🧼 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 1-2Tbsp per load! Bring your own container.

💡 Tip: Bring your own jars or bottles to refill, or purchase reusable containers from the shop.

🧽 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:

• Agave Dish Brush – Compostable bristles and a sturdy wooden handle.
• Teakwood Scrub Brush – Great for tough messes and long-lasting.
• Coconut Scour Pads – Recyclable and effective without scratching.
• Cellulose Sponges – Long-lasting, 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.
• Bamboo Towels – Think wet wipes! Perfect for 1-2 uses, before composting.

🧂 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:

• White Vinegar – 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

Here's a quick checklist to help you build your kit:

• ☐ Refillable Concentrated Multi-Surface Cleaner
• ☐ Refillable Kitchen and Bathroom Cleaner
• ☐ Refillable Dishwasher Tablets
• ☐ Refillable Laundry Detergent
• ☐ Refillable Surface Sanitizer
• ☐ Bulk Soap Berries
• ☐ Agave Dish Brush
• ☐ Teakwood Scrub Brush with Handle
• ☐ Coconut Scour Pads
• ☐ Compostable Dish Sponges
• ☐ Cotton Unpaper Towels
• ☐ Bamboo Unpaper Towels
• ☐ 12% Cleaning Vinegar
• ☐ Baking Soda
• ☐ Castile Soap
• ☐ Safe Bleach
• ☐ Borax
• ☐ Glass Jars or Reusable Bottles
• ☐ Storage Bin or Basket