What’s the Easiest Way to Start a Plastic-Free Cleaning Routine?

Switching to a plastic-free cleaning routine can feel like a big change, especially if your house is packed with bottles, wipes, and gadgets that aren’t designed to last. But the truth is, this shift doesn’t have to be hard. In fact, one of the easiest ways to start is by using reusable cleaning products in place of single-use plastics. They’re simple to find, easy to use, and offer a quick win for cutting back waste in everyday life.

Winter is a great time to begin making the switch. With more time spent indoors, the cleaning routines really start to show. Small, intentional choices made today can carry into spring and beyond. The good news is, starting plastic-free doesn’t mean a full overhaul. It’s often just about adjusting the everyday things you already do.

Start Small With Everyday Swaps

If the idea of going plastic-free across your whole home feels like too much, try focusing on just one area at a time. The kitchen and bathroom are good places to begin since most people clean those spaces often. That way, you’ll see progress right away.

Start by swapping out things you use and replace all the time:

• A single-use spray bottle can be replaced with a reusable one you refill at home

• Paper towels can be traded for sponge cloths or rags you can toss in the wash

• Plastic sponges can be switched out for compostable ones that last just as long

It helps to pick tools that fit the way you clean. If you like using sprays and wiping with cloths, keep that rhythm. Just make sure those cloths are washable and those sprays are refillable. For instance, our sponge cloths are made from cellulose and organic cotton, and one cloth can replace up to 17 rolls of paper towels. That way, your routine stays the same, but your trash bin fills a lot slower.

Make Refills Part of Your Weekly Routine

Once you make the switch to reusable bottles and non-disposable tools, the next step is setting up a way to keep everything filled and ready to go. Just like grocery shopping or meal planning, regular refills can become a normal part of your week.

Here’s how to keep it simple:

• Choose a weekly day to check and restock your spray bottles

• Keep your concentrate refills in one cabinet or basket so they’re easy to grab

• Add some quick labels (like “Bathroom” or “Kitchen”) so you’re not guessing each time

Having a system helps you avoid the last-minute scramble for a cleaner when something spills. It also stops you from overbuying things you don’t need. Over time, restocking your reusable cleaning products feels just as automatic as loading the dishwasher. Our multi surface cleaner tablets are designed to dissolve in a 16 ounce reusable spray bottle, so you can add water at home instead of bringing more plastic containers into your cleaning routine.

Give Your Cleaning Tools a Storage Spot

When cleaning tools are tossed in random drawers or sinks, they end up worn out or forgotten. Giving your reusable supplies a home can make them last longer and work better. It saves time too since everything’s where you need it.

Aim to do three simple things:

• Set up a drawer or basket just for sponges, cloths, and refills

• Let items like sponge cloths air dry flat or hang to prevent mildew

• Keep them away from messier areas so they stay clean between uses

If you’ve ever pulled a smelly sponge from the sink, you know what a difference storage can make. Dry, well-kept tools often last longer and keep working like new. And when everything has a spot, it makes cleaning feel a lot less stressful.

Get the Family On Board

Changing old habits is easier when everyone in the house understands why it’s happening. If you live with kids, roommates, or a partner, include them in the routine so the switch feels shared.

Start by making things visual. Put the sponge cloths or washable towels where paper towels used to be. When people see the swap, they’re more likely to use it. You can:

• Teach younger kids to fold sponge cloths or lightly dampen them for cleaning spills

• Talk to older kids about why reducing plastic matters, especially at home

• Let them take charge of little tasks like refilling a bathroom cleaner each Sunday

When the whole house is using the same cleaning tools and pitch in on small jobs, it gets easier to keep things tidy without reaching for throwaway products.

Plan Around Cold Weather Waste

Starting a waste-free routine in winter might seem tricky, especially when you’re stuck indoors more often. Between cooking more meals and keeping windows closed, trash can fill up faster, and smells tend to linger.

Here’s how to stay on track even when it’s cold outside:

• Use sealed bins or biodegradable liners to cut back on smells from food scraps

• If you compost, keep in mind it breaks down slower in cold temps, so adjust the volume

• Choose reusable materials that dry well inside since outdoor air-drying may take longer

Compostable trash bags made from renewable plant-based materials, such as the 13 gallon bags we offer, are certified compostable and use ingredients like cornstarch, PLA, and PBAT, so they break down into plant-based elements instead of microplastics. Look for cloths or sponges made to work well in damp winter air. Drying racks over a sink, a shower rod in the laundry room, or even a hook behind the door can help keep your materials clean and fresh until next use.

Your Clean Routine Can Start Today

Going plastic-free isn’t about chasing perfection. It’s about building better habits little by little. When you focus on choosing what fits your routine, like reusable spray bottles or long-lasting sponge cloths, the swaps become second nature. No extra effort needed.

Over time, what felt like a change transforms into the new normal. One refill, one washable cloth, one better choice at a time. That’s how real progress happens. By starting simple and staying steady, your cleaning routine does more than just clean. It supports a home that’s lighter on waste and easier to care for.

At Plastno, we know that building a lighter, low-waste home starts with the right habits and the right tools. Choosing reliable, long-lasting items makes everyday tasks easier while cutting down on single-use waste. If you're ready to make the switch, our collection of reusable cleaning products can help steady your routine in every room of the house. Feel free to reach out if you have questions or want help getting started.