Like some other zero waste tips, this one comes with a “sometimes” disclaimer: shop in bulk, sometimes. Bigger bottles and jars of items like oil, vinegar, shampoo, pet food, and rice will save money and minimise packaging. Perishables like fresh fruit and vegetables are not a good idea unless you know you’ll use the whole bag before it goes off.
Liquid soap is another good item to buy in bulk. Buy one large bottle and refill smaller ones you already own instead of constantly buying more little bottles. I used to do this, but have now stopped using liquid soap entirely. Regular soap and water are best, as all the Covid safety guidelines keep telling us. I try to stick to soaps with natural ingredients and minimal or compostable packaging as often as possible to reduce waste even further.
Read more about the Earth Hero Zero Waste Challenge here.