43 Things We Don't Buy Anymore | Family Minimalism

[@anndixon4577]

Thanks for starting the list right away instead of making us listen to 10 min of intro first! Our planet thanks you!

[@shannontorrens1]

Thank you! =)

[@VioletJoy]

🙌

[@markthurlow6223]

Yes!

[@kathymaske8997]

Exactly! When one starts to yap yap, yap....I just move on. This was a very good video.

[@jcohen3147]

Ditto! And no loud, distracting music!

[@caroler4297]

I'm 68, people think I in my late forties. Stay out of the sun, drink water, do not smoke. eat correctly by having fresh fruits and vegetables, if not fresh then frozen. Wash your face with non drying product and use a moisturizer with sun screen, Have decent sunglasses. A biggie is staying active, be interesting, and love yourself for who you are. Women do not get old we get wiser.

[@suzannebowns9571]

Stop eating red meat, chicken, fish...and don't drink any alcohol!

[@caroler4297]

@@fleridalopez4384 You go girl, Staying happy, walking, being active and eating decently, best beauty plan, Thanks for being a wiser woman.

[@sherree4444]

Well said!!!!

[@jaynestag95]

@@suzannebowns9571 😦

[@Lianel402]

@@suzannebowns9571 Nothing wrong with eating meat, chicken or fish.

[@Rae_eLLe]

So proud to see more and more people not get sucked into all the marketing and culture that tells us we "have to" consume so much! Love it!

[@shannonlaubert9822]

Great ideas and truly inspiring! We haven't eaten out in years! And we are living the simple life. 😊

[@MandySam13]

Same! I started going down the minimalist route 3 years ago & never regretted it. I am so much more mindful of what I buy, & I’m happy with my home & my wardrobe as well. It’s so much better than randomly shopping. It’s such a waste of time/money.

[@wahlgreengirl7459]

Good for her. So much of this crass commercialism starts during the wedding madness and peaks when the kids are born. Th e expensive weddings, crappy bridesmaid outfits, destination weddings, engagement parties, showers, gender reveal silliness. Everybody just stop!

[@tjwash5118]

In getting rid of various cleaning supplies I’ve found that dish soap is actually the best thing to clean a kitchen sink, it’s a de-greaser. My windex can clean just about any surface. I use various combinations of rubbing alcohol, white vinegar and baking soda for various things, all other commercial products are gone.

[@reginafisher9919]

I applaud you for making the decision to stay home with your children and to cut back on frivolous spending it's the smartest thing anyone could do

[@shannontorrens1]

Oh Thank you! It wasn't an easy decision, but it is important to me =)

[@CowboyBike06]

My mother (as most mother’s back then) was a stay at home mom. She hung out the washing on the line in the summer and only used the dryer in the winter months. When she was younger she even hung the laundry out in the winter.
We only went out to eat once a week and it was at a real restaurant, not fast food. My father refused to waste money on fast food. I was in high school before I ever had pizza or fast food.
I wasn’t showered with great amounts of toys. Very few kids were back then.
I did play outside, swim in the lakes around our county, spent a lot of time with really nice friends. Our parents held their children accountable for their actions. Even when the elderly neighbor lady yelled at me for walking on her grass (I was on the sidewalk), my father said to me, before you get to her house cross the street. That way she can’t say anything.
My summer days were filled with laying on the grass reading books, when I wasn’t with friends.
I had the best childhood ever!! I only wish that every child could have what I had (or didn’t have) growing up.
Good job Mom!!

[@daisybuchanan5378]

I’m so glad I watched this ! I’m 54, stayed home with my kids, and used minimal face and anti aging stuff and I look relatively young. I did what you’ve done. We didn’t go to Disneyworld, we went to our local lake for a week in a cabin. Priceless memories each summer. We lived in a smaller home and our girls shared a room. We opened a 529 college savings plan for all three children when they were little and automatically saved to them each month. When college came, we had the money and they went to state university also. We have a good retirement, but my husband plans to work indefinitely to keep busy. We chose a 15 year mortgage and will pay it off within 3 years. We always have bought used cars with low miles and driven them forever. I drove my 2005 Sienna van for 300,000 miles. It was still going so we donated it to a shelter. Some people smirked until I paid cash for my next car that was like new, but wasn’t. We bought a three family apartment building and used the rents to lay off the mortgage, and have rental income each month. This helped fund our children’s college funds. It’s all worth it is my point !

[@gabrielamaja9672]

Awesome choices!

[@capassoluigi7387]

I m 60 and only met assholes! Not everyone finds a partner!!!! In Europe you have 100000000 of lonely woman without partner!!

[@gasienamohamed1234]

@@capassoluigi7387 really u way of the subject

[@bernadettesandoval3990]

I had a sienna that I bought for $6k with 75k miles, drove it until 350k, what a car!

[@effff327]

Oh man... show me the way lol

[@daisybuchanan5378]

I bet your children really benefit from the peaceful atmosphere in your home. Good for you.

[@karooblue7634]

Being a stay at Home Mom is the most important Job you will ever have - you are so fortunate to be able to do this but I know from experience you will reap the rewards 💕

[@teresasugden466]

Amen

[@Maddie9185]

There are a lot of things that I gave up buying a long time ago. It mostly started when I stopped buying Christmas gifts, which my husband criticized me for but I didn’t care. I told him that If he wanted to buy Christmas gifts for people that he could go out and buy them himself because I was done stressing myself every holiday trying to buying things that people probably didn’t even need. My wardrobe now consists of Tshirts, shorts and leggings.

[@VelveteenRabbit77]

Birthday presents only. No more Christmas shopping no way! We stopped that craziness years ago also!

[@denisedavis9908]

I stopped the Christmas gifts also.
I give cash gift to the maid and dog walker.
When I am invited to a Christmas party I take a small hostess gift.
But it was too sressful and expensive...

[@Sagir32]

My go to is tshirts and 3/4 sleeve tshirts. I like the 3/4 in fall, winter, spring. I can clean without having to pull my sleeves up constantly. I prefer knit casual pants, capris and shirts to leggings. My figure isn’t suited for leggings, 😂
We don’t Christmas shop either. There is always awesome after Christmas sales. That is when we buy some things we may need for the coming year.

[@angellas.1314]

Honestly everyone looks fantastic in a white shirt and jeans. It’s always in fashion and classic. One only needs to add a few other pieces to adjust it for the seasons.

[@greenlife8135]

I really appreciate the effort to reduce plastic trash..

[@colleen2864]

Replace scented plug-ins, candles, etc., with a cup of rice and a few drops of essential oil.

[@lee48lee68]

I’ve never heard of this. Is the rice cooked or raw? I’m looking for a way to get the most out of essential oils.

[@newlife8318]

Thankyou very much indeed! Absolute genius!!!

[@newlife8318]

I've got some pure eucalyptus oil after Kangaroo Island Bushfire. I like being creative with what I have and thunk this would be a brilliant use.
Where I am moving to is not a house which makes me very happy.
But I guess gravel would work...a sea sponge...ok ok! I should er give this possession problem to someone else!!!

[@senamimicah]

I am so glad I listened to this. Moving to a new house with my family and I want it to be as clutter free as possible.

[@shannontorrens1]

Congratulations on your move!

[@keyissues1027]

I've been getting rid of things I accumulated through the years and discovered I don't miss them. I hate clutter.

[@ellensiemers3878]

To me your home looks cold. For me, everything in moderation.

[@ssraizel]

Well done! I've done the same to be with my boys. Less presents, more PRESENCE 👍

[@dalilaho2366]

Small but simple:
I no longer buy rubber bands. A lot of fruit, such as celery come w/a rubber band. Just wash & repurpose.
I no longer buy mason jars. I simply wash, sanitize and reuse glass food jars, such as a glass of marinated artichokes.

[@abigailnr]

I've been saving rubber bands around the kitchen to re use but I couldn't figure out where they were coming from until I read your comment! It suddenly clicked its from the veggies. I clearly dont go grocery shopping or cook 🤣 I feel so silly

[@jager896]

Are post man always leaves discarded ruber bands on path or street

[@rebeccaherman2894]

I can tell you I am 46 this year and when I turned 40 is when you start to see the differences and how fast some people age. The best anti aging things you can do for yourself - drink lots of water - stay out of the sun and use sunscreen- don't smoke or vape. At 46 i have really good skin with just a tiny bit of smile lines around my eyes. my same friends who spent a lot of time in the sun or smoked at times in their lives look much older than me. So three easy things to do :)

[@shannontorrens1]

Oh I completely agree there are things we can do that are free to help with aging. I stay out of the sun or wear a huge hat, don't smoke as you mentioned, eat healthy, workout all of those things are free and so good for you. =) I am just not investing in all the creams and facelifts and all that.

[@rebeccaherman2894]

@@shannontorrens1 Free is always the best!!!

[@Onurtime]

Definitely agree with the over 40 is when your skin starts show your age. Unfortunately there are also things that aren't so much in your control. Genetics of course, but stress, worry, sorrow, grief really shows in your face. Also, pregnancy can really give your face a make over.

[@MelindaPlainandSimple]

I'm 62 and I have only recently started to see little signs of lines. Part of it is genes, but also I don't smoke, don't drink, don't spend time in the sun, don't wear makeup. I can't wear sunscreen, but I try to cover up if I have to be out. I didn't drink the recommended amount of water growing up, but I try to now. I quit coloring my hair three years ago. Before that, people thought I was 30-35 years old. When I was 40, people thought I was in my 20s. When I was 17, I looked 12. My white hair does "age" me some, but I don't mind. My hair is prettier and healthier than it has ever been. No more chemicals. No more roots. I've always looked younger than my age and I have never bought or used anti-aging products. I don't know if they work, but I didn't feel the need to spend money on them. I once read that if you are going to get lines, better to get laugh lines than frown lines. Laugh lines are prettier. So in addition to everything else, laugh and be happy. It's good for your skin.

[@Crew4Life]

Morning sun is actually good for us. Red light therapy (read about it)

[@ithacacomments4811]

I live in an apartment complex for older adults.
We have a giveaway area where residents leave unwanted items.
So much fun!
I always thought that I wanted a full length mirror.
There was one at the giveaway the other day....I brought it back to my apartment.
After 4 days of looking at myself, I decided that I don’t need a full length mirror !!!
I took it back to the giveaway.
So glad that I could try it out and not have unwanted purchase guilt.

[@pinkrose5796]

That's a great idea! It doesn't go to waste and someone gets a free item that they want or need:)

[@MsMesem]

Delightful!

[@jaytee2642]

The last place I lived had that also.👍🏻😁
I left costume jewelry which got snagged in the blink of an eye...I only know because after I dropped it off, I discovered another item for donation so I quickly took it out and the jewelry was already gone. I was happy that someone liked it.🙂
I got a bookcase and a framed print on different occasions.
It's a really cool setup.

[@jayanthisripathi1]

We in India are still in an era where we don’t buy these things anyway yet!
Your home looks great without many things!

[@irened8457]

Thanks .

[@TM15HAKRN]

Yes
So pretty..
Home too gud too....😀

[@sarahwbs]

Here I thought I was just being frugal. Turns out I'm a minimalist!

[@VioletJoy]

Lol. Same.

[@zaxmom2006]

Same! What the heck can I cut out next! I've don't these I need more ideas!

[@eileenalderman9606]

Me too

[@TM15HAKRN]

Me too

[@barbieblue3336]

I stopped blow drying my hair approx 7 years ago. I own no heat appliances. I stopped coloring my hair approx 6 years ago. I get compliments every day. My hair is kind of platinum/ white. People think I spend $ to get this. Nope.
My hair is so soft & healthy
I have no split ends, because I don't damage my hair. I only have a few shampoos, conditioners. I just comb / brush my hair a few times a day. I really don't use styling products. I used to have excessive amounts. I used to color my own hair, but now don't worry about the mess. I used to think about my hair a lot, worry.
I save money, time, space 😁😁😁 I didn't panic when salons closed during covid

[@Susanb89]

Amen to dressing to the way we want and what we feel good in! I’ve let go of the need to keep up with the trends too and IT WAS LIBERATING 💜

[@shannontorrens1]

Yes! It feels great.

[@dancinginabundance]

I've found that if you look really good in something nobody notices that it isn't the current clothing trend.

[@marshavesta7091]

You have good priorities!
Giving up stuff, to be home with your boys! You will never regret that decision.😊

[@shannontorrens1]

Thank you Marsha! It is something I have always wanted. =)

[@katalingerstenberger5866]

@@shannontorrens1 I did it, too! No regrets!👌🏻👍🏻🙌🏻🤗

[@TM15HAKRN]

It may get boring ...so engage urself in some activity that suits u..
If not a regular job...
Elsr whn kids go away..u will becme lonely too...

[@chrisbenjamin5564]

Hi, This video is awesome. I have not had cable TV in almost 13 years, I have received free magazines, free birthday food, and free movie tickets. I am moving into decluttering and minimalism myself. Thanks for the video.

[@Ruffles729]

This is actually really inspiring. We live in a culture where people are just addicted to buying things for no reason. I’ve been there and now I’m trying to only buy necessary things.

[@mariaclark9751]

I’m 68 now but as a child in Britain 🇬🇧 everything was recycled we had what was called a rag and bone man who came round with a horse and cart collecting old clothes brick a brake any thing really. Sometimes we get a ballon from him. They did a great service and we loved the horse even it’s poo 💩 was put on the garden for the roses

[@shannontorrens1]

That is awesome!

[@MeadowDay]

Wow..that bought back some memories for me 🥰

[@lelleithmurray235]

Oh my goodness! I remember the 'Any old iron,rag and bone?' call. Wow,memories!

[@paulandbenny]

We agree. We cut out so many kitchen gadgets that we made a whole video about it. Who needs an Avocado knife? 😂

[@wildminders2233]

This is Gold 💛 I love how environmentally aware you have become after becoming a Minimalist. I’m with you 💪🏼💚🌎

[@sheilawinsor4891]

Way to go Shannon by putting your children and family first. I also made this choice 35 years ago. My boys often thank me for making that choice for them. We even had to home school for a year. Keep it up!

[@lelleithmurray235]

I'd rather have a home with pictures on the wall and brighter color combinations. It's a fine line to balance decluttering with warmth and welcoming but it can be done.

[@shannontorrens1]

I completely agree =)

[@margarethawk3073]

This video is an encouragement to me. I am gradually realizing that I don’t need so much. Also… each of us have different needs, so stick to your specific needs. For example, I have a citrus juicer. We squeeze lemons every day. I use to just use a paring knife to peel, but after breaking my shoulder and shattering it and the damage done to my arm and hand, the phy therapist told me to buy an XOX peeler to use. ( I can’t bend my fingers very well now after the damage) and I use an apple slicer also. Things that I thought were unimportant became so necessary for me. I don’t use fabric softener; we don’t have cable TV. Each person has to evaluate their needs, not wants and decide. Anyway, thank you for your videos. I also love seeing your Mom on the videos with you. I am 62 and know it is time to simplify.

[@atroy1983]

We are minimalists too but I love listening to new people and how they declutter for more ways we can cut down! Thank you! Won’t be buying candles anymore 😁

[@snowdropangela]

Love that you are putting your kids before more money!! That's awesome!

[@irishcountrygirl78]

I feel like this was a thing in a lot European countries already and now America is catching on. The clean lines are so good for your mind. ❤

[@gabriellagrace4734]

Truth, It’s always been that way in Europe and other countries as well. Capatalism at its finest in the US.

[@angellas.1314]

The worst is going to a Home Goods or TJ Max. Full of overpriced junk no one really needs. And sometimes it’s not less expensive in the long run. Yup. Middle class abundance.

[@sonyaberry9805]

Yes. I avoid home good stores. If I need anything I will put it on a list and pull out my list when I go to the thrift store.

[@wafflesandkiwi]

The piles of kids toys and kid junk is a constant battle for me. We have some well meaning relatives who buy big plastic items and lots of presents for our kids. I've said so many times to please send small gifts or experiences but no one listens 🙄. So I've taken to clearing out old toys and donating them every time there's a holiday or birthday. I also decided a few years ago that at the end of the day their toys need to go back in their room so we can have adult time without tripping over a million Legos. It helps my sanity haha

[@Renata_TC]

Same struggle here. Plenty of toys but all in good use... As my girl got to age 5 she started to ask for experience instead of toys herself. Maybe "use" your kids to tell family that they want horseriding, playzone access or whayever is it to be... "because toys are for babies and they are too big for them now" 😀

[@MsMesem]

Plastic crap from China for the most part; nasty.

[@judywilliams2313]

I have never bought clothes that are in style and the new colors for the,year.
I always buy the style and colors that look good on me.

[@doesnotFempute]

I'm far from being a minimalist. But I grew up in a very chaotic, messy house. As the years went along, my mom got sick, the house started falling apart, while addiction ran rampant among the rest of our family. It evolved into a hoarder environment and after my mom died, my dad and I were left to pick up the pieces. We sold the house as a tear down. It was that bad.
Now MESS and clutter give me incredible anxiety. I'm trying to teach my kids how to live a clean, clutter free life, while also not depriving them of things or acting neurotic.
Finding balance is hard. I have 2 under school age and my house does look like a daycare. Because essentially, it is. I was sorting through my 3 year old's toys and deciding what to keep for his baby brother, and what to give away. I don't have the time or patience to sell things to flaky people on marketplace. I'm either keeping or I want out of my face.
My husband and I disagree about things like decorations. Especially Christmas decorations and JUNK that lives on the walls. Looking at it gives me a headache, while he seems to think the house doesn't feel like a home without junkity junk junk, junking up the walls.
Some days I just wanna throw everything out.

[@tasneembashir2733]

For anti-aging stuff ... you're right a lot of things don't work. You can have a cleanser, sunscreen, retinol & moisturiser. Your skin will thank you later

[@liztoth4324]

Anti ageing is from the inside. A calm healthy life will keep you young far beyond any face cream. It’s about your eyes have peace, energy etc etc

[@jbellbird9050]

A really good list of things not to buy particularly gym memberships. We only have one car and use public transport when necessary. Am gradually getting rid of photo albums which we seldom look at. Baking soda, white vinegar and essential oils are useful to use for various cleaning jobs.

[@God1st504]

1.cable TV.
2. Fake plant
3. Seasonal clothing
4.the latest trends
5. Dryer sheets.
6.tights nylon
7.jewlery
8.sand. bags.
9. Paper napkins.
10. Bottled waters
11. All one use items.
12. Air freshners. Scented candles.
13. Latest Toys
14. Seasonal themed items
15. Large Toys
16. Dvds . Cds. Gaming devices.
17. Sale items if not needed.
18. Latest phone
19. Chep products
20. Magazines . Books
21. Nail polish
22. Beauty products unnecessarily
23. Expensive hair products
24. Name brand things
25. Purses
26. Gym membership.

[@championhomestead6273]

As a family we have a plan to be zero waste so we have started down this path as well. We are working to replace all one and done throw away items. No more Kleenex, paper towels, plastic wrap, water bottles, plastic bags, grocery bags, laundry detergent in bottles, shampoo and conditioner in bottles....you get the idea 💡

[@shannontorrens1]

Thank you for that list! I am trying the same thing, always looking for an alternative that does not create so much waste. =)

[@grogers511]

@@lisaa3978 handkerchiefs. I remember using these in the days before the use of Kleenex became so popular. That wasn’t too terribly long ago.

[@championhomestead6273]

@@lisaa3978 I bought some old school hankies. We also (the girls in the house) stopped using toilet paper for #1. We bought a few goodwill sheets and washed them, cut them up and keep a cute basket of them in the bathroom. I cannot claim this idea though, I got it from another UA-cam channel.

[@ywLDSforever]

I use grocery bags as trash bags- so my husband and I have not had to really buy any trash bags and we use less trash (being mindful of the smaller space for it).

[@gabrielamaja9672]

So wonderful to hear!

[@karooblue7634]

Through our live we accumulate so many things, now is a good time to "up cycle" and share with others that still "need" those things we no longer do 🎈

[@karooblue7634]

@@Peridotlight You are spot on !!!

[@angellas.1314]

I am about to donate a bunch of items to the Habitat for Humanity ReStore. Good cause for people who need a home.

[@aishaaquino6044]

knowing about minimalism helps me a lot and the environment. 23 years old no kids but I have a few furbabies. I realized that it's really a waste spending on stuff that is not needed and wont last longer. 🤗 I am really happy that a lot of people are into minimalism 🤗🤗

[@francarroll9977]

So agree on skin. My mother washed her face with water and used Oil of Olay and drank a lot of water. By age 85, she had minimal wrinkles!

[@rosywilson3076]

I’ve been decluttering for years. Recently moved in with new hubby, we decluttered lots more - and now he’s filling the house with plants! 20 and counting! 😂

[@noprobllama9747]

It's just nice and calming to see clutter free tables and and surfaces.

[@graceandglory1948]

Your home looks beautiful, peaceful, clean and loved. Mess to me equals neglect and a disorganized mind. I always work best when things are orderly and clean. Well done!

[@cathyhermanson10]

What do you as a family? Do you play board games or read together? No family DVD on a rainy Saturday? I was a school librarian and I notice you do not have a lamp on your children's bedside table to encourage reading. We have books in every room and on tables and bookshelves. I could give up a lot, but not my precious books I have collected. I have to admit they can get dusty. Shannon, your house is spotless. I am impressed!

[@shannontorrens1]

We have a vlog channel in case you are interested the link is in the description box, we do a lot of reading. We have over head lighting so no need for a lamp, but we do have tons of books still and we use the library. =). We do literally everything as a family and include the kids in our daily lives. =)

[@DavidDavisDH]

A few years ago I decluttered my kitchen, now I just use have the basics, I only use 1 frying pan now instead of 2 or 3, I don't miss anything I got rid of.

[@bmoremom8458]

😁The mustard color is trending at the East Coast of US! I've been decluttering for two years and my son has started letting go of "baby" books and toys. I'm also teaching him about containers and to avoid collection hoarding.

[@jchittoor]

I have given up artificial jewelery, washing machine, television, use cloth bags for shopping, only cotton kitchen napkins, steel vessels for cooking. I am on my way to decluttering. still a long way to go! thanks for your list! helps me to add more!

[@MsMesem]

Hmm; hard to imagine a washing machine as clutter. I've gone without one for years and looking forward to having one again.

[@barbieblue3336]

I have allergies, so learned years ago that some things really are dust collectors, like fake plants, stuffed aninals.
I give things away to a guy who collects for a soup kitchen. You're helping me make lists of more things to donate. How many totes, crossbodies do I use?
My Mom taught that if you are not using something, share it with someone else.
I used to buy books, CDs, etc. I just don't now. It might be different if I had kids, but again - those items collect dust.

[@sarahohara4022]

But those cheekbones are priceless!

[@paulamcalister427]

I’m 61, so I grew up during a time that we “recycled” everything. We honestly didn’t have the money to buy new stuff every time we wanted to.I am blessed that my mom and dad taught me how to do my own repairs on many things. From plumbing to electrical, we do it all.
I don’t buy new appliances. They’re too expensive and don’t last any longer than used ones.
I did break down and bought a new dishwasher 6 years ago because the used ones seemed to leak after about 2 years.
My oven which finally bit the dust yesterday was bought used for $250 7 years ago.
I’m looking at used ones today to replace it. I don’t need a convection oven or induction oven with all the bells and whistles and I cook every day.
My cleaning supplies are
20 mule team borax
Dawn dishwashing detergent
Baking soda
White vinegar
Clorox
Lysol in the brown bottle.
We use bar soap for showers and hand washing (dial) instead of fancy shower gels
I have been using wool dryer balls for at least 7 years.
I got rid of all plastic.
I donated all Tupperware to a homeless veterans shelter.
I use glass jars for all food storage. Pecans and dried beans among other dried foods keep very well in sealed jars.

[@NLY1WAY4U]

Excellent!!!!

[@teresasugden466]

I have been giving our grandkids experience gifts, zoo tickets, art supplies, or money for savings,

[@cynthiaparr-nyberg9093]

I love the traditional look of your clean home. You no doubt have more time to use as you wish now.

[@shannontorrens1]

So true!

[@reginafisher9919]

We bought a flat antenna to hook up to the TV from Walmart we now get more channels than we did with basic cable and internet

[@pinkrose5796]

Bought one over 14 years ago and got rid of cable. Great selection of channels and definitely save money!

[@sarahohara4022]

Yes! Paying to watch commercials is the biggest scam

[@ralphstephan353]

Even though I’ve only ever used scent-free dryer sheets I just ordered wool dryer balls for when I run out of the sheets. And I thank you!! Great ideas!

[@anotherdayatthefeast8100]

Wool dryer balls don’t remove or reduce static so I decluttered my home of them. 😉

[@kimbucha2949]

I gave up makeup. I never did wear much, but a couple of years ago I got permanent eyeliner and micro-bladed my brows. I do sometimes miss mascara, but I don't miss having to remove it every night. It's very freeing. Not saying I'll never wear it again, but day to day I don't. Loving it! And getting ready for work every morning takes maybe 5 minutes! My husband takes longer than me :)

[@shannontorrens1]

That is great about the makeup. I only wear it about 1 to 2 times a week because I can't stand the way it feels on my face. That is funny you husband takes longer.

[@coolcpa3321]

I've microbladed my brow twice and have permanent eyeliner. I also have my lashes tinted so all I do in the morning is eyelash curler, a bit a blush and lip gloss. Takes only a couple of minutes and I'm corporate office appropriate.

[@lb9549]

Great video, we are not really minimalist but trying to live with less and started our nontoxic journey 10+ years ago. Thank you for getting this message out. These toxic and scented products are terrible for our health and the air. Our son's shirt got left at a friend's house and she washed it and returned it. The scent was so strong it took at least 5 washes , some even with vinegar (and being left out in the sun) to get rid of that fake scent. I kept thinking how bad it is for people who expose themselves and their kids to those chemicals daily. As a cancer survivor this is super important to me. Side note , our grocery stores still aren't allowing reusable bags which makes me so mad!

[@chloeruegg2352]

Oh my! I’m watching this 1 yr- 4 mos after it premiered and what’s wonderful is that everything is still so relevant. Lots of great ideas to give thought to. I’ve been binge watching since finding you, Shannon. Thanks so much for the great content.

[@shannontorrens1]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Goodness125]

You have made a fabulous choice!!! I was raised during times of stay at home moms and I’ve witnessed the decline and differences of society. It’s great that you came to this conclusion early enough to make a difference in yours and your family’s future. Only thing I would rethink is the future of your skin. I’m 60 now. I took very good of my skin starting at 15 and it has paid off. As I’m sure you know there are good inexpensive ways to care for it. Of course, what you put in your body is first. Then sun protection and hydration etc…..don’t forget your neck because I promise you as much as I’m not afraid of aging…..the turkey thing and crepe skin chest isn’t a dream of mine to have. It feels like we will never get old and then one day…I swear we wake up and go WTH? How did this sneak up on me? It makes us feel good if we are as good as we can be later because all the other things in aging can be a downer if we let it. Just my perspective. We are all different. THANK GOODNESS LOL

[@MsRawan9]

I like the idea of minimalism but if you already bought something just use it… no need to throw it out…instead focus on not buying more stuff

[@digitalsweetpea6298]

I always use my rice cooker. Great list.

[@honeyricci]

Seeing these video makes me realize im already a minimalist without even trying lol. Lots of great points 👍🏽

[@beccar1605]

Oh my goodness I love how clean and minimal your kitchen looks! This is super motivating for me as we pack up to move to a smaller home, despite having 5 kids! Thanks for the inspiration!

[@shannontorrens1]

Thanks so much! 😊

[@sabrina22471]

Loved this! So refreshing to hear! There is so much pressure from society to do certain things, look a certain way, always have the latest and greatest and honestly it's exhausting! I've been trying to become more minimal and have really noticed all the places we are being marketed to! Trying not to fall for this anymore. It's not easy but I'm making progress!

[@amberp5207]

I just ordered 2 rolls of cloth paper towels off of Etsy. I switched to reusable napkins when Covid hit, and like u, it was so much easier than I thought. My kids would still grab the paper towels, even though I would tell them not to. I wanted to use them only for just gross things, but they weren’t listening, so I just got fed up. I really hope I like my new un paper towels

[@immafaint673]

Scented candles/ plug ins .. open windows, wipe things down, wash sofa/pillow covers, if you can. And bake something! That will make your home smell wonderful. ☺️

[@dancinginabundance]

I didn't grow up with scented candles/plug ins and such. You're right - keep things clean. Lingering fish smell is the only thing that bothers me. Boil some vinegar, let it cool on the stove and the odor is gone.

[@immafaint673]

Oh, great idea! I will do that next time I cook salmon. My children will think I am making Easter Eggs 🥚 🤣

[@cheesygal]

Bravo. My 26 yo daughters never were introduced (by us) to all the Disney princess movies or products nor Barbie dolls or must have plastic. They were given toys that inspired curiosity. And books and art supplies. They stand out from many of their peers. And they aren’t into the latest “hotdog cooker” type items. Good job to you! It’s hard to buck the system! Congratulations for your success.

[@MrScottie68]

I agree with most of your suggestions, however not with holiday decor. Come Christmas, I love having a Christmas tree and some decorations in my home.

[@mmf-casa-a9404]

Good, good, good. A simple life is what the pandemic taught us. We can live with the basics, true! Our children will also not be slaves of what's in trend. Nice for you to realize and share this. Thank you!

[@stephweissinger]

I happen to love decorating for the holidays.

[@That_misfit]

I really appreciate your efforts to cut plastic waste 🥺🥺

[@TheEarthycrunchy]

Thank you for mentioning the environmental and health consequences of using scents and plastic!!!! Love.

[@shannontorrens1]

It seems so obvious now, but I didn't think about it a few years ago.

[@TheEarthycrunchy]

@@shannontorrens1 a while back I was getting bronchitis over and over. That’s when I started removing scents from my life. Now I’m working on removing plastics like jugs of laundry soap, deodorant packaging and food containers. I want to do my part for the environment. I just really appreciate you mentioning it because it’s so important. 💛

[@karinklapproth866]

I have given up most of these things!
This has saved us sooo much money!!
We live on one income, as well...
I love the minimalist lifestyle🤗

[@sylhomeo6351]

Bravo! Wonderful! I am a minimalist but my family isn’t, unfortunately! It is a wonderful feeling to feel ‘light’ without all that clutter. Don’t want to be a consumer!

[@Vivcarbajal]

I’m getting there with becoming minimalist. I would say moderate minimalist. I stopped going to Dollar tree because that’s where I spent so much money on useless junk. I stopped watching videos of people who haul because that didn’t help. Stopped seasonal decor, fake plants, candles and makeup. I will continue with eliminating other things you mentioned. However giving up satellite and purses will be a bit harder for me 😬😁

[@kazdav788]

Thank you for getting straight into your topic, not wasting my time listening to blurb (or trying to move video on). Love it and so will subscribe.

[@shannontorrens1]

Thank you! I hope you have a great day.

[@anotherdayatthefeast8100]

I appreciate the minimal intro as well.

[@reginabeasley872]

I cut out cable 3 years ago I use the firestick and when I want to watch a movie I have plenty of Dvds also don't buy the newspaper I watch the news or use the Google

[@aseul2682]

I also realised couple of years ago that minimalism saves money and it’s trendy.. I am on my way.. Thanks for motivating..

[@motherof1132]

I use to collect purses. Now I have 2. A summer purse and a winter purse.

[@psymompa]

Great list. We have made a lot of the same changes. The napkin change has been golden.

[@shannontorrens1]

I totally agree about the napkins.

[@karenarmstrong7495]

Great list! We have adopted a lot of these habits as well. We've also stopped buying convenience foods and ready made meals at the grocery store. Buying and eating whole foods and eliminating meat and dairy has been so much cheaper and healthier!

[@shannontorrens1]

That's a great idea!

[@sararamos3903]

I just found out I am a minimalist ha ha. IFor instance I don’t buy souvenirs unless it is some thing I can use for instance a scarf that goes with a lot of my clothes, I was Never into fashion, I just buy what looks and feels good on me. And the list goes on thanks again.

[@shannontorrens1]

Love that!

[@NLY1WAY4U]

I do not buy rags to clean. Use old tshirts for dusting...reuse old towels with holes by cutting to size and zigzag edges. Microfiber has plastic issues.

[@mariaclark9751]

I love this iv been doing this now for a few years if it’s not used get rid. You go into these shops and they are full of crap.

[@bigblueragtop]

Shannon, thanks for this set of reminders. I agree with you on 34 of them! We do like flannel sheets in winter/cotton in summer. Also, since I have MS I do have gadgets like an apple slicer, a lemon squeezer, an avocado slicer...mostly because my hand strength isn't the best. What lists like these help me do is be sure I have good reasons for the things I buy or don't by, and that I'm not just being lazy. ;-)

[@shannontorrens1]

Thank you Pam, I agree some of the gadgets are good for the people who need them. My parents have something that helps them open jars. I hope you are having a good day.

[@bigblueragtop]

@@shannontorrens1 Thanks! I am having, as you always say, an amazing day,

[@vini_nooh1234]

It's really appreciative that being a fulltime guide for your kids is more important than anything else. Love to you dear ❤.

[@MsSmile2005]

Thanks for spreading the word about how toxic artificial fragrances are!! Especially, dryer sheets, yuck! I'm with you on not buying cheap stuff, so wasteful of resources to save a little cash on things that don't last or work properly.

[@shannontorrens1]

Yes the cheap stuff has wasted my money more than once especially when it comes to electronics and cords.

[@MsSmile2005]

@@shannontorrens1 Oh yeah, we've had a couple scary experiences of those sparking/frying. Learned my lesson not to get the cheapest one from Walgreens in a pinch! I wanted to add since you showed your awesome cloth napkins, I also switched to those and figured out that they can be used as hankies, too, so I don't buy tissues anymore. That's a good money saver!

[@jjo5375]

WHAT A TON OF GOOD ADULT SENSE! BRAVA!!! : )

[@shannontorrens1]

Thank you! I hope you have a nice day.

[@jjo5375]

@@shannontorrens1 And 'you.' You are such an inspiration. I'm going to tackle the kitchen JUNK drawer. Its so full, I can't open it more than a few inches, sad to say! 'One-use-gadgets' that I can't even yank out, let alone use. What a joy it will be when that herd is thinned! lol. God bless you and your family. : )

[@Jennifer-nz2ss]

so good your sharing all these pro marketing things!!!!! everybody should follow you and maybe none of us would be in the situation we are in now. no money,no retirment and no life to live because we spent it in the past to keep up with everybody else!!!! think about it. you dont even need it or want it and the people your trying to impress you dont even know!! love your ch and cant wait for more content from you.

[@dancinginabundance]

You hit the nail on the head! "No money, no retirement and no life to live because we spent it ..." I encouraged my husband to go through his credit card statements to calculate how much $ he spends each month on fast-food eating out. When he finally did it he was shocked. We have to eat but can do so economically at home or take a snack with him when he leaves the house.

[@SojournNaturals]

Your list of things is by far the best list I’ve found. I can tell that you took the time to really think about this! Thank you..

[@sandyclark3004]

I have substituted vinegar water for almost everything and baking soda and got rid of all of the ammonia smells! you can use baking soda for almost anything’ I buy it by the 5 pound bag

[@jantate923]

Thank you for sharing l have sold my house as l am building a granny flat at my sons l am renting at the moment and have all my things packed l am starting to Realise that I don’t need half the things I’ve got I’m looking at sending out more things

[@shannontorrens1]

See HOW WE DO SPEND MONEY HERE: ua-cam.com/video/Hg90-IDT11A/v-deo.html Thank you for watching! Check out the full, Things we don't buy, post here: shannontorrens.com/things-minimalists-dont-buy/

[@unitedheartsamerica5924]

PURSES!!! Aaaaaaaaggh.. I have some lovely bags, not expensive, Many are leather bargains.. some very old but good shape... Trying to work into letting go.. this is tough. I have scaled down purchases and have not purchased one in well over a year or more. (Step 1)! Haha
I do not buy expensive designer bags over $100. A personal limit because I feel that there are too many hungry people in the world and I cant justify the luxury for myself. So I will give more to those causes. I have 1 Fossil bag and a few Vera all bought on super bargains.
I did let go of the crappy or damaged ones.. easy. They are now contained to 1 container. So maybe there are 20-30?
I stopped using wallets. I have 2 small leather items, that takes care of cash/coins and cards. Checkbook is a small flat item that doesnt take up space, has a plastic insert for bus cards or credit cards.
So I am taking a rest from purses and will come back after some victories in other areas.. clothing is next.. going to try to cut 1/3 or more. Purge on, my fellow purgers!!! 😎💕

[@dorisfaust8965]

Thank you for addressing toxic products. After being a maid for 30 yrs, so high exposure to cleaning chemicals, I am now allergic to formaldehyde (which is in almost everything man made) and all fragerances. No cure for this allergy.

[@bossycowgurl3109]

I am working on being more minimalist & echo friendly, so using Etsy for many of my bathroom products. I have eliminated a lot of plastic by buying shampoo & conditioning bars. I buy lotion bars & tooth soap. I buy a sport deodorant which is fabulous & in a cardboard applicator. I will admit I still like the grocery store plastic bags because they fit my 20 yr old trash can perfectly. (This is why I won't replace it!) I recycle & compost so very little garbage so bags are perfect & I have not bought plastic garbage bags which are too big & never fit fight.

[@tracywalters4405]

Curious, what shampoo and conditioner do you use?

[@tifineyharkins7954]

@@bossycowgurl3109 o I'm

[@theamoremovement8773]

wool dryerballs!! Starting our minimal journey :) thanks for the great content

[@newlife8318]

Your very presentation is minimal! An absolute TRIUMPH with the list! Thankyou SO much.

[@shannontorrens1]

Wow, thank you!

[@corinnestauffiger5693]

No impulse buying any more. I usually wait at least 24 hours until I klick on the „buy“ button when I purchase online. I don‘t go shopping anymore, I make a list, go in get the things and out.

[@shannontorrens1]

That is a great idea to make the list and wait.

[@DraGnFly007]

Scented candles caused me to develop chemical allergies to ANYTHING with a scent!😭I have to be careful with unscented products as they r not all truly unscented!!

[@alexandriamares1402]

I just use/ have a Insta pot. That sucker is life. Lol.

[@leadmetopeacejeanie]

Thank you Shannon! Loved this video! I am a kinda maximalist, not a hoarder, an organized maximalist, BUT, I have given up, minimalized, some of the same! Cable tv, candles, perfumes, purses, etc., and one of these days, I may give up even more! I am working on one subject at a time. Most recently, I am working on cleaners, detergents, laundry boosters. I think this is so motivating!! I don't feel comfortable in a minimalistic home, BUT I also don't like clutter! I'm a conundrum! Yes, it can be both ways! Right? Have a wonderful weekend! love and hugs, Jeanie

[@ameerahahsan5035]

Wow ! You are such good example for all the young one who bland colour for everything they want. Your husband is a luck guy to having you by his side.....very good. Excellent my dear.