21 Free or Cheap Things You Can Do Today to Live More Sustainably

Living a more sustainable life doesn't have to be difficult - it really just involves taking on a different mindset until it's second nature. If you're still just getting started with trying to lower your eco-footprint, it might seem kind of overwhelming. You don't have to let green living take over your life in order to make a significant impact, though - there are plenty of quick little ways you can make changes for the better. Here are 21 that cost little or nothing to start and save you money when all is said and done!

1. Clean surfaces with vinegar instead of a harsh chemical cleaner. Just put it in a spray bottle and go nuts.
2. Switch to cloth towels instead of paper towels for kitchen cleanup.
3. Buy foods in bulk to lower packaging waste and travel footprint.
4. Make your own skincare products with common oils to replace your standard skincare products, which often contain parabens and other junk.
5. Make your own spice blends rather than using prepackaged ones. 
6. Ditch the gym membership and electric workout equipment altogether and get in shape by spending time outside having fun.
7. Plan out your meals in advance to reduce food waste and save money!
8. Become a laundry pro to make your clothing last as long as possible.
9. Choose locally grown and processed foods when you shop for groceries.
10. Look for ways to rescue a "wasted" project - like pretty much every attempt I've made to make soap. 
11. Recycle!
12. Drive less.
13. Shop less.
14. Eat meat less often.
15. Grow your own vegetables or herbs.
16. Learn to can or freeze in-season produce.
17. Stop using shampoo. (I know.... but trust me, your hair will thank you in the long run!)
18. Develop an income-generating hobby.
19. Switch to online billing and turn off paper mail.
20. Reduce your use of disposable items.
21. Drink water.