How to Build a Zero-Waste Cleaning Routine (That’s Still Beautiful)
Living more sustainably doesn’t have to mean beige basics or giving up the things that bring you joy.
If anything, it’s about choosing what works well—and feels good to use every day.
Whether you’re deep into low-waste living or just exploring more intentional choices, building a practical, beautiful cleaning routine can feel grounding.
Here’s how I keep things simple at home, using tools I love—like Swedish dishcloths, old glass jars, and a few humble ingredients.
Swap Disposable for Reusable (and Lovely)
Let’s start with the everyday culprit: paper towels. Handy, yes—but wasteful and gone in a flash.
That’s where Swedish dishcloths come in.
They’re:
Absorbent like a sponge
Light and flexible like a cloth
Compostable at the end of their life
I design mine to feel cheerful and a little nostalgic—something that makes wiping a bench feel less like a chore.
Tip: When they get a bit tired, I move them from the kitchen to the bathroom, then to the shed—before popping them in the compost bin.
Clean Simply: A Few Ingredients Go a Long Way
You don’t need an aisle of cleaning sprays. I keep just a few things on hand:
White vinegar
Baking soda
Lemon juice
A splash of essential oil for scent
I mix mine in glass jars or refillable bottles. No extra plastic. No fuss.
Use One Cloth, Many Ways
A Swedish dishcloth doesn’t need to stay in the kitchen.
I use mine for:
Dusting shelves
Wiping down the bathroom vanity
Polishing mirrors and windows (no streaks)
Drying dishes—or hands
It’s simple, it works, and it means I’m not constantly reaching for something disposable.
Rinse, Dry, Compost
After using, I rinse the cloth and hang it over the tap or sink to dry.
Once a week it goes into the dishwasher or washing machine with the rest of the laundry.
When it’s finally worn out, it goes straight to the compost. It breaks down naturally—no landfill guilt.
Keep Things in Reach (and a Little Bit Lovely)
When your cleaning tools are beautiful and easy to access, it’s easier to stick with them.
Ideas:
A small ceramic dish for drying your cloth
A vintage jar for baking soda
Labels or jars you love looking at
It doesn’t need to be perfect—just intentional.
Final Note
Small changes really do add up.
There’s no need to overhaul everything at once. Start with one swap. One cloth. One corner of your routine.
The goal is to make everyday tasks feel gentler—on you and the planet.
Want to try a Swedish dishcloth?
They’re reusable, compostable, and designed right here in my Wairarapa studio to make everyday life just a little more joyful.