🧼 How to Build a Low-Waste Cleaning Kit

Simple Swaps for a Cleaner Home and Planet

Transitioning to a low-waste lifestyle doesn't have to be overwhelming. One of the easiest places to start is with your cleaning routine. By choosing reusable, refillable, and plastic-free alternatives, you can reduce your environmental impact while keeping your home fresh and toxin-free.

Here's how to build a low-waste cleaning kit using essentials available at The Green Jar.

🧴 Step 1: Choose Refillable Cleaning Products

Refillable cleaners are the backbone of a sustainable cleaning kit. They eliminate the need for single-use plastic bottles and reduce carbon emissions from packaging and transport.

Top Picks from The Green Jar:

• Multi-Surface Cleaner – Plant-based, super concentrated and refillable in-store.
• Kitchen and Bathroom Cleaner – Perfect for toilet bowls, shower stalls and greasy stovetops.Full-strength and scented with peppermint essential oil.
• Plastic-free Diswasher Tablets– Effective, non-toxic, leaving dishes sparkling
• Laundry Detergent – Ultra-concentrated, requiring only 1-2 Tbsp per load! 

💡 Tip: Purchase 10L or 20L and have a refill party with your friends and neighbours.

🧽 Step 2: Swap Disposable Tools for Reusables

Many conventional cleaning tools contain plastic and are designed to be thrown away. Switching to natural, durable alternatives helps reduce waste and microplastic pollution.

Recommended Tools:

• Tampico Dish Brush with Long Handle – Compostable bristles, replaceable head and a sturdy wooden handle.
• Teakwood Dish Brush for Pots and Pans – Great for tough messes and long-lasting.
• Coconut Scour Pads – Compostable and effective without scratching.
• Cellulose Sponges – Long-lasting, machine-washable, biodegradable, compostable and plastic-free!

🧼 Step 3: Use Reusable Cleaning Cloths

Paper towels and disposable wipes create unnecessary waste. Reusable cloths are washable, versatile, and much more eco-friendly.

Options to Consider:

• Cotton Unpaper Towels – Soft, absorbent, and machine washable.
• Unbleached Cotton Cloths – Great for dusting and polishing, or even as a hanky!.
• Compostable Dish Cloth – Can endure up to 300 washes without compromising its absorbent power.

🧂 Step 4: Stock Up on Natural Cleaning Ingredients

Sometimes, the best cleaners are already in your pantry. These ingredients are safe, effective, and perfect for DIY recipes.

Essentials to Keep On Hand:

• 12% Cleaning Vinegar – Powerfully disinfects and deodorizes.
• Baking Soda – Scrubs, deodorizes, and lifts stains.
• Castile Soap – Gentle and multi-purpose.
• Surface Sanitizer – Hydrogen peroxide-based. Excellent on surfaces and also in laundry as a deodorizer. Safe on colours

🧺 Step 5: Organize Your Kit

Keep your cleaning supplies tidy and accessible by storing them in a designated bin or basket. Label your containers and refill dates to stay organized.

Storage Tips:

• Use glass jars or aluminum bottles for DIY mixes.
• Keep brushes and cloths dry between uses to extend their life.
• Create a refill calendar to track when you need to restock.

✅ Printable Checklist: Your Low-Waste Cleaning Kit

Download our quick low-waste checklist to help you build your kit