Five eco‑friendly alternatives of everyday items sparking controversy

There's a lot of discussion surrounding ecology these days. People's awareness of environmental protection has noticeably increased. Society is recycling more, using public transportation, and participating in reuse initiatives. Reusable items like food containers, cloth bags, and straws have become mainstream. The internet is teeming with alternatives to disposable products, with some sparking considerable controversy.

Opinions about the effectiveness of ear swabs are split. Some argue that they're very harmful, others insist that they're excellent for cleaning the ear flaps, and some use swabs in both the shallow and deep parts of the ear. However, there's a consensus that the plastic version of disposable swabs is not eco-friendly. Their alternatives might surprise you.

Instead of standard swabs, you can use reusable swabs. They come in various shapes and color options. Most are made from recycled materials, and one piece can replace about a thousand traditional swabs. This solution became particularly useful before biodegradable swabs were widely available.

A while back, there was a significant buzz on the internet about reusable garbage bags introduced by Ikea. The idea attracted both its supporters and critics. Some are put off by the thought of washing the bags and the potential for unpleasant smells. Nonetheless, the manufacturer claims the alternative is ideal for sorting dry waste such as paper, plastic or cleaned glass.

Once standard practice, today, they are a unique solution - reusable tissues. This alternative is familiar to those living with zero-waste goals. The substitute enjoys a substantial fan base, although even the staunchest defenders of nature find it challenging to switch to reusable tissues. Currently, an extensive range of patterns and colors of tissues are available online. They are typically made from a soft type of cotton, that absorbs moisture efficiently.

Dish sponges and dishcloths are frequently used household items. Their moist and warm environment provides ideal conditions for bacteria and fungi growth, causing an unpleasant smell. To prevent this, you should replace the dishcloth regularly. However, this routine is not environmentally friendly. There's a greener alternative - a reusable hemp dishcloth. Its natural antibacterial properties and long lifespan make it a clear eco-friendly choice.

Closing the list is arguably the most controversial eco-friendly alternative - toilet paper made from a soft material. The used fabric should be rinsed under running water and then laundered.