Replacing and Reducing Plastic in Your House - the frugal way

In our quest to reduce our use of plastics I am looking to replace some of the every day items in our house with more eco-friendly ones. I  went out this week to do a little shopping. First of all shopping is not one of my favorite things. I prefer to save money not spend it.  So I was overjoyed at these finds.  I am in no way being paid to endorse these products or stores but just wanted to share with you that alternatives to plastic need not be expensive.
These bamboo coat hangers were such a deal that I snatched up all they had.  I don’t know if you can read the price but I got 4 in a pack for just $2. at Big Lots.  I don’t know if they regularly carry these. But you can bet I will look for them next time I go back. These normally retail anywhere from $9.95 to $12. I was obviously doing a little happy dance.  Plastic hangers on average cost  about .35 –.40 cents. So  at .50 I consider these bamboo hangers to be a good deal even when compared to the plastic alternative.  If you break a plastic hanger where is it going to go? The only answer is the trash. They don’t recycle the plastic used in hangers. Lord knows I have broken my share of plastic hangers. Now if I should happen to break one of these bamboo or the wooden hangers. I have many options. I can always try to repair it first, use it in the garden as a tie back stick, even compost it.
While at Ross I found this pack of 10 Sold Wood hangers for $7. These are a little heavier duty than the bamboo ones, but still a good deal.  That is about 30% off the regular price at Target.

While at Ross, I also found a new glass jar for $2.49 and this ceramic travel mug. for under $3 (can’t remember the exact price right now). The ceramic travel mugs are going for at least $5 in most places sometimes up to $15. As for the glass jar, it is a French style with the locking lid. I love this type for holding all of my grains and beans. I just priced this online and they normally run $15.  When I spotted the jar and the price I knew it was a must have, since I have paid more for one of these at the thrift stores.
Total cost of items bought $16.49 Total Saved over retail 58%. Did I mention I like a bargain? Moral of the story it does not necessarily cost more to buy green.

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