(even as a busy mum)
Life as a mum is full — full of to-do lists, laundry piles, snack-time negotiations, and trying to keep some sort of balance between chaos and calm. And if you’re anything like me, you’ve probably had the thought: “I want to live more sustainably, but where do I even start?”
The truth is, eco-conscious living doesn’t have to be all or nothing. You don’t need to grow your own vegetables, ditch your car, or spend a fortune on zero-waste products. It can start with the small, doable shifts — ones that actually make life easier, not harder.
Here’s the good news: as busy mums, we’re already masters of efficiency, creativity, and caring deeply. Let’s build on that.
🌿 1. Start with One Habit at a Time
Trying to overhaul your whole life in a weekend will only lead to burnout. Instead, pick one thing that feels doable this week.
👉 Idea: Swap out your kitchen sponges for compostable ones, or choose a refillable hand soap instead of buying plastic bottles again and again.
When you make one small change and let it stick, you gain momentum. And that’s the foundation of sustainable living for mums — real, practical, lasting change.
2. Rethink What You Already Use
Sustainability isn’t about buying more — it’s often about using what you already have a little differently.
- Got old jars? Use them for leftovers, craft supplies, or pantry storage.
- Old baby clothes? Pass them on to a friend or local mum’s group.
- Making pasta for dinner? Save veggie scraps in a freezer bag to make broth later.
These tiny acts add up. You’re keeping items out of landfills, saving money, and teaching your kids about mindful living — without even trying.
3. Make Your Home a Sanctuary (Sustainably)
Creating a cozy, intentional space doesn’t require brand-new decor or artificial scents.
I love creating what I call a “slow corner” in our home — a spot where I can sit with a cup of tea for five minutes (yes, even with kids around), breathe, and just be.
That’s where my Smells Like Me Ma’s Hug candle comes in. It’s hand-poured, made with eco-friendly soy wax and a crackling wooden wick, and fills the room with nostalgic, warm vanilla — like a hug from another time. It’s a small ritual that reminds me to pause, and it’s made with ingredients I feel good about bringing into my home.
Eco-conscious living also means making room for peace — not just rules.
- The Low-Stress Guide to Setting Healthy Boundaries
- Simple and Calm Thanksgiving: Keeping the Peace
- Châteaucore: The Visual Storytelling of ‘Only Murders in the Building’
- The Art of Breaking an Insane Cycle
- Easy Ways to Live Simply: 3 Essential Shifts for a Lighter Life
4. Buy Less, but Better
Let’s face it: the world is constantly selling us “solutions” — most of which just add clutter and waste.
Eco-conscious living flips that mindset. It’s about intentional buying — asking Do I need this? Can I reuse what I have? Is there a better version?
👉 Example: Instead of buying 12 seasonal candles from a big box store, invest in one or two thoughtfully-made ones (like the ones in my shop) that are refillable, cleaner-burning, and don’t give off synthetic fumes.
You’ll save space, money, and reduce your environmental impact — all with less effort.
5. Make Sustainability Part of the Grocery Routine
If you’re already doing the weekly shop, you’re halfway there.
Here are a few small swaps that don’t require a separate trip or overhaul:
- Bring reusable bags (leave them in the car — it helps!)
- Choose loose fruit and veg instead of plastic-wrapped ones
- Buy in bulk when you can — rice, oats, pasta
- Switch to compostable bin liners (you won’t even notice the difference)
One or two changes per shop = big impact over time.
6. Get the Kids Involved (Yes, Really!)
Kids are naturally curious and love helping. Turn sustainable living into a family value by making it fun:
- Let them sort recycling or carry the cloth bags
- Make a game of turning off lights and saving water
- Create a “nature jar” of small outdoor treasures instead of plastic toys
These moments build connection and consciousness — and that’s what this lifestyle is really about.
Start Where You Are
You don’t need to have it all figured out. You just need to start.
Eco-conscious living isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being present — with your home, your choices, your kids, and yourself. Every small shift is a vote for a gentler, more sustainable life. And as busy mums, that kind of living is possible — even in the messy middle of it all.
So breathe deep. Light a candle. Make one small change.
You’re already doing better than you think.
Until Next time
Christina
Want more cozy, simple living ideas?
Browse my shop, the rustic collection or follow along on Pinterest for daily inspiration.
