This week on my Simple Living segment on ABC radio (Tuesday evenings 9:30) I chat with Trevor Jackson about the 10 things I no longer buy, and explore the amazing things I have gained from buying way less ‘stuff’:
- more freedom
- more spare cash to spend on important things, experiences with the kids and higher quality/durable/repairable products
- more time to volunteer
- more time to grow food
- more time to spend time with the family
- more time to homeschool
- more time to spend in nature
- more time to write
- more time to make films
- more time to read
- more time to ride my bike
- more time to just be
I have chosen to buy less, not just to save money, but because of how it enables me to reduce my environmental and social impact, and support respectful practices and products.
Here’s just some of the things I no longer buy:
1. FAST FASHION
Instead I choose ethical, sustainable, second-hand, well made, hand-made, upcycled and hand-me-down options.
2. OVER-PACKAGED AND OVER-PROCESSED FOODS
Instead I cook from scratch using good ingredients bought in bulk (plastic free) and from my rambling kitchen garden.
3. MOST VEGETABLES
I eat what I grow.
4. DISPOSABLE CUPS, BOTTLES, PLATES ETC
I carry my own and use washable options at parties and events.
5. SINGLE USE PAPER PRODUCTS
No more tissues and paper towels. I use hankies and napkins. (still use toilet paper though!)
6. PLASTIC FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS AND CLING WRAP
I choose to buy and store my food in jars. I also have a few stainless steel containers and sometimes use bowls to store things in the fridge with a plate as a lid.
7. LAUNDRY DETERGENT
I use natural alternatives such as soap nuts for the wash, vinegar as a fabric softener and sodium percarbonate as bleach.
8. DISHWASHING DETERGENTS, PLASTIC SCOURERS, GLOVES AND BRUSHES
I use luffa scrubs, castile soap and vinegar rinse.
9. SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER
I use castile soap as shampoo and aloe vera as a conditioner (straight from the plant).
10. FACE PRODUCTS AND MAKE-UP
I use castile soap as a face wash, homemade grapefruit toner, aloe moisturiser (again straight from the plant) and sometimes pure jojoba oil. I also make my own creams using just a few natural products (such as olive oil, beeswax, plants from the garden).
Morag’s Workshops
That's an inspiring list, Morag. We no longer buy cling wrap, I have a little set of beeswax wraps and cloth pockets and reusuable containers so there's no need. I am learning to make my own clothes but find I really don't need for much. Meg:)
Tell me more about dishwasher detergent please. It is something I hate buying because it seems so chemically.
Where can you buy sodium percarbonate Morag?
Thank you for this post! I grew luffas in my first rental property….. I grew 2 . Three pods of peas ( two / one in pods!) And one lovely tomato that a neighbour stole.
This reminds me of the luffa vine. I have a big fence I could grow one on here. Must hunt down some seeds . The environmental store I bought them from closed down more than twenty years ago… I may take my first trip to Northey St City Farm if I can get there ��
Hello, I live in Puerto Rico, and I am trying to be self sufficient. due to the high costs of living here in now with your help consume my own vegetables! I am now interested also in sustainable living in general. Thank you for all of your knowledge.
Goodmorning Morag,
My list of things I no longer buy is similar, the more you are aware of toxic products the more you avoid them. I did try for a long time to use a cake of soap in a wire cage (soap saver) to wash the dishes but I just couldn't get them clean enough without a residue left behind. Does the Castile soap leave a greasy feel on the dishes and sink area? Have a lovely day.
Fi
In many parts of Asia we do not use toilet paper but rinse with water instead. Much cleaner and fresher with only momentary dampness. In Australia it is possible to instal a "bidet" hose on your toilet water inlet.
Please tell me more about alternatives to dishwasher detergent. I really dislike buying it because it is very chemically. Thanks!