✨ZERO WASTE TIPS FOR BACK TO SCHOOL 2019✨

#1 USE CLOTHING YOU ALREADY HAVE BEFORE BUYING NEW.

Kids don't need a brand new wardrobe every year. If the clothes from last year still fit then they already have a wardrobe. 90% of Malaya's wardrobe are hand-me-downs. Most of her clothes from last year still fit so that is what she is wearing this year. If you aren't lucky enough to have a hand-me-down fairy you may be able to find one if you ask around a bit. There are also always moms looking to sell their gently used clothing in bulk to one buyer. It is less hassle than doing consignment or a yard sale.

#2 BUY SECONDHAND CLOTHING BEFORE BUYING NEW.

We went thrifting together recently and got a few staple pieces for the school year, including True Religion jeans and some sweet bomber jackets. She has way more fun in a thrift store than in a normal store with the thrill of the hunt. She even talked me into buying her a flouncy shirt that was tagged "24 months" because it fit her pretty great actually lol. We just have fun with it. If she grabs way too many things to try on I don't even need to worry because the prices are so low.

#3 USE SUPPLIES YOU ALREADY HAVE BEFORE BUYING NEW.

This applies to office supplies, stationary, backpack, lunch box. Look around your house first to see what you already have. Clean what you can to use again. Invest in quality pieces that will last. I know they can sometimes issue a hefty back to school shopping list. See if there is wiggle room. A kid doesn't need 12 crappy pens if you get 1 or 2 really nice ones that will last. Buy pens with replaceable ink. They sell 100% recycled pencils and even ones that you can plant into a tree when they are done. Mechanical pencils are great too because you can just replace the lead. Teach your kids to take care of their things. If there is intention behind every purchase (which are limited) and each item i