A Simple Zero Waste Starter Guide
Practical swaps, real savings, less waste.
Going zero waste does not mean doing everything at once. It means choosing a few smarter habits that cut trash, simplify your home, and save you money. Here are easy household swaps that make a noticeable difference in the first year.
Swap 1: Paper Towels → Cloth Towels
Most households spend $150 to $250 a year on paper towels.
A set of reusable cloth towels usually costs $20 to $40 and lasts years.
First year savings: about $120 to $200
Bonus: Less clutter, less plastic wrap, fewer emergency “we ran out” trips.
Swap 2: Plastic Bag Storage → Reusable Containers and Wraps
Families go through hundreds of sandwich bags every year. Boxes of bags add up to $80 to $150 a year.
Reusable containers and beeswax wraps cost around $20 to $40 and last for years.
First year savings: about $60 to $110
Swap 3: Single Use Cleaning Sprays → Refillable Cleaners
Buying disposable spray bottles and cleaners often totals $120 to $200 a year.
One reusable spray bottle plus concentrated cleaner or tablets usually costs $10 to $25 up front and pennies per refill.
First year savings: about $80 to $150
Swap 4: Disposable Razors → Metal Safety Razor
Disposable razors and replacement packs add up shockingly fast, usually $100 to $180 a year.
A safety razor is $20 to $40 plus $5 to $10 a year in blades.
First year savings: about $70 to $130
Swap 5: Liquid Laundry Jugs → Powder, Sheets, or Bulk Refills
Most families buy 6 to 10 plastic jugs a year, costing $120 to $200.
Powder or concentrated options (or refills) usually cost $40 to $70 per year.
First year savings: about $60 to $140
Bonus: No giant jugs and no plastic waste.
Swap 6: Dryer Sheets → Wool Dryer Balls
Boxes of dryer sheets add up to $40 to $80 per year.
Wool dryer balls cost $10 to $20 and last 3 to 5 years.
First year savings: about $30 to $60
Swap 7: Bottled Soap → Bar Soap
Liquid soap is mostly water and costs $50 to $120 per year for families.
Bar soap typically costs $20 to $50 annually and lasts longer.
First year savings: about $30 to $70
Total First Year Savings
If someone makes even half of these swaps, they typically save $300 to $600 in the first year, and even more after the initial purchases.
Zero waste isn’t just good for the environment. It makes your home simpler, saves space, and keeps more money in your pocket.
If you want, I can also make this into a printable checklist, a social media carousel, or a Cookeville-specific household savings guide.