Have you also noticed that a lot of big chain stores are carrying more eco-friendly alternatives to single use items? But which are the real deal and which are greenwashing attempts to get people to pay more on products that aren’t actually sustainable? I took a walk through my local Target recently to give you the scope of 5 eco-friendly swaps you can buy at Target.
Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.
1. Silicone bags
Silicone bags are great alternatives to plastic storage bags because they can be used over and over again. We love putting leftovers in them for a quick snack on the road. We also use them for storing leftovers. Stasher bags are really great and seal well, but you can also find other brands that are more budget-friendly.
2. Bar shampoo and conditioner
We bought a Love Beauty and Planet shampoo and conditioner bar during a Target run as an alternative to buying these products in plastic. It smelled great! In addition to cutting out the plastic packaging, buying solid beauty products are lighter to ship than liquid versions, meaning they result in less greenhouse gas emissions. Unfortunately my hair isn’t well suited for the bar version of shampoo and conditioner, but my husband enjoyed it.
If your hair also needs the extra moisturization of liquid shampoo and conditioner, I recommend checking out Plaine Products. They have a variety of body care products that can be refilled. I tried their deep conditioner and it has lasted me a long time. For more details on sustainable hair care products, check out my post here.
3. Concentrated cleaning supplies
Target carries a few brands of concentrated cleaning supplies that you can use in refillable containers. As of the time of this writing, brands include Grove, Method, and Everspring. I’ve tried both Grove and Everspring kinds and I have liked them both. I prefer that Grove comes in glass containers because that is locally recyclable where I live, whereas the Everspring packets I needed to throw away.
4. Plastic-free deodorant
Target carries Hey Humans deodorant online, which is deodorant that is vegan and cruelty free. It also comes in paper packaging that is recyclable. I’ve tried this deodorant before and it took a little bit of adjustment after being used to traditional deodorant as I felt like I had to use it more often. I would recommend giving it a try to see what you think given the environmental benefits.
5. Plant-based meals
I was really surprised when I was walking through Target one day because I saw a whole section of the frozen aisle was dedicated toward plant-based meals. They had cauliflower bites, impossible meat, and other easy-to-make vegetarian options. If you are interested in switching to a plant based diet, give these meals a try. You don’t have much to lose, and even reducing your meat consumption by a meal a week can benefit the environment. If you are interested in doing even more, check out my post on how to transition to a plant-based diet in one week.
These products from Target are a bullseye when it comes to sustainability! What eco-friendly swaps from Target have you tried that you like?
