Making the switch to a plastic-free lifestyle means changing some habits, but it doesn’t mean giving up fun. Whether it’s functional or pretty, every zero-waster owns an item they are obsessed with. Our Plastic-Free YYC volunteers and board members show off their favourite zero waste items that help them practice what they preach.

“I love this bag, which I use as my purse but also as a shopping bag – basically it catches everything in my life. I made it over a decade ago from a scrap of fabric I got from Fabricland for $5.” –Amy

“This little can might not seem like much, but it’s a GAME CHANGER. My friend introduced me to the misto oil sprayer only a year ago and it has become a staple in my kitchen ever since. Plus, it’s so easy to use! Fill it with the cooking oil of your choice, pump the oil and spray as needed. I’ll never go back to single-use aerosol oil dispensers.” –Isabelle

“I randomly invented this reusable tissue holder sewing one day, and I’m really proud of it. It’s simply some scrap jean material that I sewed into a pocket-like pouch. It sits on my counter and is stuffed with my fabric tissues that I cut from super soft, old t-shirts. It isn’t pretty but I love it so much I made a second one for the bathroom.” –Briana

“Mason jars are the jack of all trades when it comes to zero waste items. Do you need a container for your bulk items? Mason jar. Do you need to store your homemade broth? Use a mason jar. Do you want to make your iced coffee at home but you still want to feel like you are drinking at a cafe? Yep – mason jar. Use them for fancy alcoholic or non-alcoholic drinks, whatever floats your boat. And the best part is, I don’t even buy brand new mason jars. I save my old pasta jars, wash ’em and I’m good to go!” –Lea

“I’m embarrassed to admit how much I rely on this bag. It’s small enough to keep in my purse, so I always have a bag when I forget my reusable bags at home or do a spur-of-the-moment grocery shop.” –Andrea (Read about a Calgary business making bags like this here.)