Like me, you may be thinking of ways to live more sustainably in the new year. And while I began my sustainable living journey several years ago, there are so many ways to get started. That’s why I’ve made a list of sustainable living essentials for 2026 to help you begin your journey. From biodegradable kitchen sponges to clean beauty, there are so many aspects of your life that could be a little eco-friendlier. And let’s face it: Small changes are some of the most important ones.
My favorite on the list has to be these microfiber towels. And don’t even get me started on reusable K-cups—they’re so easy to use, clean and reuse. Shop my favorites below and embark on your cleaner living journey in the new year.
Sustainable Living Essentials for 2026
Cleaning
- Wipe Up: I haven’t bought a roll of paper towels since 2017, and that’s because I clean with a pack of microfiber towels. They absorb large amounts of liquid and you can wash and reuse them again and again. You’ll save money and paper, trust me — $20
- Clean Cleaning: Non-toxic cleaning essentials are especially important if you have kids. But they’re better for the environment anyway! And Branch Basics’ Cleaning Essentials Kit truly has everything you need to ensure your house stays clean, safely — $67
- Mop Baby, Mop: Quit buying Swiffer pads. Instead, spray your reusable microfiber mop pads with your favorite cleaning product (or even just white vinegar!). Your floors will be spotless and your local landfill will thank you — $10
- Scrub a Dub: Unlike regular dish sponges, biodegradable kitchen sponges won’t rot in a landfill for years to come. These come in a pack of 12, and you can use them on dishes, floors countertops and beyond — $10
- Read Up: Consider reading up with “My Sustainable Cleaning Guide,” which is filled with information on non-toxic, eco-friendly, sustainable cleaning — $15
Kitchen
- Bag It: Once you use these reusable Stasher bags, you’ll never go back to using Ziplocs. They’re microwave-, dishwasher- and freezer-safe. They’re also BPA-free, leak-free and trust me when I say they’ll save you so much on single-use baggies — $68
- Grocery Gal: Even if your town has banned plastic bags, it’s better to use your own. Get a 10-pack of BeeGreen reusable grocery bags to stash in the trunk of your car, and you’ll always have ’em on hand — $24
- Caffeination Station: K-cups and Nespresso pods come with a ton of single-use waste. Instead, opt for reusable K-cups. Just fill them with your favorite coffee grounds, and you’re good to go! — $12
- Sip It: By now, you’re probably aware that plastic straws are an unnecessary example of single-use waste. Instead, opt for metal straws that you can wash and use over and over again. They’re great for smoothies, cocktails and more — $7
- Compost: Having a compost bin is great for sustainably getting rid of food scraps. Just toss in your natural waste, to be used in compost piles or to drop off at a municipal composting center — $50
Self-Care
- Skincare Routine: Single-use cotton balls may be relatively inexpensive. However, Greenzla Reusable Makeup Remover Pads are reusable. And since they’re made from bamboo cotton, they’re super soft, too — $12
- Time of the Month: Not only does Thinx period underwear have you covered for the whole day, even with a heavy flow. They’re also way more comfortable than sanitary pads and tampons. It’s a win-win! — $32
- No B.O.: Looking for aluminum-free deo? Native Sea Salt & Cedar deodorant is made from natural, cruelty-free ingredients. The packaging is also plastic-free, and it comes in a pack of two — $20
- Clean Beauty: Clean up your beauty routine with the Soft Pinch Lip and Cheek Trio from Rare Beauty, a brand known for its eco-friendly packaging as well as its vegan and cruelty-free ingredients — $35
- Smile: Not only is Bite Whitening Toothpaste vegan and cruelty-free. It’s also plastic-free, as it comes in a refillable glass jar. Just place a tablet in your mouth and brush as you normally would with a wet toothbrush — $25
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