Weekly shopping trips can add up. There are many ways to save on groceries and reduce your overall spending. Our favorite: Buy reusable products. You buy them once and you’re set for months or years. What’s more, they’re also better for the environment. It’s a win for your bank account and for the planet. Here’s a list of reusable items you can buy to replace single-use essentials like plastic bags, aluminum foil, and paper towels.
9 Products that Save You Money
Silicone Food Storage Bags
A set of reusable silicone food storage bags is a great replacement for the single-use plastic ones. Some people do wash and reuse them, but the plastic gets less sturdy each time. It costs about $5 to buy a box of 50 single-use quart bags. For just $10 you can buy a multi-pack of silicone food storage bags and never have to buy the single-use ones again. That’s a pretty good deal!
Reusable Sandwich Bags
Since we’re talking about replacing single-use plastic bags, reusable sandwich bags are another great deal. A box of single-use sandwich bags costs about $5. You can get an 8-pack of reusable sandwich bags like these for around $8. They can be used repeatedly. And the best part? They’re dishwasher safe.
Silicone Lid Covers
Say goodbye to messy plastic wrap with easy-to-use, eco-friendly silicone lid covers. A roll of plastic wrap costs $3. You can get a set of silicone lid covers of various sizes for around $10. Unlike plastic wrap, these actually fit your bowls and securely protect the food inside. It’s a great investment all-around.
Food Storage Containers
While we’re talking about ways to save on food storage bags and plastic wrap, we can’t forget to mention food storage containers. They can be plastic or glass and come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. Food storage containers are a great way to save food and reduce spending on single-use items. They’re also a great to have on hand for meal prepping.
Silicone Baking Mats
If you’re a baker or avid cook, you’ll love silicone baking mats. Absolutely nothing sticks to them. Not cookies. Not chicken. That’s why they’re a great alternative to aluminum foil. A roll of aluminum foil costs around $4. You can get a set of 2 silicone baking mats like these for $10.
Dryer Balls
Many people use dryer sheets when doing the laundry. Dryer sheets help clothes feel softer and reduce static electricity. But a box of dryer sheets can cost $5 to $10, depending on the brand. Dryer balls are a cost-effective, reusable alternative. Dryer balls can be made out of PVC or wool and cost about $6 to $10 for a set.
Stainless Steel Straws
A lot of people prefer to drink out of straws. If you’re one of them, consider swapping single-use plastic straws for reusable stainless steel straws. It’s good for the environment and your wallet. A box of 300 single-use plastic straws costs about $10. For the same amount of money, you can get a set of 8 stainless steel straws with carrying case, cleaning brushes, and silicone tips. Not a bad deal!
Reusable Water Bottles
Drinking water is important to maintaining good overall health but buying cases of water bottles gets costly. Consider swapping them out for reusable water bottles you fill at home or work. They’re a great way to reduce plastic waste and save money. They come in a variety of styles and prices. They range from simple ones found at the dollar store to $25 stainless steel bottles.
Cleaning Cloths
Cleaning cloths or rags are a budget friendly replacement for paper towels. A pack of 2 rolls of paper towels costs $4 to $6 depending on the brand. You can make cleaning cloths for free. Have an old towel or t-shirt? Cut it into paper towel sized squares and voila! Cleaning cloths. Wash and reuse them until they fall apart.
Swapping reusable products for single-use ones is an easy way to save money in the long run. And you don’t have to buy them all at once. The next time you make your weekly shopping list, consider picking up one of these items. Then, pick up another one in a week or two – whenever your budget allows.
