#BEST WASHABLE FACE MASK

[covid-safer-hotties]

Also preserved in our archive

Someone asked this question recently. Here's a good source.

by Tyler Vanzo

When masks were in short supply during the Covid-19 pandemic, people started questioning whether N95 face masks expire. Are expired face masks (but otherwise untouched) still effective? Surprising results from a peer-reviewed study have led some to question N95 expiration dates.

Do Face Masks Expire? The answer is yes if you’re talking about disposable masks. Disposable face masks will have a best-by date on the packaging, just like food. While this period is likely to be several years away, it is important to use the masks before then to get the best protection.

Reusable face masks are washable and safe to reuse, making them an excellent choice to stock up on. For the best results, wash the masks according to the instructions on the package and hang them to dry.

Do N95 Face Masks Expire? Researchers at the University of North Carolina and the EPA tested brand new and 10-year-old expired 3M N95 face masks. The oldest masks had expired 11 years before the study. And if the expiration lifespan is 5 years, that means the oldest masks were 16 years old.

Importantly, the researchers tested the masks on real people’s faces, rather than manikins. These fit tests are important because they take into account the part that people most suspect would degrade–the straps and other pieces that influence fit.

Fit tests compare the number of particles inside the mask while a person is wearing it versus the number of particles outside the mask. In this study, the average particle size was tiny–0.05 microns.

10-Year-Old Expired N95 Masks as Effective as New Surprisingly, the expired N95 masks were within one percent as effective as the brand-new masks–essentially indistinguishable.

It’s important to note that this was a small study. The researchers tested two different models of expired masks with three masks for each model.

N95 Masks Have Longer Shelf Life Than We Once Thought However, there is other data suggesting that N95 masks last longer than some people have thought. Our longevity tests found less than a 1% decrease in fit effectiveness in pollution masks worn every day for 30 days.

Why Do Masks Have Expiration Dates? Manufacturers mark their masks with expiration dates. For example, 3M says their masks have a 5-year shelf-life when the respirators are stored in their original packing and proper climate conditions (-4F to 86F, not exceeding 80% RH). That leads some to conclude that masks are less effective after this date.

The motivation behind the expiration date is that mask effectiveness depends on having a good fit. Over time, the elastic bands and nose pieces can degrade. If the straps and other structural pieces degrade, the masks will fit less well.

Bottom Line: Do N95 Face Masks Expire? Fit tests found less than a 1% difference in effectiveness between 10-year-old expired N95 masks and brand new masks.

(Ad segment of this article omitted. Feel free to patronize the author's site for HEPA filters and more.)

Study link: jamanetwork.com/journals/jamainternalmedicine/fullarticle/2769443

[zorilleerrant]

Jason was right about the school. Bruce pulled some strings and went on some whole long thing about scholarships. Not to Jason, but he can still see it in the haggard smile on the face of the woman in charge of liaising with all the educational institutions, the way she overemphasizes certain phrases like she’s repeating them word for word.

Not least of all the part where she pushes seventeen brochures into his hands and asks him, with a pained look in her eyes, if he’s thought about college, and work-study programs, and student discounts on all sorts of things. Thin lips biting back the way Bruce obviously wants desperately to pay for it all, as if he isn’t already paying Damian’s tuition out of pocket.

The scholarships are real, this just clearly isn’t one. This is someone paying too close attention to someone who should’ve slipped his view, and now Jason can’t even use his own name anymore. A Jason, sure, there are lots of them, but the one Bruce has gotten so worked up about? Best case, he’ll think Jason’s a plant by some villain who wants to throw him off his game, worst case – worst case he’ll know.

He doesn’t think he can use Peter, either. Not unless he wants to see tears pile up in the corners of Bruce’s eyes while he smiles softly and pretends they aren’t. Not that Jason’s ever gotten entirely used to that one, either, the handful of times he used it.

Fuck, it would all be so much simpler if he really were just some down on his luck single dad, going back to university to learn things he never got a chance to, never having to hide all the things he shouldn’t know. But he’s about as much Greg Cather as the guy who made the fake ID was, if you don’t count the picture. It’s not actually of Jason, but it’s close enough.

Damian can still keep his given name, at least, and Jason can be Baba all he wants, and they have, you know, the things he planned. All the things he planned. They have food, and clothes, and somewhere to stay, and Damian’s going to school soon. Everything but Jason’s rock solid plan to hole up in a safehouse and do who knows what.

Put on a mask and be Robin again. Be Batman, but better. Hell, be a supervillain, maybe, just so long as he got to dress up as someone else for a while, have an excuse to run and jump and climb and stare at the blurry stretch of Gotham under weightless apogee. Drag himself back into the moment when he could fly.

He still has weapons. He just also has Batman’s scrutiny.

There’s something almost as soothing about packing a bookbag for Damian. The bag he had, sturdy canvas dragged all the way from home, and Damian would probably throw a fit if he had to go to school without it, so just as well. Something has to be consistent in the kid’s life. But everything else is from this neat little closet, smelling like artificial flowers over industrial cleaner, someone trying to pretty up another soulless shell. But under that, he can smell the paper scent of brand new notebooks, carboard boxes and plastic discarded to the side.

Everything is new and fresh and unmarred. Jason doesn’t think Damian’s ever used a marble composition book before. He’s used a ballpoint pen, but nothing this cheap, used markers, but never the washable, nontoxic kind. The books are well below his reading level, but he hasn’t studied literature yet, doesn’t know what he’s in for, and Jason finds himself a little jealous. Back to school shopping was always his favorite, just for this, even if the charity bins look a little brighter these days. Bruce’s fault or whatever. At least he’s done something right.

Damian looks skeptical at the neatly packed bag, lighter than he’s used to hauling around, but Jason’s riding his satisfaction high, brushing out the kid’s hair and feeding him breakfast, getting him to his first day of classes on time.

Breakfast is a granola bar and an apple. Jason will go shopping after.

Damian glares at Jason for clutching his hand too tight, but they make it to school without incident, and Jason barely has to juggle pleasantries before he remembers how to sign a form, sign Damian in. Hopefully not consign him to – well, Jason went here, too, and it was bad, some days, and worse others. But Damian is starting sooner, knowing more than he did at that age, and with Jason to back him up if anything goes wrong. So.

So.

“I’ll be fine,” Damian says, with an eyeroll that doesn’t cover the tremble in his lip, but makes Jason smile all the same.

He packed Damian a lunch. It’s not a very good lunch, but it has a note in it, some aphorism he’s already forgotten, just to get the kid through the day.

“I know you will,” Jason tells him, and wonders what he’ll do the whole time Damian’s in classes. Find someplace to hide and watch the school all day, waiting for something to happen? Better at least pretend to look for a job. Better plan how to make his money look legitimate and keep the Bats off his tail.

“Be good for your teacher,” Jason says, because he knows the three people in the office with them expect to hear it, even though he’s never understood exactly what it meant. But it sounds good, fatherly, when he says it, and causes Damian to give him a serious nod.

“I’ll pay attention and take notes,” Damian says, solemnly, with the double meaning Jason can’t break him of, because he’s still convinced they’re undercover somehow. He knows they left, he knows they’re hiding, he knows all the implications of running away, it’s just that Jason can’t explain what that means about their life. What is there to compare it to?

How do you ever explain to a kid that you’ve dragged them into a world they always knew existed but never got a chance to see? How do you teach them to fit in without telling them day after day this isn’t right anymore and that isn’t how we do things and for god’s sake, Jason, you can’t pick fights at school and calm down, it’s just a test.

Damian looks over his shoulder to wave goodbye as the smiling sunshine teacher takes him by the hand, and Jason waves back, fingers stiff as he tries to look casual. It’s easy to be calm in the face of the quotidian. Everything is a test.

[oliullah04]

How to Pick the Perfect Tortoiseshell Sunglasses for Your Face

Tortoiseshell sunglasses have long been a staple in fashion, offering a timeless blend of sophistication and versatility. Their unique patterns and warm hues make them a popular choice for many. However, selecting the perfect pair involves more than just admiring their appearance. It's essential to consider how they complement your face shape to enhance your overall look. In this guide, we'll explore how to choose the ideal tortoiseshell sunglasses tailored to your facial features.

Understanding Tortoiseshell Sunglasses

Tortoiseshell sunglasses are renowned for their distinctive mottled patterns, typically combining shades of amber, brown, and black. This design mimics the natural shell of the hawksbill turtle, though modern versions are crafted from synthetic materials, ensuring both style and sustainability. The rich, earthy tones of tortoiseshell frames add depth and character, making them a versatile accessory that complements various skin tones and outfits.

Beyond aesthetics, tortoiseshell sunglasses offer practical benefits. The patterned frames can subtly mask smudges or scratches, maintaining a polished appearance over time. Additionally, their classic design ensures they remain in vogue, making them a worthwhile investment for any wardrobe.

The Importance of Face Shape in Selecting Sunglasses

Choosing sunglasses that harmonize with your face shape is crucial for achieving a balanced and flattering look. The right pair can accentuate your best features, while an ill-suited choice might detract from your natural beauty. By understanding your face shape, you can select tortoiseshell sunglasses that enhance your appearance and provide optimal comfort.

To determine your face shape, observe the proportions and contours of your face. Consider factors like the width of your forehead, cheeks, and jawline, as well as the length of your face. Once you've identified your face shape, you can explore frame styles that complement your features, ensuring both style and functionality.

Identifying Your Face Shape

Recognizing your face shape is the first step in finding the perfect tortoiseshell sunglasses. Common face shapes include:

Round: Characterized by soft curves and equal width and height, with a rounded jawline.

Square: Marked by a broad forehead, strong jawline, and equal width and height.

Oval: Features balanced proportions with a slightly narrower chin and forehead.

Heart: Distinguished by a wider forehead and cheekbones, tapering to a narrow chin.

Oblong: Longer than it is wide, with a straight cheek line and sometimes a longer nose.

To accurately identify your face shape, stand before a mirror and trace the outline of your face with a washable marker or lipstick. Step back and observe the shape you've drawn to determine which category best describes your face.

Tortoiseshell Sunglasses for Round Faces

If you have a round face, the goal is to add definition and create a slimming effect. Angular frames can provide the necessary contrast to your face's natural curves.

Recommended Frame Styles:

Square or Rectangular Frames: These add structure and lengthen the appearance of your face.

Cat-Eye Frames: The upward sweep can draw attention to your eyes and cheekbones, adding definition.

When selecting tortoiseshell sunglasses, opt for frames with bold patterns and darker hues. This combination can enhance the slimming effect and add a touch of sophistication to your look.

Tortoiseshell Sunglasses for Square Faces

For square face shapes, the aim is to soften strong jawlines and angular features. Rounded or oval frames can introduce gentle curves, balancing the face's proportions.

Recommended Frame Styles:

Round Frames: These contrast with angular features, providing a harmonious balance.

Aviator Frames: Their teardrop shape adds softness and draws attention away from a strong jawline.

Choosing tortoiseshell patterns with lighter tones or gradient designs can further soften your facial features, creating a more balanced and approachable appearance.

Tortoiseshell Sunglasses for Oval Faces

Oval faces are versatile and can accommodate a wide range of frame styles. The key is to maintain the natural balance of your features without overpowering them.

Recommended Frame Styles:

Oversized Frames: These can add a fashionable flair without overwhelming your face.

Geometric Frames: Shapes like squares or rectangles can provide a striking contrast to your balanced features.

When selecting tortoiseshell sunglasses, consider frames that align with your personal style, as your face shape can handle both bold and subtle designs with ease.

Tortoiseshell Sunglasses for Heart-Shaped Faces

Heart-shaped faces benefit from frames that balance a wider forehead and a narrower chin. The goal is to draw attention downward, adding width to the lower part of the face.

Recommended Frame Styles:

Bottom-Heavy Frames: Designs that are wider at the bottom can add fullness around the chin area.

Light-Colored Frames: Lighter shades can minimize the width of the forehead, creating a harmonious look.

Tortoiseshell patterns with a mix of light and dark tones can be particularly flattering, as they draw attention to the eyes and cheekbones while balancing the overall facial proportions.

Tortoiseshell Sunglasses for Oblong Faces

For oblong face shapes, the objective is to shorten the length of the face and add width. Deep frames with decorative or contrasting temples can achieve this effect.

Recommended Frame Styles:

Oversized Frames: Large frames can make the face appear shorter and more balanced.

Wraparound Frames: These add width and break up the length of the face.

Selecting tortoiseshell sunglasses with bold, horizontal patterns can also contribute to a balanced appearance, drawing the eye across the face rather than down its length.

Considering Skin Tone and Tortoiseshell Variations

While face shape plays a significant role, your skin tone is another essential factor in selecting the perfect tortoiseshell sunglasses. The right color palette can enhance your natural complexion and overall look.

Skin Tone Categories:

Warm Skin Tones: Typically have yellow, golden, or peachy undertones. Earthy tortoiseshell shades with golden or honey hues complement warm skin tones beautifully.

Cool Skin Tones: Characterized by pink, red, or bluish undertones. Tortoiseshell patterns with cooler shades, such as ashy browns or even hints of blue, can be flattering.

Experimenting with different tortoiseshell variations allows you to find a pattern that enhances both your facial features and skin tone, ensuring a cohesive and stylish appearance.

Balancing Style and Functionality

While aesthetics are important, the functionality of your tortoiseshell sunglasses should not be overlooked. Consider factors such as UV protection, lens quality, and frame durability.

Key Considerations:

UV Protection: Ensure the lenses offer 100% UVA and UVB protection to safeguard your eyes from harmful rays.

Lens Material: Options like polarized lenses can reduce glare, enhancing visual comfort, especially in bright conditions.

Frame Material: High-quality materials like acetate not only enhance durability but also provide a comfortable fit.

Brands like Bullion Eyewear prioritize both style and functionality, offering a range of tortoiseshell sunglasses that cater to diverse preferences and needs.

Conclusion

Finding the perfect tortoiseshell sunglasses for your face is all about balancing style, functionality, and personal preference. By understanding your face shape and selecting frames that enhance your features, you can achieve a flattering and sophisticated look. Whether you have a round, square, oval, heart-shaped, or oblong face, there’s a tortoiseshell design that complements your natural beauty. Beyond aesthetics, consider factors like UV protection, lens quality, and frame durability to ensure your sunglasses are both stylish and practical. With the right pair, you’ll not only elevate your fashion game but also enjoy long-lasting comfort and eye protection. So, take your time exploring different styles, try on a few options, and invest in tortoiseshell sunglasses that truly make you look and feel your best.

[danielleyongbokxlbeauty]

Lixie are the stray kids still working on my letters i asked for from you about what they like about me the most and how are they actively working through their thoughtful emotions over me about? How long will it take to get them? I am still looking forward to 8 binded letters in the mail for Christmas gathering love over me. Everyday is an aboulutely gift with all of you in my tribe of creative. I know it's hard to see your own self worthy but it takes time. You really gotta self love your way into my heart. It truely is our favorite past time as a group together. Showing our self's raw and doing beauty care. So take the personal space always for self care until u feel like you can add me to that space like i so welcomely add you to my self care rituals. Sighs I miss using my Grey charcoal products. Thanks for the reminder to take care of my skin. I love you guys for that always.

Me in midway wash through my 4-5 step self care ritual. It would have more products if i didn't have the holy grail products from sephora already. Lol when Lixie saw this he actually asked what i had on face and I told him a washable charcoal mask that basically keeps all ache away. Then I use a charcoal to wash off cleanser too. Some of the little big things yall helped me through to get to my best self. Unintentionally but with great purpose to help me heal from alot of other emotions.

And if I didn't forgive you 8 for whatever reason, it was why would I be any different than a scum on this planet? So yes, I forgive you guys always.

[extratouch]

Experience Unmatched Comfort with the Mavogel Sleep Mask

The Mavogel Sleep Mask is designed to enhance your sleep experience by blocking out light and providing a comfortable fit. This innovative sleep accessory has gained popularity among travelers, shift workers, and anyone seeking a peaceful night’s rest. With its unique features and thoughtful design, the Mavogel Sleep Mask stands out in the crowded market of sleep masks.

Superior Comfort and Fit

The Mavogel Sleep Mask is crafted from ultra-soft, breathable materials that gently conform to your face, providing a comfortable and secure fit. Its adjustable strap ensures that it stays in place throughout the night without causing any discomfort or pressure on your eyes.

Total Darkness for Better Sleep

One of the standout features of the Mavogel Sleep Mask is its ability to block out light completely. The unique design includes a patented bending cartilage that fits snugly around your nose and eyes, eliminating any gaps and ensuring complete darkness. This feature is essential for those who are sensitive to light or need to sleep during the day.

Ideal for Travel and Home Use

Whether you’re at home or on the go, the Mavogel Sleep Mask is your perfect sleep companion. Its lightweight and compact design make it easy to carry in your bag or luggage, so you can enjoy a good night’s sleep no matter where you are.

Benefits of the Mavogel Sleep Mask

Blocks Out Light Completely: Ensures total darkness for uninterrupted sleep.

Adjustable Strap: Customizable fit for all head sizes without causing discomfort.

Soft and Breathable Material: Provides ultimate comfort and prevents overheating.

Perfect for Travel: Lightweight and portable for easy packing.

Promotes Better Sleep: Helps improve sleep quality and duration.

Why Choose the Mavogel Sleep Mask?

Investing in the Mavogel Sleep Mask is investing in your health and well-being. Poor sleep can affect your mood, productivity, and overall health. With the Mavogel Sleep Mask, you can create an ideal sleep environment, ensuring you get the rest you need to perform at your best.

Customer Testimonials

Sarah L. — “The Mavogel Sleep Mask has completely transformed my sleep. I no longer wake up in the middle of the night because of light coming through my window. It’s incredibly comfortable and easy to adjust.”

Mark D. — “I travel a lot for work, and the Mavogel Sleep Mask is a lifesaver. It blocks out all the light and helps me fall asleep quickly, even on long flights.”

How to Care for Your Mavogel Sleep Mask

Maintaining your Mavogel Sleep Mask is simple. It’s machine washable, so you can keep it clean and fresh with minimal effort. Just remember to use a gentle cycle and air dry to preserve its quality and durability.

Get Your Mavogel Sleep Mask Today

Don’t compromise on your sleep quality. Experience the comfort and effectiveness of the Mavogel Sleep Mask for yourself. Order now and start enjoying deeper, more restful sleep.

Conclusion:

In summary, the Mavogel Sleep Mask combines functionality with comfort through its innovative design features such as light-blocking technology, adjustable fit, and breathable materials. Whether you’re looking for better sleep at home or need a reliable travel companion for restful journeys, this mask offers an effective solution tailored to meet diverse needs.

[weavewondersfabricfashion]

Add Whimsy to Your Projects with Happy Circle Hearts Bunnies Digital Print Fabric

This delightful fabric combines whimsical elements with a vibrant design, making it a perfect choice for adding a sprinkle of joy to any creation. Whether you're working on apparel, this fabric will surely elevate your projects with its enchanting patterns and cheerful motifs.

Happy Circle Hearts Bunnies Digital Print Fabric is versatile and can be used

Children's Clothing: The adorable bunny patterns and cheerful hearts make this fabric an ideal choice for creating fun and comfortable clothes for kids. From playful dresses and shirts to cozy pajamas, the whimsical design will bring a smile to any child's face.

Accessories: Use this fabric to create unique accessories such as tote bags, headbands, or even face masks. The eye-catching design will make your accessories stand out and add a fun twist to everyday items.

To get the best results from Happy Circle Hearts Bunnies Digital Print Fabric:

Ensure your sewing machine is equipped to handle digital print fabrics. A universal needle is recommended, but if you find the fabric a bit thick, a needle designed for heavier materials might be necessary.

For high-quality cotton or polyester thread to complement the fabric. This will ensure that your stitches are strong and durable, enhancing the longevity of your project.

Pre-Washing: Always pre-wash your fabric before starting any project. This helps prevent any potential shrinking and removes any finishing chemicals that might affect the fabric's feel and appearance.

Happy Circle Hearts Bunnies Digital Print Fabric offers numerous benefits that make it a fantastic choice for your creative endeavors

Unique Design: The combination of circles, hearts, and bunnies creates a whimsical and eye-catching design that stands out. It’s perfect for projects that need a touch of fun and individuality.

High-Quality Print: The digital printing process ensures vibrant colors and detailed patterns that won’t easily fade or peel. This high-resolution print will keep your projects looking fresh and beautiful.

Versatility: This fabric’s playful design and quality make it suitable for a wide range of uses, from clothing and accessories to home décor. Its versatility allows you to experiment and create with confidence.

Durability: Despite its delicate appearance, this fabric is designed to be durable and withstand regular wear and washing. You can be assured that your creations will hold up well over time.

Easy Care: The fabric is easy to care for, usually machine washable, and can be ironed without issue. This convenience ensures that your projects remain in excellent condition with minimal effort.

[hinumdom]

life update

happy father's day to all the biological and non-biological dads out there

uniqlo had a sale recently and i kinda splurged on clothes a little bit (oops)

finally found a super duper nice and soft cotton mask; it's reusable/washable, breathable, and adjustable! since synthetic or surgical mask tends to give my face micro abrasion which further irritates my acne, i really took my time finding the best face mask

discovered zus coffee and tried their velvet cream latte; what's pretty interesting about their drinks is that you can choose your beans between boss (the chocolatey type) and lydia (the nutty type); also, their straw is edible! it's plant-based (rice) and turtle-friendly!

tried nanyang's traditional honey toast for the first time and wow, it tastes like heaven; it's lightweight on your tastebuds but fulfilling

been reducing my sugar and dairy intake not just to aid on my goal to lose some weight but also to make my skin look better (especially my acne); sugar and dairy are not directly related to acne but studies show that on observation, people who eats a lot of sugary and dairy food tend to have the most acne or get acne breakouts frequently

update on my acne journey: my oral antibiotics got extended to another two weeks; i'm also planning to start on isotretinoin but i have to undergo some lab tests first and finish on my antibiotics

SEVENTEEN is gonna perform on weverse concert today! fortunately, there's an online streaming so i can watch it at home

[aliciainbagland]

Check out this listing I just added to my Poshmark closet: KIDS 3-Layered Face Mask USA PLAID BOY Blue.

[covid-safer-hotties]

Hi! Sorry if this is a dumb question, but what do you know about reusable covid-safe masks? I've never stopped wearing the fabric masks, but I'd like to step up my protection. I'm also just worried about all the trash single-use masks will produce -- I want to be environmentally responsible too -- but a lot of mask resources don't seem to specify much on reusability/washability. I'd be really grateful for anything you can send my way.

First off, reusable filters don't offer enough protection. You need at least n95 rated material, and washing it breaks it down and removes its electrostatic charge, rendering it less protective. There's no 100% earthy-crunchy green way to give yourself adequate covid protection. What elastomeric masks do, however, is reduce the amount of waste in reducing filter size. This also brings the cost of filters down in most cases. Some companies exist that recycle masks too, but I only have links Canadian examples and I don't know where you are.

There's a lot of elastomeric masks out there. 3M has over 3 dozen n95 or p100 models to choose from. There's even forced-air options if you wanna go for the absolute best protection, but in all but the highest risk and research covid scenarios, it's major overkill.

Because I don't know you or your measurements, I can't tell you what mask will 100% fit you. Personally, my everyday wear is a big-nose model Flo Mask, and for high risk scenarios, I break out my MSA Advantage 300. There's dozens of models and levels of protection out there ranging from full face, forced air respirators to the thong-like B99 B2 that only barely covers my mouth and nose. The zero covid reddit might be a great place to ask people for recommendations based upon your concerns with fitting an elastomeric to your specific face type: low/high bridge, shallow/chubby cheeks, and chin size all impact which elastomeric is likely to get and keep a good seal in use. You might have to buy 2 or 3 before you find *the one* is a problem you may encounter, but of all the elastomerics I've seen, Flo Mask has the best general fit and would be a good starting point.

Basically, even disposable masks will prevent you using even more resources and plastics and such by keeping you healthy and out of the hospital. Someone who uses and throws away 2 or 4 masks every couple weeks (depending on your specific needs, could be a little more if you like sweat at work a lot or something) is far less impact than a ICU stay for covid. Also, you could help prevent covid *and* offset everyone's mask waste by eliminating Taylor Swift since she flies two private jets to all her events which spread more covid than any other superspreader event. (For legal reasons, I am joking)

[eatingtherich-amenu]

Reuse, Repurpose, Recycle

Buying nothing is the best way to avoid sharing your hard earned cash with the mega rich but avoiding single use or new items and reusing what you already have are a great second.

The amount of waste generated by humanity represents a growing threat to our ecosystems and economies. The output of solid waste has grown from 25 gigatons (yes, that’s 25 billion tons) in 1990 to 86 gigatons in 2020 – and a projected 140 gigatons by 2050.

This expansion exceeds population growth, and is the result of a disposable-goods system that combines short-term use and long-term environmental harm. Half of all plastic production is for single-use items. To get a sense of how ephemeral a “single use” can be, consider that the average working life of a disposable plastic shopping bag is just 15 minutes and Australian’s throw away an estimated 10 million plastic straws a day.

Source: https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2021/07/reusing-plastic-waste-pollution-economy-value/

Honestly, the idea that we call something that lasts for hundreds or thousands of years ‘single use’ and have been conditioned to use it once and throw it away is actually bonkers when you consider it. 

These plastic plates and flimsy plastic toys will outlast me, my kids and their kids and yet we use and throw them ‘away’ (there is no ‘away’) with never a thought. What a crazy marketing trick we’ve fallen for as a species!

So how to prevent buying these damaging and wasteful items over and over? Buy reusable and repurpose your current items:

Beeswax

Instead of buying endless rolls of plastic wrap, opt for beeswax wraps instead.

Silicone food covers and lids

When it comes to sustainability, silicone is a bit of a grey area. But when it's a choice between reusable silicone food covers and single-use plastic wrap, it's a step in the right direction.

Paper or metal straws

Aussies throw away an estimated 10 million plastic straws a day. A DAY.

Paper bags

While it has become commonplace to wrap loaves of bread in plastic bags, paper packaging is becoming an increasingly popular and easy-to-find option.

Toothpaste tablets

Forget folding up your toothpaste tube to try and squeeze out every last bit of toothpaste; toothpaste tablets are the latest eco alternative.

Bamboo toothbrushes 

While you’re at it, you may as well ditch the plastic toothbrush and opt for a bamboo brush instead.

Eco-friendly toilet paper

Be kind to the planet and never run out of toilet paper again.

Glass soap and detergent bottles

Many supermarkets, including IGA, now offer refill-and-go glass bottles for dishwashing detergent, handwash and even hand sanitiser.

Boxed washing powder

Skip the liquid cleaning agents in plastic bottles and load up on boxed washing powders instead.

Cotton tote bags

According to Sustainability Victoria, Australians use around 10 million plastic bags every day.

Glass or metal containers

Give single-use plastic bags and containers the flick and opt for recyclable materials instead.

Reusable coffee cups

It’s estimated that Aussies throw away 2.7 million disposable coffee cups every single day.

Washable bamboo nappies

According to Sustainability Victoria, a whopping 3.75 million disposable nappies are used each day in Australia and New Zealand.

Fabric face masks

We see them strewn on the streets and flowing from rubbish bins, but face masks are part of life in a new COVID-normal world.

Reusable drink bottles

A million plastic bottles are bought around the world every minute, according to a study by The Guardian.

Microfibre cloths

As well as harbouring bacteria and germs, plastic kitchen sponges are another environmental enemy.

Soap bars

Hair-care products have taken some inspiration for their soapy cousins, with some mane players going back to basics and offering their formulas in bar form.

Recycled paper or bamboo plates and Bamboo cutlery

Why stop with serveware when you can ditch the plastic cutlery, too.

Paper cups

Whether it's for the office water cooler or your kid's 21st birthday party, there' are plenty of sustainable alternatives to single-use plastic cups.

Buy your meat or cheese from the deli and ask to use your own container.

Pre-packaged meat and cheese is usually sold in plastic or styrofoam trays, but if you buy direct from the deli butcher, you can bring your own container to transport your goodies.

Source: https://www.racv.com.au/royalauto/sustainability/sustainable-living/reduce-plastic-waste.html

Source: https://www.australianethical.com.au/blog/22-tips-for-going-plastic-free/ 

Finally, these issues aren’t able to be fixed at a personal level, they originate from large corporations mass producing plastic. Search out petitions and protests, lean on your local council and government members and support initiatives to ban plastics.

Your future depends on it.

[phyllis188326]

Check out this listing I just added to my Poshmark closet: NEW TORY BURCH BEST COLLECTION BLACK RHINESTONES FACE MASK UNISEX.

[stuffdiscount]

Check out this listing I just added to my Poshmark closet: Adult Face Mask Stone Style -OPEN TO BEST OFFER.

[aliciainbagland]

Check out this listing I just added to my Poshmark closet: KIDS 3-Layered Face Mask USA PLAID BOY Blue.

[aliciainbagland]

Check out this listing I just added to my Poshmark closet: KIDS 3-Layered Face Mask USA PLAID BOY Blue.