We have searched the web for the best recipes to keep your lifestyle as zero waste as possible. Lesson learned from all of these is to keep apple cider vinegar on hand at all times because it comes in handy in the majority of these recipes. It is not about buying new products all the time; it is about reusing one bottle over and over again with natural ingredients that will break down organically.
Toiletries
DIY toiletries are definitely the most simple and accessible recipes for zero waste beginners. All it takes is a bit of apple cider vinegar and baking soda. Remember that these recipes are flexible: you can adjust the amount of the base ingredient according to your hair or skin needs. After I started using this DIY shampoo and conditioner, my hair became healthier and thicker. Your hair might smell like apple cider vinegar while in the shower, but it goes away after your hair dries, especially if you throw in an essential oil like rosehip or lavender. Your skin will smell amazing after using honey for your face wash and body wash, like all the best parts of nature.
Cosmetics
DIY cosmetics are no joke. They require more obscure ingredients, and the recipes require much more time to get the colours just how you want them. There is more trial and error, but each recipe is still doable. Most of the ingredients can be found at any health food store like Whole Foods or Holland & Barrett. If neither store carries what you need, check Amazon. Be prepared for the time it takes to search for ingredients and to make plenty of mistakes in your first few attempts. It will be worth it when feeling empowered by the fact that you made your perfect pallet and that you have complete control on how it is packaged and made.
Cleaning Supplies
Not only are DIY cleaning supplies awesome for cutting back waste, but they also keep harmful chemicals out of our eyes, our noses and away from our hands. These recipes are really simple and almost all of them require the same ingredients. Keep white vinegar around for your countertops and your bathroom floor, keep apple cider vinegar around for your hair and skin and then don’t stress out about the other stuff. Your house will have a vinegary smell by the end of this deep clean but the smell will go away as everything dries.
If you want to know more about how to live a zero-waste lifestyle, check out our Instagram page @ellnews, our Twitter @eastlondonlines and follow the hashtag #ELLzerowasteweek.