My Beginner’s Guide to Plastic Free July: Easy Swaps & Tips
If you’ve been curious about cutting back on plastic but don’t know where to start, Plastic Free July is the perfect time to dip your toes into the world of sustainable living.
Whether you're a total beginner or just want to challenge yourself a little more this year, this guide is sure to be a helpful resource.
This post does contain some affiliate links which means The Honest Consumer may receive a commission if you decided to purchase. Our commission is at no additional expense to you! Thank you to Healthier Homes and Who Gives a Crap for helping to sponsor this post.
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.
The goal isn’t perfection (because hey, that’s impossible), but progress.
It’s about making small, sustainable changes that align with your values and daily life.
Why Choose Plastic Free options?
Single-use plastics often end up in landfills, oceans, and ecosystems where they stick around for hundreds of years. Choosing reusable, compostable, or package-free alternatives helps:
Reduce pollution
Protect wildlife
Lower your carbon footprint
Create a more mindful, eco-friendly lifestyle
Going plastic-free doesn’t mean tossing everything out overnight. It’s about becoming more conscious of your habits and making swaps that are sustainable for you.
How to Get Started: Beginner Tips for Plastic Free July
Start With a Trash Audit
Take a look at your trash or recycling bin. Becoming aware of how much waste we’re creating is a good first step to reducing our impact.
You can even take it a step further and explore what you could be upcycling or composting instead of trashing.
Pick One Area to Start
Plastic Free July doesn’t have to mean overhauling your entire life. Maybe you start with your morning routine or grocery shopping habits.
Choose one area like your kitchen, bathroom, or on the go essentials and make a few plastic-free swaps there. Explore our ideas in the list below.
The best sustainable swaps are the ones that stick. You don’t need to buy a whole cart of eco-products overnight.
Start small, use what you have, and replace items with plastic-free alternatives as they run out.
My List of Easy Plastic Free Swaps for Beginners
Ready to make a few changes? Here are some low-effort, beginner-friendly swaps to try during Plastic Free July. Consider picking a few to commit to for the month and see how it goes.
Pin this list for a later reminder
On-the-Go:
Instead of: Plastic water bottles
Try: A reusable stainless steel or glass water bottleInstead of: Disposable coffee cups
Try: A reusable travel mug (many coffee shops even give discounts!)Instead of: Plastic straws
Try: Metal, silicone, or bamboo straws
In the Bathroom:
Instead of: Plastic toothbrushes
Try: Bamboo toothbrushesInstead of: Bottled shampoo and conditioner
Try: Shampoo and conditioner bars (bonus—they last longer!)Instead of: Toilet Paper wrapped in plastic (read my full guide to eco toilet paper)
Try: Bamboo toilet paper from Who Gives a Crap or a BidetInstead of: Bath towels made with synthetic fabrics
Try: Organic Cotton bath towels from Healthier Homes
Pin this plastic free swap infographic for later!
Read my full list of easy eco bathroom swaps I’ve made!
Grocery Shopping:
Instead of: Plastic produce bags
Try: Reusable mesh or cotton produce bagsInstead of: Plastic grocery bags
Try: A stash of reusable totes in your car or by your door
Consider downloading my free e-book on how to grocery shop sustainably!
How to Stay Motivated All Month Long
Find your why: Whether it’s protecting oceans or simplifying your life, anchor your actions in a purpose that matters to you.
Share your journey: Post your swaps on Instagram, join a local zero-waste group, or text a friend to join you. Community = accountability.
Track your wins: Keep a note in your phone or journal to celebrate the little changes you’re making—it adds up!
Plastic Free July isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being intentional.
Every time you choose a reusable bag over a plastic one, skip the straw, or support a low-waste brand, you’re sending a message: that sustainability matters to you.
More Sustainable Living Content to Read:
MEET THE AUTHOR
Emily Waddell is the founder of The Honest Consumer. She has always been passionate about business for good and has a Bachelor degree in Social Entrepreneurship. She currently lives in Seattle where she practices imperfect sustainability. When she’s not writing, Emily enjoys supporting small businesses, clean eating, & practicing slow living. Learn more about Emily’s journey starting The Honest Consumer.
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