35 eco-friendly & sustainable swaps for products you use every day

Every little change makes a huge difference over time.
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Creating a better environment for our next generation is always top of mind, but especially during April’s Earth Month. We’re constantly searching for eco-friendly products that are safe for our entire family while helping preserve our planet for future generations.
The shift toward sustainability isn’t just anecdotal—it’s backed by data. Research by the World Wildlife Foundation found that online searches for sustainable products increased by 71% between 2016 and 2021, demonstrating growing consumer interest in eco-friendly alternatives. This aligns with McKinsey’s “The State of Fashion” report, which revealed that 66% of U.S. shoppers consider sustainability a priority when making purchasing decisions.
When you consider how many single-use plastic and paper products your household consumes regularly, it might feel overwhelming. But don’t worry, mama. Every small change compounds over time—from swapping plastic food storage bags for silicone alternatives to replacing disposable makeup removers with washable cloths. The retailers have expanded their eco-friendly offerings in response to growing demand, making sustainable choices more accessible than ever, even in regular grocery store aisles.
To that end, where you shop matters as much as what you buy. While convenient, major e-commerce giants like Amazon often have substantial carbon footprints due to their shipping practices and packaging waste. Instead, consider eco-conscious platforms like Grove Collaborative, Thrive Market, and Zero Waste Store, which offer carefully vetted, sustainably made products—often at comparable or even lower prices. These specialized retailers prioritize environmental impact alongside convenience, making your sustainable shopping journey that much easier.
Here are some eco-friendly products and sustainable swaps that are surprisingly simple to incorporate into your daily routine. Consider trying just one this week to begin your journey:
Best eco-friendly cleaning products
Best eco-friendly beauty products
Best eco-friendly home products
Best eco-friendly clothing products for families
Best eco-friendly baby products
Best eco-friendly period products
A version of this story was published April 15, 2021. It has been updated.