Plastic is everywhere nowadays. From grocery runs to takeout lunches, it sneaks into our lives more than we realize. The good news? Plastic-Free July is the perfect chance to hit pause and start making a few easy swaps that actually stick. You don’t have to overhaul your entire life or go zero-waste overnight. Small, everyday changes, like using a reusable water bottle or skipping plastic bags, really do add up. The goal isn’t perfection, it’s progress.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking for new ways to level up, these 10 simple swaps can help you reduce plastic without feeling overwhelmed. Let’s make this Plastic-Free July doable, and maybe even a little fun!

Why Plastic-Free July Matters

Every year, millions of tons of plastic end up in our oceans, harming wildlife and polluting ecosystems. Plastic-Free July is a global movement that challenges us to be more mindful of our plastic use and find reusable, sustainable alternatives. And the best part? Every little swap counts.

10 Easy Plastic-Free Swaps to Try This July:

  1. Bring Your Own Bags
    Ditch the single-use plastic bags and keep a stash of reusable cloth or canvas bags with you. They’re perfect for groceries, thrifting, and even impromptu shopping trips.
  2. Use Bar Soap Instead of Liquid
    Bar soaps typically come with less packaging, and many are sold completely plastic-free. Bonus points for choosing locally made, all-natural options.
  3. Buy in Bulk
    Bulk bins are a great way to cut down on plastic packaging. Bring your own containers to stock up on pantry staples like pasta, grains, and snacks.
  4. Out to Lunch? Say No to Plastic Straws
    Skip the straw altogether or bring your own reusable straw made of stainless steel, silicone, or bamboo. Many restaurants now offer compostable options too!
  5. Choose Eggs in Recycled Paper Cartons
    When buying eggs, look for recycled paper cartons instead of plastic or Styrofoam packaging. Some brands still sell eggs in clear, rigid plastic containers, but opting for paper reduces waste and avoids unnecessary plastic altogether. You’ll get the same great taste, just without the waste!
  6. Give Green Cleaning Products a Try
    Swapping out harsh cleaners for natural alternatives is an easy way to make your home (and Plastic-Free July) more eco-friendly. Try using simple ingredients like white vinegar, baking soda, and lemon for an effective all-purpose cleaner. If you prefer store-bought, look for organic options with plant-based, biodegradable ingredients.
  7. Switch to Reusable Water Bottles
    This is one of the simplest and most impactful swaps you can make! Canadians drink around 2.29 billion litres of bottled water annually, roughly 65 litres per person! While many bottles get recycled, about 30% end up in landfills, where they can last centuries. By switching to a stainless steel or glass bottle, you're reducing waste and avoiding the energy and resources used to manufacture single-use bottles. Plus, with refill stations everywhere, at campuses, parks, and offices, it's easier than ever to stay hydrated while helping the planet.
  8. Swap Plastic Wrap for Beeswax Wraps
    Beeswax wraps are a fantastic alternative to cling film. They mould around bowls, fruits, and veggies to keep food fresh, without the waste.
  9. Choose Loose Produce
    When you bring your own reusable shopping bags, don’t forget to pack a few smaller produce bags, too. This makes it easy to avoid pre-packaged fruits and veggies and choose loose, unpackaged options instead, cutting down on plastic at every step of your shopping trip.
  10. Support Brands with Plastic-Free Packaging
    As a final suggestion, look for companies that are actively reducing plastic waste through their packaging choices. Supporting brands that use compostable, glass, paper, or fully recyclable materials sends a clear message: we care about sustainability. Every purchase is a vote for the kind of future we want, and choosing plastic-free packaging helps drive bigger industry change.

Additional Eco-Friendly Considerations

Plastic-Free July isn’t about doing everything perfectly; it’s about finding ways to enjoy the season while making choices that are kinder to the planet. Let’s make this a month of mindful moments, small wins, and a lighter footprint, because protecting our planet should feel just as good as a day in the sun. Enjoy your summer!

Share Your Swaps!

We’d love to see how you’re celebrating Plastic-Free July. Share your plastic-free wins with us on social media using #PlasticFreeJulySwaps and #DitchPlasticTogether.