Small Habits That Quietly Harm the Planet — and Easy Swaps That Truly Help

Small Habits That Quietly Harm the Planet — and Easy Swaps That Truly Help

I’ve always believed that small actions matter. It’s why Scrub Be Love exists — because the things we reach for every day, like a sponge at the kitchen sink, can either add to the problem or help create a better future.

Over the years, I started paying closer attention to the things I used without much thought. Not because I wanted to overhaul my life overnight, but because I started to notice just how many “normal” habits were quietly creating waste, draining resources, or harming the planet I care so deeply about — especially in my own home.

Source: https://www.wwf.org.uk/

For example, I used to grab those bright-colored sponges without thinking twice. They’re cheap, familiar, and everywhere. But most of them are made of plastic and start shedding microplastics from the first use. Those tiny bits don’t just disappear — they end up in waterways, harming wildlife and making their way into the food chain.

 According to National Geographic, microplastics have now been found in human blood, organs, and even placentas. That’s part of the 'why' behind our plant-based, biodegradable sponges — they’re tough on grime, totally compostable, and safe for people and planet. Such a simple swap that really adds up over time and will keep loads of plastic out of the dumps!

Scrubbelove.com

Same with food waste. I never used to think much about tossing peels or leftovers into the trash — until I learned how much methane (a super potent greenhouse gas) gets released when food rots in landfills. Now, even a little countertop compost bin makes me feel like I’m doing something real. According to the EPA, composting is one of the easiest ways households can reduce their impact.

Another thing I quietly swapped? Cleaning wipes and paper towels. I know — they’re convenient. But they’re also wasteful, full of plastic fibers, and almost always end up in the trash. So I started using reusable paper towels and our super absorbent cellulose sponges and it's honesty one of the simplest changes to make. 

There are so many of these small shifts. Turning off power strips at night. Waiting until the dishwasher is full. Choosing a reusable bottle instead of buying another plastic one. Even planting a small garden to grow a bit of food or give bees a place to land — it all adds up.

If any of this feels overwhelming, I get it. I’ve been there. But the truth is, you don’t need to be perfect. You just need to care enough to start. And if you’re here, I know you already do.

So here’s your gentle nudge: choose the sponge that doesn’t leave plastic behind. Compost your scraps if you can. Skip the disposable stuff when a reusable option works just as well.

If you’re looking for a simple, meaningful place to start — we’ve got you covered.

Because small changes don’t just clean your space — they create ripples. And that’s how real change begins.


 

Back to blog

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.