Introduction
What is Zero Waste?
Zero Waste Living is essentially about trying to reduce the use of single use packaging, with a large emphasis on eliminating Single-Use Plastics (SUPs). These are the plastics used in packaging and products, from the bags used to contain dry ingredients, to liquid soap containers and of course things like straws and disposable coffee cups.
By selling our products loose, at Natural Weigh customers are encouraged to bring their own containers to refill. We have options instore such as donated jars and paper bags.
We still get some waste we can’t recycle, but we are working with our suppliers to continue to reduce that. The difficult to recycle plastic packaging all goes to Terracycle, who sort and recycle it in the UK. We are constantly working with suppliers to introduce circular packaging systems wherever possible. So far, these systems are in place for all our cleaning products, shampoos and other personal care products, coffees, cider vinegar, honey, crisps, wine and we are working on getting it in place for other products too.
Why choose a plastic-free lifestyle?
Given the complexity of modern life, a plastic-free lifestyle is rarely possible. Indeed in many cases plastic is the most suitable material to use (Our dispensers, for example).
Choosing a plastic-free lifestyle is a powerful way to reduce our environmental impact and protect the planet for future generations. Single-use plastics, in particular, contribute massively to pollution, clogging waterways, harming wildlife, and taking hundreds (often thousands) of years to break down. By avoiding plastic where possible, we reduce the demand for new plastic production and help keep harmful waste out of our oceans, rivers, and countryside. Sadly we’re sold a lie about plastic recycling, much of the plastic recycling ends of either shipped abroad to be someone else’s problem or its burnt in waste to energy plants.
Living plastic-free also supports healthier choices. Many plastic containers and wrappings contain chemicals that can leach into food or drink, especially when heated. By opting for natural, reusable alternatives like glass, metal, and paper, we limit our exposure to potentially harmful substances while embracing a simpler, more sustainable way of living.
Finally, choosing to live without plastic helps drive positive change. Every time you bring a reusable bag, fill up with zero waste shopping at a refill store, or choose products with compostable or recyclable packaging, you’re sending a message to businesses and policymakers about the kind of future you want to see. It’s not about perfection, but about making mindful choices that collectively add up to a big difference.
The Principles of Zero Waste Living
Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Refill, Recycle, Rot
The first step is Refuse. Do you actually need this product? How many times have you bought something, then left it lying around in its packaging, never even opened? This leads to Reduce – the next step. We are bombarded with reasons why we need certain products, but just stopping to think for a moment can help towards a simpler, less cluttered lifestyle.
At Natural Weigh we encourage customers to Reuse and Refill. By reusing your storage containers from home and refilling them in store, you will avoid needing to decant items and throwing away the packaging at home.
Recycle and Rot. Anything left over after following the steps above can be put in the recycling or compost. It is a very satisfying feeling when the recycling bins become less and less full, week on week.
Everyday swaps you can make
In the Kitchen
- Use glass jars or tins to store and refill.
- Swap cling film for beeswax wraps or silicone food covers
- Replace plastic sponges with compostable loofahs or wooden washing-up brushes
- Choose refillable washing-up liquid or soap bars instead of single-use bottles
- Buy dry goods loose like pasta, rice, flour and lentils instead of packaged versions
In the Bathroom
- Switch from bottled shampoo to solid shampoo bars
- Replace plastic toothbrushes with bamboo alternatives
- Use soap bars instead of shower gel in plastic bottles
- Opt for refillable cleaning products for toilet and bathroom cleaners
- Try reusable menstrual pads instead of disposables
Cleaning & Laundry
- Refill laundry liquid or try laundry powder in paper bags
- Use natural stain removers and wooden clothes pegs
- Try refillable surface sprays in reusable bottles
- Choose biodegradable sponges or cloths over synthetic ones
On the Go
- Bring a reusable cup or bottle for drinks
- Use cloth produce bags instead of plastic ones at markets or in-store
- Keep a cutlery set and metal straw in your bag to avoid disposables
- Choose takeaway sweets and treats from refill jars rather than plastic-wrapped options
How to Start Zero Waste Shopping
What you’ll need
- Containers – We have small paper bags for loose ingredients, but you might prefer to bring your own containers, or we sell the brilliant Onya bulk food bags. At Natural Weigh, we are all about avoiding single use packaging. So if you have a container at home you could refill with some tasty zero waste goodies, bring it along. If you don’t have any reusable containers, never fear, we have free donated jars for you to use in store, or you can buy beautiful glass jars to start creating an Instagram worthy kitchen.
- Bags – Bring your own shopping bags, enough to carry everything home!
- Planning – Have a look at our website for more zero waste shopping ideas. If you create an account you can add products to “My Favourites“. This can help with planning and bringing appropriate containers.
Tips for beginners
- Check the website for what’s available.
- If you shop in-store – look out for in-store only products, as well as items we can’t deliver such as liquids and glass jars/bottles.
- To start your zero waste shopping, we recommend you weigh all your empty containers on our scales to get barcodes with their weights. We can use this barcode to deduct the weight of your container to make sure you only pay for its contents.
- Once your containers are full of our wonderful products, a member of staff will be happy to weigh them again for you at the till.
Zero Waste Grocery Shopping
Bulk foods, loose produce, refill options
One of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce packaging waste is to buy food and household items in bulk. Zero Waste Shopping for bulk foods and loose produce not only helps cut down on unnecessary plastic, but also allows you to buy exactly the amount you need – reducing both packaging and food waste.
At a zero waste shop, you’ll typically find essentials such as grains, pasta, rice, pulses, nuts, dried fruit, herbs, and spices all available loose. These are stored in gravity dispensers or tubs, and you simply fill your own reusable containers or paper bags. This flexible approach is perfect for tailoring quantities to your household size and budget.
Loose fresh produce – like vegetables and fruit – is another key feature of zero waste shopping. Choosing unpackaged options avoids the shrink-wrapped alternatives often found in supermarkets. You can bring your own produce bags or baskets to keep things organised and waste-free.
Many zero waste shopping stores also offer a wide range of liquid refill options, such as cooking oils, vinegars, plant-based milks, and cleaning products. Bring along clean, dry bottles to fill and reuse, often paying only for the weight of the product you need.
This refillable, packaging-free system encourages more mindful consumption while promoting a circular approach to shopping. It’s convenient, cost-effective, and empowering – a small shift with a big impact.
Whether you’re topping up your pantry staples or restocking your laundry detergent, bulk and refill shopping is a cornerstone of the zero waste lifestyle. It’s all about creating a routine that’s better for the planet – and works for you.
Refill your favourite staples
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Organic porridge oats
From: £0.64 — or subscribe and save 10% -
Organic muesli base
From: £0.71 — or subscribe and save 10% -
Organic granola base
From: £2.12 — or subscribe and save 10% -
Organic jumbo oatflakes
From: £0.64 — or subscribe and save 10%
Low-Waste Living Beyond Food
Bathroom Best Sellers
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Toilet roll
From: £1.00 — or subscribe and save 10% -
Toothpaste tablets – 1 months supply
From: £2.50 — or subscribe and save 10% -
Bamboo toothbrush
From: £2.75 — or subscribe and save 10% -
Epsom salts
From: £2.50 — or subscribe and save 10%
Cleaning Products – selection
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Non-bio washing powder – per 100g
£0.60 — or subscribe and save 10% -
Dishwasher powder – per 100g
£0.71 — or subscribe and save 10% -
All purpose cleaner – per kg (litre) Available in store only
£2.50 — or subscribe and save 10% -
White vinegar – per kg (litre) Available in store only
£1.32 — or subscribe and save 10%
Zero Waste Shopping – Kitchen Essentials
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Bicarbonate of soda
From: £0.57 — or subscribe and save 10% -
Dishwasher powder – per 100g
£0.71 — or subscribe and save 10% -
Non-bio washing powder – per 100g
£0.60 — or subscribe and save 10% -
Oil pourer
£1.50 — or subscribe and save 10%
Eco household products
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Natural firelighters
£7.00 — or subscribe and save 10% -
100% soy wax candles
From: £15.00 — or subscribe and save 10% -
Shade natural sunscreen
From: £5.00 — or subscribe and save 10% -
Natural twine
£4.39 — or subscribe and save 10%
Zero Waste Shopping on a Budget
Living a zero waste lifestyle doesn’t have to be expensive. In fact, with a little planning, it can actually save you money. At its core, zero waste shopping is about using what you have, buying only what you need, and choosing reusables over disposables — habits that naturally encourage thrift and reduce overspending. It might seem strange for a business that relies on customers spending money to be encouraging customers to buy less stuff, but hey, its what we believe is right.
One of the best ways to cut costs is by buying in bulk. At zero waste shops like Natural Weigh, you can bring your own containers and buy as much or as little as you need — no unnecessary packaging, and no paying for excess. This helps reduce both food waste and overall spend, especially for staples like rice, oats, and pasta.
Reusable items might have a higher upfront cost, but they quickly pay for themselves. Simple swaps like cloth wipes instead of kitchen roll, a safety razor instead of disposables, or a bar of soap instead of bottled shower gel can save pounds over time. And remember, you don’t need to buy everything new — jars, containers and cloth bags can often be repurposed from things you already have at home.
With Natural Weigh, there are various ways to save money, whether buying in-store or online. From discounts on buying bulk, to subscriptions, loyalty scheme and refer-a-friend program. Find out more on our Save with Natural Weigh page.
Zero waste shopping on a budget is about progress, not perfection. Focus on small, sustainable changes that work for your lifestyle. Start with one or two areas — like switching to refillable cleaning products or buying loose dry goods — and build from there. Every mindful choice adds up, for both your wallet and the planet.
Convenience and Time: Making Zero Waste Work for You
One common misconception about zero waste living is that it’s time-consuming or inconvenient — but with a few small adjustments, it can easily fit into a busy lifestyle. In fact, many people find that once they’ve built new habits, their routines become simpler, more intentional, and even more efficient.
Zero waste shopping at refill stores can actually save time in the long run. By stocking up on pantry essentials, you reduce the number of trips you need to make. Many refill shops also offer a wide range of everyday items in one place — from food and cleaning products to toiletries — making it easier to shop locally and cut down on running around.
Planning ahead can also streamline your week. Refilling containers, writing a meal plan, and keeping a list of what you need encourages a more organised approach to food and household management — helping you avoid last-minute dashes to the shop or impulse purchases that lead to waste.
Remember, zero waste shopping doesn’t have to be all or nothing. Even small, convenient swaps — like keeping reusable bags in your car or opting for a refill coffee on the go — make a meaningful difference. It’s about finding what works for you, and gradually building a routine that’s both sustainable and manageable.
Ready to Start Your Zero Waste Shopping Journey?
Whether you’re taking your first step or looking to deepen your low-waste habits, every small change makes a difference. Visit us in-store or browse our online shop to explore sustainable, plastic-free alternatives for everyday living.
🌿 Refill your essentials, reduce waste, and support a more conscious way of shopping – one jar, bag, and bar at a time.
Join the movement today and make zero waste shopping simple, affordable, and achievable.
