are easier to handle and just go in their bag with my laundry or I can hand wash them with hand soap at the sink. I've had mine for years and will use them forever.
They're great but they won't remove everything. I like to use those as a first cleanse before a regular cleanser if I am not wearing much makeup. I would go with the oil cleanse instead if you wear anything that's waterproof
If you want a zero waste tool for soaking in hydrogen peroxide to clean stuff out, I recommend a little paint brush! I use one for cleaning out my mechanical keyboard and I like it better than cotton swabs (doesn't leave fuzz on the mechanism) and in my experience it works really well
Such a fan of Swedish dish cloths over here! Their absorbancy and quick-drying simply can't be beat. They are perfect for wiping down counters daily or cleaning up spills. Since they dry super quick, they don't become smelly and they are super easy to wash! Love!
I use my LastSwab (the beauty one) every single day to get mascara off my eyelids. Literally couldn’t live without it! Works way better than cotton swabs ever did for the same purpose. I love that it’s in a case too which makes it easy to travel with.
I use makeup wipes still tbh because I make such a mess of my mascara every morning haha. Do you put any product on your last swab or does the mascara just wipe off with the swab?
I know this sounds kind of gross, but I actually just wet the pointed side of my beauty swab in my mouth 🙈 That’s what I used to do with cotton swabs too, and to me it works way better than water or makeup remover.
Jumping in the comments to defend reusable pads 😄 I first learned about them on your channel actually.😊 Since then I've been using them every month. In all honesty I've forgotten what leaks are! I used to have this problem with single-use, but not anymore. I agree that they do require a certain type /style of underwear, but it doesn't have to be tight, it just have to have coverage so to speak. And the leakage also hugely depends on the size of a pad, it might take a few tries to find out what works best for you personally, thought it does worth it. I'd definitely recommend them! They've changed my zero-waste life for the better! ☀
I love reusable paper towels because I don't feel guilty about using a larger, heavier kitchen towel to clean up a small spill. I come from a house that used paper towels so switching to something that was just as easy as pulling a towel off of a roll was very useful to me. I do roll them up and put them on a paper towel stand. I actually don't mind rolling them up (I do it while watching tv), but I can definitely see how that would be a barrier to entry!
I personally use the cloth pads as a back up in case my menstrual cup leaks and on lighter days just by itself. They're way better than single use pads imo because since they breathe you dont feel musty/ like you're wearing a diaper
Ok idk if this is gonna sound weird but you're the first person I've seen talk about menstrual cup leakage and it's been an issue I feel so alone in. I use the same combo as you, a cup + reusable pad for extra security. I've been using cups for years and years, have tried a few different brands, have tried a disc (epic fail) and the leaking is never at 0%. It's so frustrating lmao
@@ZebrasAreAwesome011 Oh I've just seen that as normal part of menstrual cups that it's gonna leak eventually once it gets full and there's always some blood coming out right after you put the cup in that's left outside below the cup. I'm guessing that the people who get no leaks must have very light periods or something 🤷
@@ZebrasAreAwesome011 I've used a diva cup for years and lunapads (now rebranded) as a back up for heavier days. For very light days, I only use a reusable pad.
@@ZebrasAreAwesome011 Hi, my cup also leaks very often, but that's because I have a really heavy flow and my cup became full very quickly. However, when I started to use a menstrual cup, I remember having a problem that it was always leaking even during light flow days, and that was because I wasn't inserting the cup correctly. When you put the folded cup inside, you have to make sure it opened up inside you. You should hear the sound or feel it open up, if not it's better to take it out and try again.
So I live in Sweden, and Swedish dish cloths are life. Wiping down counters, tables, spills, it is basically instead of a paper towel or a wet wipe, except you rinse it and reuse right then like a sponge instead of a cloth that needs to go in the wash after every use.
Same here, I live in Finland. I use those cloths instead of single use paper towels to clean all sorts of messes. They are not meant for washing or drying your dishes.
you can rinse off cloths to let them dry & reuse them too! it's cool that they last longer than a paper towel but I do think it's funny when they're presented as an alternative to disposables even though they're also disposable.
They're for dishes, they’re for cleaning, they’re for lovingly gifting to a friend because you think she might like them. Idk basically same and I'm in the US.
@@eikawithac I mean you will probably have to dispose of a fabric cloth eventually as well. I throw my dish cloths in the washer when needed and keep reusing it.
I use the reusable cotton swab (LastSwab) for makeup mistakes. I’m really bad at applying mascara and I always manage to get some on my eyelid or under eye. I wait for it to dry, and I use the LastSwab to remove it. This happens pretty much every time I put on mascara, and it makes it so much easier to remove without messing up the rest of my makeup!
The stainless coffee pour over filter/strainer I got was really well reviewed, but I found it to be terrible. It took FOREVER to strain and FOREVER to wash. The coffee itself was pretty muddy too. I did find a $3 thrifted moka pot and LOVE it. If I want a pour over I'll use cloth filters or compostable paper filters.
I completely disagree about the reusable cotton swabs. I use them to clean (not inside the dangerous way, but around the crevices of) my ear and they’re fantastic for that! I hate the feeling of any left over moisture and they do a great job of eliminating that and they are insanely easy to clean and dry and store. I would also assume the knobby one is great for cleaning earphones, etc. they’re also great to use to clean up very tiny mistakes with nail polish or makeup. And the last swab ones are very affordable for how much waste they eliminate.
Where I'm from swedish dishcloths are a must. We use them to wipe down surfaces, to clean the stove and we put them under wood cutting boards so they they don't slip around while you're using them
Stasher bags are amazing! They are absolutely worth the price, because they are far more robust than lots of other brands. They also hold up really well to abuse and are super easy to clean in the dishwasher or by hand. The only reason I have some bags that are not from Stasher is because I wanted gallon size ones (Stasher, please make these!).
Gallon silicon bags are my life. I use them for organizing my products for my small business. Makes it easy to avoid messes if one of my balms gets melty and leaks. I use one bag for each fragrance and it's perfection to store all sorts of little things I need for vending at small markets!
My Stasher bags always come out of the dishwasher with a soapy layer both in- and outside 😞None of my other silicone products have that problem. I want to love them, but they make it kinda hard...
Swedish dish clothes: they are my favorite thing to wipe down counters with, just get it a little damp, maybe spray the counter with cleaner (or not, depending on when it was last sprayed, the new mess, etc) and crumbs stick to the swedish dish clothes the same way they stick to damp paper towels. When I've tried to use rags, the crumbs fall to the floor, just smear around, and then the rag leaves water streaks or smears on the counter. Thank you for your video, and all the helpful content you create!!!!
Swedish dish cloth or spongecloth, as I know it, are great "all purpose cleaners" in kitchen and bathroom, where you don't necessarily need the scrubby surface from the sponge (dishes, sinks, countertops, toilet, windows etc) Just remember which color you used to clean the toilet lol i find them to be pretty long lasting as well, especially if you don't care about them lolking pristine.
Hey!!! Long time watcher first time commenter! Thanks for this video, me and my partner have been working to become more sustainable! I’m also a huge plant person so I’d love to see how you make the plant hobby more eco friendly and an updated plant tour! That’s one of my big area of consumerism right now, so it’d be super helpful!
Hannah pads are great ☺️ They have little silicone dots on the underside to prevent them from sliding. They are also organic cotton which is a plus. The only downside is the cost, but I have learned you get what you pay for.
Swedish dishclothes in the nordic countries are mainly used for wiping down surfaces in the kitchen, they dry faster than regular rags so they don't start to smell in the kitchen as fast. Good quality ones can last for a few years. Not all of them are compostable though, make sure yours is if you're composting it
For paper towels: I bought microfibre cloths that are very water-absorbent, so I use them to dry my hands after I do the dishes, or clean up WATER spills. (They don't do very well with stains, at least mines don't). For other spills and stains or wiping the countertops, I have a rotation of 8 cloths that I made by cutting up an old, worn-out towel. This one I don't care that much about, if it has a permanent bleach stain or whatever, I can still use it just as good, I wash them all regularly and I pretty much moved away from the paper towels.
I love my swedish dishcloth. I use mine instead of paper towels for wiping down counters and such. They usually last me 1.5 years with proper care, and then I compost them. They are more absorbent than the rags I make from tshirts, and I only keep one out at a time. It reduces water waste and wear and tear in my washing machine by not having to wash a ton of clothes. I just hand wash it after I wipe stuff and it's ready for the next use.
For makeup remover, I really like Ethique's solid makeup remover bar (I think the product is called SuperStar). It is a bit pricier than using oil, but I just have gotten really attached using balms and this is a good plastic free option. The bars last a long time, too. I also use it for gentle cleansing.
I use the reusable make up remover pads for applying my toner, eye make up removal and cleaning jewellery. I make reusable paper towels from old tshirts. Also can't understand the use of a silicone swab! Love the content as usual, thanks Shelby xx
I love the reusable cotton face rounds my sister gifted me for Christmas last year, and my mom even crocheted me some out of thrifted and upcycled cotton yarn! I use them to apply chemical exfoliants, remove makeup, and even when using a foaming face wash, to just get that extra little bit of suds!
I bought Food Huggers early on and while I rarely use the avocado one, I find a few of the sizes really versatile, for a range of fruits/veggies, or to cover a partially used can of coconut milk, adobo peppers, etc. So I do agree they don't seem like a perfect solution, but I'm glad I've been able to continue to use mine and be happy with their functionality.
I've really enjoyed the reusable "paper towels" because they are usually a good size for napkins, washcloths, etc and the ones I have are soft. What I have NOT enjoyed is rolling them on a paper towel roll, and seeing larger brands charge $30+ for a 12 pk. Your method of just keeping cleaned towels in a jar/bin is so simple but REVOLUTIONARY to my kitchen! I got my un-paper towels from a sweet etsy vendor and I have a large jar I can store mine in instead of having to roll them each time. Thanks for the tip! Love your videos!
@@wormiekarma2563 I got mine from generationMe on etsy. They are their simple paperless paper towels with white cotton and a colorful boarder. I've had mine only a year but they wash well and are very absorbent!
I don’t regularly wear any makeup other than mascara so I just double cleanse. However I will sometimes use a “makeup eraser” for mascara & one of my cotton rounds with eye makeup remover for waterproof. I mostly use cotton rounds for toner and miclear water, I love them for that. 100% agree with Native! I am sensitive/allergic to many standard deodorants and when my former favorite started adding aluminum I had to change. My mom found Native and it has been great. I haven’t yet started getting the plastic free ones because mom originally got a subscription & I still have at least one unopened one. Will be switching over when I need to refill.
Cloth pads have evolved so much since then. So many different shapes and sizes. I love my cloth pads. I personally do like period underwear because I work long shifts and can not change them as easily as cloth pads at work.
Reusable cotton rounds for makeup removal are one of my FAVORITE items, *BUT* I had to find the right ones. I even stitched some too out of upcycled tee-shirts, and those were not great... but the ones that have a soft flannel side really DO work. I've been using mine for ... two or three years? I had tried a Makeup Eraser cloth but the texture squigged me out, and it did NOT feel like it was effective for me. The right feel and texture of fabric for applying toner or removing makeup will make all the difference!
i can say that I use the beauty edition of "Final Swab" to touch up my makeup because I can be a little messy with mascara. Just wet it a little with tap water and it's nice and precise, and cleans off fine with a little oil-based cleanser. I agree though that it's not really necessary, and the tip of the beauty swab for me got a little damaged. I still use it, but I wouldn't necessarily recommend.
I appreciate the realness and how you weren’t shaming people for those over marketed green products that…don’t work… for the sake of being green. I feel like I usually feel guilty after watching “going green” videos but you help me feel confident in doing small switches that make a difference. ❤️ I love my period pads from this small business called Partyinmypants pads! I’m a 5’8” and 235 lb and have chub rub…bad. The women who owns the shop has a waterproof backing and they help keep them in place and makes them wider. I 100% agree with the fast that those fleece rectangle ones flop around and leak. I almost gave up too because the diva cup didn’t work for me. But yeah.. wanted to share my little find! I’ve never tried period underwear because of the price but I’m sure they are way earlier overall.
For me, not worth it: - most sustainable "impulse buys" - any reusable product where you have buy and try many options before you find one that you like - Reusable/sustainable products that you still own many more of than you really need (i.e. having 10+ reusable water bottles, etc) The initial footprint of reusable products is very high; you need to use it a LOT of times before they become more sustainable than their single-use counterparts. Buying reusable stuff is not a free ticket towards sustainability, it only works if it helps you to eliminate more wasteful/less sustainable habits.
I don’t recommend buying specific “sustainable” utensil sets. I have a fork, spoon, and knife at home that I can roll up and take on the go. No need for me to buy a utensil set specifically for the purpose of going out
I use the silicone q-tip to remove makeup like mascara under my eye or cleaning up eyeshadow. I've found them really useful for those precise clean up. I don't stick them in my ears either.
I love Swedish dish cloths! I use them to clean the counters and other kitchen surfaces. I also use them to wash dishes. I like them over regular cloth because they dry much more quickly once you ring it out.
I think you’ve mentioned this before but the one I can’t stand (and I feel bad because my husband bought this with good intentions) is the bamboo cutlery set. Why would we want this?? We all have tons of spoons and forks at home or we can just get extras at the thrift store … what’s the purpose of making them from bamboo? And am I the only one who can’t do the texture? It’s so weird eating with them; the spoon doesn’t hold anything really and the fork doesn’t stab right. 🤨 Just give me a good, old stainless set, please. 🍴🥄
These are my thoughts exactly!!! They are useless. I decided the broke college student route was the best and use the silverware I already owned, wrapped them up in a cloth napkin and called it a day.
You're so right. Bamboo in theory is great, but the cutlery etc. just doesn't make a lot of sense. Also, I thought a wooden/compostable toothbrush would be a good idea, but NOPE. Sensory issues thru the roof.
I have a last swab Q-tip and I use it for skincare! I struggle with acne and have a prescription that needs to be applied with a Q-tip. The lack of absorption with the last swab is what makes it perfect for skincare because the product doesn’t absorb before I use it!
I started with a menstrual cup for sustainability, and I loved it for a few years, but after a while I got sick and tired of having to do such an involved process every time my cup needed changing. Then I DIY'd some reusable period pads, and used those for about a year, but they weren't the best. I have now moved on to period underwear, and I really enjoy wearing them, and also being transmasc it feels very affirming to have period underwear in boyshorts/with a cut that feels like boxer briefs and I really enjoy them. I have only had them for 6 months so, but I really enjoy them and I can see myself using them for a long time.
I totally agree. Period underwear are all I use now-- They eliminate having to buy disposable products PLUS they beat reusable pads in just about every way. Loving the benefits you mentioned for transmasc/nonbinary folks too.
I like the swedish dish rags for camping. I also like using them as "paper towels" they seem to be more efficient at absorbing spills from dry than a regular rag.
Swedish Dish Cloths: I have trouble doing daily maintenance cleaning in the kitchen. So I made a container of DIY cleaning solution and cut the dish cloths to fit inside it. Could I have used a cotton towel for the same use? Yes, but then I would have had fraying edges that degrade over time and probably use more cleaning product than I need. I squeeze out the [clean] dish cloth into the container before using it and it retains the right amount of cleaning solution.
I agreed with 99% of this. I have yet to find period underwear I love. And I do like my Swedish dish cloths. I think because I rarely use them and they are stronger and dry faster than a regular rag. But I’ve only bought two a few years ago and the one I’ve been using has still been holding on strong. Don’t regret that purchase. Thanks for sharing your opinions! I always value your perspective.
I actually like the Swedish dish cloths! I agree with pretty much everything you said, but I personally bought mine from dropps to replace paper towels that I used to use to wipe up messes with water. I personally don't see the appeal in using a towel as I feel like bacteria might build up quicker/it might take too long to dry and get musty. But for me i think it's also a sensory thing of wanting what I'm wiping my table with to feel like bounty or very specific (definitely non-sustainable) clothes my mom uses :3
I really didn't expect you to not like reusable period pads and cotton pads. I really love them both but I was also using the disposable versions of them before and then I switched to reusable ones. But I like the way you told us why they are a no no for you. It did't feel like you were trying to tell us not to buy them which I really appreciate. Thank your for every single video you've made about reusable and eco friendly products. It's always nice to hear about all of your little swap ideas that I would've never thought about. Much love
Cotton swab usage: I can attest that after a lifetime of cleaning my ears using cotton swabs I have not developed any conditions or had the ear wax get compacted. I have allergies and don't like wet ears so use one at least daily. I only buy swabs with either a wooden stick or cardboard stick. I do have plastic waste from the packaging unfortunately.
It's good that your daily usage of cotton swabs to clean out your ears hasn't resulted in any earwax blockages or damage to your hearing. Do you use those cotton swabs deeply inside your ears when you clean them?
I feel you so hard on your favorite things getting discontinued! People have stopped taking me to their favorite coffee shops because everytime I find one that's my new favorite, it goes out of business. I am a jinx.
I've found the ProKeeper silicone bags from Costco to be a close second to Stasher bags.❤ I do have Stasher bags also. I love their half gallon bags (since they don't have full gallon sized bags yet).
I like the tiny pads, but i used the disposable ones regularly- i do quick wipes with micellar water before going to the gym. I find the Makeup Eraser towel is really yucky feeling texturally. Glad theres options!
I use them every day too! Not to remove everything but to get the bulk off and the mascara. Still double cleanse after but I use these with water in the morning to wipe my face too or when I don’t have makeup on.
Instead of buying or making makeup remover pads just use facecloths. The small square towels that are exactly the same material as any other bathroom type towel. Just wash them with your towels and they are meant for washing your face hence why they are called face cloths and are what people used years ago before things became more disposable
Thank you for this channel!! Subscribed since last 4 years.. I get soooooo many do's & especially don'ts.. so best part is I can do easy normal stuff and still achieve even better results.. super satisfying!!😮
I initially had many of the same issues with the Last Swab as you mentioned, but I es determined to make them work. Now I wrap them a thin piece of fabric (eg: an old timey handkerchief- I actually got a pack of the Last Swab tissue refills as part of a sample pack). This works perfectly and solves the water absorbance issue. I use one “tissue” for a week moving it around the swab so I always have a clean spot, then wash it. This also addresses the concern some people have with the tips breaking off (the first one I used actually did, luckily not in my ear!)
The reusable pad issue has a lot to do eith the brsnd. I have endometriosis and my flow is HEEEAVY! I've now been using the pads for 7 years and lutterally never had a leak. Never. But brands are different and it mught just be the only problem - finding one that works ;)
I use a brand that has similar shape wings to the single-use pads. My only complains with them is the button in the croch, which is uncomfortable when you ride a bicycle, and the long night pads not being long enough to sleep on your back. All the period underwear previously were made of poly-fabrics and I can't wear that on my skin, so I haven't tried them yet. I just found a kind of period underwear that's made out of cotton. It's in shipping still.
I've have had the same collabsable shopping bags from Bath & Body Works for like 12 years despite them being discontinued like 9+ years ago. Lots of repairs by now, but I keep getting compliments on the design and how strong they are versus how tiny they compress. But I agree that new newer reusable mesh produce bags suck.
One decision i basically will die on (unless we have a massive earthquake and they all collapse into a broken heap) are my Mason jars: I opted initially to only buy wide mouth, stick with the metal lids and rings and I now own all the sizes (1/2 pint, pint, quart and 1/2 gallon). I have no need to purchase another case of them unless I start actually canning (lol). I use them for all the food storage (dry, fridge, freeze, fresh) ingredients as well as prepared foods. I love the see through, the ease of cleaning, the universal lid, the uniformity, etc. At some point if I don't keep up my hand strength I may not be able to lift them but we're not there yet. Highly recommend anyone new to this train to opt for mason jars --- even if you just get some from someone giving up canning. You will be glad you made the investment.
Swedish dishcloths are so good! I have a kitchen sink that always has water around it. It's not leaking, the design is just terrible. The Swedish dishcloths are much more absorbent than tea towels or microfiber cloths, they dry way faster, and they do not stink nearly as quickly.
i started using the reusable "cotton" swab, but not the sleek one, the one with the small outward "dots" that usually come with the other one - in my ears, because it kind of has air between the "dots" so i dont feel that the earwax gets packed together. definetely a weird sensation the first time, but honestly it also works as a massage for your inner ear. The sleek one i use to clean my airpods
What does it feel like when you use the spiky "cotton" swab inside of your ears? Have you had any problems with your earwax or anything else related to that because of it?
I use a reusable cotton swab. I have eczema, and it's really important that after a shower I get any shampoo residue off of my skin. The swab is to wipe the groves in my ears (not my ear holes! I'm with you on the wax compaction issue, lol). Anyway, it's hard to dry and wipe away any extra shampoo with a towel or cloth. The swab helps me get all around my ear so that I don't have a flair-up in that area. Also, if I have to apply ointment to that area, a clean swab comes in handy.
I have and use reusable make-up pad removers and find them useful. I used to love using cotton swabs, so it's a good alternative for me. It was really important though that I found some that had a material that wouldn't make my sensory issues act up, lol. And I love using reusable pads! I find them better than normal pads/tampons and have never had a leak with them.
I use my reusable cotton swab to remove mascara when I get it under my eye while applying. If I use a cloth I make a big mess and I’m pretty clumsy so pretty much every time I put on makeup I use it to clean up any mascara that got on my skin around my eyes or on my nose. That way my makeup doesn’t get messed up and I don’t have mascara anywhere.
I really want to get away from paper towels. It's difficult to make sustainable decisions when living with others. Thank you for talking about these things. Even small steps like the ones you've mentioned can help reduce waste.
I switched to reusable period pads a few years back and I'm generally very satisfied. Been thinking of doing the switch for a while but was unsure but then the disposable ones started giving me rashes after a few days and i knew i had to find a better option. Not so great when travelling (got a wetbag but i don't like the concept of keeping that on me) so i combine them with wingless disposables in such cases which is still less waste. As for leakage and fit there are different designs of pads that may be a better fit for you.
I HATED the silicone sponge alternative I tried. It was meant to keep for a really long time but I felt like it just wouldn’t get things clean and I couldn’t get a good grip on it. My friend actually made me a bunch of reusable paper towels and I love them! They’re super handy. Folding them is a bit of a hassle but me and boyfriend tag team folding them!
@@geenskeen that’s a great idea! These are like just big enough where you need to fold them hot dog style. My friend just leaves hers unfolded and grabs them out of a bin when she needs them and that’s a good idea too.
I LOVE my Swedish dish cloth! It acts as both a sponge and rag and then when it wears out you just compost it! Also, I have bought mine from Who Gives a Crap and I have been using the same single Swedish dish cloth for over 6 months and it’s still going strong.
TIP: If you're a sad-girl (depression) reusable cotton pads + micellar water (REGULAR) is great for when you don't have the energy to fully wash your face but know that you need to (not for makeup--just a regular wash)
absolutely agree about stasher bags! why are the other brands so bad?! I have a handful of off brand ones that I feel bad throwing away, but I literally won't use them, so they're just sitting in the back of a cabinet lol.
I use reusable cotton rounds to apply my chemical exfoliator bc I was using cotton balls and disposable ones before. I bought a bunch and keep them in a jar and have a baggie clipped to my cabinet door to throw the used ones in. that way when it's time to wash them, they're already in the bag and I just zip em up and throw them in the laundry. a lot of sustainable replacements don't make sense for me because I don't use the disposable option in the first place or already have things I can reuse but this one has been a godsend!
Something else to watch out for with the reusable swabs: I've read many horror stories about the tips coming off inside people's ears. I DO have a set of silicone swabs - I initially got them for makeup cleanup but they don't really work for that. I now use them as an alternative to a spoolie (the knobby ones), and that's the only use I've ever really gotten out of them. Agreed that they aren't worth it.
I like using cut up old towels from thrift shops for cleaning cloths works great for me and I have no panic in them getting ruined or lost Looove re usable makeup pads I use them for my eyes and toner and cleansing love them I have so many 5:50
I actually love repurposing my old clothes into new produce bags, rags and napkins! I have even crocheted a storage basket from a couple old cotton t'shirts cut into strips. There is such an overabundance of fabric! If only I was a better seamstress, I would make more things! My big dream is to turn a bunch of my old jeans into one of those crocheted/woven ottomans. Then i could stuff it with old ripped clothes. 🤩
You can do it! Work your way up to the more intimidating projects by sewing things first where its not the worst thing if you mess up. The piece of clothing is done for anyway, so it is ok if you mess up and throw it away, because it would have been thrown away anyways.
I have the last swab and it's great for me because I have a habit of using cotton swabs to clean (but mainly itch) in my ear. This swap is great because it doesn't get rid of wax like cotton swabs but the itch is great 😂 Also, deo wise - a plastic free, refillable anti perspirant has come out in the UK and it's fab. They're from a brand called life supplies.
@@RockyApplebee Ahhh okay, that makes more sense now. I thought you meant that your earwax was still inside of your ears after you cleaned them haha. It's good that you're cleaning your ears though, protecting them from earwax damage and such. How often do you clean out your ears? If you're saying it's too much. Also, how deep do you clean inside of your ears with them?
I think a big thing to remember is if you don't use that item already, why would you need a sustainable replacement? You're not replacing anything. I use reusable cotton pads to clean my face all the time, because before I used disposable ones all the time. If you don't need that product, then to you a sustainable version will just be a pointless purchase.
what brand reusable cotton pads do you use? i go through my single use cotton pads so fast, i need a different way to take off my makeup
@@alondracarreno1376 i use a microfiber cloth (plushy type pj pants cut up work the same!) and water or micellar and when i tell you it is the BEST makeup remover ive ever used. it takes off waterproof and everything. every person ive introduced it to is hooked first try
I used to remove my makeup with them all the time, I've used reusable ones for a few years and now, since I make my own makeup remover, only use my hands, rinse, wach my face and continue my face care routine. I don't even use them anymore, or if I do, I use the newer and cleaner ones to apply like my liquid exfoliator or my toner, but not to remove makeup. That way they don't become black after one use, they stay pretty and I find it even easier this way. Anyway, whatever works for you, I just slowly went to the (stopping to use them) route over time and I think it's interesting. ^^
@Jennyfer I just wanted to let you know that you don't need anything to apply liquid exfoliators or toners. You can just put it on your face using your bare hands like a serum. It lasts you longer too cause it doesn't soak into the pad or fabric !
@@alondracarreno1376I bought reusable rounds and they fell apart. I use a fiber cloth or even a wash cloth.
Just a note- the phrase “pale in comparison” actually means that the product is not as good as another. To say it “pales in comparison” is to say it’s junk or subpar.
The term you’re looking for would probably be more akin to “stands up to,” meaning it holds its own in the game- it’s as good as the competition or at least good enough to put up a good fight. ☺️
Was looking for a comment explaining this. ^^
Came to the comments just to make sure someone said it.😂
I also thought this 😂
I don't think she's the brightest bulb in the pack.
@@SarahMacDonald1991oof thats kinda mean
I love your candid approach to eco consumerism. There simply isn't a universal list of low/no waste things that every single person needs and it's the weirdest flavour of greenwashing to market a product as if everyone needs it.
Everyone should just keep their receipts from their grocery trips and look at what they keep repurchasing. If you buy something more than once a month, look into a eco-friendly alternative for that thing. Take it step by step as you're able. It's that simple.
Yeah and you can look in your garbage bin as well to see what you're throwing away most often.
@@blackmber this is what I started doing! Every time I threw something away I looked at it and wondered if there was an alternative. Almost every time there was. Some are more long term goals but almost everything can be replaced.
Now my problem is we're basic level zero waste and I need more info! We make a lot of homemade foods, we already have been using reusable products because it just made sense. We already buy at zero waste stores. Now I need more in depth zero waste products and I can't find anything on going further
My family was going through a roll of paper towels every two days. So I did buy two dozen premade reusable paper towels and a wall mount bag dispenser/holder. I just wash them and stuff them in the top of the dispenser and pull them from the hole at the bottom. Nobody has time to reroll them on the cardboard tube. Having them be wall mounted on the cabinet next to the sink means they are visible so my family actually uses them. Do what works for you!
I know this may be gross but it similar to how if I know I will be crying a bucket of tears, I will use face towels to blow my nose instead of using tissue. My most prominent memory is a few years back, I watched my cat pass away and it was my first time seeing a sentient being pass- I had a giant mound of face towels on the ground filled with snot from crying lol. Use one 4-5 times then throw it on the ground and grabbed another 😂 washed them afterward and everything was all gravy 😬 And I can’t remember th last time I’ve used a dish towel. I grab a face towel if one is needed in the kitchen too 🤷🏽♀️
@@tgtgtgtgtgtgtg Not gross to me! Here in Belgium most people, including me, still use handkerchiefs instead of paper tissues. They are much better too imo. If you blow your nose in a paper one, it can get soggy and break immediately. Also after a lot of use, my nose gets very irritated with paper tissues and not so much with soft handkerchiefs.
I actually LOVE makeup remover pads. I use it for my toner and it seriously had made a huge difference in reducing my waste in that area of my life.
Yes, same! I use mine for toner, makeup removal, and nail polish removal (those are a different color just to be safe lol). I made mine out of old clothes before I'd heard of a makeup eraser cloth. Makeup erasers sound great but if what I'm already using works well for me, I'm going to use it until I no longer can lol (3 years and counting)
Tbh I could never get in the habit of using the pads, I just pour the toner onto my hands. I figure I'd rather my hands absorb the excess product than a pad. Ik not everyone likes doing that but for me I feel like just using my hands is easier and makes the pads unnecessary (even though I own some...they go unused lol). I think also the idea of having to make sure I'm putting them back in the little bag and regularly washing them is just too much for me, I have a hard enough time keeping up with laundry as is 😅
Same for me! After removing my make up I go take a shower and wash my face anyways, and since I mostly only wear mascara anyways I only need to throw them in the laundry once a week.
yessss i started using them for my toner and i waste so much less.
I'm a micellar water in the morning gal, and my reusable pads made from scrap flannel are at least 15 years old and going strong. I also hate, hate, hate the texture of microfiber, so the makeup eraser cloth is not for me.
Pro Tip for diy: make squares. They're easier to sew and a more efficient use of fabric.
PSA: sometimes Marshall’s / HomeGoods / TJMaxx carries Stasher bags at a huge discount.
If you don’t have care about what color they are, you can often find the snack size for ~$5 and the sandwich size for ~$8
Grocery outlet sometimes carries stasher bags as well:)
@@thegardenblonde426 yep, my grocery outlet has them!
Thank you!! I'm a huge fan of those, I love that you can make sous vide with them or freeze them. So dang cool
Also, cosco had a great deal on them, something like $20 for 6, 3 small and 3 medium bags.i have not been able to find that deal again, though :(
As an European, I'm still amazed by so many different products that people in other parts of the world use on a daily basis. So sometimes when I see "I won't buy plastic water bottles anymore", I'm like "bruh, everyone here just drinks the tap water and uses a normal towels, not the paper ones". Or I have never seen a household in my country which actually uses paper towels instead of a regular towels for their hands or face. But it still feels nice to see that other people think about it too and try to change their habits, because every culture is so different. I like your channel, it's amazing and I will watch the other videos too. Keep going!
There's actually a name for those consumers who's favourite products are always discontinued! they're called bad-omen consumers and they tend to be those who have very different tastes from the majority, so products they like most other people won't.- Also I love reusable period pads! I never had ANY leaks with them, when I used to have leaks from single use ones all the time
I love that there's a name for this phenomenon!
Me and I also love reusable period pads lol, somehow they make me have less cramps
That's so interesting. So they're a minority and 6 not enough to sustain the making of the product?
@@crackers1039 I think it's that these consumers generally have completely opposite tastes to the general population, and so them linking a product indicates that other consumers (the majority) will dislike it
Omg, there’s a name for me. I should’ve known.
Love my period pads. I’ve never been a tampon girl, so the period cup was a no go for me. I couldn’t take it out once and got so scared lol. I swear by my period pads, but I get they aren’t for everyone!
I use them too! I handmade mine and never had any problems with them
I find them useful for most days except for a heavy day in which the best thing was to combo and use with period underwear.
You don’t have the issues she mentioned in the video? I’ve been wanting to try them so bad! I use period underwear now and I hate them. They pill and shrink in the wash 😢
me too girl me too 👍✨
@@Theinvisiblehippie they do move around a bit but not that bad. And I rarely ever have leaks! They hold a lot tbh. I bought most of mine on Etsy but recently found a small local business near me that makes them so I bought some from there.
My big swap purchase I didn't need was reusable straws. I only extremely rarely used straws anyway, but fell for the marketing and bought some... Which remain extremely rarely used. My tip is to actually think about your lifestyle and what you use before buying something new!
Just here to to say I saw your video “things not I’m buying in 2023” and you mentioned clothing, this is something I never thought of (crazy I know) I looked at my overflowing closet donated a bunch of it and realized I still had enough clothing to cover any event. So seriously thank you for opening my eyes I have not bought a single new item of clothing and it feels amazing!
I've been trying not to buy clothing myself. Unless I find a dress with pockets big enough to hold a cell phone, then I can buy it. Otherwise, if I don't NEED anything, I'm trying not to buy anything.
I don't buy clothes cuz I can't afford it
I use cotton swabs for makeup cleanups. specifically for me, I can almost never apply mascara without getting transfer onto my lids because of my eye shape, so I use a swab basically every time I do my makeup to clean up the mascara transfer. Sometimes I'll also use them to fix eyeliner wings but that's less often. I've tried the reusable swabs and I've never found one that actually works to clean up makeup mistakes so I still use regular cotton ones, but I do buy from a plastic free brand.
If they are fully Cotton then you can compost them. If you don’t have a compost well they are small enough that you can just put them in the ground
@This is my name Great idea buy also depends on what you put on it. If you're using a commercial makeup remover, the plastics that could be in it wouldn't be something you would want to introduce to compost as it breaks into microplastics. If you're using something like olive oil, you're good
there are fully compostable ones
@@ChaosAngel1331 I use just a water.
I use the makeup one everyday for the same thing. Works great!
As a Swedish person who has used (swedish) dishcloths my entire life I must say I do prefer them way over fabric rags. They absorb so much more water, and to make them last longer you can boil it with some baking soda and the germs will die. But sure, they won't last forever, but I think I would have a hard time stop using them 😬
Agree.
Sure they don't last forever, but they last me about as long as a rag.
And on the last use I use them for toilet.
Agreed, though I'm also Swedish and therefore partial. I think they're the perfect mix between a rag and a paper towel, they squeeze out easier than a rag and for some reason in my world you wouldn't use a towel to wipe up a spill. I have found a replacement that I love, though, which is a waffle woven cotton dish rag the size of a normal wettex one, but which lasts longer in the wash (I'm still on my first set of 2, and I've had them for over 3 years).
I also cut them smaller and use them as makeup remover pads.
They are compostable though. I'm American and I love them!
And they dry so much quicker
Shelbi, I love all your tips! But I need to tell you: for something to pale in comparison means it’s not as good as. Like X pales in comparison to Y means that Y is way better. Because then X looks washed out or *pale* compared to the glory of Y. You’re so articulate, and I want to make sure that you’re still understood!
You saved me from writing the same comment 😉
I kept thinking this too. Pales in comparison means it doesn't come anywhere close, not that it's similar.
Lol came to the comments to see if anyone else noticed that she kept using it incorrectly
I noticed the same. I feel like the expression she was looking for was "hold a candle to"... "i'm trying to find another product that can even hold a candle to this one"
Yup
I love my Swedish Dish Clothes! They've totally replaced paper towels for me, since they're much more absorbent than rags and can be thrown in the dishwasher I use them more. And when they start to go, I just stick 'em in the compost.
I agree completely! They're more absorbent than paper towels and clothes. They are the absolute #1 tool for wiping down counters/surfaces for me.
I feel like they last a while (several months) but I quite possibly keep them too long lol. I used to live in Chile and they've been a regular product there for as long as I can remember. I'm so happy I can get them easier in the US now.
Also love these, I’ve replaced my dishcloths with them and I’ll never go back. They never get that musty smell that dish cloths get and they last a very long time
I agree completely. We still use knit dishcloths sometimes for doing the dishes, but almost any mess or spill is taken care of with a Swedish Dish Cloth. We have enough that we can use a clean one every day and wash them once a week, which works really well, and staggering when you buy them means that they don't all wear out at the same time. Probably my favourite lower-waste product of the past few years.
I use (the original brand of Swedish dish cloths from Sweden Wettex) and have for decades, never heard of washing them in the dishwasher (I take a new one each morning and throw the old one under the sink in a basket to launder with the other kitchen linens). I don’t wash dishes with them (I use a brush or the dishwasher) but we use them for wiping counters, cleaning spills etc. I have about 14 of them that are in good condition for the kitchen and when they are starting to wear out they get used for cleaning the fire place, mopping dirty spills in other parts of the home as they are extremely absorbent or for if I need to throw away after use (vomit etc).
Yes these are essential!
I use reusable cotton swabs to clean my ear piercings! Especially the one I have has a sort of pointed end that lets me get into nooks and make sure my piercing is clean while not depositing fuzz :)
I do the same
I never thought to make the swap for piercing hygiene! I had gotten 5 new piercings in September '22 and have gone through HUNDREDS of disposables and 3 of them take at least a year to fully heal. I intend to get more in the upcoming years so that would make more sense. Easy to sanitize and travel with too. Thank you for sharing this!!
this is brilliant! i always have trouble getting behind the jewellery in my rook and cotton swabs always get torn up on it. gonna start using my reusable silicone ones for this! tysm!
@@mariamaldonado2177 yes, just definitely clean afterwards and you'll be golden! I've been using it for my daith and that sucker needs the 5 star cleaning treatment lmao
@@melanie_meanders DEFINITELY recommend the reusable one that has a pointy-er end for the rook, that one is so cute yet sneaky placement wise :)
My mom sews her own produce bags and she uses muslin cloth. They're really nice and we even put flour in them among other things
My cat has really small ear canals which causes wax buildup. We were going through so many qtips, which we did compost at least, but the silicone swab has been a life saver for her. It was approved by her vet as well.
I use Swedish dishcloths because I'm Finnish and so that's the tradition here lol, and yes they are compostable. I like them because they actually soak up spills which for me is the downside of cloth rags, that they usually don't soak up things all that well or quickly.
How I make them last longer is I use the nicer looking top side for water and less dirty items and the bottom for staining spills so it doesn't start to look bad too quickly. They should be wrung as dry as you can and let them dry airily so they don't get musty. If they do get stained or a little funky you can use some vinegar or/and boiling water to revive them.
Once I really need a new one in the kitchen the rag moves onto a dirtier area like in use on my balcony to clean up furniture or into my bathroom to clean up the shower or toilet, or to clean my shoes. Only after that do I move them into my compost bin. I actually use them in the bottom of the compost bin to suck up any bin juices from my coffee grounds and teabags and such. Then they get composted with the rest of the compost and they help keep my compost bin from not smelling too bad in-between emptying.
I absolutely love the honesty here. Makes me feel better about some of the eco-friendly things I have purchased and can’t stand.
I use Swedish dishcloths because they’re less likely to mildew up here in my very damp state. I can wring the hell out of my normal rag and there’s a chance it still won’t dry 24 hours later but I can use a Swedish dishcloth in the morning and have it dry by dinner.
Yes! I use them too. Mine have lasted years.
I also love them. I find they are much less likely to have that musty smell after a few days like regular dish cloths do. And they are more absorbent than regular cloths and paper towels
I put mine in a bag and throw them into the wash. I found some on Etsy that lasted so long compared to the ones I used to purchase. I use mine for everything. It's easy to soak them in a little hydrogen peroxide after a day of dishes or cleaning. Makes them white again and sanitizes them.
The small makeup cloths / rounds are really great for applying toners and the like as part of a skincare routine! I love the idea of hand-made editions, too! Either way, one with a small loop/strap across the diameter to hook your fingers through helps get a much better hold for GENTLY swiping (NEVER RUBBING) to remove makeup, as well!
I've found that the reusable paper towels are a great way to get people who won't stop using paper towels in your house to switch. It's more work, like you said, but I'm willing to do it to get them to stop buying paper towels.
Marley Monsters ftw!
I love mine. I roll them up on the dispenser that's under my cabinet anyway and I don't even think about it. It's been like three years since I bought paper towels and have never had to throw out any of my flannel ones.
hi shelby! just wanted to point out bcos i noticed you suddenly used the phrase a lot in this video (and bcos i thought you’d prefer to know for future reference!) that to “pale in comparison” means to be less good in comparison, not more. so i think you may have been accidentally using the phrase inversely. just an fyi 🥺
Thank you, I was hoping for a comment like this 😅
omg I've been using it wrong too huh :`) thank you for pointing it out
Yeah she said it a few times and I understood the first couple backward from her intention at first. Glad someone mentioned this
Wait what, did she say it contrary?
She kind of used it both ways. I feel like her brain locked onto the phrase and was like "yes this is mine"
I was starting to question, as a writer, if I was the one that was wrong about the phrase so thanks for commenting
swedish dish cloths replace paper towels better than a regular towel in my opinion. they absorb super quickly and i keep one on my desk for when i inevitably spill my coffee so it doesn’t ruin everything!
I think you meant "everything pales in comparison to Chico bags" XD I didn't even know about the reusable cotton swabs! I do have reusable napkins, and I love 'em! And I totally agree with you on the food huggers
Yeah she used that phrase (incorrectly) a few times in this video and it was giving me the ick 😆 (even though I love her content)
The brand Makeup Eraser makes the little pads that actually work with just water! I even get waterproof mascara off with them. I don't like the bigger hand towel sized version because it gets all wet and drippy. The little pads are easier to handle and just go in their bag with my laundry or I can hand wash them with hand soap at the sink. I've had mine for years and will use them forever.
I use the same thing! I got hello kitty ones ♥️
They're great but they won't remove everything. I like to use those as a first cleanse before a regular cleanser if I am not wearing much makeup. I would go with the oil cleanse instead if you wear anything that's waterproof
The big issue with using microfiber is that is sheds microplastics in the laundry and when you rinse to get it wet or ring it out.
I have the hippy van set of makeup erasers. They work really well
If you want a zero waste tool for soaking in hydrogen peroxide to clean stuff out, I recommend a little paint brush! I use one for cleaning out my mechanical keyboard and I like it better than cotton swabs (doesn't leave fuzz on the mechanism) and in my experience it works really well
Such a fan of Swedish dish cloths over here! Their absorbancy and quick-drying simply can't be beat. They are perfect for wiping down counters daily or cleaning up spills. Since they dry super quick, they don't become smelly and they are super easy to wash! Love!
I love them too!
I use my LastSwab (the beauty one) every single day to get mascara off my eyelids. Literally couldn’t live without it! Works way better than cotton swabs ever did for the same purpose. I love that it’s in a case too which makes it easy to travel with.
I use makeup wipes still tbh because I make such a mess of my mascara every morning haha. Do you put any product on your last swab or does the mascara just wipe off with the swab?
I know this sounds kind of gross, but I actually just wet the pointed side of my beauty swab in my mouth 🙈 That’s what I used to do with cotton swabs too, and to me it works way better than water or makeup remover.
Jumping in the comments to defend reusable pads 😄 I first learned about them on your channel actually.😊 Since then I've been using them every month. In all honesty I've forgotten what leaks are! I used to have this problem with single-use, but not anymore. I agree that they do require a certain type /style of underwear, but it doesn't have to be tight, it just have to have coverage so to speak. And the leakage also hugely depends on the size of a pad, it might take a few tries to find out what works best for you personally, thought it does worth it. I'd definitely recommend them! They've changed my zero-waste life for the better! ☀
I love reusable paper towels because I don't feel guilty about using a larger, heavier kitchen towel to clean up a small spill. I come from a house that used paper towels so switching to something that was just as easy as pulling a towel off of a roll was very useful to me. I do roll them up and put them on a paper towel stand. I actually don't mind rolling them up (I do it while watching tv), but I can definitely see how that would be a barrier to entry!
I personally use the cloth pads as a back up in case my menstrual cup leaks and on lighter days just by itself. They're way better than single use pads imo because since they breathe you dont feel musty/ like you're wearing a diaper
Ok idk if this is gonna sound weird but you're the first person I've seen talk about menstrual cup leakage and it's been an issue I feel so alone in. I use the same combo as you, a cup + reusable pad for extra security. I've been using cups for years and years, have tried a few different brands, have tried a disc (epic fail) and the leaking is never at 0%. It's so frustrating lmao
@@ZebrasAreAwesome011 Oh I've just seen that as normal part of menstrual cups that it's gonna leak eventually once it gets full and there's always some blood coming out right after you put the cup in that's left outside below the cup. I'm guessing that the people who get no leaks must have very light periods or something 🤷
@@ZebrasAreAwesome011 I've used a diva cup for years and lunapads (now rebranded) as a back up for heavier days. For very light days, I only use a reusable pad.
@@ZebrasAreAwesome011 Hi, my cup also leaks very often, but that's because I have a really heavy flow and my cup became full very quickly. However, when I started to use a menstrual cup, I remember having a problem that it was always leaking even during light flow days, and that was because I wasn't inserting the cup correctly. When you put the folded cup inside, you have to make sure it opened up inside you. You should hear the sound or feel it open up, if not it's better to take it out and try again.
@@helenalimo3133 I do insert it as such, helps a bit but still get leaks after a while.
So I live in Sweden, and Swedish dish cloths are life. Wiping down counters, tables, spills, it is basically instead of a paper towel or a wet wipe, except you rinse it and reuse right then like a sponge instead of a cloth that needs to go in the wash after every use.
Same here, I live in Finland. I use those cloths instead of single use paper towels to clean all sorts of messes. They are not meant for washing or drying your dishes.
you can rinse off cloths to let them dry & reuse them too! it's cool that they last longer than a paper towel but I do think it's funny when they're presented as an alternative to disposables even though they're also disposable.
They're for dishes, they’re for cleaning, they’re for lovingly gifting to a friend because you think she might like them. Idk basically same and I'm in the US.
@@eikawithac I mean you will probably have to dispose of a fabric cloth eventually as well. I throw my dish cloths in the washer when needed and keep reusing it.
I use the reusable cotton swab (LastSwab) for makeup mistakes. I’m really bad at applying mascara and I always manage to get some on my eyelid or under eye. I wait for it to dry, and I use the LastSwab to remove it. This happens pretty much every time I put on mascara, and it makes it so much easier to remove without messing up the rest of my makeup!
Yes!
Same. Plus to use my lipsticks completely. U know the part of lipstic that is inside of a tub in the end and you can’t apply it normally anymore😊
Yes. I use them to clean up mascara that migrates away from my lashes.
The stainless coffee pour over filter/strainer I got was really well reviewed, but I found it to be terrible. It took FOREVER to strain and FOREVER to wash. The coffee itself was pretty muddy too. I did find a $3 thrifted moka pot and LOVE it. If I want a pour over I'll use cloth filters or compostable paper filters.
The metal coffee filters are so bad! I'd love to find one that actually worked but it always makes the coffee weird
French press is awesome too!
I completely disagree about the reusable cotton swabs. I use them to clean (not inside the dangerous way, but around the crevices of) my ear and they’re fantastic for that! I hate the feeling of any left over moisture and they do a great job of eliminating that and they are insanely easy to clean and dry and store. I would also assume the knobby one is great for cleaning earphones, etc. they’re also great to use to clean up very tiny mistakes with nail polish or makeup. And the last swab ones are very affordable for how much waste they eliminate.
yea, the point is find what works for you!
Where I'm from swedish dishcloths are a must. We use them to wipe down surfaces, to clean the stove and we put them under wood cutting boards so they they don't slip around while you're using them
Stasher bags are amazing! They are absolutely worth the price, because they are far more robust than lots of other brands. They also hold up really well to abuse and are super easy to clean in the dishwasher or by hand. The only reason I have some bags that are not from Stasher is because I wanted gallon size ones (Stasher, please make these!).
Gallon silicon bags are my life. I use them for organizing my products for my small business. Makes it easy to avoid messes if one of my balms gets melty and leaks. I use one bag for each fragrance and it's perfection to store all sorts of little things I need for vending at small markets!
My Stasher bags always come out of the dishwasher with a soapy layer both in- and outside 😞None of my other silicone products have that problem. I want to love them, but they make it kinda hard...
Interesting. I never had that problem. Do you put them in upside down, kind of open?@@jutta3790
Swedish dish clothes: they are my favorite thing to wipe down counters with, just get it a little damp, maybe spray the counter with cleaner (or not, depending on when it was last sprayed, the new mess, etc) and crumbs stick to the swedish dish clothes the same way they stick to damp paper towels. When I've tried to use rags, the crumbs fall to the floor, just smear around, and then the rag leaves water streaks or smears on the counter.
Thank you for your video, and all the helpful content you create!!!!
Swedish dish cloth or spongecloth, as I know it, are great "all purpose cleaners" in kitchen and bathroom, where you don't necessarily need the scrubby surface from the sponge (dishes, sinks, countertops, toilet, windows etc) Just remember which color you used to clean the toilet lol i find them to be pretty long lasting as well, especially if you don't care about them lolking pristine.
Hey!!! Long time watcher first time commenter! Thanks for this video, me and my partner have been working to become more sustainable! I’m also a huge plant person so I’d love to see how you make the plant hobby more eco friendly and an updated plant tour! That’s one of my big area of consumerism right now, so it’d be super helpful!
Hannah pads are great ☺️ They have little silicone dots on the underside to prevent them from sliding. They are also organic cotton which is a plus. The only downside is the cost, but I have learned you get what you pay for.
Imo it's cheaper to use reusable cloth pads than to keep buying disposable ones
Swedish dishclothes in the nordic countries are mainly used for wiping down surfaces in the kitchen, they dry faster than regular rags so they don't start to smell in the kitchen as fast. Good quality ones can last for a few years. Not all of them are compostable though, make sure yours is if you're composting it
For paper towels: I bought microfibre cloths that are very water-absorbent, so I use them to dry my hands after I do the dishes, or clean up WATER spills. (They don't do very well with stains, at least mines don't). For other spills and stains or wiping the countertops, I have a rotation of 8 cloths that I made by cutting up an old, worn-out towel. This one I don't care that much about, if it has a permanent bleach stain or whatever, I can still use it just as good, I wash them all regularly and I pretty much moved away from the paper towels.
I love my swedish dishcloth. I use mine instead of paper towels for wiping down counters and such. They usually last me 1.5 years with proper care, and then I compost them. They are more absorbent than the rags I make from tshirts, and I only keep one out at a time. It reduces water waste and wear and tear in my washing machine by not having to wash a ton of clothes. I just hand wash it after I wipe stuff and it's ready for the next use.
For makeup remover, I really like Ethique's solid makeup remover bar (I think the product is called SuperStar). It is a bit pricier than using oil, but I just have gotten really attached using balms and this is a good plastic free option. The bars last a long time, too. I also use it for gentle cleansing.
I use the reusable make up remover pads for applying my toner, eye make up removal and cleaning jewellery. I make reusable paper towels from old tshirts. Also can't understand the use of a silicone swab! Love the content as usual, thanks Shelby xx
I love the reusable cotton face rounds my sister gifted me for Christmas last year, and my mom even crocheted me some out of thrifted and upcycled cotton yarn! I use them to apply chemical exfoliants, remove makeup, and even when using a foaming face wash, to just get that extra little bit of suds!
I bought Food Huggers early on and while I rarely use the avocado one, I find a few of the sizes really versatile, for a range of fruits/veggies, or to cover a partially used can of coconut milk, adobo peppers, etc. So I do agree they don't seem like a perfect solution, but I'm glad I've been able to continue to use mine and be happy with their functionality.
I got some for free second hand and I agree, I don't really like them over fruit etc directly but very useful to cover containers fully airtight
I've really enjoyed the reusable "paper towels" because they are usually a good size for napkins, washcloths, etc and the ones I have are soft. What I have NOT enjoyed is rolling them on a paper towel roll, and seeing larger brands charge $30+ for a 12 pk. Your method of just keeping cleaned towels in a jar/bin is so simple but REVOLUTIONARY to my kitchen! I got my un-paper towels from a sweet etsy vendor and I have a large jar I can store mine in instead of having to roll them each time. Thanks for the tip! Love your videos!
What etsy vendor did you get them from?
@@wormiekarma2563 I got mine from generationMe on etsy. They are their simple paperless paper towels with white cotton and a colorful boarder. I've had mine only a year but they wash well and are very absorbent!
@@JimothyAstroturf thank you so much!
This is really helpful to get some extra knowledge for people who are new in this space! Thank you so much shelbi
I don’t regularly wear any makeup other than mascara so I just double cleanse. However I will sometimes use a “makeup eraser” for mascara & one of my cotton rounds with eye makeup remover for waterproof. I mostly use cotton rounds for toner and miclear water, I love them for that.
100% agree with Native! I am sensitive/allergic to many standard deodorants and when my former favorite started adding aluminum I had to change. My mom found Native and it has been great. I haven’t yet started getting the plastic free ones because mom originally got a subscription & I still have at least one unopened one. Will be switching over when I need to refill.
Cloth pads have evolved so much since then. So many different shapes and sizes. I love my cloth pads. I personally do like period underwear because I work long shifts and can not change them as easily as cloth pads at work.
Reusable cotton rounds for makeup removal are one of my FAVORITE items, *BUT* I had to find the right ones. I even stitched some too out of upcycled tee-shirts, and those were not great... but the ones that have a soft flannel side really DO work. I've been using mine for ... two or three years? I had tried a Makeup Eraser cloth but the texture squigged me out, and it did NOT feel like it was effective for me. The right feel and texture of fabric for applying toner or removing makeup will make all the difference!
i can say that I use the beauty edition of "Final Swab" to touch up my makeup because I can be a little messy with mascara. Just wet it a little with tap water and it's nice and precise, and cleans off fine with a little oil-based cleanser. I agree though that it's not really necessary, and the tip of the beauty swab for me got a little damaged. I still use it, but I wouldn't necessarily recommend.
I appreciate the realness and how you weren’t shaming people for those over marketed green products that…don’t work… for the sake of being green. I feel like I usually feel guilty after watching “going green” videos but you help me feel confident in doing small switches that make a difference. ❤️
I love my period pads from this small business called Partyinmypants pads! I’m a 5’8” and 235 lb and have chub rub…bad. The women who owns the shop has a waterproof backing and they help keep them in place and makes them wider. I 100% agree with the fast that those fleece rectangle ones flop around and leak. I almost gave up too because the diva cup didn’t work for me. But yeah.. wanted to share my little find! I’ve never tried period underwear because of the price but I’m sure they are way earlier overall.
For me, not worth it:
- most sustainable "impulse buys"
- any reusable product where you have buy and try many options before you find one that you like
- Reusable/sustainable products that you still own many more of than you really need (i.e. having 10+ reusable water bottles, etc)
The initial footprint of reusable products is very high; you need to use it a LOT of times before they become more sustainable than their single-use counterparts. Buying reusable stuff is not a free ticket towards sustainability, it only works if it helps you to eliminate more wasteful/less sustainable habits.
Well said!
I don’t recommend buying specific “sustainable” utensil sets. I have a fork, spoon, and knife at home that I can roll up and take on the go. No need for me to buy a utensil set specifically for the purpose of going out
I use the silicone q-tip to remove makeup like mascara under my eye or cleaning up eyeshadow. I've found them really useful for those precise clean up. I don't stick them in my ears either.
I love Swedish dish cloths!
I use them to clean the counters and other kitchen surfaces. I also use them to wash dishes.
I like them over regular cloth because they dry much more quickly once you ring it out.
I think you’ve mentioned this before but the one I can’t stand (and I feel bad because my husband bought this with good intentions) is the bamboo cutlery set.
Why would we want this?? We all have tons of spoons and forks at home or we can just get extras at the thrift store … what’s the purpose of making them from bamboo? And am I the only one who can’t do the texture? It’s so weird eating with them; the spoon doesn’t hold anything really and the fork doesn’t stab right. 🤨
Just give me a good, old stainless set, please. 🍴🥄
These are my thoughts exactly!!! They are useless. I decided the broke college student route was the best and use the silverware I already owned, wrapped them up in a cloth napkin and called it a day.
You're so right. Bamboo in theory is great, but the cutlery etc. just doesn't make a lot of sense. Also, I thought a wooden/compostable toothbrush would be a good idea, but NOPE. Sensory issues thru the roof.
I like that you're honest without shaming people who DO use these products. Good video.
I switched to menstrual cups several years ago. I love it! Super easy to clean and haven’t had to buy new products in years.
I have a last swab Q-tip and I use it for skincare! I struggle with acne and have a prescription that needs to be applied with a Q-tip. The lack of absorption with the last swab is what makes it perfect for skincare because the product doesn’t absorb before I use it!
I started with a menstrual cup for sustainability, and I loved it for a few years, but after a while I got sick and tired of having to do such an involved process every time my cup needed changing. Then I DIY'd some reusable period pads, and used those for about a year, but they weren't the best. I have now moved on to period underwear, and I really enjoy wearing them, and also being transmasc it feels very affirming to have period underwear in boyshorts/with a cut that feels like boxer briefs and I really enjoy them. I have only had them for 6 months so, but I really enjoy them and I can see myself using them for a long time.
I totally agree. Period underwear are all I use now-- They eliminate having to buy disposable products PLUS they beat reusable pads in just about every way. Loving the benefits you mentioned for transmasc/nonbinary folks too.
Bro, thank you for this!! I was needing a less dysphoric menstrual experience, gotta try out the underwear.
I like the swedish dish rags for camping. I also like using them as "paper towels" they seem to be more efficient at absorbing spills from dry than a regular rag.
Swedish Dish Cloths: I have trouble doing daily maintenance cleaning in the kitchen. So I made a container of DIY cleaning solution and cut the dish cloths to fit inside it. Could I have used a cotton towel for the same use? Yes, but then I would have had fraying edges that degrade over time and probably use more cleaning product than I need. I squeeze out the [clean] dish cloth into the container before using it and it retains the right amount of cleaning solution.
I agreed with 99% of this. I have yet to find period underwear I love. And I do like my Swedish dish cloths. I think because I rarely use them and they are stronger and dry faster than a regular rag. But I’ve only bought two a few years ago and the one I’ve been using has still been holding on strong. Don’t regret that purchase. Thanks for sharing your opinions! I always value your perspective.
I actually like the Swedish dish cloths! I agree with pretty much everything you said, but I personally bought mine from dropps to replace paper towels that I used to use to wipe up messes with water. I personally don't see the appeal in using a towel as I feel like bacteria might build up quicker/it might take too long to dry and get musty. But for me i think it's also a sensory thing of wanting what I'm wiping my table with to feel like bounty or very specific (definitely non-sustainable) clothes my mom uses :3
I really didn't expect you to not like reusable period pads and cotton pads. I really love them both but I was also using the disposable versions of them before and then I switched to reusable ones. But I like the way you told us why they are a no no for you. It did't feel like you were trying to tell us not to buy them which I really appreciate. Thank your for every single video you've made about reusable and eco friendly products. It's always nice to hear about all of your little swap ideas that I would've never thought about. Much love
Cotton swab usage: I can attest that after a lifetime of cleaning my ears using cotton swabs I have not developed any conditions or had the ear wax get compacted. I have allergies and don't like wet ears so use one at least daily. I only buy swabs with either a wooden stick or cardboard stick. I do have plastic waste from the packaging unfortunately.
It's good that your daily usage of cotton swabs to clean out your ears hasn't resulted in any earwax blockages or damage to your hearing.
Do you use those cotton swabs deeply inside your ears when you clean them?
Could you please answer the question I asked previously?
I feel you so hard on your favorite things getting discontinued! People have stopped taking me to their favorite coffee shops because everytime I find one that's my new favorite, it goes out of business. I am a jinx.
I've found the ProKeeper silicone bags from Costco to be a close second to Stasher bags.❤ I do have Stasher bags also. I love their half gallon bags (since they don't have full gallon sized bags yet).
I like the tiny pads, but i used the disposable ones regularly- i do quick wipes with micellar water before going to the gym. I find the Makeup Eraser towel is really yucky feeling texturally.
Glad theres options!
The reusable makeup pads are fantastic specifically for removing waterproof eye makeup that requires using a really oily cleansers!
I use them every day too! Not to remove everything but to get the bulk off and the mascara. Still double cleanse after but I use these with water in the morning to wipe my face too or when I don’t have makeup on.
Instead of buying or making makeup remover pads just use facecloths. The small square towels that are exactly the same material as any other bathroom type towel.
Just wash them with your towels and they are meant for washing your face hence why they are called face cloths and are what people used years ago before things became more disposable
They will be in the same place as all the bathroom towels, cheaper and easier to reuse
@@kaylenewinter248 For some people, they can be irritating to the skin.
Thank you for this channel!! Subscribed since last 4 years..
I get soooooo many do's & especially don'ts.. so best part is I can do easy normal stuff and still achieve even better results.. super satisfying!!😮
so specific but I use the reusable cotton swab for my Mario badescu pimple cream (nothing else fits in the jar), so its been the perfect swap for me!
I initially had many of the same issues with the Last Swab as you mentioned, but I es determined to make them work. Now I wrap them a thin piece of fabric (eg: an old timey handkerchief- I actually got a pack of the Last Swab tissue refills as part of a sample pack). This works perfectly and solves the water absorbance issue. I use one “tissue” for a week moving it around the swab so I always have a clean spot, then wash it.
This also addresses the concern some people have with the tips breaking off (the first one I used actually did, luckily not in my ear!)
The reusable pad issue has a lot to do eith the brsnd.
I have endometriosis and my flow is HEEEAVY!
I've now been using the pads for 7 years and lutterally never had a leak. Never. But brands are different and it mught just be the only problem - finding one that works ;)
I use a brand that has similar shape wings to the single-use pads. My only complains with them is the button in the croch, which is uncomfortable when you ride a bicycle, and the long night pads not being long enough to sleep on your back.
All the period underwear previously were made of poly-fabrics and I can't wear that on my skin, so I haven't tried them yet. I just found a kind of period underwear that's made out of cotton. It's in shipping still.
Yeah I hate that brand, so short and thick, yet I leaked right through it.
I've have had the same collabsable shopping bags from Bath & Body Works for like 12 years despite them being discontinued like 9+ years ago. Lots of repairs by now, but I keep getting compliments on the design and how strong they are versus how tiny they compress. But I agree that new newer reusable mesh produce bags suck.
One decision i basically will die on (unless we have a massive earthquake and they all collapse into a broken heap) are my Mason jars: I opted initially to only buy wide mouth, stick with the metal lids and rings and I now own all the sizes (1/2 pint, pint, quart and 1/2 gallon). I have no need to purchase another case of them unless I start actually canning (lol). I use them for all the food storage (dry, fridge, freeze, fresh) ingredients as well as prepared foods. I love the see through, the ease of cleaning, the universal lid, the uniformity, etc. At some point if I don't keep up my hand strength I may not be able to lift them but we're not there yet. Highly recommend anyone new to this train to opt for mason jars --- even if you just get some from someone giving up canning. You will be glad you made the investment.
Same. Two Lids to Rule Them All.
Swedish dishcloths are so good! I have a kitchen sink that always has water around it. It's not leaking, the design is just terrible. The Swedish dishcloths are much more absorbent than tea towels or microfiber cloths, they dry way faster, and they do not stink nearly as quickly.
i started using the reusable "cotton" swab, but not the sleek one, the one with the small outward "dots" that usually come with the other one - in my ears, because it kind of has air between the "dots" so i dont feel that the earwax gets packed together. definetely a weird sensation the first time, but honestly it also works as a massage for your inner ear. The sleek one i use to clean my airpods
What does it feel like when you use the spiky "cotton" swab inside of your ears?
Have you had any problems with your earwax or anything else related to that because of it?
I use a reusable cotton swab. I have eczema, and it's really important that after a shower I get any shampoo residue off of my skin. The swab is to wipe the groves in my ears (not my ear holes! I'm with you on the wax compaction issue, lol). Anyway, it's hard to dry and wipe away any extra shampoo with a towel or cloth. The swab helps me get all around my ear so that I don't have a flair-up in that area. Also, if I have to apply ointment to that area, a clean swab comes in handy.
I have and use reusable make-up pad removers and find them useful. I used to love using cotton swabs, so it's a good alternative for me. It was really important though that I found some that had a material that wouldn't make my sensory issues act up, lol. And I love using reusable pads! I find them better than normal pads/tampons and have never had a leak with them.
I use my reusable cotton swab to remove mascara when I get it under my eye while applying. If I use a cloth I make a big mess and I’m pretty clumsy so pretty much every time I put on makeup I use it to clean up any mascara that got on my skin around my eyes or on my nose. That way my makeup doesn’t get messed up and I don’t have mascara anywhere.
I really want to get away from paper towels. It's difficult to make sustainable decisions when living with others. Thank you for talking about these things. Even small steps like the ones you've mentioned can help reduce waste.
I switched to reusable period pads a few years back and I'm generally very satisfied. Been thinking of doing the switch for a while but was unsure but then the disposable ones started giving me rashes after a few days and i knew i had to find a better option. Not so great when travelling (got a wetbag but i don't like the concept of keeping that on me) so i combine them with wingless disposables in such cases which is still less waste. As for leakage and fit there are different designs of pads that may be a better fit for you.
I HATED the silicone sponge alternative I tried. It was meant to keep for a really long time but I felt like it just wouldn’t get things clean and I couldn’t get a good grip on it. My friend actually made me a bunch of reusable paper towels and I love them! They’re super handy. Folding them is a bit of a hassle but me and boyfriend tag team folding them!
How big are they? My roommate has started just making a flat stack of the small towels which i think is pretty genius to avoid folding
@@geenskeen that’s a great idea! These are like just big enough where you need to fold them hot dog style. My friend just leaves hers unfolded and grabs them out of a bin when she needs them and that’s a good idea too.
I LOVE my Swedish dish cloth! It acts as both a sponge and rag and then when it wears out you just compost it! Also, I have bought mine from Who Gives a Crap and I have been using the same single Swedish dish cloth for over 6 months and it’s still going strong.
TIP: If you're a sad-girl (depression) reusable cotton pads + micellar water (REGULAR) is great for when you don't have the energy to fully wash your face but know that you need to (not for makeup--just a regular wash)
My reusable cotton rounds are my FAVORITE for eye makeup removal. I’ve had the same set for almost 8 years and they’re going strong!:)
absolutely agree about stasher bags! why are the other brands so bad?! I have a handful of off brand ones that I feel bad throwing away, but I literally won't use them, so they're just sitting in the back of a cabinet lol.
I use reusable cotton rounds to apply my chemical exfoliator bc I was using cotton balls and disposable ones before. I bought a bunch and keep them in a jar and have a baggie clipped to my cabinet door to throw the used ones in. that way when it's time to wash them, they're already in the bag and I just zip em up and throw them in the laundry. a lot of sustainable replacements don't make sense for me because I don't use the disposable option in the first place or already have things I can reuse but this one has been a godsend!
Something else to watch out for with the reusable swabs: I've read many horror stories about the tips coming off inside people's ears. I DO have a set of silicone swabs - I initially got them for makeup cleanup but they don't really work for that. I now use them as an alternative to a spoolie (the knobby ones), and that's the only use I've ever really gotten out of them. Agreed that they aren't worth it.
Have the tips ever come off inside of your ears before?
I like using cut up old towels from thrift shops for cleaning cloths works great for me and I have no panic in them getting ruined or lost
Looove re usable makeup pads I use them for my eyes and toner and cleansing love them I have so many 5:50
I actually love repurposing my old clothes into new produce bags, rags and napkins! I have even crocheted a storage basket from a couple old cotton t'shirts cut into strips. There is such an overabundance of fabric! If only I was a better seamstress, I would make more things!
My big dream is to turn a bunch of my old jeans into one of those crocheted/woven ottomans. Then i could stuff it with old ripped clothes. 🤩
You can do it! Work your way up to the more intimidating projects by sewing things first where its not the worst thing if you mess up. The piece of clothing is done for anyway, so it is ok if you mess up and throw it away, because it would have been thrown away anyways.
If you're needing sewing guidance I HIGHLY recommend Thoughtful Creativity here on UA-cam!
I love cotton swabs for cleaning as you mentioned, make-up, first aid. Yeah I don't get the silicon ones either
Do you clean inside of your ears with the cotton swabs?
I have the last swab and it's great for me because I have a habit of using cotton swabs to clean (but mainly itch) in my ear. This swap is great because it doesn't get rid of wax like cotton swabs but the itch is great 😂
Also, deo wise - a plastic free, refillable anti perspirant has come out in the UK and it's fab. They're from a brand called life supplies.
Wait. So you clean inside your ears with the lastswab but you don't get any of your earwax out?
@@TwentyTwoOctober2001 Yeah, pretty much. I occasionally get a tiny bit but that's probably because I clean my ears too much 😅
@@RockyApplebee
Ahhh okay, that makes more sense now. I thought you meant that your earwax was still inside of your ears after you cleaned them haha. It's good that you're cleaning your ears though, protecting them from earwax damage and such.
How often do you clean out your ears? If you're saying it's too much.
Also, how deep do you clean inside of your ears with them?
@@TwentyTwoOctober2001 Haha, it's probably somewhere between every day and every other day 🤔 probably too much to be honest
@@RockyApplebee
That is quite often.
Have you ever touched your eardrums with the cotton swabs before?