Craving less is easy: less to buy, less to clean, less to store, fewer choices, and less to discard. We get a real thrill from consolidating two items into one and reclaiming drawer, cabinet, or closet space—why buy ten specialized bottles when one versatile product can do the job? Three years ago I wrote about keeping life simple in small ways, and after many requests for an update, here’s an extended look at what has worked for us. With a third person in the house now, our approach to simplifying cleaning, grooming, and baby care has only strengthened. The exact products that feel like “magic” will vary for each household, but the habits and philosophy that keep things simple are broadly useful.
Early on we realized we didn’t need separate shampoos and conditioners for everyone. Sharing one bottle of shampoo, one conditioner, and one body wash in the shower eliminated a cycle of multiple bottles in rotation and constant restocking. Keeping three containers in the shower at all times is clean and uncomplicated: when something runs low, we replace it. No hidden backups in the vanity or linen closet—just a single set that everyone uses.
Many eco-conscious changes helped reduce the variety of products we buy. For laundry we rely on one brand and one formula: a free-and-clear detergent that works for everyday loads and for cloth diapers, too. We stopped using fabric softener when we realized we didn’t miss it, and we consolidated diaper laundry to the same detergent we use for the rest of our laundry. Fewer product categories means less shopping and less storage hassle.
For dishes we use a single dishwasher detergent, and for general cleaning around the house we keep the toolkit minimal. Instead of buying separate cleaners for floors, counters, tubs, tile, and glass, we use two multipurpose cleaners most of the time and a few trusted homemade recipes. A diluted all-purpose cleaner plus a microfiber cloth cleans floors, counters, and surfaces; for glass we use a simple vinegar-and-water mix. This approach cuts down on plastic bottles, shelf clutter, and the mental hassle of figuring out which product belongs where.
We also dilute castile soap for hand washing throughout the house. A simple 1:1 ratio of water to Dr. Bronner’s makes the soap stretch further and is gentle enough for face washing, hand-washing, and even bathing our dog. Using one versatile soap saves space and simplifies refills.
Living in a small apartment years ago taught me to pare down my makeup kit—and that habit stuck. My entire makeup collection fits in a small bag that lives in the car, making travel and daily touch-ups simple. Because my routine is streamlined, it’s quick, consistent, and doesn’t invite impulse purchases. My makeup bag includes a bronzer/blush, two-toned eye color, concealer stick, mascara, an eyelash curler, a blush brush, and a spare contact lens. I’ve used this same selection for years because a short, reliable routine is more likely to be applied regularly.
For grooming basics, we keep things simple and compatible: the same style razor for both of us so replacement blades are the same, shared shaving products when practical, and the same brand of deodorant and toothpaste. We stick to a small number of trusted items—sunscreen and lotion included—and replace them only when they run out. Keeping duplicates in essential places (travel bag, car console) makes life easier.
In high school I owned far more beauty products than I needed. Nowadays I prefer a low-maintenance routine: shampoo, conditioner, a brush, and the occasional ponytail. That pared-back approach saves time and prevents impulse purchases. I still enjoy small treats—like nail polish—and limit those indulgences to a manageable number so they don’t take over drawers or budgets. Ten bottles of polish meet my occasional desire for a color pop without overflowing storage.
Lip balm is an exception: I keep a few in rotation and stash them where I need them most—purse, desk, nightstand, and car—so I never run out when I want one. Small conveniences like that prevent unnecessary repurchases and make daily life smoother.
Having a baby didn’t mean adding a dozen new products. We intentionally registered for and bought only a few essentials for Clara—three versatile items for bath, sun protection, and general moisturizing/diaper care—so we could evaluate what she actually needed. Those three products have covered bath time, sun protection, diaper rash prevention, cradle cap, and dry skin for nearly two years. Limiting the number of baby products keeps the changing table and drawers tidy and avoids needless stockpiles.
- One gentle shampoo and body wash for bathtime
- One reliable baby sunscreen
- One multipurpose cream for face, body, and diaper area
Adopting a mindset of “coveting less” and choosing a small set of natural, dependable products has several benefits: less clutter, fewer impulse purchases, more space, and more time. It’s not about depriving yourself; it’s about making thoughtful choices that simplify daily life. We’re always curious what others do to live with less—whether that means sharing products, making items at home, or buying in bulk—and we love hearing ideas that make life easier and more intentional.
Update – Want to see where we used something in our house or which paint colors we chose? Check out our shop images below.
