There’s something about May that makes you want to start fresh. Not in the resolution-heavy way that January brings, but in a lighter, more practical sense. The windows are open more. The sun stays up longer. And suddenly, the clutter that didn’t bother you in winter feels like it’s in the way.
If you’re already feeling the urge to clear things out and reset your space, it’s a good time to go one step further—not just declutter, but replace the waste. The roll of clingfilm that keeps sticking to itself. The sponge that starts smelling after a week. The stack of plastic containers with missing lids.
Let’s be honest, most of that stuff’s not doing you any favours.
This isn’t about perfection. It’s about noticing what you keep rebuying, what ends up in the bin too fast, and swapping it for something better—longer-lasting, kinder to the planet, and surprisingly satisfying to use.
Here’s your guide to spring decluttering with purpose.
1. Replace Clingfilm with Beeswax Wraps
Clingfilm is one of those things you probably don’t even think about. It’s just always there. Until it rips in the wrong place. Or gets stuck to itself. Or you realise you’ve thrown away metres of the stuff without even blinking.
Beeswax wraps are a game-changer.
- They mould to bowls, cover cut fruit, wrap sandwiches.
- They keep food fresh without sticking to everything in sight.
- And when they wear out? Compost them.
If you’re not ready to ditch clingfilm entirely, just start with one or two wraps. You’ll reach for them more than you think.
2. Ditch Plastic Containers with Missing Lids
Everyone has That Cupboard. The one full of mismatched tubs and lids that never seem to fit together.
You don’t need twenty containers. You need a few good ones.
Glass containers with snap-on lids are sturdy, easy to stack, and work for leftovers, lunches, snacks, or freezing batch meals. Stainless steel tins are great for on-the-go or kids’ lunches.
Pick a small set, clear out the rest, and enjoy opening that cupboard without bracing for an avalanche.
3. Swap Paper Towels for Cloth Wipes
Paper towels seem harmless enough—until you realise how many you go through. One for wiping up spills. Another for drying hands. Another for greasy pans. They’re single-use, flimsy, and go straight into the bin.
Reusable cloth wipes, on the other hand:
- Actually absorb liquid
- Don’t tear mid-clean
- Can be washed with your regular laundry
Keep a pile under the sink or in a basket on the counter. They become second nature quickly, especially once you notice how many paper towels you’re not buying anymore.
4. Retire the Single-Use Sponges
Let’s be honest. Most sponges aren’t made to last. They break down fast, start to smell, and end up in the bin far too soon.
Compostable sponges and natural loofahs are better in every way.
- They hold up longer
- They don’t shed microplastics
- They go back into the earth when they’re done
Rinse well, let them dry between uses, and compost when finished. It’s one of the easiest swaps to make, and probably one of the most satisfying too.
5. Upgrade Your Cleaning Kit
This one doesn’t need to be complicated. You don’t need ten different bottles for every surface in the house.
A good natural multipurpose spray, a reusable cloth, a loofah sponge, and a simple brush will get you through most jobs.
Look for plant-based products that come in refillable or glass packaging. Store them somewhere visible so you actually use them. And if your current setup is full of bottles you never touch? Time to clear them out.
6. Bundle It Up
If you’re looking at this list and thinking, “Where do I even start?”—we’ve made it easy.
Our shop now offers starter bundles for spring. Carefully curated with our best-selling reusables and everyday eco swaps, so you can refresh your home without second-guessing every item.
There’s a kitchen bundle, a cleaning kit, and even a little essentials pack for gifting or starting small.
Each one includes products that replace the disposable things you probably already use—and they’re designed to last.
May Home Refresh: Your Declutter & Swap Checklist
Here’s your printable list. Use it to clear out what’s not working, and replace it with something that will.
KITCHEN
☐ Clingfilm → Beeswax wraps
☐ Plastic food bags → Silicone or cloth snack bags
☐ Paper towels → Reusable cloths
☐ Plastic containers (cracked/missing lids) → Glass or stainless steel sets
☐ Plastic cutlery → Bamboo or stainless steel alternatives
CLEANING
☐ Synthetic sponges → Compostable sponge or loofah
☐ Plastic scrubbers → Coconut fibre brush
☐ Multipurpose spray in plastic → Natural cleaner in refillable bottle
☐ Single-use wipes → Reusable cloths
BATHROOM
☐ Plastic toothbrush → Bamboo toothbrush
☐ Plastic cotton buds → Bamboo versions
☐ Bottled shampoo → Solid shampoo bar
☐ Plastic razors → Stainless steel safety razor
Print it. Stick it to the fridge. Use it bit by bit. This isn’t about a full overhaul—it’s about replacing things naturally as they run out.
Make It Feel Good
Decluttering doesn’t need to be a huge project. It can be small moments of decision:
- Tossing the sponge that’s falling apart and replacing it with something better.
- Reaching for the beeswax wrap instead of ripping another piece of clingfilm.
- Wiping your hands on a cloth napkin and not needing to throw anything away after.
Each little action adds up—not just in reducing waste, but in how your home feels.
More clarity. Less clutter. A bit of quiet pride every time you reach for something that’s designed to last.
FAQs
How many beeswax wraps do I actually need?
Start with three: a small, medium, and large. You’ll figure out what sizes you use most and can add more later.
What’s the best way to store reusable cloths?
Keep them where you use them. A small basket on the counter or a drawer next to the sink works best. Use, rinse, hang, repeat.
Do natural sponges last as long as synthetic ones?
With proper care (rinsing and drying after each use), they often last longer—and break down cleanly when it’s time to replace.