Plastic-Free July Made Simple: A Beginner’s Guide

What Is Plastic-Free July?

Plastic-Free July is a global movement that encourages people to reduce single-use plastic throughout the month of July and beyond. Started in Australia in 2011, it's now inspired millions worldwide to make small, mindful changes that lead to lasting impact.

Whether you’re completely new to eco-living or already on your journey, this is the perfect time to reset your habits and feel empowered to take meaningful steps toward a more sustainable lifestyle.

At The Living Co., we believe that low-waste living should feel simple, stylish and genuinely achievable. And Plastic-Free July is the perfect opportunity to start.

Why Go Plastic-Free?

We all know plastic is a problem, but the everyday impact can be hard to see. Most single-use plastics don’t break down for hundreds of years. Instead, they end up in landfills, waterways and oceans, where they harm wildlife and leach microplastics into the environment and into our homes.

Reducing plastic use can:

• Protect your family from hidden toxins
• Reduce landfill and ocean pollution
• Improve indoor air and water quality
• Help kids learn lifelong sustainability values
• Save money over time with quality reusables

Going plastic-free doesn’t have to be all-or-nothing. With a few thoughtful swaps, you can make a big difference without overwhelm.

Start with Easy, Impactful Swaps

We recommend starting where it’s easiest: the spaces you use most often. Think kitchen, bathroom and your on-the-go routine. Here are some of our favourite beginner-friendly swaps.

Kitchen Swaps

The heart of the home is also a plastic hotspot, but it doesn’t have to be.

• Swap cling wrap for beeswax wraps or silicone lids
  A simple way to ditch single-use plastic while keeping leftovers fresh.
• Compostable dish cloths over paper towels
  Our Swedish Dish Cloths are absorbent, reusable and home-compostable.
• Go refillable with natural cleaners
  Products like Koala Eco, Kin Kin Naturals and Abode deliver a powerful clean without plastic waste or toxins.
• Buy pantry items in bulk, store in glass
  Bonus points if you bring your own jars to refill at your local co-op.

Bathroom Swaps

Plastic bottles pile up fast in the bathroom. Toxin-free alternatives can reduce clutter and boost wellbeing.

• Bamboo toothbrushes instead of plastic ones
  An easy switch that adds up over time.
• Bar soap and shampoo over bottled versions
  They last longer and reduce packaging waste.
• Toxin-free bathroom cleaners
  Try Kin Kin or Abode for safe, effective formulas that protect your family and greywater.
• Safety razors over disposables
  Elegant, effective, and plastic-free. A win for your skin and the planet.

On-the-Go Swaps

Modern life is busy, but single-use convenience doesn’t have to come at a cost.

• Reusable coffee cups (like Cheeki)
  Lightweight, stylish, and barista-approved.
• Stainless steel or glass water bottles
  Stay hydrated while skipping the plastic.
• Reusable produce bags and totes
  Keep a stash in your car, bag, or pram so you’re always prepared.
• Lunch and snack containers
  Great for work, school, or weekend adventures with little ones.

Plastic-Free Tips for Families

Making eco-living a family value doesn’t have to be hard and it can even be fun.

• Create a Plastic-Free July challenge chart
  Get kids involved by tracking swaps and celebrating wins together.
• Pack a plastic-free lunchbox
  Use stainless steel containers, silicone lids and refillable bottles from our food storage range.
• Talk about why
  Share age-appropriate facts about plastic pollution and how your family is helping.

Eco habits introduced early often become second nature for kids and this is a great time to model conscious choices.

Build Habits That Last

Plastic-Free July is a powerful reset. But the key to long-term change is consistency—not perfection.

• Focus on one area each week (kitchen, bathroom, on-the-go)
• Swap products as you finish old ones
• Share your wins with friends or social media
• Celebrate progress, not perfection

Even one or two small swaps can reduce hundreds of single-use plastics each year.

Eco Essentials for Plastic-Free July

Explore The Living Co.’s best picks for a lower-waste home this season:

Koala Eco, Kin Kin, and Abode Cleaners
Toxin-free, refillable, and safe for your home and waterways.

Cheeki Reusable Cups & Bottles
Keep coffee and water waste-free wherever you go.

Swedish Dish Cloths & Compostable Brushes
Tackle the kitchen without plastic sponges or paper towels.

Plastic-Free Bathroom Staples
Bar soaps, bamboo toothbrushes, and refill-friendly sprays.

Eco Laundry Must-Haves
Soapberries, Abode Laundry Liquid, and wool dryer balls.

All thoughtfully selected to help you ditch plastic, not comfort or quality.

Final Thoughts

Plastic-Free July isn’t about getting it all perfect, it’s about getting started. One swap, one routine, one habit at a time.

At The Living Co., we’re here to support you with trusted, toxin-free essentials that make sustainable living feel simple and joyful. Explore our curated collection, ask questions, and take the first step toward a cleaner, greener home.

Because low-waste living should feel good, do good, and fit beautifully into your everyday life.