Hygge for the Minimalist

Over the last year, the word Hygge (pronounced hoo-ga) has been the newest way of living as the idea of minimalism becomes old news. You may have heard by now that this Danish way of living is all about being cozy at home. It's a very broad term, and could mean anything from lighting candles, curling up with a blanket and a book by the fire or opening the windows to let the fresh air in. But for the minimalist wanting to incorporate hygge, it's important to remember that you don't need to buy a candle, blanket or book to be cozy and happy.

Here I've compiled a list of ways minimalists who are interested in this way of living can buy into the concept of hygge without actually buying anything.

1. The Entertainer

There's not many things that will make a home cozier than having friends and family over for a gathering. Even better is when the food preparation and clean-up  is shared by all. If the weather is lovely, take the dinner party outdoors where stories can be shared late into the night and under the stars. You can enjoy any leftover flowers and wine guests brought the next day, which will also be a little reminder of how lucky you are to have those people in your life.

2. The Baker

There's something so hygge about the smell of fresh baked bread or chocolate chip cookies right out of the oven. If you love to bake, grab your favorite cookbook and find a recipe you already have ingredients for and get in your cozy zone. You can even double the recipe and share your goods with a neighbor.

3. The Weekender

Weekends can be slow and hygge, as they should be. You don't have to tackle that to-do list or even leave the house for that matter if that is your cozy. Put the digital gadgets away and read a book or magazine for a change and indulge in your favorite comfort food. The world will not end if you don't check your email every 5 minutes.

4. The Relaxer

When was the last time you soaked in the bathtub until your fingers and toes were wrinkly? Baths are not just for children, and your muscles deserve to relax for a while. Take care of yourself and indulge in a warm bath with a little bit of scented bath salts or bath bubbles. It doesn't get much more hygge than that.

5. The Gardner

Unless you spend the entire day outside in your garden, then you're not enjoying your hard work as you should be. Grab the scissors and cut some flowers to bring hygge inside and enjoy in your home. If you have an abundance of flowers, bring some cozy to some to your friends as a gift to share the wealth of beauty you've grown and nurtured. 

These Are A Few of My Favorite Things: A Home Tour

It's easy to constantly change the look of your home. Especially when all you have to do is shop a website to find what you're looking for. You find something you like, it's cheap and you don't even have to go pick it up because the company offers free shipping. The problem with furniture made today is it tends to be made of cheap materials. Things like a cardboard back to a cabinet with a wood grain print on it and stickers to match for covering up shelf peg holes. There's little to no real wood in these pieces and most are made using pressed particle board. These pieces will not only fall apart over time, but they have no history or added benefit to your home.

Our home was built in the early 1920s. We are always finding evidence of stories from previous families that have lived here before us. One example is the chimney we exposed while redoing our upstairs bathroom where a child had used a pencil to draw faces on the brick while playing in the attic. For a home with so much history and character, why would we fill it with pieces that were made in a factory and hundreds of others like it fill homes across the country?

If minimalism means only having things in your space that make you happy or tell a story, then you should be able to tell visitors that story when they ask about it instead of just naming the store you purchased it from. It's not easy to find great pieces, but it's more rewarding when you do. Here are the stories behind some of our favorite finds.

This is a console my husband found on Craigslist for $50. The radio and record player were in bad shape but the speakers and exterior were in great condition. So he gutted it and installed a new radio, record player and storage for records.

This is a card catalog that my mother in law rescued from the dumpster of the school she works at in Ohio. They drove it all the way to Missouri for us because they knew we would take it in. It's great for storage and VERY heavy. Many younger generations have never used a card catalog, but we have fond memories of using this system to find a book at the library.

This is a working 1940s RCA tube radio we purchased off Craigslist. We sold an IKEA dresser to be able to purchase it and we couldn't be happier with that decision. It takes a second for it to warm up and turn on, but when it does there's a light that makes it easier to see the dials. There are presets for things like "police" and local channels. I can see listening to many baseball games on this radio in the future.

This is my grandmothers piano. Even when her memories were taken by dementia in the last years of her life, she could still sit down to this piano and somehow remember how to play songs from memory.

This is a mid century dresser we purchased from a local antique store for only $80. As with most pieces of furniture owned by people of earlier generations, there is evidence that it was loved and appreciated in the way it was very well taken care. It's made of solid wood and even bears the emblem of the local manufacturer. You can smell the wood when you open the drawers and it's a perfect addition to our home.

5 Things I Wish I Knew Before Starting My Journey to Simplicity

Starting any new project can be overwhelming. But a project that impacts our personal space and belongings can be even more daunting. No matter how many books or blogs you read, you will never really know what to expect from your experience of simplifying your life until you're in the midst of being surrounded by objects that represent your life. There's no question that being a minimalist and choosing which part of your story to keep is hard, but after 2 years of this journey to simplicity, there's things I've learned about the process and myself that I wish someone had shared with me in the beginning when I was just starting out.

1. It's Addictive

Once you get started, it will be hard to stop. You may start out thinking you're only going to clean out your closets then be done, but then find yourself in the kitchen going through cabinets and in the basement pulling out dusty boxes you haven't opened in years. The reason is because there's a freedom you feel from lightening the load of things taking up residence in your personal space. Things you've carried with you with every move and change in your life you can now let go. Once you experience that rush, it's hard to stop knowing you've only brushed the surface.

2. It's Contagious

My husband thought I was crazy when I started donating and selling everything on Craigslist. He was sure there wouldn't be any anything left at the rate I was going. Interestingly, after he saw how clean and open our home became, he saw there was a method to my madness. Now, if I go to him to ask if he wants to keep something or donate it, 9 times out of 10 he will choose to donate it without hesitation.

3. It's Ongoing

Even 2 years later, after all the dozens of boxes of things I've removed from our home, I'm still find things I don't need and want to donate. I even have a pile of things ready to go to the thrift store right now. It's not that I've brought more things into our home, it's that once you get rid of the clutter, you can better see what you have. Once you have less to work with, you can spot items you're never touching or using. Maybe you held onto a cardigan because you thought you'd find something to wear it with. Eventually you realize it's still sitting in your closet unworn and unloved. It's a matter of honing in and dwindling down.

4. It's Lifechanging

It's hard to explain to someone who has never simplified their life how good they will feel after they get rid of their possessions. It just sounds like crazy talk. People love their stuff, otherwise they wouldn't have it. But once you're in it, you want to shout it from the rooftops so everyone can feel this joy you're feeling. You will want to go to your friends house and help them declutter and they will think you're insane for WANTING to clean. The good news is of all the people I've known to do it, never have I heard anyone say they regretted it. There really is no turning back.

5. It's NOT Organizing

If you're an organizer like me, you're not going to like this one. Simplicity is not about Rubbermaid bins and color coded labels. That's not to say you can't organize the things you do keep, but if you're just sorting everything into piles so you can store them neatly instead of removing things completely, then you're not simplifying, you're organizing. There is a difference! Sure, you could say having all your shoes organized is helping simply your morning routine, but not if you own 50 pairs of shoes. It's important to understand the difference before you begin so you realize you should be saving money through this process, not spending it.

The Minimalists No-Spend Challenge

There's a reason that minimalism and living simply have become something we need to learn how to do. There's box stores that offer lower prices for buying in bulk, theres bigger homes being built that require more things to fill them and the media that tells us we have to keep up with changing trends. Keeping up with all that "stuff" can be exhausting.

There was a time when households survived on only one shared family car. If you live in a home like ours that was built in the 1920s, you know that there was no space left between houses for a garage or driveway because people didn't have a car. Humans have survived for centuries without a lot of things that today we see as essentials: air conditioning, car seats for children, helmets and knee pads for riding bicycles, a separate bedroom for each child, a washer and dryer, etc. Now think of the things we have today that were created because of our consumerism: freezer chests, storage units, multi-car garages, walk-in closets. So why with everything we have today to make our lives easier and more efficient are we so much more unhappy and exhausted than the people from those simpler times that had less?

Here's a challenge for you: see if you can go one week without spending. If at the end of the week you find you enjoyed the challenge and want to see how much farther you can go, turn it into a 15 day challenge and maybe even a month challenge.

There's a phrase you're going to hear repeated throughout this blog post: get creative. The reason is in order to succeed at this challenge, you're really going to have to think outside the box about making what you have work for you. This can mean changes as simple as using busicuts in place of bread or kitchen towels instead of paper ones.

The first step is to take inventory. Make a list of the things you will need during the time frame of your challenge, only including things you absolutely need. Now go through your house and take inventory to see if you have those items. It may mean you will only have enough liquid soap if you dilute it or will have to use toilet paper to blow your nose instead of tissues. For some, the goal of this challenge is to save money. For others, it will be to find out what it's like to be resourceful as our ancestors were.

Now, let's get creative!

Groceries

Take inventory of your pantry and freezer and come up with meals you could make using only the provided goods available. Make a plan for the length of your challenge so you can strategize what items need to be eaten first because of expiration dates. You will be surprised at how many meals you can get from so little when you get creative. This is also a great way to learn how to make your own bread, noodles or butter.

Gas

Plan your errands to save gas. Try to limit your days driving and cut down on the amount of places you go to save money on gas. Going to two grocery stores because one has a sale on meat but the other you have a coupon for toilet paper isn't saving you money when you consider how much gas you're wasting. The best thing would be you not go out at all so you won't be tempted to spend money on eating out or shopping. There are people who live miles away from the grocery store and don't have the luxury of running to the store to get the one thing they ran out of. They have to plan their trips to town and make do with what they have. But if you get creative and really think about it in terms of necessity, you will come up with ways to get by.

Clothing

Shop your closet when you feel the need to buy clothing. Really think about how you can make do with what you already have. Use accessories like belts and scarves to create more possibilities. If there's a pair of shorts you've been wanting to buy and have a pair of jeans you never wear, simply grab the scissors and make cut-offs. If you have an item of clothing that is damaged, get creative and see if you can patch it, mend it or alter it in some way that you can use it again.

Gifts

You may be wondering how you can achieve a no spend challenge when there are birthday parties and showers coming up on your calendar. The good news is you have everything you need already, you just have to get creative. Keep in mind, gifts don't have to be homemade bath salts or candles. You can always make casseroles or baked goods as a gift using the inventory you already have.

Minimalist Bathroom Organization

There's a little feature about our bathroom on the Urban Outfitters blog! Check out the post for ideas on how to simplify clutter and make the best of your small bathroom.

http://blog.urbanoutfitters.com/blog/uo_guide_get_organized

Minimalist Date Ideas

If you're planning a date night but trying to save money, there are several options for spending time together without spending money at the movies or a fancy restaurant. The best part is most of these ideas can be done at home (no babysitter needed!) or take place outdoors so dogs can tag along.

Picnic

This idea can be enjoyed in your backyard or at the local park. Pack some sandwiches, drinks, a blanket and a board game or deck of cards to play after you eat.

Park

Take a bag of stale bread to feed the ducks, fly a kite or swing on the swing set after you enjoy a picnic lunch.

Put a Puzzle Together

Clear a table and put a puzzle together while listening to music and enjoying a glass of wine.

Outdoor Movies

If you have a projector or laptop, you can create a movie theatre in your backyard. Just grab some blankets and pillows to lay out and enjoy your favorite movie under the stars.

Visit Your Local Art Museum

This is a great opportunity to discuss your favorite artists and talk about art. You can even create a scavenger hunt of things to search for together while there.

Go For a Walk

You don't need a specific destination in mind when going for a walk. Explore your neighborhood and get outside to enjoy each others company: smell the flowers, admire your favorite houses and enjoy the fresh air.

Yoga in the Park

There are many groups that meet up for free yoga in the park. Just grab your yoga mats and get there early so you can get a good spot.

Ride Bikes

Enjoy being a kid again by going for a bike ride together. It's a great way to get your exercise and get outside.

Board Games

Board games are great because you can take them anywhere to enjoy. You can play them at home while watching your favorite movie or take them to the park for a picnic.

Build a Fort

This is a great date night for a rainy or cold night that keeps you indoors. Build a fort and string up some lights to make it more fun. Fill it with some pillows and blankets and enjoy a movie on your laptop or board game.

Go Camping

If you're not the adventurous type to go camping in the woods, pitch your tent in your backyard and camp out. You can still make s'mores and sleep under the stars but still have the use of the bathroom inside the house at your leisure.

Go Hiking

This idea doesn't have to be as rugged as the name suggests. You don't have to live near the mountains to go hiking and enjoy spending time with nature. Every city has wooded areas that you can hike in and groups of people who meet up to hike together.

Plastic-free Pets

When you think about what the toxic accumulation of chemicals from plastics do to humans over a period of time, you can only imagine how quickly and with greater impact those chemicals are having on the smaller bodied family members that share your home. They trust you to supply them with the healthiest and safest home, and it's up to you to see that they have the best options possible. There are a wide assortment of baby products that are organic and safe to chew on, but if you visit the pet aisle at the store you will likely find plastic toys, water bowls and flea collars.

For many of us, our pets are our babies. So it's important that we take into account the outcome of plastics in our home on our pets. And while you may have already replaced the obvrious things, there are plenty of hidden plastics your pets may be coming into contact with that you are not aware of.

Food

Go can free: We know that canned food has plastic lining with BPA, so purchasing dry food or making your own pet food is a better option. There are several pet food companies that use BPA free lining in their cans, but all contain the ingredient carrageenan which is not safe.

Galvanized storage: Store your dry pet food in a galvanized lidded can to keep food fresh without the need for a plastic container. This is also a great place to store bird seed.

Use stainless steel bowls: Be sure to check on water levels often as the stainless steel makes it harder to see the water line. As with any pet dish, be sure to wash frequently.

Use glass treat jars: You can add a label if you have both cats and dogs and need to specify.

Scoopers: Use metal scoopers to transfer food to bowls.

Small Pets

Water bottles: Most water bottles for cages are plastic and attach to the side of the cage. Use a water bowl instead, but shallow enough so the pet cannot drown. Be sure to clean it often as it will get pet waste and cage shaving in it frequently.

Shredded paper: The ink from newspaper can contain BPA, so be careful not to use shredded newspaper to line pets cages. Cedar is a better option and keeps cages smelling great.

Bird feeders: A lot of bird feeders are made of plastic. Try to find a wooden one which are easier to clean and last longer.

Toys

There are plenty of plastic-free alternatives such as canvas, natural rubber, hemp, rope, and cotton.

Waste

Doggie bags: Use paper bags or newspaper.

Kitty litter: Purchase disposable paper litter boxes and use metal a scooper. 

Collar

Synthetic collars are not a safe option. If you are a vegan and do not want to use leather, there is a company that makes hemp collars.

The Minimalist Budget

Living with less can help you save money when you don't have as many things to care for and maintain. But being a minimalist also forces you to reevaluate your spending habits. The last thing you want to do is spend time getting rid of clutter only to turn around and buy replacements for everything.

Here is a look at some ways you can save money and live on a minimalist budget.

Food

Order water

If you plan to eat out, skip the soda or alcohol and instead opt for water. It's a free and healthier option.

Cook from scratch

Have you ever looked at the cost difference between a bag of shredded cheese and a block of cheese? Not only is the block of cheese cheaper but it has more ounces in it. It may take longer to shred the cheese yourself, but the money you save will add up in the long run.

Use up pantry

Before you make another grocery store run, take stock of what you have in your pantry. You may find that if you get creative, you could plan a meal for a week with the ingredients you already have on hand.

Get a basket instead of a cart

Just as eating off a smaller plate keeps you from overeating, shopping with a hand basket instead of a shopping cart has the same effect. Not only will having less room keep you from throwing unnecessary things into it that weren't on your shopping list, but the weight of having to carry all those things is another incentive to keep it light.

Stick to your shopping list or only take limited cash

Another way to keep from purchasing things that are not on your shopping list is to only take enough cash to cover the cost of the items on your list. Keep in mind that cash is money that is actually there while a credit line is not.

Home

Make your own cleaners and personal care products

Not only are household cleaners dangerously toxic, but there's nothing a little vinegar and baking soda can't clean for a lot cheaper. Why store all those different cleaners when you can have an all-purpose one that doesn't make you cough from all the added chemicals?

Fix broken things

Simple things like sewing a button back on or darning a sock can save you money in the long run and keep clothing out of the landfill. 

Hang dry clothes

If you don't have a clothing line in your backyard, you can find clothing racks that can be folded and stored away when not in use.

Turn down the heater/air conditioner

At night when you are warm under the covers, set your home temperature between 50 and 60 degrees to save money on heating and cooling. When the weather is comfortable, turn off your heating and cooling completely and rely on open windows and ceiling fans to regulate the temperature.

Walk everywhere

If you live in walking distance to places you frequent, think about walking instead of driving. This routine will not only save you money on gas, but will also help you get exercise and fresh air.

Shopping

Make use of credit card rewards

Although cash is the recommended form of payment for purchases, you obviously cannot pay for online purchases with cash. If you are going to have a credit card for these transactions, make sure it's one you will get rewards on in the form of cash back.

Unsubscribe from catalogs and emails

Out of sight, out of mind. If you don't see it, how will you know you want it? Save trees and money by asking companies to remove you from their snail mail list.

Pay bills online

Save from having to buy stamps by paying bills online.

Utilize the library for books & movies

Only buy books or movies that you know you will read more than once. For all other books and movies, put those tax dollars to work and check it out from the library.

Minimizing Digital Clutter

Giving yourself the gift of physical space through minimalism can be cleansing. What people sometimes forget is the same concept can be applied to your online and digital space.

Maybe you've considered deleting your Facebook account but worry without it you will lose touch with friends. Maybe you've tried leaving your phone off but worry you might miss an important call. We can't deny the convenience of the digital age and our love-hate relationship with our smart phones, but that doesn't mean we can't take back our time and intentions to stay grounded in the real and physical world.

More Social - Less Media

Delete apps or turn off notifications

You don't need to delete your social media accounts to reduce your screen time. Simple steps like cleaning up your "follow" list or deleting the apps on your phone can keep you from even realizing you have a notification and checking it.

Meet up in person

If you're worried about missing out on announcement posts and changes in the lives of your friends and family, then use that as an incentive to meet up with that person for coffee and conversation or have them over for dinner. These interactions will be much more meaningful and memorable than that a comment or "like".

Set a timer

If you absolutely must check your feed, then at least set a timer for how much time you think is reasonable to keep from wasting your afternoon scrolling.

Take Note

Start writing lists

If you're like me, then you are constantly making lists: grocery lists, to-do lists, goals lists, etc. I've tried making lists on my phone, but hitting "delete" on a finished task is not as satisfactory as scratching it off.

I love using journals and little notepads to write my lists on. I also love the idea of having these entries to refer back on in the future if need be. 

Use a paper calendar

While it's nice to have your phone remind you about an event coming up, the truth is, we shouldn't have to rely on it. Facebook should not be the reason you know your best friends birthday is next week. If you keep a paper calendar and check it daily, you will be able to remember important events without the help of social media.

Start writing letter correspondence

When was the last time you received a letter in the mail? I mean a handwritten one on actual stationary. If you received one in the last two years, it was probably from someone of an older generation. It more than likely made you feel special. To think that someone sat down and dedicated their time and best handwriting to express their feelings to you. There was no spellcheck button or backspace to edit with, so it's possible they had to start over - maybe even more than once. Wouldn't it feel special to receive a physical card in the mail on your birthday instead of a comment on your Facebook wall? Maybe you can be the one to break out the postage stamps and start the trend. 

Unsubscribe from emails

Take the time to unsubscribe from all those spam emails so you don't have to delete them in the future. It's easier to see the important emails when you don't have to scroll through all the junk.

Phasing Out the Phone 

Out of sight out of mind

Keep your phone in another room or in your purse to avoid checking it.

Use a camera

Document your life the right way. Photos taken with a camera can be so much more beautiful and meaningful. There's a reason you never see a wedding photographer using their phone to take photos of the bride and groom.

Play interactive board games

The problem with online games is you may be playing against a friend, but the interaction is lost. Break out the classic board games where you can actually see the person you are playing against, instead of sitting next to each other and looking down at your phones.

Products Without Plastic

In my previous posts about going plastic free, I talked about how plastics can be lurking in places that you may not realize. Tiny parts and mechanisms inside coffee makers and pretty much every part of a toothbrush were big concerns for me because these items make direct contact with my body daily in the form of the coffee I drink (produced with hot water passing through plastic parts) and the toothbrush I use twice a day.

Clean Coffee

I did lots of research before deciding on a replacement for our French press. It was only then that I realized it is near impossible to find a 100% plastic-free version because of the filtration system. Even glass and stainless steel versions contained plastic. I was ready to give up when I found this 100% stainless steel version by Secura. Even better is the fact that because there are no paper filters needed, I am saving money and keeping waste out of landfills. Our new French press gets a lot of use as we use it to make iced tea as well as coffee. It is easily cleaned and beautiful enough to keep on open shelving.

The next item I needed to replace was my coffee grinder. The electric one we had was one that had been good to us and lasted years. The only problem was it was made almost entirely of plastic. After searching for a replacement I realized the only way to find a plastic-free version was to find a version that you grind by hand. I found this one that is stainless steel with wood accents. Inside is a cork stopper that keeps your ground coffee fresh. I love that there is a way to adjust the type of grind you want which also changes how much effort is needed to grind the coffee.

Bamboo Brushing

The third item on my list to find a replacement for was my toothbrush. It just didn't make sense to work so hard to remove plastic products from our home but put a plastic toothbrush with synthetic bristles in my mouth twice a day. Luckily, there are companies that understand these concerns and produce natural bamboo toothbrushes. It took some research to find which one was best for me, and the only one I found that was 100% plastic-free (the packaging is plant-based and biodegradable) and natural was one by Brush with Bamboo. This brush is made with partially plant-based bristles and is one of the only on the market that has bristles not made from plastic or pig/boar hair (which would be a problem for vegans). Even better is that bamboo toothbrushes are beautiful enough to display on the sink for easy access.

Making the Most of your Minimalist Wardrobe

Living small means making the most of what you have. When it comes your wardrobe, every piece should be versatile so it can contribute to several different outfits. This doesn't mean everything in your closet needs to be neutral colors. There are ways to fit items into your wardrobe that maximize your choices.

I wanted to show how one piece can be worn several ways to maximize your wardrobe without sacrificing space. For this post, I've teamed up with Pink Blush to feature their brown two-toned knit dolman cardigan.

Layers

The great thing about layering clothing is you can change the look of an outfit so it's not as obvious you are wearing the same item weekly. Cardigans are a great layering item that can be worn several ways. Even accessories such as a belt or scarf are all that's needed to create a new outfit. But try to keep the accessories to one item per outfit. If you wear a necklace, you can't wear a bracelet. If you wear a scarf, no belts allowed. Remember that simple is always better.

Colors

It's important to know what colors look best with your skin tone. Neutrals are a safe bet, but there's no need to omit bright colors from your closet. If you love a floral dress in your closet but can never seem to like the way it looks, it's probably not the right color for you. If you have a lot of reds in your skin tone like I do, then you don't want to overdo it with the red and pinks. While black may be the most safe and versatile color to wear, beware of your white clothing. There's a huge difference between white and ivory as far as skin tones are concerned.

Patterns

I love patterns and tend to wear at least one patterned item with each outfit. But in order to utilize patterns in a minimalist wardrobe, you have to keep it simple. You should only wear one pattern at a time, wearing solid colors for an accent. Be careful when pairing patterns with accessories and remember the one accesory at a time rule.

Maintaining a Minimalist Wardrobe

They say the first place to begin your quest living with less is your closet. One of the reasons is that they tend to have an abundance of unwanted and overly worn items that will be easy to part with. In today's consumerist society where you can buy clothes cheap, it's easy for things to get out of hand and pile up quickly.

It's also the reason why newer homes are being built with walk-in closets to house all of these items. If you've ever visited Paris, you will find armoires in place of closets. These standing wooden closets can only hold up to around 20 hangers. But you don't see Parisians complaining.

You may think that having more options will make it easier to get dressed in the morning, but the opposite is actually true. Have you ever gone to a restaurant that has a everything you can imagine on their menu only to find you spend forever flipping through the pages trying to decide on something? Too many clothes give you too many options and you spend more time weeding through piles to find things. Do you really need 5 gray t-shirts? Will you ever wear the shoes you bought to go with your bridesmaids dress? Maybe there's a reason there's still a tag on that shirt that hasn't been worn since you bought it 5 years ago.

Less is More
One of the benefits to having less clothing in your closet is being able to spend less time searching for what to wear. It also gives you more space to properly care and store your clothes so they are able to breathe and more likely to last longer. An organized closet will keep clothes off the floor and on hangers or in drawers where they belong.

Another benefit to having less clothing is being able to spend less on new clothing. A general rule to keeping your closet to the bare essentials once you've decluttered it is to make a promise to yourself that any item you purchase and bring into your space will mean you have to give up one item in it's place. This will force you to really think about how much you want or need an item before you make that choice. This can save you money in the end and keep you out of department stores that tempt you with sales.

Love It or Leave It
The best way to decide if an item stays or goes is to decide if it's worthy enough to share a space with you. Create three piles before you begin. One pile for things to "keep", one pile for things to "donate" and one pile for "trash". Some questions to ask yourself when considering which pile to put an item in are: How often do I wear this? Is it damaged? Does it still fit? Is it flattering? Can it be worn with anything else?

Love and Logic
Are you a Mom who gets spit-up on your clothes daily? Are you an art teacher painting with kids? Do you have pets that get fur on your black clothes? Then maybe you need to think about these things when you are sorting your wardrobe. Be sensible realistic about whether or not you need a formal gown if you never go to fancy parties, or if you need so many wool sweaters if you live in a warm climate.

Keep it Simple
A minimalist wardrobe does not need to be all neutral colors in order to be paired with other items to create new outfits. You will however need to have a few items that will complete an outfit like black flats and a white t-shirt. Patterned items will be harder to pair with other items, but it can be done. I will talk more about this in a future post.

Quality Over Quantity
We all know that we get what we pay for. If you pay $5 for a shirt, it probably isn't going to last. But not everyone can afford to buy the organic cotton version. Keep in mind there are other options than stores who sell cheap clothing made overseas. Thrift-stores can provide you with brand name items for the same price, and also keep clothing out of the landfill.

Handle with Care
If you want your wardrobe to last, you need to treat your items with respect. This can be done simply by purchasing nice wooden hangers instead of using the wire ones you get from dry cleaners. Or by folding or rolling your clothing that is stored in drawers instead of bunching it up and cramming the drawer shut. If clothes are pressed against each other on hangers then you need to remove more things to allow space.

Previous posts on downsizing and living simply:
A purposeful pantry
Living life without plastic
A journey to simplicity

Purposeful Pantry

I recently posted about our decision to go plastic-free in our home as part of our journey to simplicity. I wanted to revisit this topic because while going plastic-free can lead to less chemicals in your body, it can also cause you to eat healthier overall.

Going Glass

I emphasized using glass or stainless steel containers to store food in my previous post. There are an assortment of glass storage containers on the market, some of which have plastic lids. While I don't condone using containers that contain plastic, using these containers are generally safe as long as the food is not touching the plastic. My favorite containers to use are glass cracker jars that have a screw-on metal lid and rubber gasket glass canning jars. If you are like me and prefer labeling, you can purchase chalkboard stickers to put on the jars and a liquid chalk pen to write with.

Other Options
Baskets are a wonderful option for storage in the pantry or refrigerator. You can store fruit and veggies in them or keep spices (in glass containers) organized. Baskets with handles make it easier to get in and out of the cabinet and onto the counter. Wire baskets like this one are another great storage solution.

Bread boxes are great for families with pets. Wooden or metal boxes that have a lid closure can keep bread from going stale and safe from pets.

Other helpful plastic-free additions to the pantry and refrigerator are ceramic egg crates, glass butter dishes and hanging wire baskets to hold fruit and vegetables in that should not be refrigerated.

Container Contents
One of the benefits to having a storage container for the items you need is that when you run out of that item you have an empty container. This can serve as a reminder of what you need to restock in your pantry on your next market run. By having dry ingredients on hand, you have them readily available to make a quick soup or stew when short on time. This can promote healthier eating and less chance that you will fill up your pantry with processed food. Here is a list of dry items to keep in your pantry:

- Baking soda
- Baking powder
- Flour
- Sugar
- Dry beans (kidney, navy, etc.)
- Popcorn
- Brown sugar
- Rice (white, brown, wild, etc.)
- Seeds (chia, sunflower, etc.)
- Nuts (walnuts, almonds, etc.)
- Cornmeal
- Dry pasta (macaroni, spaghetti, etc.)
- Breadcrumbs
- Oats (oatmeal, etc.)

Canned Concerns
While canned foods have been a staple in pantries for decades, it has come out recently that today's canned foods are not packaged the same way they were 20 years ago. The BPA linings that keep the cans from rusting are dangerous to your health and deemed unsafe for consumption. While you might be feeling good about the fact that you've been purchasing canned goods that are labeled "BPA Free", there is new evidence to suggest that companies are replacing the linings with alternative plastics that have similar effects as BPA and that have not been tested for safety. As of today, the only canned good company that is safe is Eden Organics because they use the classic method of canning that does not require a BPA can lining. Even so, the worst culprits are acidic canned foods like tomatoes because they retain the most chemicals from the lining. I try to stay clear of any canned goods if possible, and instead use dry ingredients when I can. It may mean soaking dry beans overnight or chopping my own vegetables, but our health is worth the time spent doing these extra steps.

Getting Groceries
Not everyone has a farmers market readily available and most are only around during the spring and summer months. While a farmers market is your best option for purchasing breads and produce without plastic packaging, there are options for getting groceries from store to pantry without ever touching plastic.

1. Bring a bag: This seems obvious, but sometimes you forget. One way to prevent this is to keep bags in your car for those unexpected grocery store runs. Having a reusable cloth bag is also a way to keep plastic grocery bags out of landfills. Be careful when you purchase a reusable bag, some bags are made from recycled plastics or artificial and synthetic material which can also be toxic.

Bringing your own bag does not mean just to carry groceries out. There are also vegetable bags that have a cinch tie for closure to keep from needing those flimsy plastic fruit and vegetable bags. These bags can also store dry beans and rice.

2. Choose items that have cardboard or glass packaging: There was a time when ketchup did not come in a plastic squeeze bottle. It is possible to get ketchup out of a glass bottle with a little patience, and these glass bottles are still available as an option in grocery stores. There are many soda options in glass bottles and pastas can be purchased in cardboard boxes instead of plastic bags. The best part about buying items in glass containers is once you use up all of the items in those glass containers you can clean and use them as storage containers in your pantry.

3. Bake your own bread: Bakery bread is fresher, has less preservatives and is not stored in plastic. But an even better option is to make it at home. There's not many things better than the smell of fresh baked bread, and baking bread does not need to be the labor of love it used to be. You can now purchase a countertop bread oven and there are plenty of recipes for a no-knead and self-rising bread.

Living Life Without Plastic

One of the benefits of downsizing over the last year and removing clutter was that I began removing the many plastic food containers and cooking utensils we no longer needed. I also began replacing the ugly neon colored plastic spray bottles with amber glass ones and switched out our plastic trash can for a stainless steel one. I had not realized up until that point how much of the manmade material had made its way into our lives. I began to obsess about where else in our home this monster was lurking.

Not only is plastic not aesthetically pleasing, but it's also very toxic to our bodies. I knew about the dangers of bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates but had never realized the extent of our consumption of this cheap and nondestructive material. When I began to research the history of plastics, I learned that just because a product says it is BPA free does not mean it is safe. I also learned that there are hidden plastics in the lining of our canned goods and sodas. It only makes sense that any project that was created in a chemistry lab cannot be safe to store the food and beauty products we put in and on our bodies. We are told not to leave water bottles in our cars because the heat will leach the toxins from the plastic into our water and yet we are comfortable with microwaving our food in plastic containers. There are studies that show plastic baby bottles that claim to be BPA free still contain toxic chemicals. While it may be impossible to remove the popular material completely, there are many ways we can at least minimize some of it from our home and lives.

1. Go Glass

Rethinking plastics in your pantry can have many benefits. Because many processed foods are sold in plastic bags and containers, you will want to start purchasing a healthier alternative in the form of fresh products or products sold in glass or paper instead. Milk even tastes better in a glass bottle as it keeps the milk colder and safer from toxins. Stock up on mason jars or other glass containers to store your food in that you can use safely in the oven or microwave. You can even purchase sticker chalkboard labels if you want to label everything. Toss any plastic storage containers and purchase the glass version like this one. Make sure all dishes and reusable water bottles are glass. This is one of my favorite water bottles because it is safe even if you drop it (which I have!) and I can use my essential oils in it without worrying they will eat away at any plastic. You can also use stainless steel water bottles like Kleen Canteen. Be sure to consider your pets water and food bowls as well. When purchasing packaged beverages, be sure to opt for glass as soda cans are lined with plastic. You may think wine is safe since it's in a glass bottle, but unless it has a cork closure it is not safe.

2. BPA-Free Baby

Have you ever thought about how many toys today are plastic? While they may be safer, you need to consider how many plastic toys are going into your baby's mouth. Wooden toys are a great alternative and can sometimes last longer. Plastic diapers are something else that people forget is plastic. There are many cloth diapers options as an alternative along with glass bottle options in place of plastic ones.

3. Skip Straws

Those plastic stoppers in our expensive to-go coffees may keep our beverage warmer longer but we know what happens when plastic gets heated up. The plastic straws and coffee stirrers at restaurants are also not necessary when you can simply stir your coffee or tea with a metal spoon or drink from the glass. Opting against these unnecessary items can not only keep plastics out of our body but they can also reduce waste. If you really like straws and stirrers, there are many great alternatives in paper, wood or bamboo form. Also consider using reusable travel mugs to get your coffee on-the-go. Most coffee shops endorse doing this as it saves them money on packaging. Just be sure it does not have a plastic lining.

4. Better Bags

Does anyone really like plastic bags? It seems you can only fit one or two things in them and need to double bag them in order to carry anything heavy. Trying to carry them inside leaves lines in your hand and they don't exactly look good stuck in a tree. If you forget your reusable bag at the grocery store or farmer's market, opt for a paper sack. The kraft paper can be used to wrap gifts and you need less of them to get groceries inside. When buying fruit or vegetables at the grocery store, skip the thin plastic bags to store them in, especially if you are only getting one or two. You can purchase small canvas bags to use instead. If you do not want to make your own bread, purchase fresh loaves from the bakery instead of the pre-packaged breads that are loaded with preservatives and packaged in plastic bags. Speaking of farmers markets, opt for a cardboard berry basket instead of a plastic one. Most vendors will gladly take them back on your next visit and you know your produce will be safe from toxins. Another advantage to shopping at the farmer's market is that they do not use the plastic stickers on the produce.

5. Careful Cleaning

We are lucky enough to have an older washer and dryer so we can still use powdered laundry detergent. Most front-loading ones require liquid detergent which is guaranteed to come in a plastic container. Another appliance you can buy powdered detergent for us your dishwasher. Ditch your cleaning products that come in plastic spray bottles and make your own cleaning solution with vinegar and water. If you don't like the smell of vinegar, add some essential oils to mask the scent. Consider switching out your cleaning brushes as well. Most have plastic handles or bristles and the bamboo ones are much prettier to look at. Use bar soap for bathing and washing

6. Miscellaneous Mentions

Other items that are made of and/or are packaged in plastic include: chewing gum, the little plastic disc in the middle of your delivery pizza, reusable sealable sandwich or storage bags, plastic ice cube trays, teflon non-stick cookware, shower curtains/liners, some blenders, salad spinners, toothbrushes, plastic trash bags, some chapstick containers,  feminine hygiene products, combs and hair brushes, pet toys, credit cards, phone cases, plastic pens, envelopes with windows, gel capsules, most dental sealants, CD's, DVD's, earbuds, packaging tape and fake Christmas trees, synthetic fabrics (acrylic, polyester, etc.).

7. Continued Consciousness

Some other ways you can keep plastic out of your home is to clean up your mailbox. Return any unwanted spam mail to sender and request companies you are ordering online from that you not receive and unnecessary packaging. Companies like Seventh Generation offer paper towels and toilet paper wrapped in paper instead of plastic.

It is almost impossible to rid our homes entirely of plastic, that's just how things are now. But knowing which plastics are safer than others can help you decide what you are willing to keep or part with. The three plastics you must avoid at all costs are #3, #6 and #7. If you cannot give up canned food, Eden Organics is a safe option (except for their canned tomatoes) as they still use the original canning methods before plastics were introduced.