Originally published September 2022. Last updated July 2025 with new information.
The growing plastic free movement is not about getting rid of all the plastic in your life, as that would be impossible for most people. Instead it's about breaking our dependence on new, single-use plastic. That everyday plastic in bags, bottles, food wrappers, cosmetics, and so much more.
As eco writer The Rogue Ginger puts it:
“Plastic-free living is not to live without plastic… it’s more about reducing reliance on the material through our everyday actions. Think single-use plastic like shopping bags, straws and over-packaged food. My view: I'm not against plastic, simply against its misuse.”
So—is plastic free shopping even possible?
Not entirely. Not in a world where almost every supply chain touches plastic somewhere—from shipping pallets to the device you are reading this article on!
But, you can choose not to bring more new plastic into your life. Especially the throwaway kind. With small shifts and new routines, plastic-free shopping becomes not only realistic—but second nature.
24 simple swaps to shop with less plastic
Each of these ideas works in real life—and our Biome team and community who have made these switches will tell you they don’t miss the plastic.
- Keep a reusable cotton shopping bag rolled up in your handbag
- Leave your reusable shopping bags, produce bags and bread bag near the door—or pop them straight back in your car
- Place fruit and veg loose into your trolley. Takes seconds longer to weigh at checkout. Worth it.
- Ask your local bakery to pop your bread into your reusable bag
- Shop from bulk bins (most supermarkets and health food stores have them)—bring your own jars or containers
- Buy in-season from farmers markets and local growers
- Grow your own veg—share extras with neighbours
- Switch to package-free soap or choose cardboard-wrapped bars
- Wash your hair with a shampoo bar—compost the packaging
- Replace conditioner with apple cider vinegar
- DIY your own deodorant in a small glass jar
- Switch to a bamboo toothbrush and compost the handle at end of life
- Use coconut oil as makeup remover (plus a konjac sponge for gentle cleansing)
- Try natural DIY skincare—shop ingredients online or at Biome's stores
- Replace plastic hairbrushes with a wooden brush or comb
- Use a reusable metal safety razor—a classic tool that saves money too
- Choose a menstrual cup or cloth pad over pads or tampons
- Moisturise with simple oils like rosehip or jojoba
- Make your own cleaning products using these essential oils: Eucalyptus (disinfecting) Clove (mould-killer) Orange (cutting grease) Peppermint (streak-free glass)
- Wash clothes with soapberries instead of liquid detergent in a plastic bottle
- Compost your food scraps—no need for bin liners
- Keep a cutlery kit and reusable straw in your bag for takeaway days
- Carry a reusable water bottle
- Replace cling wrap with a beeswax wrap, silicone cover, or just pop a plate on top
And most importantly—don’t give up. Every bit makes a difference.
Still Wondering, “Can I Really Shop Without Plastic?”
It’s a fair question. Many people in forums are asking things like:
- “Is it even realistic to go plastic-free with kids?”
- “What do I do when my local shops won’t accept BYO containers?”
- “Do plastic-free swaps actually save money?”
- “What’s the point if everything still comes in plastic online?”
These questions are valid. And they reflect the tension we all feel between values and convenience.
Going plastic-free isn’t about absolutes. It’s about doing what you can, where you can, when you can. Every time you choose reusables over single-use, or compostables over synthetics, you're taking back some control.
You’re also signalling to businesses that change matters. And trust us, they’re listening.
