A Guide to Eco-friendly Organizing
/So you’re ready to get organized. You set out to buy some super functional organizing supplies… but wait… they’re all plastic!? Disappointment sets in. Maybe you start to feel a little guilty about the impact you’re having on the environment. There’s a way to get organized WHILE being eco-friendly! Now don’t get me wrong, there are certainly times when it’s hard to beat the functionality of plastic storage bins—areas that experience excessive moisture, or when critters are a concern—but there are tons of opportunities to skip the plastic for more sustainable options! Here are plastic-free alternatives for getting your home organized.
Wood + Wicker
＋ Blanket baskets
＋ Magazine and book storage
＋ Toy storage
＋ Pantry bins
＋ Clothing and accessory storage
✓ Durable
✓ Timeless look
✓ Reusable
✓ Made from natural materials
Note: ‘Wicker’ is not actually a material, but the weaving process. When shopping ensure wicker products are made from all-natural, non-synthetic materials.
🌱Biodegradable
Bamboo
＋ Drawer dividers
＋ Drawer organizers
＋ Utensil trays
＋ Pantry bins
＋ Small storage boxes
✓ Sustainable, natural resource
✓ Durable
✓ Resistant to water damage
✓ Resistant to bacteria growth
🌱 Biodegradable
Glass
＋ Food storage
＋ Bathroom organizing
＋ Pens and pencils
＋ Art and craft supplies
✓ No chemical leaching
✓ Easy to clean
✓ Long Lasting
✓ Reusable
♲ Recyclable
Silicone
＋ Food storage
＋ Small toys
＋ Earbuds
＋ Charging cords
＋ Small game pieces
✓ Durable
✓ Easy to clean
✓ Reusable
✓ Resists bacterial growth
♲ Recyclable (check local guidelines)
🌱 Not a hazardous waste
Cotton Jute + Rope
＋ Blanket baskets
＋ Laundry hampers
＋ Toy storage
＋ Clothing and accessory storage
✓ Durable
✓ Timeless look
✓ Reusable
✓ Made from natural materials
♲ Recyclable (check local guidelines)
🌱 Biodegradable
Fiberboard
＋Office storage
＋Photo storage
＋Keepsake boxes
＋Drawer organizers
✓ More durable than cardboard
✓ Often made from recycled materials
✓ Variety of colors and styles
♲ Recyclable
It’s easy being green…
⟳ Reuse
When purging and organizing be mindful of items that can be repurposed. If you no longer have a need for an item, consider donating to someone who might.
♲ Recycle
Always recycle when you can. Visit Earth911 to search for local recycling centers that may accept products not allowed in your curbside recycling bin.
It’s time to think outside the [plastic] box.
