23 of the Coolest Ways to Reduce Single-Use Plastic in 2023

sustainable productssustainable products

Have you been giving single-use plastic the side eye lately? Us, too. The ubiquitous material has found its way into our landfills and oceans, and it's more important now than ever to slow it down. Luckily, more and more brands have become aware of the issue and are not only developing eco-friendly solutions, but are creating products that are modern and, dare we say, straight up cool. We've rounded up the best products that let you keep doin' you, while also doing some serious good for the planet.

Grove Glass Room Spray Bottle & Essential Oil Set

Grove Glass Room Spray Bottle & Essential Oil Set ($24)

Keep your home smelling fresher than ever with Grove Collective's glass room spray bottle and refills, which come in scents like eucalyptus, lemon, and more. Using glass bottles eliminates the need for single-use plastic, and are great receptacles for product refills.

HiBAR Volumize Shampoo and Conditioner Set ($27)

Ditch plastic bottles and suds-up your hair with this volumizing bar duo (there's a moisturizing version, too). The fact that these sustainable soap bars are easy to hold earns this product extra points. Skeptical? HiBAR has an average of 4.95-star reviews. When you run out, just refill – there's nothing to throw away or waste here.

Parachute Wool Dryer Balls ($19)

A great alternative to one-use dryer sheets, these round woolen balls soften clothes, reduce drying time, and each one lasts 1,000 loads. Just toss these babies in with your laundry, and notice the difference in feel.

bkr Spiked Sawyer Water Bottle ($42)

It's blue, it's edgy, and it's made of silicone and glass...what's not to love about this water bottle? No more disposable plastic in your future – only fun (and environmentally-friendly!) water bottle bliss.

Uncommon Goods Reusable Travel Flatware ($18)

These easy-to-use utensils fit together to make on-the-go dining easier (and more eco-friendly) than ever. They conveniently fold up into a sanitary carrier that you can toss in your purse or backpack before you leave the house. Keep an extra pair with you at all times for extra points.

Rosebud Perfume Co. Smith's Strawberry Lip Balm Tin ($7)

That's right, this cult-favorite lip balm has been eco-friendly all along thanks to never giving up on its tin packaging. When you run out of this sweet salve, DIY your own formula to fill up the empty tin.

Eco Roots Safety Razor ($40)

Disposable razors are a thing of the past. Plus, they never worked that well, anyways. Elevate your shaving game with this rose gold safety razor that guarantees a smooth swipe.

Dropps Dish Detergent Pods ($25)

We know what you're thinking: "Wait, isn't that plastic?" The answer: nope! Dropps dishwasher pods are made of dissolvable plant enzymes, and clean your dishes, toxin-free.

The MakeUp Eraser Cheetah Print ($20)

The Makeup Eraser has changed the take-the-day-off game. Say goodbye to your disposable makeup wipes! It can even remove waterproof mascara – just add water to the microfiber cloth. One cloth will see a lot of beauty trends come and go, because it lasts three to five years. It's machine-washable so you can keep things bacteria-free.

Myro Start Kit ($25)

You might not think of your deodorant being bad for the planet. Myro has given it a lot of thought for us! Its smart design reduces waste by keeping the same case forever, allowing you to refill the balm as you need it (and recycling it once you're done).

Stasher Reusable Silicone Starter Kit ($94)

When was the last time your snack bag stood up on its own? Or wasn't thrown in the trash later? These made-to-last bags double as pantry storage and on-the-go munchie containers. They are easy to hand-wash with regular dish soap and last a long time. Plastic ziplocs, who?

Static Nails Reusable Pop-On Manicures ($18)

A manicure that lasts and lasts and lasts is every beauty lover's dream. Static Nails invented just that, with reusable pop-on nails that come in fashion-forward shades and shapes. Don a solid mani or stripes on your nails for a chic look that you know is sustainable.

Euro Cuisine Greek-Style Yogurt Strainer ($26)

Ever since China has stopped accepting America's plastic, most yogurt containers made their way to landfills instead of recycling centers. The solution? Make your own yogurt with this all-in-one maker, strainer, and container.

The Outset Gentle Micellar Antioxidant Cleanser Refill ($38)

Next time you're out of face cleanser, reach for a refill set to reduce waste. This formula prioritizes skin-friendly antioxidants for better skin and a better planet.

Package Free Tea Tree Charcoal Facial Bar Soap ($12)

Get the benefits of pore-clearing charcoal and acne-fighting tea tree oil with this package-free facial bar soap. The Package Free brand has a wide range of sustainable products that make it easy to swap with less favorable plastic materials.

Blueland The Clean Essentials ($35, was $56)

Blueland has completely rethought home cleaning and care. Never throw out another multi-purpose cleaner or hand soap bottle again — instead, purchase these unbreakable glass bottles and refill them with dissolvable pods that cost just $2 a pop (with packaging that's recyclable and compostable).

SOSHE Ceramide Refillable Lipstick ($26)

Rock a sustainable shade using this refillable lipstick tube! Now you don't have to buy brand-new beauty packaging every time you run out of your favorite lipstick.

Standard Baggu ($14)

This reusable bag is the perfect carry-all for farmer's markets, and makes for a totally on-point vacation bag. The design comes in dozens of different patterns, three sizes to suit your needs, and can be folded and compacted down to fit inside an easy-to-pack pocket. All hot and sustainable girls have a Baggu.

Saalt Menstrual Cup ($29)

Every month, we throw out almost a handful of used tampons and pads. Notice how we said almost? Break the, er, cycle (heheh) and opt for a reusable menstrual cup that safely and effectively collects your flow, month after month. Not only is this pick better for the planet, it's better for your wallet, too. Investing in it up-front makes for less payments for feminine products down the line.

Thinx Super Hiphugger ($35)

Not into menstrual cups, or prefer to have backup on your period? Add Thinx underwear to your top drawer. These undies are designed to absorb your flow without making you feel wet (yes, really). They are available in different levels of absorbency, so your needs are perfectly met.

Almond Cow The Milk Maker ($245)

Before, making your own plant-based milk felt like an ambitious task. Almond Cow has made it simpler than ever with its all-in-one making machine, where you can use any nut or grain as your milk base.

Pattern Standard Straws ($8)

Straws haven't been this fun since we blew bubbles in our milk as kids. These silicone versions come in a rainbow of colors and their own case for easy travel. Bonus: they're temperature proof, so bring on the hot chocolate.

SOSHE G.L.A.M. Refillable Mascara ($28)

Feel better about swiping on your mascara in the morning, thanks to this refillable tube. The fact that this formula is gorgeous and sustainable definitely catches our eyes.

Do you have any tried-and-true sustainable products? Let us know @BritandCo and make sure to check out our Sustainability page for more inspo!

This post has been updated.

I love hosting and making my guests feel at home. And living in a tourist destination (Sonoma wine country) means I get a lot of them — especially as the weather warms up. Over time, I’ve learned that creating a warm, welcoming space doesn’t have to mean stress or all-day prep. Guests only seem to notice a few key things, not whether you color-coded your bookshelf or spring cleaned your closets. Whether it’s a casual dinner party or an overnight stay, these simple steps make a big difference before guests arrive.

Here are six things you should always do before guests arrive.

Askar Abayev

Do a Quick Clutter Sweep

You don’t need to deep-clean — just focus on visible clutter. Clear off countertops, coffee tables, and entryways. Short on time? Just toss items into a basket and tuck them away in a closet.

Anna Shvets

Light a Candle Or Diffuse A Favorite Scent

Set the mood with a seasonal or favorite scent, like vanilla, amber, or something citrusy. It instantly makes your space feel warm and inviting. I like to put one in the guest bathroom too for a little surprise.

Have a little time? You can also simmer citrus and your favorite herbs on the stove.

You’ll Need:

  • Citrus slices like oranges, lemons, or limes
  • A few sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme (optional)
  • 1–2 cinnamon sticks or whole cloves
  • A splash of vanilla extract

Steps:

  1. Slice your citrus thinly. Try a mix of orange and lemon for a bright, balanced scent.
  2. Fill a pot with water, about ¾ full.
  3. Add your ingredients to the water.
  4. Bring to a simmer over low heat. As the mixture warms, the scent will start to fill your space. (Keep an eye on the water level, and add more as it evaporates.)

Kaboompics.com

Prep the Bathroom

Nothing makes guests feel more "ick" than a dirty or messy bathroom so prioritize this space. Wipe down the sink and toilet, put out a fresh hand towel, and make sure there’s enough toilet paper.

taylor hernandez on Unsplash

Set the Mood with Music or Lighting

I make sure to switch off all the overheads (not a fan of this harsh lighting) and turn on table lamps for a cozy vibe. Then cue up a Spotify "dinner party" playlist that matches the energy — something mellow and upbeat is usually a safe bet.

Photo by Tatiana Syrikova

Add Thoughtful Touches

A long-distance friend of mine would always leave me a basket of toiletries for my overnight stays and it's something I always remember fondly. On their bedside table, you can leave them a pitcher of water, their favorite snacks, flowers or herbs, and/or a book or magazine. Little details make people feel instantly loved.

Shutterstock

Take the Garbage Out

Nothing ruins the party vibe like a smelly garbage can. Empty it before anyone arrives, and consider adding a fresh liner with a drop of essential oil or baking soda to keep things smelling fresh and clean.

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As 1923 comes to a close, you might be wondering, What should I watch after 1923? Well you've come to right place because on the latest episode of Yap City, Brit + Co hosts Kayla and Chloe (that's me!) chat about the best Western TV shows to add to your watchlist. From When Calls The Heart for romance fans to Billy the Kid for Tom Blyth lovers, these shows can't be missed.

Here are the best Western shows to watch after you finish 1923 season 2.

What should I watch after 1923?

There are plenty of TV shows any 1923 fan will love (beyond 1883 and Yellowstone of course!)

5 TV Shows To Watch After You Finish '1923' Season 2

Emerson Miller/Paramount+

Landman — Stream on Paramount+

In this Taylor Sheridan show, crisis executive Tommy Norris is fighting to secure his company's spot in the oil business during a fuel boom. Easier said than done. 1923 fans, keep your eyes peeled for Michelle Randolph!

Landman is on Paramount+ and stars Billy Bob Thornton, Ali Larter, Michelle Randolph, Jacob Lofland, Kayla Wallace, James Jordan, Mark Collie, Paulina Chávez, Demi Moore, Jon Hamm, Andy Garcia, and Michael Peña.

Prime Video

Outer Range — Stream on Prime Video

If you like your Westerns with a side of sci-fi, tune into Outer Range. This show follows the Abbott family, who are trying to protect their ranch while also reconciling their daughter-in-law's disappearance. But things get even crazier when a black void appears.

Outer Range is on Prime Video and stars Josh Brolin, Lili Taylor, Noah Reid, and Imogen Poots.

Hallmark Media

When Calls the Heart — Stream on Hallmark+

1923 fans who can't get enough of Spencer & Alex's romance will want to watch When Calls the Heart, which follows teacher Elizabeth Thatcher as she relocates to the small town of Coal Valley, and faces all kinds of love, loss, and adventure.

When Calls the Heart is on Hallmark+ and stars Erin Krakow, Kevin McGarry, Pascale Hutton, Jaeda Lily Miller, Kavan Smith, Andrea Brooks, Chris McNally, Martin Cummins, Viv Leacock, and Jack Wagner.

David Brown/MGM+

Billy The Kid — Stream on MGM+

Before he became the infamous outlaw, Billy was just a kid who experienced all kinds of heartbreak, fell in love, and got into plenty of trouble. Watch our interview with star Tom Blyth!

Stream Billy The Kid on MGM+ and see Tom Blyth, Eileen O'Higgins, Daniel Webber, and Alex Roe.

Ursula Coyote/Netflix

Godless — Stream on Netflix

Godless is the perfect show for 1923 fans because it reorients the cowboy narrative we're all familiar with. It follows a supposed traitor named Roy who's chased by a gang of outlaws to La Belle, a town nearly entirely governed by women after a mining accident killed almost all the husbands, fathers, and brothers.

Godless is on Netflix and stars Jack O'Connell, Michelle Dockery, Scoot McNairy, Merritt Wever, and Thomas Brodie-Sangster.

Will there be another series after 1923?

Paramount

There are a few more Yellowstone spinoffs on their way! In addition to the new show The Madison with Michelle Pfeiffer, it looks like we're also getting a spinoff about Beth Dutton and Rip Wheeler.

What order to watch Yellowstone 1883 and 1923?

Emerson Miller/Paramount+

If you're new to the Yellowstone universe, you can watch the shows in chronological order or in release order, depending on how you want to experience the story. If you want to watch chronologically (my personal favorite), watch the shows in the following order:

  • 1883
  • 1923
  • Yellowstone

But if you want to watch in release order, watch this way:

  • Yellowstone
  • 1883
  • 1923

Check out even more Western show recommendations with our 17 TV Shows For Yellowstone Fans!

Targetis always full of fun surprises, and their current lineup of under-$15 finds is seriously stunning. From chic home decor pieces to trendy fashion picks and affordable beauty essentials, these budget-friendly hidden gems prove you really don’t have to spend big to give your space, wardrobe, or daily routine a lil’ refresh. If you love a good deal (same here!), get ready to add some of these affordable must-haves from Target to your cart.

Scroll on to discover the 12 best new finds from Target this month – all under $15!

Target

eos Shea Better Vanilla Cashmere Body Wash

The internet's favorite body lotion scent is now available in a dreamy body wash format! With standout notes of vanilla and cashmere and a creamy concoction of shea butter, cocoa butter, and argan butter to keep your skin feelin' nourished as ever, this $10 bottle is a shower must-have.

Target

Wet Brush x LoveShackFancy Mini Shine Detangling Hair Brush

Swarmed in LoveShackFancy’s signature floral prints, this $10 mini brush is the perfect piece to keep in your purse for on-the-go touch-ups. The collection, shoppable at Target, also includes everything from regular-sized brushes to hair curling sets and cute claw clips!

Target

Versed Shade Swipe Blush Stick

Versed's new makeup collection has been living in our heads rent-free, especially because we love their skincare goodies so much. Of course, they whipped up a wonderfully smooth $15 blush stick to add to the glow. The lightweight formula is super easy to build up depending on your mood, plus each stick is packed full of jojoba seed oil and fatty acids to help hydrate your complexion!

Target

Chobani Birthday Cake Dairy Creamer

Moving onto the grocery aisle, this brand-new creamer flavor from Chobani is sure to infuse your mornings with utter joy. Aside from the cheery packaging, this $5 birthday cake-flavored coffee creamer adds some really nice sweetness, whether you splash some into a mug of hot coffee or add a bit to your iced lattes. It's a limited-edition flavor, so make sure to try it before it's gone from shelves!

Target

Threshold Checker Stoneware Planter Pot

We're huge suckers for anything checkered. This $15 planter is such a cutie, add will most certainly bring some major springtime energy to your windowsill, bookshelf, or dining room table!

Target

Room Essentials Portable Mushroom Lamp

Two words: mushroom lamp. Yep – Target's selling this baby for just $14 (was $20), and the best part is that it's cordless, so you can move it around your space as you please for a trendy home decor touch.

Target

Wild Fable ButterBliss Tube Top

When it comes to spring basics, tube tops should be at the top of your list. They're easy to put on and even easier to wear, plus this solid black number makes putting together a comfy outfit unbelievably seamless! You can snag this top for just $6 (was $8), along with three more solid shades that fit the season.

Target

Threshold Easter Ceramic Flower Candle Holders

Oh, it's giving Anthro vibes, for sure. This $15 pair of flower-shaped candle holders will add some cheer and color to your springtime table spreads, and what's more is they're also perfect for sunny Easter celebrations!

Target

Good Molecules Hyaluronic Acid Serum

For a nice boost in hydration, hyaluronic acid is where it's at. This $12 bottle from Good Molecules truly packs a punch and boosts the performance of your traditional moisturizer!

Target

Wild Fable Asymmetrical Tank Top

This ever-so-trendy tank top boasts an asymmetrical cinched hem for a fun touch. Right now, it's on sale for just $8 (was $12)! It also comes in pink, green, and blue if you're seeking a bright pop of color.

Target

Room Essentials Lumbar Puffy Bread Pillow

We're seeing this puffy pattern everywhere these days, from bags to jackets. Target put it on an adorable little pillow, and we're obsessed! Snag this $7 cutie for an inexpensive living room or bedroom upgrade.

Target

Room Essentials Bud Vase Duo

Two vases for just $10?! Count us in. These playful designs work well together, though you could easily disperse them throughout your home to host all the blooms of spring!

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Gingham dresses are one of our most-anticipated spring dress trends, and we’ve been on the hunt for the perfect pieces ever since they came back on the scene. Charming and nostalgic, gingham maxi dresses in particular are so stunning for springtime. They offer the playfulness of the classic pattern plus plenty of coverage so you can easily navigate the everyday. After searching high and low, we’re bringing you the 9 of the sweetest gingham maxi dresses from our go-to retailers!

Scroll on to shop the cutest gingham maxi dresses for spring!

Nordstrom

Princess Polly Cartmel Gingham Check Maxi Dress

This prairie-inspired dress is so sweet. It's got plenty of coverage, though the upper half fitted with a square neckline leans more femme and flirty. The flowy skirt just barely grazes the floor, enhancing the breeziness of the design! Plus, we adore that the gingham is a bit bulkier, as opposed to more micro patterns.

Reformation

Reformation Kiria Dress

This pick's complete with a totally-smocked bodice that hugs your upper half in the best way possible. It also comes down on your waist a bit further than you'd expect, supplying an elongating drop waist effect (which is super trendy at the mome). The cap sleeve-high neck combo feel undeniably cutesy together – we'd pair this dress with some ballet flats for an easy get-up.

Quince

Quince 100% European Linen Scoop Neck Midi Dress

This dress' silhouette is fairly simple, meaning you can style it in endless ways for spring and summer. No matter what you wear it with, it's especially nice on the waistline, thanks to the subtle pleating and stretchy, smocked back panel.

Urban Outfitters

Kimchi Blue Renee Smocked Maxi Dress

To amp up the feminine vibes even further, this maxi dress is dotted in illustrations of bows and lil' fruits that recall the spring season perfectly! The straps in the back make a criss-cross shape that's both pretty and practical for holding you in.

Abercrombie & Fitch

Abercrombie & Fitch Emerson Poplin Puff Sleeve Midi Dress

Abercrombie & Fitch simply kills it in the dress department every time. Case in point is this drop-dead gorgeous red gingham number that's elevated by some puff sleeves and a stylish tiered skirt. All the details found throughout this piece make it feel so whimsical and wonderfully comfy for spring outings.

Reformation

Reformation Elvira Dress

Bubble hem? Check. Open back? Check. This Reformation dress has it all, especially if you're all about taking on the latest fashion trends. It even has a subtle drop waist for an undeniable princess feel.

Nordstrom

City Chic Valley Check Maxi Dress

The sleeves on this adorable green number come with ties for a unique detail you can't often find in other gingham maxi dresses.

Nordstrom

Dôen Emmaretta Gingham Pleated Voile Maxi Dress

With a milkmaid neckline, this maxi is downright dreamy. It's also tastefully embellished with some ruffles and bows up front, adding to the vibe even more. We'd rock this cutie with some white Mary Jane flats or even brown cowgirl boots to pair up with the sheer timelessness of gingham.

Abercrombie & Fitch

Abercrombie & Fitch Mila Stretch Midi Dress

The vertical seaming on this A&F dress give it a flattering quality, smoothing and shaping your waist to a tee. What's more is the cotton-blend fabric it's cut from is infused with a good amount of stretch to ensure it's comfy all day long!

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

While all dog owners tend to think their furry friends are the best boys or girls in the world, the numbers don't lie. New statistics released by the American Kennel Club, the world's largest registry of purebred dogs, revealed the most popular dog breeds in the United States for 2024, and spoiler alert: French Bulldogs stole the top spot again. Here were all the most popular dog breeds, according to the AKC.

Scroll to see the AKC's top 20 dog breeds for 2024!

What were the most popular dog breed for 2024?

Anna Shvets

This may come as a shock, but after reigning supreme for a whopping 31 years, the Labrador Retriever was ousted by the Frenchie in 2022. Since then, this breed has remained the most popular dog in the U.S. for three years running. Their smaller stature, playful temperament, and adaptable nature are likely to thank for their rising numbers across the nation.

Garfield Besa

Labrador Retrievers are still hot on Frenchies' tails, though, ranking as the second most popular dog breed. Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds, and Poodles followed in third, fourth, and fifth place, respectively. Overall, the rankings for the top five remained the same from 2023 to 2024.

Kim Dubois

However, the remaining spots within the top 10 did see some shifts. Beagles rose one spot from eighth place to seventh place, and Rottweilers also climbed up to eighth place; meanwhile, Bulldogs dropped to ninth place, and German Shorthaired Pointers stayed in tenth place.

Now, of the 201 breeds included in the list, several saw significant rises in popularity over the past year. Leading the charge is the Kerry Blue Terrier, a working dog that jumped an impressive 25 spots to number 135. The Bracco Italiano, which was only officially recognized by the AKC in 2022, followed suit, catapulting 20 spots ahead to number 132.

Ron Lach

Then, both the German Pinscher and the American Staffordshire Terrier also advanced 18 slots each. Other notable climbs include the Bedlington Terrier and the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever. The former rose 15 places to number 134, and the latter jumped 14 places to number 69.

Interestingly, the Saluki dropped considerably in popularity during 2024, moving 21 spots down to number 141. The Black and Tan Coonhound and the Wirehaired Vizsla witnessed significant decreases, too, at 20 spots and 17 spots, respectively.

Cup of Couple

At the same time, some breeds held their ground and maintained their 2023 popularity positions. Shih Tzus stayed at number 20, and Pomeranians and Boston Terriers continued to clock in at numbers 22 and 23.

Finally, the list's bottom 20 is comprised of rarer breeds, which have the lowest registration numbers in the U.S. The least popular dog in 2024 was the English Foxhound, falling from number 199 to number 201 from 2023 to 2024.

The first and second runners-up to last place go to the Bergamasco Sheepdog and the Grand Basset Griffon Vendeen. The former is an Italian herding dog, and the latter is a French scent hound.

What are the top 20 dog breeds for 2024?

Valeria Boltneva

  1. French Bulldog
  2. Labrador Retriever
  3. Golden Retriever
  4. German Shepherd
  5. Poodle
  6. Dachshund
  7. Beagle
  8. Rottweiler
  9. Bulldog
  10. German Shorthaired Pointer
  11. Yorkshire Terrier
  12. Australian Shepherd
  13. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
  14. Cane Corso
  15. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
  16. Doberman Pinscher
  17. Boxer
  18. Miniature Schnauzer
  19. Bernese Mountain Dog
  20. Shih Tzu

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