Plastic is hidden in many of the products we use daily. Once we have identified them, it is easier to look for plastic-free alternatives so we limit our exposure to the chemicals used to make plastic and the micro-plastics released when the products "decompose".

1. Chewing Gum

Prefer natural alternatives such as licorice, sunflower seeds, pistachios, parsley or shopped vegetables. Carrots from the farmers' market are my favorite. More and more brands are now offering natural and plastic free chewing gum, including plastic free packaging.

2. Bandaid

The brand Patch offers biodegradable natural adhesive bandage strips. For small cuts, a clean piece of fabric - like cotton - will do the job. Also, honey in thin layer on a superficial wound will help thanks to its antibacterial and antiseptic properties.

3. Sea Salt

With 90% of table salts containing microplastics, this one is a difficult one. Without eliminating the problem of plastic at its source we will continue to breathe, drink and eat microplastics. 

4. Tea bags

The best alternative to tea bags is to use loose tea leaves in a tea infuser or a washable and reusable tea bags.

5. Clothing

Check the label of the clothes you buy and prefer natural fiber such as cotton, linen, wool or silk. Buying second hand is a great way to help reduce waste, including plastic waste. Since clothing made with synthetic fabric releases microplastics each time we wash them, make sure to throw them in the washer only when necessary. In short, choose better, reuse and wash less.

6. Nail Polish

There is no nail polish that is free from plastic. However, always prefer a non-toxic nail polish with a minimum of harsh chemicals.

7. Water

Bottled water contains more microplastics than tap water so switch to a reusabale water bottle and filter your water if needed. Our activated charcoal filters will eliminate lead, mercury, copper, aluminum, uranium, molybdenum - and imparts good minerals such as calcium, potassium, magnesium and phosphates. It also takes off water's bad tasting.

8. Cigarette butts

Well, smoking is bad for you. So, quit smoking! If you do smoke, please dispose of your cigarette butts responsibly.

9. Glitter

To my knowledge, there is no real biodegradable glitter on the market yet, limit its use as much as possible.

10. Paper cups and food cans

Transition to reusable tumblers, jars and containers for your food. Ask your favorite coffee shop, baker and deli shop if they accept your reusable containers. You'll be surprised by the number of businesses accepting your request! The more we are, the sooner it will become the norm! 

11. Face masks

Face masks help us protect against the Covid-19 virus and many others, their disposable form might be the only one accepted in many places such as medical offices, hospitals or planes. They can not be recycled and must be disposed in the trash can. Whenever possible, use a reusable face mask that can be washed and reused.

12. Receipts

Refuse the paper receipts and opt for text or email receipts if you need them.

13. Wet Wipes

Use cotton or natural fabric wipes that you can wash and reuse. Place them in a container with a 

14. Menstrual products

Give a try to a menstrual cup and washable pads.

Did you know about those hidden plastics? Which one(s) come as a shock? Comment below.