Prepare for NYC's Plastic Bag Ban with these Shopping Hacks to Save the Planet

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One by one, cities and states and countries around the world are hopping on board the train to Save the Planet. No matter how small, each step every person takes can make a difference. But let's be honest, sometimes it takes policy change to force individual change. This is why I couldn't be more thrilled to hear that NYC's "Plastic Bag Ban" is taking effect March 1, 2020!! That's right!!! Any retailer required to collect NY State sales tax will not be allowed to distribute single use plastic bags.

​Retailers can, but don't have to, sell single use paper bags for $0.05. And many will have reusable bags for sale for those who forget a bag. But don't be this guy who ends up buying bag after bag because you keep forgetting!! This is rather wasteful, after all, which is what we're trying to avoid here! Stock up on a few great bags now - keep one in your work bag, your diaper bag, in the stroller, a few in the car, you get the idea!! Shop local if you can, and if you prefer to order online, here are a few cool ones we've seen, as well as a few other hacks like using a wagon or home delivery!

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Self-Storing 2oz Polyester Fabric Reusable Bag
This super lightweight polyester fabric reusable washable bag weighs only 2oz yet can hold a max weight of 40 pounds. It folds into its own pocket for super quick and easy storage, with no extra bag to lose!

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Ripstop Polyester Fabric Reusable Bag
Made of lightweight but durable ripstop polyester fabric, this washable and reusable bag squishes into a 4" carrier and can hold up to 50 pounds.

Washable Cotton Mesh Bag
Made of 100% cotton, these washable and reusable mesh bags hold up to 40 pounds and are great for produce shopping.

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Cart or Wagon
Of course, you can go beyond bags. I have been LOVING my wagon - it carries my kids and their stuff, and it also carries my groceries, no bags required!! Many New Yorkers are used to the standard vertical carts, but they're not so practical as you have to be very careful with stacking your goods. My Wonderfold Wagon can hold up to 200 pounds, and it collapses so it doesn't take up too much space in our entry way! Get 25% off a W1 or W2 model at wonderfoldwagon.com with code "heathert25", or find on Amazon.

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Home Delivery (Fresh Direct)
You may find this the push to do more home delivery, which will use more gas, and require a tip and possibly a delivery fee, but it sure is easy to shop from home! Personally, I'm a huge fan of Fresh Direct - they have same and next day delivery, and the bonus is that they use HUGE reusable bags. They'll pick up your last batch of bags with your next round of groceries, and in between you are free to use their bags as needed - I usually fold a couple and keep them in my wagon to organize local grocery shopping! Did I mention, THEY'RE HUGE and very strong!!