Back-to-school season doesn’t have to mean back to clutter, waste, and chemical-filled products. Whether you’re packing lunches, prepping for carpool, or getting your kids ready for after-school activities, this season is a perfect time to embrace low-waste habits that support your family’s wellness and the planet.
Every year, we write a new Back to School blog. See last year's here.
Here are this year's five simple ways to kick off the school year clean without the plastic or the toxins.
1. Use What You Already Have
Before hitting the store for new school supplies, do a quick check at home. Reuse last year’s notebooks, binders, folders, and lunch gear. Even partially used pencils, markers, and paper can be gathered into a fresh kit.
Tip: Let your kids decorate “old” supplies to give them a new feel. Add stickers, draw on covers, or personalize with washi tape.
This habit teaches mindfulness and helps your family reduce unnecessary consumption—one of the most effective ways to lower your environmental footprint.
2. Shop for Sustainable School Supplies
When new items are needed, look for reusable, refillable, or biodegradable options.
Try:
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Recycled paper notebooks
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Compostable pencils
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Stainless steel lunch containers and water bottles
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Beeswax food wraps or reusable sandwich bags
Even swapping out plastic pencil cases for fabric ones made from natural fibers can make a difference over time.
3. Send Waste-Free Lunches (That They’ll Actually Eat)
Avoid single-use plastics like zip bags and plastic wrap by investing in reusable containers that are easy to clean and fun to use. Use leftovers, bulk snacks, and fresh produce instead of individually packaged items.
Pair this habit with Pantry’s all-natural Bugs Be Gone Spray for safe, chemical-free outdoor protection during recess and field trips.
Want more ideas? We’ve rounded up some smart Natural Outdoor Protection Tips for families on the go.
4. Keep Mornings Low-Waste Too
Back-to-school routines often mean rushed mornings. Ditch single-use wipes, aerosol sprays, and harsh synthetic personal care products. Instead, build a cleaner routine with:
- Hydrating Body + Bath Oil – Replaces multiple lotions and plastic bottles
- Aluminum Free Deodorant – Long-lasting and smells great
- Natural Lip Balm – Clean ingredients with great flavors
Every swap you make counts toward a more sustainable home.
5. Prioritize Sleep for the Whole Family
Back-to-school also means earlier wake-ups and sometimes bedtime battles. A solid sleep routine can make everything run smoother.
That’s why our Sleep Salve is a must-have this season.
✨ We’re proud to be the #1 ranked Sleep Salve on Google, with thousands of customers turning to this soothing balm to ease anxiety, quiet the mind, and support deeper rest—for kids and grown-ups alike.
Make Clean Swaps Easy This School Year
If you’re ready to commit to lower waste and cleaner ingredients, you don’t have to go it alone. Pantry Products offers handcrafted, small-batch personal care and home products that are good for people and the planet.
🛒 Want to make clean living even easier? Try our Subscription Discovery Set to get non-toxic must-haves delivered monthly.
Sometimes change is easy.
And it can start with a reusable lunch bag, a tin of sleep salve, or one simple swap that makes your daily routine feel more intentional.
