Smart home gadgets and technology can help make homes more energy efficient than ever before. From thermostats and lightbulbs to plugs and sprinklers, there is almost no aspect of the home that can't be integrated with a smart home system. But which devices can help you save the most energy?
Emerson Sensi Touch Smart Thermostat
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTYzNDI4Ni9vcmlnaW4ucG5nIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY3MDAyODkyOH0.Ac-hoawK41rarSFemyuWJ1c9QUD8ulyqWoNUI6f-bPY/img.png?width=980" id="6a992" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="9daca0d325392706ed707849d06aaab7" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="400" data-height="241" />Emerson
<p><strong>Why buy: </strong>The Emerson Sensi smart thermostat was our pick for best overall smart thermostat. It can save you up to 23% on your energy usage, and you can find it at a very affordable price of $140 on Amazon. The Emerson thermostat is also compatible with Alexa, Google Home, Apple HomeKit, and Samsung SmartThings.</p>ecobee SmartThermostat
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTYzNDM0MS9vcmlnaW4ucG5nIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY3NjY4NjcyMn0.yKjXLG95LF2nKhXKE8mu1GG375MUPwy0U2yyQ8JFi3Q/img.png?width=980" id="7640c" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="bec39c1079de9cd25c2737004daa6057" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="400" data-height="321" />ecobee
<p><strong>Why buy: </strong>Despite its relatively high price tag of $249, the ecobee SmartThermostat offers a ton of energy-saving features. The best part is that with it's new eco+ software, the SmartThermostat can help you save up to 23% on your annual energy costs. Plus it has built-in Amazon Alexa functionality so there's no need to purchase an Amazon Echo.</p>Nest Learning Thermostat
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTYzNDMxNS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY0MjAyNzkyN30.D4QmwvDKgSTcEx-WOIQ4RFdfzOZE2FItHisV83supSw/img.jpg?width=980" id="21f90" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="888312273c55ea20905ff8a9c9176ded" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="400" data-height="400" />Nest
<p><strong>Why buy:</strong> The Nest Learning Thermostat is both Google Assistant- and Alexa-enabled. It can potentially save you as much as 10% to 12% on your heating bill and up to 15% on your cooling bill. This thermostat also has voice command for even greater convenience, and it automatically learns your heating and cooling preferences to optimize your energy usage.</p>Philips Hue Starter Kit
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTYzNDQxMC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY3NDgwMzI3MX0.pHwWx_CBUtTcaVEKRbZRxKZ8UTnZyxlZzPZZdRsDpD0/img.jpg?width=980" id="58017" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="3637790895b8c615b3336eca4f569ff2" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="400" data-height="400" />Philips Hue
<p><strong>Why buy:</strong> The <a href="https://www.philips-hue.com/en-us" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Philips Hue</a> lighting system offers everything from starter kits and light strips to table lamps and bulbs. Though they can be a bit pricey, there's a lot that comes with it. They can be paired easily through a rather intuitive app, offer integrations with third-party devices, and even display a wide array of colors.</p>Wyze Bulb
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTYzNDQ3OS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY0NDM2MzUzMX0.9qyAc4NfeabiE9yvXZJeVzMCNil7tMhGlNKMIF30PuY/img.jpg?width=980" id="e0064" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="fc17123900e82cfc865fc8fee0775735" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="400" data-height="400" />Wyze
<p><strong>Why buy:</strong> If you're looking for a far more cost effective option, look no further than the <a href="https://wyze.com/wyze-bulb.html" target="_blank">Wyze Bulb</a>. These smart Wi-Fi light bulbs will last up to 25,000 hours, and you can get 4 for under $40. Though it doesn't have the color option that the Hue does, it can pair with voice assistants like Google Assistant and Alexa to make for a convenient smart bulb setup.</p>Sengled Smart LED Light Bulbs
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTYzNDU2MC9vcmlnaW4ucG5nIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYyMzcwNTYxNn0.i_ULtrFc6neImhxF_QxHexXpxsQ8QfF15eOhglo9rrU/img.png?width=980" id="cc033" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="d541cb4152b3d820d7ac99d81ac6d046" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="300" data-height="300" />Sengled
<p><strong>Why buy:</strong> These Sengled Smart LED bulbs are also an affordable smart light option to help automate your home's lighting. Compatible with SmartThings, IFTTT, Google Assistant, and Alexa, it integrates smoothly with just about any smart home setup. The outdoor bulbs are weatherproof and come with the motion sensor for optimal usage.</p>Kasa Smart Plug Mini
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTYzNDcyMC9vcmlnaW4ucG5nIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYyMTU4MDMzMX0.BKAAbGZoal25Fr__sdSuLrwAewBa5IOm8D6OM8c5FX8/img.png?width=980" id="47051" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="2aca095a0f832f34c37abfe2aef463fe" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="400" data-height="400" />Kasa
<p><strong>Why buy: </strong>Though this <a href="https://www.kasasmart.com/us/products/smart-plugs/kasa-smart-wifi-plug-mini" target="_blank">Kasa Smart Plug Mini</a> is meant to handle one or two devices at a time, it is perhaps the best on the market. It's highly affordable and can work with voice assistants like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant by connecting to your Wi-Fi network. It also features schedule customization, timers, and even away modes to maximize your energy savings.</p>WeMo Wi-Fi Smart Plug
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTYzNDgxMi9vcmlnaW4ucG5nIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYzMjU2NjkyNH0.pNHs1Vb45LYQgBnEUzZefwCaIh6Ssgum2ZVGUHO8AvQ/img.png?width=980" id="c88b9" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="394d6a7f892622cbcf8d00874f3872aa" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="400" data-height="400" />Belkin
<p><strong>Why buy: </strong>This <a href="https://www.belkin.com/us/p/P-WSP080/" target="_blank">WeMo Wi-Fi smart plug</a> remains affordable while still offering Alexa, Google Assistant, and even Apple HomeKit compatibility. The WeMo app allows you to control and schedule the plug from anywhere, and the plug itself comes in a compact, space-saving design that also allows for voice control.</p>iDevices Wall Outlet
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTYzNTE0NC9vcmlnaW4ucG5nIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY2ODYxNjkxOX0.GfLUCF_Vs5fM_R8982U-sMD7Z0vrwcocTAkN916CGvo/img.png?width=980" id="1cade" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="3d6b500960116c869b82772f8fa41eb2" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="400" data-height="400" />iDevice
<p><strong>Why buy:</strong> In addition to a single plug, you can also install a smart outlet to connect multiple devices. The iDevices Wall Outlet is great for automating lights, lamps, switches, fans, and any other electronics. It is compatible with most smart home systems, and can give you independent voice control of both the top and bottom outlets.</p>Rachio 3
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTYzNTIwOS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY1ODQwNzE4MX0.j9huxen7f2zf3J2i8rMtl6NNPzLIFL8tJ5AOq0eMSdc/img.jpg?width=980" id="09180" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="8256cc5d9e6c5b1b1a62e7fb7cba7309" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="400" data-height="339" />Rachio
<p><strong>Why buy:</strong> One of the best smart sprinklers available on the market, the <a href="https://rachio.com/rachio-3/" target="_blank">Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller</a> gives you wireless connectivity and 8-zone functionality, which makes it easier than ever to properly manage outdoor water usage. It is on the expensive side, but includes a feature that predicts weather changes to adjust your water use accordingly.</p>Orbit B-Hyve XR
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTYzNTI3NC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY3MDUyMzMyM30.rDQ9wUYqZXAWhe_bQ-qFBYCLtXy6yu9dvwuURBVQVkU/img.jpg?width=980" id="a85dc" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="dd9517d7743f8f155c107fcea8afb687" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="400" data-height="400" />Orbit
<p><strong>Why buy: </strong>A slightly more cost-effective option, the <a href="https://www.orbitonline.com/product/b-hyve-xr-smart-indoor-outdoor-sprinkler-controller/" target="_blank">Orbit B-Hyve XR</a> comes with great features, like an LED screen that shows live, real-time status updates. It uses WeatherSense technology to automatically adjust to the weather so you don't waste water. It also meets EPA WaterSense standards, and the B-Hyve app is available for free on iOS and Android devices.</p>Sense Home Energy Monitor
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTYzNTM0OS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYxNzEwMzU5N30.QgaS8w-Z9eoFmq743GHeLsKEVQQD5VbuRQLKZyMXuTA/img.jpg?width=980" id="d32df" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="370f7765f88c1e49329a48abc49d5034" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="400" data-height="346" />Sense
<p><strong>Why buy: </strong>This is a top-of-the-line energy monitor, and comes in both standard and solar variations. They plug into just about any existing electrical panel and then connect to a smart phone application that provides real-time data whenever you want it. Sense is a bit pricey, but comes with far more features and functionality than any of the others.</p>Efergy Elite 4.0 Wireless Energy Monitor
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTYzNTM2NC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYxNTcxNzQ0OH0.aKyieb9FxfqLX35FoU6aJ0SwtMF5JrjLEsoXsAQVa_A/img.jpg?width=980" id="a509e" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="17eb24243c883b5f4ed57ec8badcd302" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="400" data-height="400" />Efergy
<p><strong>Why buy: </strong>This Efergy system provides a cost-effective means of monitoring your home's electrical usage. The device connects easily to any home electrical box for fast and easy installation that does not require an electrician. The downside to this particular system is that there is no smart phone application for live tracking, instead using a compact, portable display.<br></p>Gen 2 Emporia Vue Smart Home Energy Monitor
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTYzNTM5NS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY1MDQ2MDQzNH0.suyrLt-h2ZTLSV0uAC8lR1mVKLnGr8JTjtP6dIsnQ6s/img.jpg?width=980" id="f1f19" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="6d970851b318347d5d9620bcb02b6188" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="400" data-height="400" />Emporia
<p><strong>Why buy:</strong> <a href="https://shop.emporiaenergy.com/collections/emporia-products/products/gen-2-emporia-vue-with-8-sensors-bundle" target="_blank">Emporia's Vue monitoring system</a> offers device detection that can show you the performance of individual appliances in your home. You can even set schedules for select appliances where applicable, providing a greater level of detail about your electric bill. With this system you can lower your energy costs and your emissions at the same time.</p>EcoWatch Daily Newsletter
Sense produces smart home energy monitors that allow users to track, in real-time, their energy usage throughout the home and even through specific appliances. The Sense home energy monitors are some of the most popular on the market today. Learn why in our review below.
Sense Energy Monitor
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTYzMDQwNy9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY2ODI1MjcxOH0.K-_CTkSP_DBwtYtJE7L7rG5pMn6pmFe3hHSwvAObDx8/img.jpg?width=980" id="26a90" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="368cc823551ea08fd3c458404dfb5460" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="400" data-height="346" />Sense
<p>The Sense energy monitor provides real-time, 24/7 data that is accessible through iOS, Android, and desktop apps. That means being able to check energy usage patterns whenever it suits you. Even better, schedules and alerts can be set at the user's discretion to create a truly customize data system.</p><p><strong>Why buy: </strong>The Sense home energy monitor allows for optimal energy tracking convenience. Users can get live updates on their power consumption from their smart phone whenever and wherever they like.</p>Sense Solar Energy Monitor
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTYzMDQxMy9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYzMjg3NTk4OH0.gJae9XvuIEVp5gI9lnNnS9HNxBa3zNNR7nGLh7q9tAs/img.jpg?width=980" id="05825" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="d84df88a7fe620a6c70e31e6ac3a93b3" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="400" data-height="356" />Sense
<p>Like the Sense, the Sense Solar can track usage data in real-time. It can also track your appliances and devices on an individual basis to give you a more comprehensive window into your home's energy consumption.</p><p><strong>Why buy:</strong> The Sense Solar can detect the exact amount of energy that the solar panels on your home are generating 24/7. This feature quickly gives you a better idea of which appliances are drawing power (and how much) at any given time as well as the effectiveness of your solar panels.</p>Looking for ways to cut down on single-use plastic while grocery shopping? You may already have eco-friendly shopping bags, but bringing your own reusable produce bags is another easy swap.
According to the UN Environment Program, up to 5 trillion single-use plastic bags are used globally each year, and because of the material they're made from, most municipal recycling centers don't accept them (more on this below).
The most sustainable option is to skip the bag altogether. You can also make your own reusable produce bags out of old T-shirts. But if you'd rather purchase them new, here are our recommendations for the best reusable produce bags on the market today.
Best Reusable Produce Bag Set: Eco Joy Cotton Reusable Produce Bags
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTcxOTAxNS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYzODE2MDIyNH0.qyiKrnX8T4CRp8Y5Kn_cW1oaSF7vDci2gmKEXxJfQmE/img.jpg?width=980" id="8db60" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="d39a705e9f90fc1369a1806bc6d4e016" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="400" data-height="400" />Eco Joy
<p>If you're making the switch to more sustainable shopping bags and want a variety of products to use, the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Reusable-Sandwich-Biodegradable-Eco-Drawstring/dp/B003PK4W3I/ref=sr_1_36?crid=3TDUCB8ZOM7WI&dchild=1&keywords=produce+bags+grocery+reusable&qid=1613484643&sprefix=produce+bags%2Caps%2C189&sr=8-36" target="_blank">Eco Joy Cotton Reusable Produce Bags</a> set is a great place to start. The set comes with three mesh drawstring bags, three muslin drawstring bags, a large mesh tote and a zippered sandwich-size pouch.</p><p>Each product is made with organic, non-GMO cotton that's ethically sourced in accordance with Worldwide Responsible Accredited Production (WRAP) standards. The cotton comes from India and Turkey, and the bags are hand-assembled in Canada by the owner of Eco Joy, so you can feel good about supporting a small business while reducing your environmental impact.</p><p><strong>Customer rating:</strong> 4.7 out of 5 stars with over 300 Amazon reviews</p><p><strong>Why buy: </strong>Zero-waste; Handmade in Canada; WRAP compliant; Machine washable</p>Best Mesh Bags: Organic Cotton Mart Reusable Cotton Mesh Produce Bags
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTcxOTE0OC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY1MTQyNDQ5MX0.E6MFCOXZ-3EvKDK0MIv34EJO3oE6WMWxiFZBR5aNU_w/img.jpg?width=980" id="ba5c7" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="91a9dd3d18f7b4a41fae606ff4d1204b" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="400" data-height="400" />Organic Cotton Mart
<p>Some shoppers prefer to use mesh bags when shopping for fruits and veggies. We recommend checking out <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Best-Reusable-Produce-Organic-Cotton/dp/B07CK2TJKL/ref=sr_1_16?crid=10A7NM0LQ0B7E&dchild=1&keywords=mesh+produce+bags&qid=1613483897&s=home-garden&sprefix=mesh+pro%2Cgarden%2C162&sr=1-16" target="_blank">Organic Cotton Mart's Reusable Cotton Mesh Produce Bags</a> if you're in this camp, as they're made with Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) certified cotton.</p> <p>Mesh reusable produce bags can make the checkout process easier than muslin bags since you can see what's inside them without having to open them up. Plus, the tare weight (i.e., the weight of the empty bag that should be subtracted from the total weight of your produce to make sure you don't pay extra for using your bag) is printed right on the label of Organic Cotton Mart's bags, making everything that much more convenient.</p> <p><strong>Customer rating:</strong> 4.6 out of 5 stars with nearly 1,000 Amazon reviews</p><strong>Why buy:</strong> GOTS certified; Machine washable; BiodegradableBest Muslin Bags: Simple Ecology Reusable Produce Bags
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTcxOTE1OS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYyNjY3NDE3N30.f2sAcYTGhqq4ytlNGSyzZexPwqH2SpqpTwsX2fvph10/img.jpg?width=980" id="f90b3" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="e95c082f9b831bf11004e12b73ae8263" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="400" data-height="400" />Simple Ecology
<p>On the other hand, if you just want to purchase muslin bags, we like <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Simple-Ecology-Reusable-Organic-Shopping/dp/B004UJ0U0C" target="_blank">Simple Ecology's Reusable Produce Bags</a>, which are also made with GOTS-certified organic cotton. Simple Ecology also has a <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N6AUMBG/ref=sspa_dk_detail_2?psc=1&pd_rd_i=B01N6AUMBG&pd_rd_w=MA3ZS&pf_rd_p=cbc856ed-1371-4f23-b89d-d3fb30edf66d&pd_rd_wg=hVunQ&pf_rd_r=G6RTQ1Z5DKEY325MAJZ9&pd_rd_r=5d298b3a-1be7-4ebd-a9e1-d5d672a40497&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUExMzc4RVAxWjNLOTdCJmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwNTc0NTAwMzBDMjFYOVJPTUpWSCZlbmNyeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwNjYyOTM4M0s4Vk81SVBPS1NFSyZ3aWRnZXROYW1lPXNwX2RldGFpbF90aGVtYXRpYyZhY3Rpb249Y2xpY2tSZWRpcmVjdCZkb05vdExvZ0NsaWNrPXRydWU=" target="_blank">starter kit</a> that comes with several reusable grocery bags if you're looking for more variety.</p> <p>The benefit of using muslin reusable produce bags is that, unlike mesh, there are no holes for small items to slip through. This means that in addition to larger produce, you can use them to purchase bulk foods like lentils, beans and rice — or even powders like flour or spices — without worrying about anything leaking. They're also best for keeping leafy greens fresh.</p> <p><strong>Customer rating:</strong> 4.7 out of 5 stars with nearly 1,500 Amazon reviews</p><strong>Why buy:</strong> GOTS certified; Machine washable; Biodegradable; Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI) certified packaging when purchased from manufacturerBest String Bags: ECOBAGS Market Collection Reusable Bag Set
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTcxOTE2Ny9vcmlnaW4ucG5nIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY1NTkzMDc5Mn0.v_aTdf8TPuA39wgpmS2Dgb_88t2jfcbXDJkC9wf5CrE/img.png?width=980" id="c42d2" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="ada50990c5c2520886afd23fcca522a4" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="752" data-height="628" />ECOBAGS
<p>Whether you're buying bread, fresh flowers, produce or all of the above, the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/ECOBAGS-Market-Collection-Reusable-Natural/dp/B08KFGPGN5" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">ECOBAGS Market Collection Reusable Bag Set</a> is ideal for <a href="https://www.ecowatch.com/farmers-markets-coronavirus-safety-2645581711.html" target="_self">farmers market</a> shopping or large grocery hauls. The netted bags are durable, flexible, and pack down small so they're easy to keep in your car or purse.</p> <p>ECOBAGS is a woman-owned certified B Corp, which means it uses sound social and environmental practices. These bags come in packs of three or five and have a few different handle lengths and color options, but they're all made with GOTS-certified organic cotton.</p> <p><strong>Customer rating: </strong>Not applicable</p><p><strong>Why buy:</strong> GOTS certified; Machine washable; Biodegradable; Certified B Corp; SA8000 certified for the protection of basic human rights of workers</p>More and more homes are making energy efficiency a priority. Not only is it a responsible way to reduce your environmental impact, but it can equate to serious savings on energy bills every month. But what can be done to make your home more efficient? Alongside a home energy audit, a smart home energy monitor is an energy-saving tool that can make a big difference.