1. Say Goodbye to Chemicals: Did you know that most disposable sanitary pads and tampons contain chemicals such as bleach and dioxin, which can cause rashes, inflammation, and even cancer in the long run? On the other hand, eco-friendly menstrual products such as menstrual cups, cloth pads, and period underwear are made from organic and non-toxic materials, ensuring your safety and comfort. Additionally, these products are free from artificial fragrances and irritants that can cause allergies and skin irritation.
2. Cut Down the Costs: Have you ever realized how much money you spend each year on disposable menstrual products? Studies show that the cost of disposable pads and tampons adds up to about $200-$350 per year for an average woman. On the other hand, reusable menstrual products, if taken care of properly, can last for years and save you hundreds of dollars in the long run. So, switch to a sustainable and cost-effective option and invest that money in experiences that enrich your life.
3. Reduce your Carbon Footprint: Did you know that menstrual waste contributes to the growing problem of waste management? Each year, billions of pads and tampons are thrown away, filling our landfills and polluting our oceans. These products take up to 500-800 years to decompose, that's a long time! Switching to reusable menstrual products not only reduces the amount of waste generated, but also saves energy and resources required to produce disposable products. Mother Earth will thank you!
4. Don't compromise on Comfort: Have you ever felt uncomfortable and uneasy in disposable menstrual products, especially during physical activities? Reusable menstrual products such as menstrual cups, cloth pads, and period underwear are designed for optimal comfort and absorption. They offer flexibility, leak protection, and no odor, making it ideal for busy women who need to be active and on-the-go.
5. Celebrate Womanhood: Switching to reusable menstrual products is not just about the environment, but also about celebrating womanhood and embracing natural bodily functions. It's an opportunity to break taboos, educate others, and empower ourselves and the generations to come. So, let's join the sustainable feminine hygiene revolution and be proud of our periods!
There's no time like the present to switch to an eco-friendly and healthier option for our feminine hygiene needs. Reusable menstrual products are a sustainable, cost-effective, and comfortable solution that benefits our health and the environment. Not only do they offer more comfort and flexibility, but they also reduce waste and contribute to the fight against climate change. So, let's make conscious choices and take small steps towards a better future and celebrate womanhood in all its natural glory.
Dill is an easy to grow herb and fits quite nicely in a flower garden. It grows to about three feet tall and produce yellow flowers. Both the greens and the seeds from the flowers can be used to season food. The leaves are best harvested before the flowers open. The seeds can be harvested when the flower is open and they’ve ripened. It’s advised to sow them from a seed as transplanting dill plants is difficult. Like Basil, plant seeds after danger of frost has passed.
Thyme:
In drier climates, Thyme is actually used as a xeriscape ground cover. This means it’s quite hearty and grows like a weed! You can grow them in a container garden, right in the soil, or on your window ledge. Thyme is another one of those herbs that comes in a number of varieties. It’s best to grow it from a cutting rather than directly from a seed because seeds take a long time to cultivate.
Parsley:
Parsley, either curly or flat leaf, is another easy to grow and quite versatile herb. Like many other herbs, it grows quite quickly and reseeds itself, which means you could easily end up with a garden full of parsley if you don’t prune and keep an eye on it. Sow from seeds directly into your garden. They’re not choosy about their soil but they do like a lot of sun.
Growing herbs at home doesn’t have to be left to the green thumbs in the world. Many herbs are tremendously easy to grow and practically raise themselves. Whether you garden indoors or out, in containers or in a small plot in your yard, herb growing is a great way to add flavor and fun to your summertime meals.
Benefits of using powdered based beauty products include:
To wrap up, powder-based concentrates are the ultimate travel buddy for your beauty routine! With their lightweight, packable design, and longer shelf life, they're the perfect on-the-go accompaniment. Plus, their concentrated formula and eco-friendly packaging make them a more sustainable option.
Trust me, ditch the liquids and solid bars for this hassle-free solution and achieve your beauty goals while you're on the go!
]]>Follow these simple tips and a list of compostable materials to get started:
1. Choose a compost bin or create a pile that suits your preferences and needs.
2. Select a location that is flat, well-drained, and easily accessible, with consideration for your climate.
3. Balance your "browns" (carbon-rich materials) and "greens" (nitrogen-rich materials) for optimum composting conditions.
4. Establish a system for collecting kitchen scraps and find a storage solution for your brown materials.
5. Collect and store brown materials in a dry location.
6. Alternate layers of brown and green materials and aim for a healthy carbon-to-nitrogen ratio.
7. Maintain the compost pile or bin by mixing fresh materials and keeping the consistency damp, but not soggy.
8. Speed up the process with microbial-rich materials like garden soil or compost accelerator.
9. Use finished compost as topsoil, mulch, or compost tea!
Compostable materials include fruits and vegetables, eggshells, coffee grounds and filters, yard trimmings, and more. But avoid materials like animal feces, dairy, coal ash, and anything treated with chemicals.
Join the cycle of nature and start composting at home today!
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Most traditional floor cleaners contain harsh chemicals that can cause harm to your health. These chemicals include chlorine, ammonia, and sodium hydroxide, which can cause skin and eye irritation, respiratory problems, and allergic reactions. This is the reason why many people consider homemade cleaning products because you know what is in it and you can tailor it to your family’s needs.
Buying commercial floor cleaners can quickly add up, especially if it's a product you use regularly. A homemade cleaner uses ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils, which you can find in your kitchen cupboard. These ingredients are cheaper, and in most cases, readily available.
Using homemade cleaners is more environmentally friendly because most store-bought brands contain chemicals that can harm the environment. Homemade cleaners, on the other hand, use natural and biodegradable ingredients. Making your own cleaners also reduces the amount of plastic packaging in your household, which further reduces environmental impact.
Different types of floorings require different cleaning methods. For instance, wooden floors need special care and treatment, and this might not be available in a store-bought floor cleaner. Homemade cleaners can be tailor-made to suit your flooring, and you can also find recommendations online for specific materials.
Cleaning with store-bought products in households with pets and children may not be safe because the chemicals they contain can cause harm. Homemade cleaners, however, use safe, natural ingredients that can be used around household pets and children.
In conclusion, homemade floor cleaning products are a safer, cheaper, and more environmentally friendly option than store-bought ones. Besides, you have the added advantage of being able to create cleaners that specifically suit your flooring needs. One of the essential things as a Mum is keeping your family safe and healthy, which makes using a natural cleaning product, and making your own cleaning solution is one simple step to achieving that. With a little research and by using ingredients that you have around the house, you can create a solution that works best for you and your family.
SEE below for our easy DIY Floor Cleaner:
✨ 3 cups boiling water
✨ 1/4 cup white vinegar
✨ 1 tsp dish soap
✨ Essential oils (optional)
Pour into your bucket and top with water, Mop as usual.
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In this blog post, we'll explore how you can create meaningful rituals that will help you gain a sense of balance while connecting with self and earth. Whether it's morning mediation practices or evening gratitude exercises, there are plenty of ways to create empowering rituals that will bring more calmness into your daily routine.
So let's get started on learning how to develop these intentional moments that honor our connection with ourselves and all beings on planet Earth!
Identify Your Intention:
The first step in creating a meaningful ritual is to consider what emotions or experiences you want your ritual to evoke. Do you want it to be calming? Uplifting? Reflective? To help create a mindset? Write down whatever comes up for you, even if it seems silly or insignificant. This will help you hone in on the intention behind your ritual.
Choose Your Elements:
Now that you have identified your intention, think about what elements might further enhance your experience. This could involve gathering some objects—a smudge stick, crystals, essential oils, mindfulness cards, ceremonial cacao, flowers—or activities like writing in a journal or taking a walk outdoors. For example, if your intention is to feel connected with nature, try gathering some flowers from your garden and pressing them into a scrapbook or sketching the plants in an outdoor setting. The possibilities are endless! Be sure to checkout our wellness products for items you can use in your rituals.
Repeat Regularly
Finally, commit to regularly repeating this ritual so that it becomes second nature over time. You may find yourself feeling more grounded after just one session—but you’ll really start noticing the benefits when practicing regularly. Try setting aside 10 minutes each day or a few times a week for your ritual (whatever works best for you), so that it becomes part of your regular routine.
Creating rituals can be an incredibly powerful way of connecting with ourselves and our environment—and they don’t need to be complicated! By starting small and focusing on what resonates most deeply within us, we can create meaningful rituals that help us stay present in our lives while honoring who we are and recognizing our connection with the earth around us. So why not give it a try? You never know how much peace and joy these simple practices can bring!
1/3 cup of plain yogurt – soy yogurt works too
1/3 cup of milk or soymilk
1/2 cup frozen strawberries
1 frozen banana
1 teaspoon of honey
1 cup vanilla yogurt
1 medium peach, peeled, pitted and cut up
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon natural creamy peanut butter
1/2 Banana
1 cup of frozen strawberries
1/2 cup plain yogurt
1/2 cup orange juice
1 tablespoon Flax seeds
1 tablespoon whey protein powder
1 banana
1/2 apple
1 kiwi, peeled
1/2 cup frozen mixed berries
1 cup orange juice
1/2 cup soy milk
1/2 cup non-fat plain yogurt
3 tablespoons natural peanut butter
1 tablespoon flaxseed oil
1 teaspoon spirulina
Making small, mindful changes to your purchasing habits can go a long way towards reducing packaging waste in our environment. One of the most impactful of these is to buy in bulk. Not only do items like grains and legumes purchased in bulk packages last longer, but they also come in reusable or compostable bags rather than multiple individual plastic packages. Making an effort to reduce packaging waste has positive impacts for the environment now and for future generations.
Nappy waste is something we don't often think about, but when you add it up, the amount of disposable nappies filling our landfills each day can be quite shocking. That's why more and more parents are opting to have a sustainable lifestyle by switching from throwaway nappies to eco-friendly cloth ones. Cloth nappies are reusable and made with organic and biodegradable materials, such as cotton, hemp and bamboo, so they don't create the same environmental burden that disposables do. Not only can cloth nappies provide a much cleaner planet for our children and grandchildren, they also generally cost much less than their disposable counterpart in the long run. If you're looking for an environmentally friendly way to nappy your baby, consider making the switch to eco-friendly cloth nappies!
Making the switch to natural cleaning products or even making your own around the house can be an incredibly rewarding and liberating experience. Natural products are made from organic ingredients that won't harm the environment, ensuring you're keeping your household clean in an eco-friendly way. It's even healthier for you, since you won't be breathing in any chemicals. All you need is a little creativity and investigation into which cleaning solutions work best for each job. Natural products are often more affordable than store-bought chemical ones, so you'll likely save some money too. Seeing first-hand how effective and efficient these natural solutions can be truly reinvigorates how you approach household chores - make the switch today!
Water bottles really can make a difference; not just in your wallet and the environment but also in your health! Investing in a reusable water bottle is an easy, cost-effective way to cut down on single-use plastic. Not only will you be reducing the amount of non-renewable resources used in production, you'll also be able to save money by refilling throughout the day. Plus, no more time wasted running to the store for plastic water bottles when you get thirsty – win, win and win again! So think smart and go green by investing in a reliable reusable water bottle today. You might be saving our world one sip at a time!
You don’t need to be perfect to make a difference; every little bit counts. If we all make an effort to reduce our plastic waste, together we can make a real impact. So let’s take the first step today – swap out those single-use plastics for sustainable alternatives and do our part to save the planet. After all, it’s the only one we’ve got!
]]>Let see the many health benefits of coconut oil below:
Skin - Coconut oil is a great multipurpose skin care product. Like many other oils, it is great to use for massages, but also provides moisture for your skin. It can also be used to treat certain skin infections like acne and eczema. It contains antioxidants that help neutralize skin-damaging free radicals and has even been show to help prevent wrinkles!
Hair - Massage coconut oil gently into the scalp or even use it as a conditioner. Not only is oil treatment good for your hair, it also has essential nutrients to keep your hair strong and healthy. It will help stimulate hair growth, moisturize your hair and scalp, and leave your hair looking beautifully shiny. It can even help get rid of lice and their eggs.
Stress Relief - To help ease fatigue and regenerate yourself, apply coconut oil to the head and then gently massage. You’ll feel better and ready to go.
Heart Health - While it does contain saturated fats, coconut oil also contains quite a bit of lauric acid, which helps to lower cholesterol and blood pressure. Coconut oil can also help prevent other heart issues.
Weight Loss - Sure, coconut oil contains fat (all oils do), but coconut oil actually has less fat than many commonly used cooking oils. And the fats in coconut oil are more easily converted into energy rather than being stored. It also helps your body absorb more essential nutrients from other foods to keep your body in tip-top shape.
Immunity - Coconut oil contains antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal compounds that help fight diseases before they can take hold so you stay healthy and get sick less often.
Infection - The same properties in coconut oil that keep you from getting sick can also help heal or slow illnesses once you get them. Coconut oil not only has antibacterial properties to help fight normal infections, it has also been shown to help viral infections including HIV. It helps when take internally, but it can also be applied to cuts and bruises to speed healing and form a protective barrier to prevent infection and other irritants from getting in.
Digestion - The antibacterial properties of coconut oil also help soothe irritable bowel syndrome and other digestive disorders.
These are just a few of the health benefits of coconut oil that have been discovered. Coconut oil is believed to do everything from preventing liver disease to strengthening your teeth. If you’ve considered using it in the past, it may be time to start.
Whether you’re buying books online or cereal at your grocery, when you buy in bulk you cut down on packaging. Think about it - if you buy one book at a time online then you’re going to receive a box for each book and all the packaging that goes along with shipping that item. When you buy a regular box of cereal, you consume it and toss the box. However if you buy a bulk box of cereal it may last as long as three regular boxes of cereal, you get more cereal and less packaging.
And when you’re shopping, use reusable or recyclable containers. This trend is really catching on. Stand in any grocery store line and you’ll see people shopping with reusable shopping bags - that’s an example of cutting down on packaging because you’re not taking dozens of plastic shopping bags home.
Additionally, some retailers who manufacture and distribute processed foods are beginning to package them in reusable and/or easily recyclable containers to minimize landfill waste.
Juice boxes, for example, are incredibly useful; however, a large bottle of juice is a more sustainable practice and you can just as easily pour a serving into an aluminum water bottle for your children to enjoy. You throw away less waste.
Used products rarely come packaged. You just pick them up as is from the store. No packaging, no waste.
Bartering and trading for products is a great way to save money and conserve resources. Many people are forming book swap groups to save money and materials by simply sharing books. And some people are banning together to share clothing and other items.
Lavender oil may be the most common essential oil using for relaxation. You can find it in the grocery store isles in lotions, bath gels, shampoo and even candles. Lavender is everywhere. In addition to being wonderful for relaxing and calming, lavender oil can be uses as an analgesic, diuretic, styptic, rheumatism, muscle pain, depression, headaches, hypertension, insomnia, stress and skin diseases.
Like Rose Oil, you can combine it in a number of personal care products, drip it into your bathtub, or you can place it in a diffuser and enjoy it throughout your home.
Jasmine has a most recognizable fragrance and is commonly used as an aphrodisiac, to treat headaches, for fatigue, to soothe coughs, to improve and tone skin and to calm menstrual issues. Jasmine is also tremendous oil for calming.
While jasmine oil is more expensive than just about any other essential oil, it is very powerful oil. To use you can blend into personal care products like bath gels, massage oils and lotions or you can place a few drops of jasmine oil in a vaporizer and let it permeate your yoke. * Burners and vaporizers
Jasmine oil blends well with Bergamot, Rose, Sandalwood and Citrus oils.
As a natural product, Bamboo can be affected by moisture, especially in areas of the bathroom.
Here are a few tips to help increase the longevity of your soap dish.
]]>As a natural product, Bamboo can be affected by moisture, especially in areas of the bathroom.
Here are a few tips to help increase the longevity of your soap dish.
This is the quickest way to damage your soap dish. It will start absorbing the moisture which can then lead to mould. If you use it in the shower, keep it away from the water jet stream and when you are done washing, just give it a quick dry with your towel.
Every few days, gently rinse your soap dish with water to get rid of extra soap residues. Let it dry completely dry in the sun if possible.
Using a light oil such as sunflower oil will help give a layer of protection to the natural surface.
Need tips on how to clean mould without exacting harm on yourself or the environment? Use natural ingredients and try these recipes:
Are you interested to know how much plastic waste, landfill and money you'll save by making the switch to reusable cloth nappies?
According to Sustainability Victoria, A staggering 3.75 million disposable nappies are used EACH DAY just in Australia and New Zealand. By using reusable nappies you can also reduce you landfill footprint by approximately 20 x 240 L garbage bins over a child's time in nappies.
Use our calculator below to find out your savings.
Please note: This calculator is based on average detergent prices, water usage and electricity costs in Australia.
Large businesses are using this to their advantage to sell their products by using what we value and trust against us, our desire for a more sustainable future and trust in well-known brands. Some companies are ethical and put in time and resources to create services and products that are eco-friendly, sustainable and ethical that provide real value to their consumers. Unfortunately, other companies employ dishonest advertising, known as corporate greenwashing, by advertising that their company and its products or services are “green”, “sustainable” and “ethical” when in reality it’s a misleading statement and often completely untrue.
Through half-truths, white lies and selective information, companies that use greenwashing techniques have found a lucrative way to adapt to the growing ethical and environmentally conscious climate to make a lot of money, without actually spending resources or time to make their products and services any more beneficial for the environment.
Even though it is a dishonest and unethical practice, greenwashing has become widely accepted as a great marketing strategy and after you have finished this article, if you don’t already, you will start seeing it regularly in your everyday lives through social media, advertising and even in some companies that you currently trust.
We believe it is important to know when a company is attempting to greenwash us because getting tricked into buying these kind of products makes us part of the problem, when we are all trying to be part of the solution. There is nothing worse buying a product or service thinking you are doing good for the environment and society only to later find out you have been duped into contributing to the exact problem you thought you were helping. That’s why in this article we will cover the common ways companies try to greenwash you and how to spot it.
Number 1 is obvious, but it has to be said.
1 – Claiming something is biodegradable while hiding the fact that it takes many years, sometimes centuries, to breakdown.
A classic example of this is “biodegradable” and “compostable” plastics. In the last decade many new plastics have popped up that make claims to be biodegradable and compostable, however companies intentionally hide the unfortunate truth that a lot of these plastics will not actually biodegrade under normal conditions and if they do it can take hundreds of years.
One of these plastics, PLA, is “technically” biodegradable because it can decompose however it requires the right conditions to do so. In normal environmental conditions PLA can take hundreds of years to biodegrade. For PLA to degrade faster, the plastic needs a high temperature environment (around 60oC) and a rich variety of suitable micro-organisms which is generally only found in industrial facilities specifically designed to digest the plastic and not your common backyard compost heap.
There are many other plastics like this and many companies misleading us into believing the plastic will biodegrade in a few months or years and we have nothing to be concerned about.
Only trust companies that have their plastic certified under Australian (AS 4736), European (EN 13432) or US (ASTM D6400) standards and make sure that the certification clearly states it the plastic is certified home compostable. Some companies will go as far to get certification, but it is only compostable in an industrial facility and not home compostable. This doesn’t stop them using it as a marketing ploy to sell their products and make misleading claims.
This is one the beauty industry thrives on and it is used all the time especially amongst the really big “trusted” brands. Whether it be in skincare, makeup to hair products, it doesn’t come to a surprise that the beauty industry uses plenty of green buzzwords to lure customers into purchasing a product that is harmful to the environment.
Using words such as “plant based” or “contains natural ingredients” many companies lead customers into believing the ingredients aren’t composed of bad chemicals, when in reality many have a wide range of chemicals, often bad for your health and the environment. Some include:
The best way to avoid being caught out by this deceptive language is to look at the ingredients on the product then doing a google search to find out what it is. Some products that can contain microplastics include lipstick, foundation, highlighters and mascara.
3 – Down playing down the environmental hazards their product creates.
This is often a bit more of an obvious one to pick up on but sometimes companies can be subtler. An obvious one to spot are statements such as “clean coal” - there is no such thing as coal that doesn’t create pollution.
A more obscure example however is from products that use a common material known as microfibers that is often used in wipes and towels. This is often marketed as “sustainable” and in line with the companies “environmentally conscious commitments” because they’re present in reusable products, but in reality, microfibers are made from 100% plastic which is often a mixture of polyester and nylon and these break down into microplastics.
When washed, these microfibers break down into microplastics in the environment (very small plastic particles). Many companies that sell products with microfibers know this and since its not something they can outright deny many will admit their products produce microplastics but downplay the adverse effects. “Because only a small amount breaks off and enters the environment” it’s "not that bad". Considering more than 30% of all microplastic in the environment was created from polyesters, nylon and acrylics found in synthetic fabric (i.e. clothes and wipes), when using these on a large scale “small” amounts of microplastics add up. The attitude of “its only a small amount per cloth or per person” is how we got to this point of having vast amounts of microplastics in our environment.
In the last decade, scientists are finding an abundance of microplastics in fish, animals and even within human organs. This is having a wide range of adverse health effects, with scientists in the last few years finding the presents of microplastics causing hormone imbalances in both men and women to a point that newborn boys’ penises are getting smaller each decade. Males testosterone levels have also significantly declined from an average of 600 ng/dL in 1999 to 450 ng/dL in 2016 (25% decrease in under 20 years). Microplastics and chemicals in our environment are damaging our reproductive systems and hormones and it’s only going to get worse.
4 – Misleading claims regarding donations to green causes and charities
This greenwashing façade will shock you, especially since it is not illegal.
An example of is when some companies claim they are donating a percentage of their profits to a specific cause or charity, but manipulate their figures so that minimal or next to no funds actually reach the causes they claim to support.
One way some companies do this is by claiming that 50% or 100% of their profits go to charity or a cause, but in fine print make sure to state that its of their “net” profits not “gross” that go to charity. The importance of distinguishing net and gross profit is that gross profit is based on how much money is left over after you have paid for the cost of the product you are selling, whereas net profit is the money you have left over after paying all other expenses, including the wages to the owner of the business.
Net profit can be manipulated simply by the business owners listing themselves as an employee of the business, paying themselves a higher salary then going on to pay the charity the “net profit”, which is now next to nothing. As far as customers and the law is concerned, the company gave 100% of your net profit to charity as promise. As far as ethics are concerned, its very misleading and capitalising on consumers trust simply to make easy money. Greedy business owners who scam us like this get to enjoy all the riches from increased revenue, without actually having to give much of that money to charity.
This is difficult to spot and the only way to know for certain a company is being honest about this is if they are transparent about the actual dollar value that they paid to the cause or charity and how much they paid themselves as business owners. If a company states what the total net profit the business was and/or how much the business owners received as a salary, they’re obviously trustworthy because they’re being transparent about their finances and have nothing to hide. If they are unable to state any figures like this then all you have to go by is their word. That said, if the company is not activity showing the value of funds their giving to these causes and charities, why aren’t they? Wouldn’t it be something they’re proud of and want to announce to their customers?
These are just a handful of examples that greenwashing takes place in society and hope we have helped you become a little more aware at how seemingly “honest” businesses are often playing a very dirty game with almost no consequences. We believe being aware of these tactics can help us be more responsible consumers. If you would like to learn more or keep up to date with the latest news and information please join our mailing list.
]]>Impacts of fast fashion and why secondhand is the best:
One of the best ways to deal with textile waste is to expand the lifetime of a garment by handing it over to another person to enjoy for a few more years. When many clothes get discarded by people, it generates an enormous amount of waste often ending up in landfill before its time. But when those garments are used to their fullest capabilities, then clothing can take up to 10 years before touching landfill.
Approximately 1,800 gallons of water is required to make one new pair of blue jeans. Now that’s a lot of water! If the clothes are recycled, it means the demand for new jeans decreases and that precious water that is used to make these clothes, instead of getting lost as industrial waste, can now be used for other purposes, like drinking water and water for our farmers to feed their animals and crops.
Secondhand clothing encourages and develops a recycling community. Recycling garments aids those in need and helps the environment as well. On a socio-economic level, it’s allows people to create a new identity out of branded used clothing that offers them better shot in the social world. On a society level, it develops a culture of recycling. Buying secondhand clothes assists in keeping the recycling system in place as people who can otherwise not afford these garments are able to wear them.
Extending the lifecycle of products also means slowing down the rate of excessive consumption, which means less waste, emissions and unfair wages. Instead of generating waste, we’re creating a circular economy of re-distributing “would-be” discarded products and giving them a new life. The knock-on effect is that the demand for new products would decrease, which would force producers to reduce their supply. Ultimately, shopping second-hand means that we’re more resourceful as a society.
You have now learnt some of the major impacts of clothing, textile waste and why should buy secondhand, the question now is where to buy? They are listed as follows.
Where to Buy:
There are many regular markets on each month or weekend. My particular favorite market to find clothing is the Camberwell Market. It’s on every Sunday and not only has regular vintage clothing stalls it has many bric a brac finds too.
Also know as thrift stores, are often run by charities
Clothes from the 60s and 70s were so well made, vintage holds its value. Look for a wardrobe staples such as jackets and jeans rather than something kooky that you won’t wear. I have a leather jacket that I found at a vintage store. This style will never be out of fashion.
If you’re looking for something specific, this is the way to go as you can search what you are after. The only downfall is that you won’t be able to try on before you buy. This is where i found some brand new Doc Martens for half the price!
There are now many organized public clothes swap events popping up all around Melbourne. There are a few facebook groups that you can follow which hold regular events, including The Clothing Exchange and Suitcase Rummage.
If you’ve got a bunch of friends all complaining that they don’t have anything to wear in their overstuffed wardrobes, you could hold your own clothes swap night? Bring all the clothes you haven’t worn in six months making sure they are all in great condition. Whatever isn’t claimed donate to charity.
Have I swayed you into your first secondhand clothing shop? Here are some useful tips to get you started.
Tips For A Successful Shop:
A change of season is when people usually have a clean out of their closets, so this is when you’ll find some great buys. You may also find some real bargains at markets when visiting just before everyone starts packing up. Stallholders don’t want to take clothes home with them if they can help it! Also on days that are cold and rainy, or blistering hot summer days, stallholder may have less customers so you will be more successful bartering for a bargain.
Regional areas or small country towns for markets and op shops tend to be cheaper and usually have different range of clothing. If you’re shopping in the city, try shops in an affluent suburb and you may find a designer coat that you could never afford at full price. My personal favorite is stopping by vintage and op shops in hipster areas as styles always seem to be trendier for my age group.
Having an eye for quality is vital - and the key to finding great buys. Look for clothes that will always be in style. Fabrics that are eco friendly such as linens, hemp, bamboo cotton are all fabric to keep an eye out for as they are more likely to last longer and are far better to dispose of at the end of its life. Try and steer clear of polyesters and nylons as these can shed microfibre plastic into our waterways when washing. Also make sure that you inspect the clothing closely for any damage and only buy if you are able to mend the piece easily such as replacing a button.
When shopping at markets, most stallholders just want to see a little money back from their initial investment, putting you in a great position to haggle. What’s the worst that can happen? They say no. No harm done.
This is all part of the fun. Rummaging to find fabrics and styles that you may not necessarily find at a store. But remember to take your time.
Keep your options open and you never know what you will find.
Most shops have change rooms, but not everyone will have somewhere to change at a market. I usually wear leggings and a singlet top so that I can try clothes over if need be. This is where bringing a friend also comes in handy for a second opinion. You will find that sizes can vary widely between manufactures and eras that the clothes are made.
If you have some sewing talents and find a fabric that you just can’t go past, you can try your hand at upcycling it into something you would wear, or repurpose the fabric into something like purses or bags.
What to do with your old clothing:
Moving on your clothing that doesn’t get used is a great way to extend the life of clothing. Make sure it’s in good condition with no rips or stains.
There are a few initiatives that accept worn out clothing to be turned into textiles and rags.
Does your clothing have an amazing print but can’t be worn? Ask yourself can it be upcycled into something new? Can it be turned into a funky bag? Or can you turn a dress into a skirt? The possibilities are endless.
That concludes my thoughts on Secondhand clothing. If you have any other suggestions on clothes recycling programs or ways to reducing our textile waste, please leave a comment below. Happy Shopping!!!
]]>The facts:
Disposable Nappy Use in Australia
Environmental impacts of disposable nappy use:
Nappy Fact: According to The Good Human, disposable nappies use 3 times more energy, 20 times more raw materials and 2 times more water than reusables during the manufacturing process.
Why you should consider the modern cloth nappy:
Reusable Cloth Nappies According to a study conducted by the University of Queensland, “reusable nappies have the potential for the least environmental impact”.
Reusable nappies can be made from a variety of materials, including organic cotton, bamboo, wool and hemp. Some manufacturers argue that making nappies from these materials is much more beneficial for the environment, since these plants don’t require harsh chemicals and pesticides to grow.
Other benefits of cloth nappies include:
Read more at Oz Science.
What type of nappy should I choose?
Now that you have considered the environmental impacts and the saving that can be had using a modern cloth nappy, it’s time to learn about the different type of nappies available.
All cloth nappies fall into one of two categories.
1 – Flats and Pre-folds; Which are the traditional Flat Nappies that you fold.
Pre-folds are similar but have extra padding.
2 – Fitted Nappies; which are shaped like a disposable nappy and close with cloth tabs. There are lots of styles within this second category as follows:
- All in one nappy (AIO): A fitted nappy with the water-resistant layer sewn on the outside of the nappy, creating a one step nappy that is quick to use. Usually take longer to dry but liked for the one step.
- All in two nappies (AI2): Similar to all in ones except the booster usually snaps in and out easily. The purpose is to ensure faster drying times and to aid the absorbency of the nappy. Waterproof outer layer and absorbent inner layer can be washed and dried separately
- All in three’s (AI3): Three items to one nappy. A booster, the main nappy and a nappy cover.
- Fitted nappy: Sized or OSFM shaped nappy made from entirely absorbent material. Usually fastens with snaps or Velcro type closures, Requires a separate water-resistant cover.
- Pocket nappy: A shaped nappy made from an outer water-resistant layer, and in inner stay dry layer. A pocket opening at one or both ends allowing the absorbent material to be ‘stuffed’ inside the nappy. This is what we personally use in our home.
- One size fits most (OSFM): The snaps can be adjusted to fit your child. Size usually range from 5-20kgs
Nappy Components:
****Please note liners are absolutely optional, and don’t affect the use of a nappy.
Please refer to Australian Nappy Association for a more in depth glossary of nappy terms.
You have done your research and you may have already looked at a nappy library or a friends stash to see what style of nappy you like. Now its time to purchase but you don’t know where to start. You may find this simple starter shopping list useful.
Cloth nappy starter shopping list:
Wash Routine:
Please refer to Clean Cloth Nappies Down Under for an in depth wash routine. These ladies have all the answers cloth nappy related!
Now this is a basic run down of modern cloth nappies and the environmental and financial benefits to you and your family.
We suggest doing further research to suit your needs. Mums groups, Facebook pages, Nappy libraries, local hospitals, family and friends all make good resources. And remember this is your choice, don’t let others scare you into thinking reusable nappies are hard. They are most definitely not!
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There are so many great gifts to choose from so we decided to list our top 15 favourite . All of these items are durable, high quality and look great.
1. Beeswax Wraps: Ditch the plastic wrap and switch to an organic cotton cloth infused with beeswax, jojoba oil and tree resin.Great for wrapping cheese, fruits, sandwiches or left overs in a bowl. If you’re feeling crafty DIY Beeswax Wraps are also available and leave the house smelling great!
2. Certified Organic Bath Towels: These quality towels are great for people and the planet. Our top choice is created by the Wholly Grail Hub which is ethically made from certified organic cotton and fairtrade producers. Their towels are so soft and fluffy it feels like you are drying yourself with a cloud. Available in white, stone and charcoal they will match any bath decor.
3. UnPaper Towel Wipes: Say goodbye to wasteful paper towels and hello to reusable unpaper towels. Made from super absorbent cotton flannelette,these all-purpose wipes are perfect for eco friendly families and can be used for almost anything including an addition to a baby’s changing station, face wipes or a funky statement piece in the kitchen.
4. Reusable Coffee Capsules: If you are the type to make a coffee at home, then these reusable capsules by Podsta are the perfect gift for you. They are made to last a lifetime with its high quality food grade stainless steel body. Just one capsule saves 700 single-use capsules from being produced and disposed of each year. How good is that!?
5. Hemp Backpack: Hemp fibre is strong and flexible, making a hemp backpack perfect for everyday use. These ones from Happy Cow have a wonderful contrast between the vintage-look vegetable tanned leather and the off-weight beige colour of the bag itself. The bag looks and feels tough – because it is.
6. Reusable Makeup Rounds: You will wonder why you ever used disposable makeup rounds once you have used these Reusable Hemp Rounds. The best way I can describe how these feel on your skin is super soft and luxurious. Simply wash them in a delicates laundry bag along with your regular washing.
7. Bamboo Bento Box: Bring your food to work or school in this unique container and know you’re helping the environment by skipping single use plastics. Our EarthStor containers are made of bamboo flax, bamboo wood and plant derived adhesives that allows for a strong yet lightweight fibre to be created. No PLA (corn plastic) are used as their binding agent but instead cassava root and aloe.
8. Bamboo Cutlery Travel Set: The perfect companion to your bamboo bento box. This cutlery travel pouch is great to keep in your bag or car to avoid any unnecessary waste when eating out and about. Say goodbye to plastic, and hello to your Reusable Cutlery Set.
9. Reusable Straws: Among the top 10 items found in the ocean are plastic straws and stirrers. Most recycling facilities don’t process the type of plastic used in plastic straws, which means most end up either in landfill or washed down storm-water drains and into the ocean when not properly disposed of. The reusable versions come in all shapes and sizes. Whether made from bamboo or stainless steel the eco friendly household is not complete without a set of these durable, reusable straws.
10. Coffee Keep Cup: Did you know? It is estimated Australians use 1 billion disposable coffee cups each year. That's approximately 2,700,000 paper coffee cups thrown out every day. Just by replacing these single use cups with reusable cups you are making a change towards a more eco friendly future. Many cafes also offer a discount to those who bring their own cups.
11. Indoor Herb Garden: Herbs are really easy to grow, and you don’t need a yard. All you need is a sunny window or two and a little bit of time. Popular herbs like coriander, chives, mint and thyme are all suitable to grow indoors.
12. String Bags: What once was old is new again. These string bags never go out of fashion. Handy to keep in your regular handbag and use in place of single use plastic bags. They come in a variety of colours so you can always match your outfit.
13. Modern Cloth Nappies: We know what you’re thinking. You’re picturing terry toweling and giant safety pins! Well not anymore. These new cloth nappies come with side snaps or Velcro and can be adjusted in size from birth to toilet training. Available in many funky colours and patterns, you are spoilt for choice.
14. Linen Clothing: If you decide to give clothing as a gift, it’s a great idea to choose quality linen which is designed and made to last a life time. Linen is highly breathable, soft and a natural insulator. Its fibers are hollow, moving air and moisture naturally. It is valued for its ability to keep cool in the summer months and trap warmth in colder weather. This is all achieved through the natural properties of the fiber itself. Love Linen is a great brand to checkout with their simple yet elegant style.
15: Bamboo Underwear: Everyday essentials are perhaps the most important pieces in your wardrobe. All Boody garments are made from organically grown bamboo and produced adhering to the highest standards for both the planet and our workers.
We hope you enjoyed our top 15 list. For those of you who live in Melbourne, head to Etica Collective and pick up some of these products for yourself. If you have received any presents that you enjoyed which aren’t on this list we would love to hear what they are in our comments section.
]]>Soap Nuts are actually berries from the Soap Berry Tree (Sapindus mukorossi) and are used as an eco friendly substitute for many cleaning products such as detergent, multi purpose cleaner and even shampoo . They are a relation to the Lychee family. These berries grow on trees, ripen and drop to the ground where they are collected and then dried naturally in the sun. They contain saponin, Mother Nature’s soap. This natural soap is released from the Soap Nut when agitated in water.
Where are Soap Nuts From?
Soap Nuts grow wild in the Himalayas and has been used for centuries in India, China and Nepal. Our Mieco soapnuts come from India.
How do they get to Australia?
MiEco Soap Nuts are shipped to Australia by sea to reduce their carbon footprint.
How to use your Soap Nuts:
Simply place 4-6 of these amazing soap nuts into our small wash bag and throw them in with your washing. They will leave your laundry clean and fresh for around 6 washes, no need for any other cleansers or fabric softeners. At around 10 cents per wash, why would you use anything else?
Do Soap Nuts clean as well as chemical detergents?
Soap Nuts are 100% Natural cleaning power. They contain no chemicals nor toxins. While they may not pretend to get whites whiter or colours brighter, Soap Nuts will definitely leave your clothes clean, fresh and lasting longer and at the same time make the planet stronger and keep you and your family healthier. Pre soaking your washing in Soap Nuts liquid overnight will assist with especially dirty loads.
Are Soap Nuts safe to use for those with sensitive skin?
Yes, they are. Soap Nuts are completely hypoallergenic. They are so gentle that they are recommended for use by people with eczema, psoriasis and other skin conditions.
Are Soap Nuts safe for those with nut allergies?
Absolutely! Soap Nuts are actually berries. They are not a nut!
What should we do with the Soap Nuts once they have been used?
Put them in your compost bin, worm farm or simply scatter over your garden bed.They are 100% biodegradable and great for your garden.
Do Soap Nuts have a shelf life?
No. In humid conditions Soap Nuts absorb moisture and become sticky. If this happens it won't affect the Soap Nut’s cleaning capabilities, they will still wash brilliantly. This is why they come to you sealed in a plastic wrap. We recommend you store your Soap Nuts in an airtight container once opened to prevent getting sticky nuts.
Soap Nuts are 100%:
Laundry detergent:
Place 4-7 half shells (or equivalent in pieces) in the washbag (or old sock knotted at top) and place in washing machine. Wash as normal. Soap nut shells can be reused 3-4 times depending on temperature washed at (hotter washes have less rewashes). Then just put them in your compost.
Multi-purpose cleaner:
Put a handful of soap nut shells to 500 mL hot water and boil for 10-15 minutes. Allow to cool, strain and add liquid to empty spray bottle. This can be used to clean the house from top to bottom - including windows. You can add few drops of eucalyptus oil (optional). Dispose of shells in compost.
Relaxing/Cleansing Bath:
Place 3-4 Soap Nut shells in washbag and allow to steep in hot bathwater for 5 minutes. Add a few drops of your favourite essential oil. PLEASE KEEP AWAY FROM THE EYES
Jewellery Cleaner:
Mix up a mild Soap Nut/water solution (3-4 soap nut shells with 1 litre hot water) and use to soak jewellery before rinsing, drying and polishing.
Shampoo:
Place 3 Soap Nut shells and 500mL water. Simmer for 10 minutes and add cornflour to thicken if desired as well as any essential oils to scent (Lavender is great). The shampoo will not lather as you may be used to but it will clean your hair. PLEASE KEEP AWAY FROM THE EYES. Try using our Foaming Bottle for a great foaming effect.
In the garden:
Mix up a Mild solution of Soap Nuts/water (3-4 Soap Nut shells with 1 litre hot water.) Spraying the mild solution on garden plants can help keep some parasites away
Pet cleaner:
Mix up a mild solution (3-4 Soap Nut shells with 1 litre hot water.) PLEASE KEEP AWAY FROM THE EYES (can also be useful for prevention of parasites).
Delicates Handwashing solution:
Place 6-8 half shells in 500mL boiling water. Allow to simmer for 8-10 minutes and add essential oils if desired. Add to sink/bucket and use to soak and hand wash delicates.
From Earths Tribe we hope you enjoyed these ideas and wish you all the best with implementing these into your life in 2019!
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