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Sustainability is the buzzword of the last five years or so, especially with the growing concerns of climate change still prominent in its urgency for action.
Filed Under: ECO LIVING, HOME, LIFESTYLE, SUSTAINABILITY //
Sustainability is the buzzword of the last five years or so, especially with the growing concerns of climate change still prominent in its urgency for action.
Filed Under: HOME, LIFESTYLE, SUSTAINABILITY //
The winter months are slowly coming to an end as the early signs of spring start to emerge. And if you’ve been trapped in the cold for too long, you probably can’t wait for long hours of sunshine to hit your home again.
Filed Under: LIFESTYLE, SUSTAINABILITY //
A home remodelling project can often feel like a never ended slew of rubble and bricks. And for the most part, that is true But one of the most exciting parts of remodelling your home is the sheer amount of possibility. Many people don’t factor into a remodel that much of the materials can be safely recycled. From cable recycling to reclaiming old doors – here are some tips for the three Rs.
Anything that is hard plastic, metal or wood can usually be recycled with ease. The only issue is that any of these that have been chemically treated isn’t suitable.
The chemical leaches out into the surrounding areas and can be harmful to the environment.
Likewise, if you find something you wish to use within your home, you need to check to ensure that it hasn’t been chemically treated.
White goods and most appliances can be recycled, but you will need to work with a professional recycling company. If the appliance is in good working order, it can often be donated to shelters. Be sure to check all of the options.
If you have decided to remove and replace the roof, this can be one of the biggest waste generators. Sheathing, unfortunately, cannot be reused – however, paper-based sheathing can be recycled.
Asphalt shingles last over 20 years, so they can be reused and recycled.
Light bulbs and lighting fixtures can often be reused since they are hardwearing. Often the retro and vintage ones can fetch a pretty penny when sold.
Flooring and countertops can be reused, reclaimed or recycled – for the flooring; it needs to be in safe order. Wood, laminate and bamboo flooring can be recycled with ease. However, most often, carpet can’t be recycled, but it can be reused.
Things like stone or marble countertops can be smashed up and used for flooring slabs or to create a backsplash. Donating the counter to charity or selling it is a great way to ensure that hard-wearing material is used again.
As you can see, there is a long list of possibilities for reusing, recycling and recycling building materials.
To make sure that it is possible for you, the first thing to do is only work with a remodelling company that has recycling and reusing policies. This will mean they are already equipped to handle the task.
Planning ahead will mean that you can plan to upcycle and repurpose things like cabinets, faucets or other items.
Depending on the quality of the items that you are removing, you may consider posting a notice in the local paper or online so that people can come and take the things off your hands. It’s up to you if you would like to sell them or give them away.
You can also speak to your contractor, as they likely have plenty of contacts who prefer to use materials that have been sourced rather than purchased as new.
And finally, a crucial part of the process is to – where possible – close the loop. That means using recycled and reclaimed items in your building process.
Check out our Sustainability archive for other great tips.
Filed Under: HOME, LIFESTYLE, SUSTAINABILITY //
TOTM stands for Time Of The Month. They are a period positive brand producing ethical and sustainable period care, it is their mission to provide planet friendly period care. Their tampons, pads and liners are made with certified, organic cotton and they use biodegradable cardboard for the applicators. TOTM aims to use compostable or recyclable packaging wherever possible. They don’t use any unnecessary plastics, chemicals, dyes or fragrances in their products. Excitingly they also have a menstrual cup and reusable tampon applicator in their range, to enable you to have a zero-waste period.
As well as looking after the Planet, TOTM aims to support communities too. TOTM wants to end the silence around periods believing that everyone should have access to period care, periods should be normalised and that there should be menstrual wellbeing education for all. 1% of all online sales is donated to Endometriosis UK. When you subscribe you are given a £3 voucher every time you recommend a friend. You can then choose to use this £3 to buy a box of pads that can be donated to Binti. Binti is a charity that provides menstrual dignity to girls around the world, by ensuring access to pads and education around menstrual health.
When That Mama Club asked me to review some of the products from TOTM, I jumped at the chance. I was sent a box containing various sizes of pads and tampons (applicator and non) and some liners. The first thing that I noticed was how beautiful the packaging was! I have had the opportunity to sample the pads, liners and tampons and I was not disappointed.
The liners are super thin and discreet. The pads are winged, which I personally prefer and stuck really well to my knickers-no moving around leading to possible leakage! I found them to be really soft, comfortable and absorbent. Equally importantly, I didn’t notice any horrible chemically smell that I so often notice with other brands of pads. The tampons are, again, really comfortable and easy to insert and wear. I used them when I went swimming and couldn’t feel them at all. The best part of using TOTM products was knowing that I was helping the planet by having a sustainable period and not contributing to plastic waste.
If you are considering changing your period care to be more sustainable, I would recommend giving TOTM products a try. Through their website there is the option to buy packs as a one off purchase or you can subscribe to have your products delivered to you every month and never worry about being caught out again!
Filed Under: HOME, LIFE, LIFESTYLE, SUSTAINABILITY //
I haven’t always lived at a gentler pace. Until April 2019, I’d had jobs of the hustle and crush it variety where 5:30 a.m. starts, long days, and travel the length and breadth of the country were the norm. My daily commute to the office could be two hours each way. The benchmarks of success were productivity and busyness. My quietly competitive streak meant it wasn’t enough to achieve my targets, I had to exceed them as well. My to do list was a bottomless pit and yet another daily challenge to be met.
Deep down I craved purpose and fulfilment but I wasn’t finding that in my work. It became increasingly clear that my values were at odds with those of the businesses for whom I worked. In my daydreams, I began to contemplate a different way.
A realisation, one weekend, that time was finite led me to hand in my notice, the start of a chain of events that would lead me to Derbyshire. In those early days I was simply putting one foot in front of the other trusting that, somewhere along the line, a plan would unfold.
It was a gradual transition. For several months I couldn’t wean myself off the daily routine that I’d followed for so long. Eventually, and in some ways helped by the enforced slow living of lockdown 1.0, I began to realise the full impact of embracing life at a gentler pace.
I’m the square peg in the round hole. My take on life has always been unconventional. Although I didn’t realise it at the time, the groundwork for seeking out my own version of slow living was being laid a couple of decades ago as I railed, internally at least, against the succession of soul sucking jobs. I longed to find a sustainable way to live on my own terms but I had no idea what that looked like.
It would be several months before I re-read a blogpost I’d written in those early post-resignation days. I’d outlined what I wanted to do and how I wanted to live.
I want to create something whose focus is on slowing down, travelling at a gentler pace yet still having time to watch the world go by or to smell the roses and the coffee, and nurturing the spirit leaving a trail for others to follow – should they wish.
The trail has started to reveal itself and I’m learning why life at a gentler pace is so crucial for me – and maybe for you too. Here are some highlights from my journey so far.
If you do follow your bliss you put yourself on a kind of track that has been there all the while, waiting for you, and the life that you ought to be living is the one you are living. When you can see that, you begin to meet people who are in the field of your bliss, and they open the doors to you. I say, follow your bliss and don’t be afraid, and doors will open where you didn’t know they were going to be ~ Joseph Campbell
My quest to forge my own path goes back a long time. Given much consideration over the years, it had often seemed that there were too many obstacles in the way to make that dream a reality. It was the resignation letter that put me on this track that had been waiting for me and calling me for so long. Without the nudge that weekend, I could still be living in Manchester now, doing what I’d always done. Instead I crossed over on to a new path where I started to meet people who understood my craving for a more blissful life, and doors did indeed start to open.
I already knew what following my bliss looked like. I’d journaled about it countless times. The list was always the same. Daylight, lots of it. Long stretches of time spent outdoors. If that involved coming into contact with cows, even better! Muddy boots; space to indulge my love of photography and reconnect with my creative spark; tiny, unexpected adventures; meeting unusual people with great stories; finding connection and beauty in unexpected places. And then, home to write about this blissful life, share the stories on my podcast, or use what I was learning to inspire others.
As I began to trust where my guidance was taking me, cogs began to whir. Stars were aligning. I came across fellow travellers on social media who got it! Books and a variety of resources presented themselves to inform my journey. Ideas started popping into my head, and on to the pages of my notebooks. I still needed to work but the possibilities that appeared were nothing like the conventional jobs listed on my CV. I had to shift my mindset into another gear, forget what had gone before and plan a different future altogether.
After quitting the day job, I was now location independent. Another stay in my favourite place, the Peak District, prompted the decision to fulfil one of my biggest dreams – to move to Derbyshire. Another door opened.
Your friends will know you better in the first minute you meet than your acquaintances will know you in a thousand years ~ Richard Bach
From the outset, after we arrived in Derbyshire, we were welcomed. Wherever we went – the farm shop, my favourite stationery shop, the bakers, the fishmongers, the local dairy – everyone greeted us like old friends. Friendships were forged quickly without the barriers of social niceties that I’d been used to. Many of the people we’ve met in the last couple of months have learned more about me in just a short space of time than those who have known me for years.
Around here, when you pass someone out walking on the lane, they always say hello. We’ve had many lovely conversations, been offered help moving into our new house, or doing a weekly shop from people who, until recently, were complete strangers.
The sense of community that we’ve experienced is unique. It’s so striking that we’ve talked about it often. There’s an openness, a warmth, and a welcoming spirit. I have a connection to the place and the people that I’ve not felt in years.
Something else that stands out is the collaboration between all the businesses. In our local town, it’s clear that there is an understanding – where one succeeds, they all succeed. Shopping local makes a real difference here.
I think the locals have already tapped into the concept of living at a gentler pace. In some ways it’s reminiscent of the life I knew as a child. A period when people had time to stop and chat, and neighbours knew each other and helped where they could.
The goal of life is to make your heartbeat match the beat of the Universe, to match your nature with Nature ~ Joseph Campbell
There is an entirely different vibe, an appreciation of the incredible landscape of the Peak District, and a true living off the land culture, in tune with the seasons. We buy our milk from a 24 hour self-service shop on a dairy farm where we can even say hello to the cows. If you’re non-dairy, another farm supplies oat milk. I’ve fed carrots to Alpacas, been invited on visits to several farms, and for drinks with the owners at the local stable.
As far as the eye can see, it’s green. Fields, trees, hills. Dotted with sheep, cows or horses. I know I’m very lucky to have this on my doorstep and I want to share it with others so that, wherever they live, they can also find ways to connect to a gentler paced lifestyle.
I’m sure that spending time in nature is not only essential for our wellbeing and mental health but, at a deeper level, it reconnects us with ourselves. When I was cooped up in an office, being outside and seeing daylight was the one thing I craved. Nature was my sanctuary. It rebalanced me when I felt out of kilter, it fed my creative spark, and brought me the greatest joy.
When you reconnect with nature, you can’t help but want to preserve it. I think that desire to care for our environment starts with us. We have to care for ourselves first and foremost and, by living at a gentler pace, have time to take notice of the tiny seasonal changes happening around us.
Although the premise of a gentler pace wasn’t fully formed when I conceived the idea, I knew that I wanted to focus on those activities that bring me joy and fulfilment. More than anything, I wanted to step away from the conventional 9-5.
Now, joy is my barometer. Often it’s a leap of faith. Following your bliss doesn’t always make logical sense but I believe it takes you down the paths you are meant to travel. Most importantly, I’m sure that this is how we are supposed to live.
It’s easy to believe that living at a gentler pace is about slowing down. For me, it’s much more about making time, prioritising my joy, and following my bliss. Reducing the busyness so that I have the headspace to think, to experience and to reconnect with my potential. It’s making that sacred space where my ideas can percolate, a place where my nature and Nature meet and magic happens.
We’re right at the beginning of our big adventure in the Peak District but already I’m building the foundations to create a lifestyle lived at a gentler pace. One that sees me in greater alignment with not just the seasons and the rhythms of nature but also myself. Most importantly of all, it feels like I’m home.
Nicola is a writer, photographer and podcaster. In May 2019, Nicola Fisher swapped her day job to pursue a more unconventional way of life. She set up A Gentler Pace to help others follow their bliss, do more of those things that bring them joy, and reconnect with their purpose.
Filed Under: HOME, LIFE, LIFESTYLE, SUSTAINABILITY //
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To teach our children good values, we need to lead by example. Living a green lifestyle is increasingly important, and it doesn’t have to be difficult. There are so many simple changes you can make to go green. Let’s start off with these five great ideas to live a more sustainable lifestyle:
1 . Switch up your diet
According to a study from the University of Oxford, ‘cutting meat and dairy products from your diet could reduce an individual’s carbon footprint from food by up to 73 percent.’ You might not be ready to try veganism straight away, and it is a big step. Consider first reducing the amount of meat you consume. When you feel ready, you might start with vegetarianism.
To help you make a start, try using the GreenKitchen app, here you’ll find plenty of delicious and healthy vegetarian recipes. The app is easy to use, and includes plenty of photo and video guides.
To live a greener lifestyle, try to save water around your home. To help you out you can purchase water- efficient shower heads. These showerheads push the water through tiny holes while adding jets of air. You can also buy flow-restricting fixtures to use on your taps. For a few other ways to conserve water, try these:
To live a green lifestyle, it’s important to support sustainable companies. Look for brands that are eco-friendly, cruelty free and ethical. Focus on earth-kind and biodegradable materials. If you need help researching sustainable companies you can try using the ‘Good On You App’. Here you can get the low-down on plenty of brands, helping you to practice more mindful shopping.
Growing your own foods is a great way to live more sustainably. There are plenty of vegetables and fruits that you can grow in your garden. If you have kids, growing food is a great opportunity to teach them about living green. Kids love playing in the garden, and you can turn vegetable growing into a fun game. There are so many benefits to gardening, you’ll get some exercise and improve your mental health too.
Reducing your driving time is a great way to lower your carbon footprint. Before you jump in the car, consider taking your bike and going for a stroll. If you do drive, an electric vehicle is the most sustainable option. EVS don’t need fuel, so you’ll also save some money. Driving can be a big expense, but there are lots of ways to save. Before you renew your car insurance, look around for new deals. There are plenty of very cheap car insurance options out there. You might also consider opting for a second-hand vehicle.
To look after the planet we all need to try and live more sustainably. When you live sustainably you can also boost your savings.
Filed Under: ECO LIVING, HOME, LIFESTYLE, SUSTAINABILITY //
The majority of us are all doing our bit to be more sustainable at home, but when it comes to running a business, it can be a minefield where to start! We are here to share 5 ways that small businesses can be more sustainable!
Be conscious of the energy you use, some of these are so simple but things that we can all be guilty of..
These won’t only help reduce your carbon footprint, they’ll reduce a businesses energy bill!
One very important part of running a small businesses is the packaging you use, it is the first thing your customer sees! Custom printed boxes UK are a great idea to really get your brand across. Paper and cardboard packaging is great but there are a lot more steps being taken to use fully compostable packaging which will result in no waste whatsoever.
A lot of things now are done digitally and having things stored on a computer/hard drive makes it much easier to things safe. Whether it is receipts, bills or orders – this is the perfect way your small businesses can be more sustainable. Such a small difference can be huge!
There are so many amazing small businesses out there that thrive on being sustainable and collaborating with them would be incredible! Not only to get your business out there to a new audience, but will also show how passionate you are about sustainability – whether it is asking for advice or exchanging support!
Do you run a small business? Are you taking small steps to be more sustainable?
Filed Under: CLOTH NAPPIES, GUEST POST, HOME, MOTHERHOOD, SUSTAINABILITY //
If you are looking to switch or are just starting out with cloth nappies I can assure you that this is the beginning of a great journey. Not only will you be providing your baby with a more comfortable nappy, but you will also be taking steps in becoming more eco-friendly too. Cloth (or reusable) nappies have come a long way in recent years so in this guide we will take a quick look at what they are like, the terms, how many you will need, how to use them and how to care for them.
When you are presented with the term cloth nappies I am sure your immediate thoughts go back to white terry towels that are bulky and are fastened with a safety pin and, many years ago, this was very true and the only nappy option out there. Today’s cloth nappies have come a long way and we now have natural materials, quick-drying fabrics, improved technology, a variety of absorbency levels as well as the development of PUL which provides a waterproof layer on the outside of the cloth nappy. On top of this, modern cloth nappies are beautifully designed and fit perfectly.
There are a lot of new terms to learn when it comes to the world of cloth nappies and these can overwhelm and put many parents off but once you break them down and begin to understand what they mean, it all begins to slot into place:
All in ones or AIO’s are all in one nappies which simply means that the main insert is attached to the nappy. You don’t remove anything for washing but you can boost them for extra absorbency.
Pocket nappies have a pocket in the back where the insert is placed inside. This is what absorbs the urine and keeps it away from the baby’s skin. You can add extra inserts (boosters) for optimum absorbency. These inserts will fall out during the wash and you will have to stuff the nappy again once dry.
A two-part nappy system is made up of 2 cloth nappies. One that fully absorbs the moisture and a wrap that sits over the top of this to contain the wetness. These are a great option for a heavy wetter and for night time.
Pre-fold nappies are you traditional-looking style like your terry towel. These are extremely absorbent and can be used as above. However, there’s no need for safety pins now, nippas are clever rubber fasteners that will grip the pre-fold together with no risk of injury.
An all in two is a cloth nappy that has an insert that can popper inside which means you may be able to get away with just taking this out, replacing with a clean one and reusing the wrap at change time.
Liners – There are 2 options here, a reusable liner or a disposable liner. A disposable is a thin piece of viscose that sits inside a nappy to catch the poo and can then be thrown away in a normal waste bin. A reusable liner will most likely be made of fleecy material and will do the same job as a disposable one but you will tip the poo into the toilet and wash the reusable liner to be used again.
Inserts – This is the absorbent layer that goes inside a cloth nappy.
Boosters – These are extra inserts (usually made from bamboo, Microfibre, Charcoal, Hemp) which provide an extra boost for your heavier wetters.
Which cloth nappy you choose will come down to what you like, what fits well, what is more convenient to you, absorbency, fastenings and of course, style and design.
My top tips in helping you to decide upon which cloth nappies to use are to speak to other cloth nappy parents, read reviews and blogs on particular brands, check if your local area has a cloth nappy library where you can get fantastic advice and also borrow a variety and to also join cloth nappy Facebook groups. Once you get a good idea of what will work for you, you can begin to build up your stash.
This will highly depend on whether or not you want to cloth full time. If you think that using cloth nappies full time is the right move for you then you will need around 20-25 nappies to be able to comfortably achieve this. However, if you don’t feel confident to go in full time, if your childcare setting won’t accept cloth nappies, you can do part disposable and part reusable. There are no rules, you just do what works for you and your family.
A cloth nappy goes on and fastens in a very similar way to a disposable nappy. You have poppers to adjust the size (rise) and to tighten around the waist. You want a nice snug fit with the leg elastics turned in to prevent leaks and no movement. A baby should ideally get around 2-4 hours wear out of a cloth nappy but identifying when a change is required will take a little practise and time as you get to know how much urine it can hold. There is no indicator line here to help you but a quick feel of the outside should help you to determine how full a nappy is.
When your baby is ready for a nappy change, you simply remove it, clean them up with a wipe as you usually would and then place a new cloth nappy on. If the dirty nappy you have just removed is only wet, you can place this into your wet bag or nappy bin ready for the next wash. If you have a soiled nappy, you will need to tip the poo down the toilet, remove as much from the nappy as possible (you may need a wipe, toilet roll or scraper if it is a loose stool) and then place the cloth nappy in your nappy bin.
Washing your cloth nappies is probably the biggest talking point in the cloth nappy world. Everyone has their own routine as we all do with our regular washing but as a guide you should do:
Keeping a simple routine will make using cloth nappies really easy for you.
And that’s it really. My biggest piece of advice would be to just delve into the world of cloth nappies and give it a go. Once you start using them, you begin to find your feet with it all and soon enough you will be hooked!
Emma Reed is a Mother and Blogger who lives in Hampshire with her 2 children, Jake (7) and William (3), and her husband, Rob. She began her parenting blog back in 2016 when she self-published a book on baby teething. Her blog is inevitably what led her to begin living a more eco-friendly lifestyle and she now uses her platforms to show others how they can also adapt their own lives to incorporate these changes. You can read her blog over at www.emmareed.net or follow her on Instagram over at @emmareed_writes
Filed Under: ECO LIVING, GUEST POST, HOME, SUSTAINABILITY //
Mindfulness, mental health, gratitude, contentment are all linked to sustainability. You may ask why these terms are in the same sentence so let me start by briefly telling you my journey.
I have suffered from anxiety and depression and the ongoing battle is with anxiety – always overthinking, worrying about what is happening next, what could happen, what’s on the “to do” list and struggling with just being present. After seeking professional help in 2017, engaging in some talking therapies, being on medication and with the support from family and friends, I started my journey to recovery and trying to become a more evolved version of myself.
The pandemic has been a challenging time for most of us – juggling work, children, and relationships with the absence of our usual support systems and outlets. There have been moments that I have wished for things to go “back to normal” but was the normal life that I was used to something I wanted to return to? The pressure to be at places for a certain time, the pressure of making sure the kids are socialising, learning, the pressure of ferrying children to and from after school clubs, tidying, cleaning etc. There was always something on the to-do list and it felt incessant and non-stop.
Without minimising how difficult lockdown has been, I have to admit it forced me to slow down and get off the hamster wheel of life. The chance to be introspective was staring at me in the face – with nowhere to go, and nothing to do, I had to sit and just be. In between the moments of apparent chaos with siblings squabbling, home schooling and worrying news about people affected by Covid, for some reason, I re-evaluated what was important; more and more I began to appreciate the simpler things in life and made a conscious decision to live more mindfully and sustainably, and just be grateful for what I had. Due to my ongoing struggles with anxiety, I believe that my brain is wired to think the worst of any situation. Therefore, I knew this wasn’t going to be an easy transition and needed daily practice and reinforcement.
A mindful life meant taking time for reflection and meditation and just allowing space to be aware of our mind – our thoughts, beliefs and emotions. For me, this meant making time in between the busyness of the day, whether it was 15 minutes in the morning to enjoy a hot drink, or taking an impromptu walk alone by the canal and taking in all of my surroundings. I found that this routine was just as important for my attempt to live more sustainably as much as buying plastic free shampoo bars. The more connected I was with myself, how I was feeling and my surroundings, the more connected I became with my children, my partner, and conscious of the choices I was making as a consumer.
It sounds like a cliché but since becoming a parent, I have learnt a lot from my children. I had never realised it until recently that my kids are in fact masters of mindfulness. They are the ones who stop me to look a butterfly that had landed on a flower, they are the ones who notice the colours and shapes that a cloud make, and the sounds of birds chirping. They don’t worry or care about the things that adults do – whilst I’m making a mental checklist of what has to be done in the house, I realised that I was missing the important moments, in just being present with them. Although admittedly this can be a struggle when we are rushing to take children to school and you have asked said child to put their shoes on for the 100th time!
Practising mindfulness does not mean that I have suddenly converted to being a patient parent. I’m human and my children have seen the uglier side of when I have lost my patience, shouted or simply felt at boiling point when things have gotten too much. Most often this happens when I haven’t taken the time to reconnect with how I’m feeling, and what I’m missing in that moment to ensure my “emotional cup” is filled. The ways I’ve tried to do this is basically do more that feeds the soul and connecting with myself or others – whether this is phoning a family member, going for a walk with a friend, going for a walk, or taking up a new hobby rather than clicking “buy now” to have that instant but short lived gratification. As I said, living a busy life and trying to live mindfully is something that I need to actively practice, and this is reinforced by living in a more sustainable way, and in turn leads to an improvement in my overall wellbeing.
Sustainability seems to be a buzz word around social media, but for me, it’s a choice to live more contently and being mindful of how you are living, and the impact of your actions on not just yourself, but on others and the environment. This is coming from an ex-fast fashion addict, ex skincare addict, someone who frequently sought instant gratification from receiving new goods within 12 hours, buying needless items from a certain convenience shopping outlet (ahem Amazon), and simply always looking for more – the problem was that more was never enough. Gratitude and mindful practice meant that I was constantly refocusing on what I did have, and in turn contentment naturally followed.
Starting a sustainable living Instagram page was at first a way of journaling all the small changes I have made. It has since evolved into a way for me to stay accountable for the conscious and mindful life I am choosing to live. I follow people that I can relate to that can inspire, motivate and reinforce the messages that I need to practice on a daily basis. I chose to purge myself of any accounts or email subscriptions that always made me feel something lacked in my life. I chose to rid myself of toxicity whether it be what I drank, ate, watched, bought, or indeed people who were less than positive.
It has meant an entire shift in my consciousness – an empathy towards my wellbeing, but also an understanding that my actions and choices have an impact. An impact on the worker who is being paid pennies just so that I can have a cheap deal on an outfit I’ll never wear, an impact on the carbon emissions to the environment simply because I made a choice to buy something that was made in Kenya, as opposed to locally farmed produce. I hope anyone who is reading this, does not think I am suggesting that the connection between mental health and sustainability is linear and one supersedes the other. Instead, I am saying that all the factors are interlinked and your journey will look different from everyone else’s.
Trying to live sustainably is that very thing – it is trying and is imperfect in every way. Juggling sustainability with parenting, work, relationships, and self care is a challenge so I’m not going to kick myself due to the takeaway plastic ridden meal I bought, nor am I going to focus on what I’m not doing right. Instead, I’m going to continue to be kinder to my mind and body, turn any anger or resentment into understanding, and if I can make an eco conscious choice along the way, then that is a bonus.
Filed Under: ECO LIVING, GUEST POST, HOME, LIFESTYLE, SUSTAINABILITY //
I have always been obsessed with clothes; yes of course I like the way they can make you look, but more importantly I love how they can make you feel. Clothes and dressing how you like without following ‘the rules’ is liberating. It’s a way of being creative, expressing yourself and can be the ultimate mood lifter.
This obsession with clothes escalated through my teen years and I went on to study fashion and styling at uni. As much fun as it was it opened my eyes to the clothing industry, the business of fast-fashion and the impact it has on the planet.
Did you know: That EVERY WEEK the UK sends 11 million items of clothing to landfill.
It would take 13 YEARS for one person to drink the water needed to make 1 t-shirt and 1 pair of jeans.
The carbon footprint of the new clothes bought into the UK EVERY MINUTE is greater than driving a car around the world 6 TIMES.
SHOCKING I KNOW! (Credit to Oxfam for the facts and figures!)
Anyway, to cut a veeeeery long story short, I had a brief career in visual merchandising and personal shopping for some big retail brands before turning my back on it all to become a charity shop manager. I’ve always dabbled in charity shopping, much to the amusement of some of my friends. The stigma around thrifting and wearing second-hand clothing has always been prominent but thankfully with more and more people becoming aware of the positive impact it can have, shopping sustainably in this way is becoming much more popular. I am now a fully fledged convert, shunning the high street in favour of Charity shops, vintage stores and online thrifting platforms such as Vinted and Depop. I’ve been shopping this way for years now, but only in the last 4 years have I made it my mission to make my wardrobe at least 95% preloved, and I’ve achieved it! It’s taken a while to get there and not every day has been a winning day. For every good item there’s a whole pile of crap to sift through (one man’s junk is another man’s treasure after all!) but the thrill of the hunt is the best bit, and it’s so, so addictive!
With that in mind I thought I’d share my top 5 Chazza thrifting tips for those of you who want to give second hand shopping a try:
Make a list of items you need, items that will pull together an outfit, items that you’ve always wanted. A thrifty wish list of sorts so that when you go in the shops you don’t get side tracked or buy unnecessarily.
I have to admit that in non-covid times I probably managed to go thrift shopping once a week. Whether in my lunch break or for a couple of hours in an afternoon. New items are constantly being put out for sale and by regularly checking different shops you’ll never miss out on that bargain you’ve spent weeks hunting for.
ALWAYS check an item over; check fastenings and check seams for holes. Then check it again…and then again for good measure.
Charity shops sell an amazing array of brands; the good, the bad and even sometimes the ugly (that’s the joy of it!) Like the high street, the sizing differs from brand to brand so check all the rails and sizing options to bag that perfect item. Remember a size is only a number, my finds have ranged from an optimistic 10 at times to a size 16. It doesn’t matter one bit. All that matters is how good you feel in it!
OK so thrifting in general means you’re sure to be bagging a bargain and OH MY! there are some amazing ones to be found. But just because you’ve found a skirt on a bargain rail for £3 doesn’t mean you have to buy it. Especially if it’s a designer brand and you don’t even like the item. If in doubt, walk away, and walk out.
So now I’m counting down the days until the charity shops open again; nothing like a bit of kid-free me time to look forward to. The charity shops are going to need our help more than ever post-covid so why not scratch that retail therapy itch and do a good deed for both the planet and a worthy cause at the same time.
I promise you it will give you that feel good buzz we all need right now!
Filed Under: ECO PARENTING, HOME, MOTHERHOOD, SUSTAINABILITY //
I’m Laura. I’m a 37 year old single mum, and I live in Brighton UK, with my 3 year old son Finn. I am founder of Plastic Free Baby, an online plastic free shop and eco blog. I am going to be sharing the impact of plastics on fertility, babies & children.
Rewind the clock a bit to a couple of years before I conceived Finn, when I was married to my then husband. There were many months and years of conception struggle before I finally became pregnant naturally with a much yearned for baby. I was so desperately sad when I lost the baby a few weeks into pregnancy; I then had several months of miscarrying. I conceived my next pregnancy more than a year later and happily I gave birth to a happy and healthy little baby boy, and called him Finn.
During this desperate and emotional time, I was trying to research things that could be having an impact on fertility, in order to maximise my chances of conceiving a baby, and to reduce the risk of miscarriage. I wasn’t looking for “just think positive”, “relax and it’ll happen” type self-help approach to fertility and conception; I wanted facts evidenced by research!
I came across a book that would change my life in this period, called “It Starts With An Egg” by Rebecca Fett. The book looks at how improving egg quality can significantly impact various aspects of fertility. It determines some of the key strategies for improving egg quality, and one of them, amongst others, was avoiding toxins in plastics that can harm developing eggs and embryos.
I was bowled over by the research in this book, pointing to the harmful toxins in common household plastics being a risk to human fertility, to developing embryos and foetuses, to babies, infants and children, and to all humans in general. It was mind blowing!
We all know the well-publicised environmental damage being caused by plastics in our oceans and the need for society to ‘choose to reuse’ single-use plastics for the sake of the health of Mother Earth; but the horrendous impacts that plastics can have on human development is something that is less talked about and less well-known. It really needs to be shouted about!
The main issue with plastics is that the toxins leached from them can be toxic, and these toxins can in some cases be endocrine imitators or interrupters; that is to say, chemicals that can disrupt our bodies endocrine system, the system that produces, stores and secretes hormones. Endocrine disruption by these toxins can lead in some cases to negative impacts on growth & development of foetuses / babies, weakened immune systems, reproductive issues, metabolism issues, and many more impacts besides. Pretty alarming stuff!
Just in the last couple of months a study revealed that for the first time microplastics have been found in the placentas of unborn babies. Quite a shocking revelation. “Due to the crucial role of placenta in supporting the foetus’s development and in acting as an interface with the external environment, the presence of potentially harmful plastic particles is a matter of great concern. Further studies need to be performed to assess if the presence of microplastics may trigger immune responses or may lead to the release of toxic contaminants, resulting in harm.”
I am not a scientist, but I am a concerned mummy who wants the very best and very healthiest of starts for her child (and any future children), so when I was trying to conceive I started cutting back on everyday plastics, and began finding out more and more about ‘hidden’ plastics and where to avoid plastics during the conception (‘pre’ prenatal) phase, and into prenatal stage and beyond.
When I was pregnant with my son I began searching around the internet for plastic-free baby products, as natural alternatives to plastic baby goods, so that my baby could be introduced to a plastic-free environment from the get go. I found this so incredibly hard! There was no one place that I could source plastic free baby goods, and items were really hard to research and source. In many cases, the products just didn’t exist. We are so used plastic being the ‘king’ of materials (it doesn’t break, it lasts forever, it’s super cheap to produce, it’s lightweight, etc, etc) that most common baby and child goods are made entirely of plastic, or at least contain plastic parts at the very least.
So this is when Plastic Free Baby was born!
Plastic Free Baby is my plastic free shop and eco blog which I started to help other parents like me, who hope to avoid plastics for themselves and their children. I hope that is is a helpful resource to other eco-minded mums and parents, either those hoping to conceive, or those who are pregnant, those that have newborn babies, or children. In time I hope that this and other similar shops and blogs will put pressure on the industry to develop innovative new non-plastic products for babies. My intention isn’t to worry or scare parents (who, let’s face it, already have their hands pretty well full!!), it is to provide alternatives and information.
For those trying to conceive, or parents wishing to make green eco-friendly swaps and choices, the shop offers a range of ‘plastic free swaps’ or eco friendly alternatives to everyday plastics, such as plastic free bottles, plastic free thermos, bamboo travel cutlery, reusable vegan wax wraps, plastic free natural cosmetics…
For pregnancy and post-natal mums, the shop offers reusable breast pads, natural organic cosmetic range in plastic free packaging, bump & baby creams and soaps…
For babies & infants, the shop offers a range of plastic free baby products, such as plastic-free natural rubber teethers, bibs, weaning bibs, sustainably sourced reusable cloths, beautiful handmade nursery furniture, organic cotton rattles, toys…
For children, the shop offers a lovely selection of eco-themed books, toys, wearables, and games
I also have a lovely Plastic Free Gift Set range, including Mum to Be, New Mums, gender neutral plastic free gift set for she / he / they, weaning gift set, first meals gift set, eco friendly potty training gift set, and many more… as well as other seasonal gift sets for things like Valentine’s Day, Easter and Christmas.
I write an eco blog on Plastic Free Baby, which gives parents some handy hints and tips about going plastic free with a baby or child. Here are my top 3 bits of advice if you are planning to take steps to reduce your plastic usage for the health of your family and your baby:
1) Little and often – make SMALL changes regularly and consistently; rather than making a huge change that’ll be hard to stick to, make little changes incrementally and do them consistently. This will be where you make the greatest change.
2) My Eight ‘R’s – Reuse / Recycle / Repair / Rehydrate mindfully / Reduce / Repeat / Reiterate / and…. RELAX! Read more about my 8 ‘R’s’ on my blog.
3) Be aware of how toxic plastic is and why you need to avoid it for your health and the health of your family. Read more about this on my ‘5 ways to go plastic free for your family’s health’ blog post.
I really hope that this blog post has been helpful to you, and wish you so much luck with whatever stage of the journey you are at. These are just all SMALL CHANGES over a LONG period of time. I really do believe this is the best way to make a difference. Don’t go with fads that don’t last, make a commitment to life changes that will go the distance. I’m no eco mum superhero, I’m just doing my small bit for my child and for the world as best I can.
I’d love to hear from you…
Were you aware of the impact of plastics on fertility, babies & children?
Are you aware of how to limit our plastic consumption and household plastic overload, to reduce our exposure to harmful plastics?….
What plastic free swaps are you making in your home for the health of your family?…
With thanks,
Laura
Founder, Plastic Free Baby
Filed Under: ECO LIVING, ECO PARENTING, FASHION, GUEST POST, HOME, LIFE, SUSTAINABILITY //
Hello mamas! I’m Helen, the founder of Stork, an online marketplace for pre-loved kids and babies’ stuff. So happy to be guest posting on That Mama Club to tell you all a bit about how I got hooked on pre-loved shopping….
Last year, I was obsessed with finding a pair of yellow wellies for my daughter. They had to be completely plain, no handles, no logos, and an iconic, daffodil shade of yellow. Sound familiar? Of course they do. It’ll be no surprise to many mamas reading this that I was on the hunt for Peppa Pig’s boots. Peppa, or ‘Pe-PIG!’ as my daughter calls her, is, let’s say, an extremely influential figure in our household (Screen time limits vs Peppa addiction is a topic for another day). I was hopeful that my little girl would be so thrilled to have the same boots as her favourite TV character that there would be no fuss about wearing them on muddy puddle days.
I had no luck on the usual kids clothes sites or in high street shops, but after a lot of social media-ing and asking around, I found a second-hand pair another mum was selling that were 100% perfect. I was already thrilled when they arrived, and then I read the handwritten note that came with them.
‘These boots have jumped in puddles, splashed in the sea and walked along the Breton coast. Here’s hoping they have more adventures with their new little feet!’
And err, well there must have been something in my eye… sniff! Before that moment, I don’t think in a million years I would ever have described shopping as a beautiful experience. But to feel that connection with another proud mum and another adventurous toddler was really, really special.
I first got hooked on shopping pre-loved when I was pregnant with my first child. Classic maternity wear didn’t suit me at all, plus I didn’t fancy spending much on clothes that I’d only wear for a month or so. I got into the habit of picking up oversized shirts or loose dresses from thrift shops every so often, donating them back once I was too big for them. It was fun and easy.
But prepping for the arrival of our baby was another story altogether. Like most other parents, I felt overwhelming pressure to buy, buy, buy to make sure she had everything she needed. Everything had to be perfect, everything had to be the most expensive I could afford, everything had to be brand-new. Pram, crib, Moses basket, bouncy chair, baby clothes, car seat, breast pump, nappy bin, nightlight, bedroom furniture, activity mat… it was a small fortune.
I wish I knew then what I know now. Firstly, to ignore all those department stores ‘must-have’ lists and check with other parents what products are actually essential. So much of what’s on the market is overpriced and unnecessary, marketed to play on our fear of not being the perfect mother.
Secondly, after having my daughter, I found I actually preferred her to have clothes and toys that came packed with stories, love and memories, whether that was from friends passing on their children’s outgrown things, or buying pre-loved from other parents.
A soft blanket another baby had been wrapped in was just as cosy as a store-bought one. She would have sweet dreams (and sleepless nights) in a crib lent by an old friend, just the same as if we’d forked out for a new one. A second-hand car seat was just as safe, plus came with the trusted recommendation that it was comfortable and easy to use. All these items had been used, were in great condition, didn’t cost us a fortune and were pre-loaded with the love of other families.
From then on I was hooked – I loved chatting with other mums when I bought things, asking advice and sharing tips. I really appreciated the lower cost, especially after maternity leave pay dried up. It was important to me that my money supported other families, instead of just being poured back into the same old chain stores. And I started to feel great about wasting less, as I’d resell, donate or recycle as much as possible once we were finished with it.
Gradually I started to realise that with the amount of people out there doing the same, the pre-loved community was actually a pretty incredible movement. There was a whole network of (mostly) mamas on social media who were managing to earn extra cash, support each other and keep their kids dressed in gorgeous little outfits at the same time. In and around naptimes/mealtimes/home schooling/all the rest of it, they’d somehow managed to create this wonderful, sustainable, circular economy. I felt totally inspired!
Fast forward 14 months, I was pregnant again and determined to carry on shopping pre-loved. But I knew what I was looking for this time, and it was often hard to find exactly what I needed. I didn’t want to rush or order things I wasn’t completely happy with, nor did I want to go back to using faceless chain stores, or impersonal and complicated selling sites. So in a welcome burst of second trimester energy, I decided to launch Stork for parents in the same position as me. It’s an online marketplace just for kids’ and babies’ things, and it’s full of kind, thoughtful, supportive, eco-conscious, thrifty, positive, entrepreneurial, and generally wonderful sellers and buyers.
You don’t need a lot of stuff or a huge Instagram following to join up, and you don’t need to sell instantly because listings don’t disappear down a feed. Everything is categorised by size, colour, brand and condition, so it’s really easy for people to find what they want. Plus if you have any questions about the products, or general advice about what you need, you can always just ask someone! So if you fancy being part of a real community of Pre-lovelies, come and visit us, have a browse or set up your own store. Everyone’s welcome!
Filed Under: ECO BATH AND BEAUTY, HOME, SUSTAINABILITY //
It is time for part two of our sustainable swap series! This time we are sharing easy sustainable swaps | bath & body edition! From toilet paper to period pants, we’ve got you covered.
01. SHAMPOO & CONDITIONER BARS; This is the one swap I was most sceptical about, I have really thick curly hair & just didn’t think bars would agree with my hair, possibly leaving it feeling greasy but I was SO wrong. They are such an easy swap and also take up a lot less room. (link)
02. BODY SPONGE/POUF; A really easy swap but switching from a normal sponge to a plastic free recycled one can make a huge difference. (link)
03. TOILET PAPER; Toilet paper actually creates so much waste & uses a LOT of trees. Companies like “Who Gives A Crap”, EXCELLENT name I know, deliver recycled toilet roll direct to your door, completely plastic free & in bulk (24 or 48 rolls), you can subscribe too which makes it so much easier! They donate 50% of their profits around the world to help build toilets. Did you know that roughly 40% of the world’s population don’t have access to a toilet? (link)
04. PERIOD PRODUCTS; It’s not secret that tampons & sanitary pads are NOT good for the planet! All 3 of us have made the switch to more sustainable alternatives, whether that is menstrual cups, period pants (my personal favourite) or reusable sanitary pads. We highly recommend giving at least one a go. (link)
05. NATURAL DEODORANT; I made this switch last summer & it is one of my personal favourites! I use Wild plastic-free refillable deodorant, I love the aluminium cases & the scents of the refills are incredible! I highly recommend orange zest. It has been especially formulated for a wide range of skin types including sensitive. It is delivered straight to your door & you can set up a subscription! (link)
06. BAMBOO TOOTHBRUSHES; Another incredibly easy swap for you! You can pick these up on Amazon for a couple of pounds and they feel no different to using a plastic toothbrush. They also last just as long! I have linked a pack of five priced at £5.99! (link)
07. SOAP BARS; This sounds like such an obvious one but how many of us use the pump bottles rather than good old fashioned bar of soap? Exactly. Go back to basics and grab yourself a bar – they do the job just as well. (link)
08. REUSABLE FACE CLOTHS; Rather than using cotton pads that go straight in the bin, I highly recommend face cloths or you can even pick up reusable cotton pads. Simply use them & pop them in the wash (with your Ecoegg, wink wink we mentioned that in our kitchen swaps edition) and repeat for a long time! (link)
We hope you enjoyed our easy sustainable swaps | bath & body post & we’d love to know if you make the switch to any of these.
Filed Under: ECO LIVING, LIFESTYLE, SUSTAINABILITY //
It is so important, now more than ever, that we do our bit for the planet! We are fully aware that some swaps are costly & others just don’t fit into your lifestyle, so we thought we would share 8 easy sustainable swaps | kitchen edition.
“WE DON’T NEED A HANDFUL OF PEOPLE DOING ZERO-WASTE PERFECTLY. WE NEED MILLIONS OF PEOPLE DOING IT IMPERFECTLY” – ANNE MARIE BONNEAU
01. REUSABLE STRAWS; We have the stainless steel reusable straws and I love them. Most sets come with a little pouch so you can take a couple out and about with you which I found really handy when out at restaurants or pubs as I am one of those annoying people that just prefers drinking from a straw. You can pick up a set of 8 with a travel pouch AND cleaning brush for £4.99 (link).
02. ECOEGG LAUNDRY EGG; This is a swap that all of us have made on TMC and we are HUGE fans, we recommend them to everyone so it’s only right that they make it into this post! This egg replaces your need for laundry detergent & fabric softener, which dramatically reduces your plastic usage. The egg is reusable and you just need to purchase the refills! We highly recommend the starter kit as it comes with everything you need to get started (link)
03. REUSABLE COFFEE CUP; Probably the easiest switch you can make! You can pick these up from so many places including Home Bargains ect for a couple of pounds. A lot of places will offer you a small discount if you use a reusable cup for your coffee. We have started making hot chocolates for our local walks & taking them out with us in reusable cups!
04. REUSABLE WATER BOTTLE; The same concept but for cold drinks. We have used ours for picnics during the warmer months & the screw tops are my personal favourites as they don’t leak! (link)
05. BEESWAX WRAPS; These are a relatively recent discovery of mine & I am a convert. Such a lovely alternative to cling film and much kinder the planet too! These food wraps are washable, reusable and biodegradable. They also look pretty cute too! (link)
06. LOOSE LEAF TEA; I feel like this is such a old school swap BUT it’s becoming a lot more popular. Did you know tea bags have tiny bits of plastic in them?! All you need is a tea strainer and some lovely teas! You can stick with classic English breakfast tea or why not try a lovely fruit blend?
07. SILICONE BAKING SHEETS; We picked these up at the beginning of lockdown #1 as we started doing lots more baking, as did the rest of the country LOL. They are non-stick and come in a range of different sizes! (link)
08. COMPOST; Another obvious swap but composting your food waste is one of the best swaps you can make! It not only enriches soil but it also reduces the need for chemical fertilizer!
We hope some of these easy sustainable swaps | kitchen ideas have helped! Have you implemented any into your home already?
Keep an eye out for more sustainable swap posts!
Filed Under: PREGNANCY, SUSTAINABILITY //
Baby showers are becoming more and more popular in the UK . People have a baby shower to celebrate the new addition to a family, circle of friends and to the world. The only thing is, is that like any party they can have a negative impact on the environment. I have put together a few ways you can still celebrate this new bundle of joy and help out the environment as well!
The most Eco friendly want to invite people to a baby shower is through E-vites.
There are many websites out there that allow you to make, create and send invitations to your guest’s right over the internet saving paper and ink. You can even design them to match your baby shower theme. Alternatively you can also go onto a website, such as Canva, and design them yourself and then email the invitation. There is also Facebook, you can create an event and invite people to it.
Now, I am full aware that not everyone has access to the internet. You may also want to create a keepsake for people, so the next best thing is invites printed onto recycled paper. Some companies out there can make these for you if you don’t have the time to make them yourself, or you can easily find recycled paper at most craft stores to make your own or even in different fibres such as cotton or bamboo.
Wrapping paper is one of the biggest contributors to landfill. There are so many alternatives to it too, that still look just as pretty. You can decorate brown paper ( we do this for special occasions ) and decorate with ribbon. You can also use fabric or even a baby blanket to wrap up your gifts, that way the mama to be can use the blanket for the new baby as well as the goodies inside! Gift bags are also a fab alternative as they can be reused over and over.
Decorating for any event is personally, one of the most exciting parts! However, it’s normally overloaded with single use plastics and a lot of rubbish to go in the trash after. Balloons seem to be a staple for any celebration. However there are some alternatives that are just as effective. Paper streamers, Paper lanterns or paper puff balls are just a few items that not only can be stored away and reused, but they are also recyclable! They are also cheaper!
Using flowers to decorate the tables can be a beautiful addition. You can even turn them into little party favours that the guests can take home and enjoy. Head to your local florist and I am sure they will be more than happy to help you with some ideas and suggestions.
Ditch the paper plates and the single use plastic cups and cutlery. Yes it may save on washing up, but it has a huge impact on the environment. Ask family and friends if they have any dishes you could borrow if you don’t have enough. Or, a really cute alternative if your throwing a afternoon tea style shower, is to head to your local charity shop. They are always overflowing with pretty tea cups and saucers – it doesn’t matter if they aren’t matching, it adds to the charm! Try to use a cloth table cover too, you can throw it in the wash and use it over and over.
Games are one of the many fun things about a baby shower. They can still be incredibly fun without causing lots of waste! A few baby shower game ideas include;
Baby Pictionary.
Baby Pictionary is always a fun one..as well as a slightly competitive one. Take turns drawing items relating to a baby and have everyone else guess what it is. You can split into teams or do it as a whole group. Using a dry erase board or a chalkboard will save on the amount of paper that you use. If you do use paper, be sure to recycle it or use recycled paper!
Guess who the baby is game.
This game involves each guest to bring a photo of themselves as a baby to the shower. Lay them out on the table or have them up on the wall and have each guest guess try to match up each photo with the right person. Whoever guesses the most correctly, wins.
Baby Bump.
Guess the size of Moms belly with a piece of yarn or wool. You can also find string that is made from cotton or bamboo fibers.
It’s always nice to give your guests a little something to say thank you for coming. There are so many Eco-friendly gifts you can give, here are a few;
Reuse the décor.
As I said above, you can use the flowers that were used to decorate the tables as gifts. You can either have them already arranged and ready to go, or let people take which ever ones they wanted. If you are left with any, then you get to take them home and enjoy them a little longer yourself!
Seeds.
I have a thing for seed bombs. I think they are amazing and super cheap and easy to make. Using wildflower seeds also means that when planted, not only will they be visually beautiful, but they will help out the Bee population as well.
Edibles.
There are so many places these days that offer up edible treats to use as party favours. You could even make your own!
If you don’t want to be inundated with greetings cards that would most likely end up in the trash over time, ask each guest to purchase a book for Baby, and write a little message on the first page. That way, we will always have that little keepsake, and it kicked started a pretty decent book collection!
You can find guest books made with recycled paper which are absolutely beautiful. You can also purchase a picture frame and little wooden hearts for your guests to write on. Each heart is then placed inside the frame and the Mama to be can take it home and pop wherever she likes. You can also print out a image ( like a hot air balloon ) and get guests to put their fingerprints on the image and sign. The image can then be framed.
A beautiful keepsake!