I’m not sure if it’s the economy, the downsizing trend, or simply my tendency to simplify, but lately we’ve been embracing living with less more than ever.
We’ve been reducing clutter in closets and cabinets with decisive Goodwill runs, sorting paperwork to cut down on unnecessary files, and fully committing to the “new year, reorganize the whole house” impulse. But it’s gone beyond a tidy house: I actually crave less—less to buy, less to clean, less to store, less to maintain.
For example, here’s what we now see when we step into the shower:
We realized we both like the same shampoo and conditioner, so instead of each buying our own, we share a single bottle of each. That ends the constant runs to the store when one of us thinks we’re out. Using the same body wash in a jumbo bottle cuts costs, reduces packaging waste, and saves time replacing smaller bottles. We also share a loofah, a bar of facial soap, and a pumice stone (that last one’s mine). Apart from my razor, nothing else clutters the shower or constantly reappears on our shopping list. The simple decision to share shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and soap has seriously decluttered our shower. We’ve since switched to even more natural options and love them.
Many of our eco-friendly choices naturally simplified other areas. Sticking to a single, effective laundry detergent simplifies shopping and storage. Relying on Seventh Generation laundry detergent (no bleach or fabric softener) means fewer trips to replace supplies and one easy-to-store bottle in the laundry room.
Switching to natural, organic makeup narrowed down impulse purchases. No more buying shades I never use. I’ve also given up painted fingernails most of the time, which feels liberating—no chipped polish to maintain, no time or money spent on upkeep. When I do paint my toes, I use one of three vegan, non-toxic polishes I own: soft pink, deep red, or coral. That’s all I need—no dozens of bottles collecting dust.
Here’s another example of the simplicity bug. Ladies (and gents), I give you my makeup bag:
Excuse my inexpensive faux-Louis bag purchased years ago, but the point is this: all my makeup fits inside this single small pouch. It’s not just for travel—this is my only makeup bag, which makes packing effortless. Inside are just a few tried-and-true products that get me through daily life and the occasional special event.
Here it is emptied out:
I use just a few multi-purpose items: a bronzer that doubles as subtle eye shadow, a blush, a compact brush, eyelash curler, mascara, and brow gel. No liquid liners or false lashes—simple tools that make application quick and effortless. This streamlined routine not only speeds up my morning, it leaves me looking more polished because I actually use the products I own.
Giving up perfumes and strong fragrances was another step toward simplicity. I used to wear perfume regularly, but now I prefer the natural scent of my organic soaps and lotions. Many synthetic fragrances can be irritating and contribute to indoor air pollution, so skipping perfume has felt healthy and freeing. I also appreciate skipping glossy magazine sections filled with products I don’t need—fewer temptations means less impulse buying.
Choosing to want less and to buy intentionally—favoring organic, natural products—has cut down on impulse purchases and made shopping simpler. It doesn’t feel like deprivation; it feels like gain: cleaner air, fewer products to manage, more closet space, money saved, and time reclaimed for other activities.
In short, life feels better when it’s simple. I’m curious how others simplify: Do you share products, make your own, buy in bulk, or eliminate certain items entirely? Share your tips for decluttering and living with less.
*There’s a growing back-to-basics movement in decor and lifestyle—many people are simplifying their homes and choices.
**For an extended list of our favorite certified organic, all-natural, and chemical-free products, see the comments related to this article for specific recommendations from readers and contributors.