(Disclaimer:This post may contain affiliate links which means I may receive a commission for purchases made through links. I will only recommend products that I genuinely believe in) Learn more.
When I started my zero-waste journey here in New Jersey, I never imagined it would transform my finances as much as it did.
Over the past few years, I’ve saved over $10,000 by making small, intentional changes to my lifestyle.
The problem with us is we love using single-use items and disposable products. Because we feel comfortable using them and they are cheap upfront too. But they add up over time.
If we start using reusable items, we can dramatically cut those costs. We need to focus on reducing, reusing, and repurposing, If we follow this, it help us to minimize waste—and maximize our savings.
In this post, I want to share with you my experience and tips, which will help you save money and embrace a sustainable living too.
My Journey: From Overspending to Saving Thousands
A few years ago, I’d never have called myself “eco-friendly.” Because even I thought zero waste living is expensive and takes time.
But then slowly I realized how much money I was throwing away on unnecessary items.
Here’s an example: I used to spend $4-$5 daily on coffee in disposable cups. That was about $1,500 a year!.
Now I am no longer using disposable cups. I brew coffee at home using a reusable filter. This saves me over $1,400 annually.
Also, before I was using disposable razors. Now I stopped using them. I use a reusable safety razor. It cost me $30 upfront, but I haven’t had to buy replacements in years.
Zero Waste Swaps That Save Money
Here are some practical swaps I made:
1. Food and Kitchen:
Meal planning: Proper meal planning will help you cut down food waste and save at least $200 monthly. I have written a detailed blog on creating a zero-waste kitchen.
Bulk buying: Do you know the benefits of buying in bulk? If you Buy staples like rice, pasta, and nuts in bulk, it reduces the packaging and lowers costs.
Composting: I don’t throw food scraps away, I compost in my apartment. I have an indoor compost bin. It helps reduce my trash bills and I get free fertilizer for my balcony vegetable garden.
2. Household Items:
Reusable towels: A few years back I switched to washable cloths. Now it saves me almost $100 yearly on paper towels.
Homemade cleaners: I create my own natural homemade cleaners with a mix of vinegar, water, and baking soda. These replace costly cleaning products.
Reusable fabric tote bags: I use reusable fabric tote bags. These bags save me from paying for plastic bags and also reduce waste in my home. I always keep a few in my car and purse for unexpected shopping trips.
3. Personal Care:
DIY beauty products: Before I used to buy a lot of beauty products. Later I realized that I really don’t need many of them. There were many products I used only once in a while.
So now I buy beauty products that I like and use regularly. I also make my own face masks and deodorant using simple ingredients.
Menstrual products: I use reusable options like a menstrual cup or washable cloth pads. It saves me hundreds annually. I have written a detailed blog on sustainable period practices.
The Role of Mindful Spending in Zero Waste
A major mindset shift helped me save money: I stopped buying things I didn’t need. Borrowing, repairing, and sharing became second nature.
For instance, now I rarely buy new books, I either buy a Kindle version or visit the local library here in New Jersey. The library option is free, and it helps reduce waste too.
Tracking our expenses is also very important. I noticed I was spending almost $500 yearly on bottled water. After buying a high-quality reusable water bottle, now I save that cost entirely.
Challenges I Faced and How I Overcame Them
In the beginning zero-waste living may feel uncomfortable. Social pressures and convenience temptations can make it tough. Early on, I’d forget my reusable bags at home.
Now, I keep them in my car so they’re always handy.
Also in the initial days finding affordable zero-waste products was a bit challenging for me. Because not every reusable item is budget-friendly, but I’ve learned to prioritize multipurpose items.
The best way to learn is by joining online zero-waste communities. These communities help us find cost-effective options and stay motivated.
Practical Tips to Start Your Zero-Waste Journey
If you’re ready to save money and reduce waste, here are some beginner-friendly tips:
- In the initial days focus on one area, like the kitchen or bathroom.
- Always choose high-quality reusable items that’ll last.
- Often visit local thrift stores, repair cafes, and swap events.
Going zero waste saves you money and by reducing waste, you’re contributing to a healthier environment. And as others see the positive changes in your life, you might inspire them to join the movement.
For me, this journey has been about more than money. It’s about living intentionally and making choices that align with my values. Saving $10,000 was just the beginning.
The real reward of zero-waste living is knowing we are creating a better future for all of us. So take your first step toward zero waste today.
