Can you believe 2018 is almost over?

We launched Steel Straw this year on Earth Day. The time has flown by while we've delivered reusable metal straws into the hands (and lips!) of Americans in every state.

As we head into 2019, join us for a New Years resolution to use fewer plastics!

Like any resolution, it helps to have achievable goals. Below are somesimple adjustments you can make in your everyday life to keep our planet (and YOU) healthier and happier!

[SPOILER: Most of these tips can be summed up as, "A reusable product is better than plastic," but it's no fun for us to write that 10 times in a row]

From the bottom of our hearts, thanks for joining our company's mission to end plastic pollution. Thank you for an amazing 2018, and Happy New Year!

1. Stop using disposable cutlery and food packaging! Keep reusable cutlery and a metal straw in your purse or backpack. Bring a reusable container with you when eating out (tiffins are awesome) to store leftovers. Tell your server you DO NOT want plastic straws, condiments containers, nor cutlery.  

2. Carry reusable shopping bags for shopping trips. At grocery stores, avoid putting produce into smaller plastic bags. It's helpful to keep a few reusable totes in the trunk of your car!
   
   
3. Bring a stainless steel travel mug or reusable water bottle with you every day. Cutting out sugary juices and drinks helps you avoid plastic waste (and unnecessary sugar)!
   
   
4. Stop using plastic containers at home. For at home food storage, use organic bees wax wrap to store uneaten food in the fridge. Use stainless steel or glass containers at home, and reuse containers you already have. 
   
   
5. Shop at your local farmers market! Identify food you buy that typically comes packaged in plastic, and see which of these you can make at home using ingredients bought in bulk. Some examples include home made nut milk, iced coffee, baked bread, hummus, granola, and fresh smoothies and juices. 
   
   
6. When ordering deli items at your grocery store, bring your own container, or ask that food be wrapped in paper and not plastic. 
   
   
7. Use organic fiber cleaning rags and sponges instead of synthetic ones. Natural sea sponges can be used for both dishes and skincare. They contain enzymes that inhibit mold and bacteria growth, they are long lasting, toxic free, and biodegradable.
   
   
8. Avoid buying cleaning products in plastic bottles. Many house cleaning supplies can be switched out for home-made solutions, using ingredients like lemon, baking soda, and vinegar.
   
   
9. Use powdered laundry detergent, the kind that comes in a cardboard box, instead of throwing away plastic bottles. Run your washes on cold, and hang dry clothes instead of sticking them in the dryer. Get a reusable laundry ball for your washes. This simple technology raises the PH of your water, making your clothes cleaner while capturing microfibers shedding off fabrics before they end up in our oceans. 
   
   
10. Use bar soap instead of liquid hand soap that comes in plastic bottles. You can also find luxurious shampoo bars online and at select retailers. 

Wishing you a Happy, Healthy, and PLASTIC-FREE New Year!