I’m not sure whether it’s the economy, the downsizing trend or just my natural urge to simplify, but lately we’ve embraced living with less more seriously than ever.

We started by clearing closets and cabinets, donating what we no longer use, and sorting paperwork into much smaller, more manageable piles. What began as a New Year’s resolve to organize the whole house turned into an ongoing shift in how we approach possessions. It isn’t only about a tidy home; it’s about wanting less—less to buy, less to maintain, less to store and less to think about.

Take the shower for example:

We realized we liked the same shampoo and conditioner, so we stopped buying separate bottles and now share one of each. That small change eliminates frequent, unnecessary trips to the store and reduces packaging waste. Choosing a single body wash in a large size saves money and cutting down on small refill purchases. We share a loofah, a bar of face soap and a pumice stone (the pumice is my personal thing), and the razor remains mine. The result is a much less cluttered shower and a shorter shopping list. A few shared items have simplified our routine more than I expected. (Update: since then we switched to different brands we prefer and are even happier with the choices.)

Many of our eco-friendly swaps naturally encouraged more minimalism. Using a single, eco-conscious laundry detergent removes the need to store multiple bottles and makes shopping simpler. Choosing organic, natural makeup cut out impulse buys that used to sit forgotten in my bag—no more trendy purple eye shadows or bubble gum glosses purchased on a whim.

I’ve also stopped painting my fingernails and usually skip painting my toes. The clean, unchipped look appeals to me more than the time and expense of maintaining polish. There are non-toxic water-based polishes available, but eliminating regular polishing saved time and felt like a little gift to myself. I still keep nails clipped and buffed for a neat appearance. On the rare occasions I do paint my toes, I use one of three vegan, non-toxic polishes I already own—soft pink, deep red and coral—which are all I need, so there’s no urge to buy trendy shades or store dozens of bottles.

Here’s another example: my makeup bag.

Excuse the well-traveled $5 bag I bought years ago, but the point is that all my makeup fits into this single pouch. It’s not just a travel bag—it’s the only makeup bag I own. That makes packing quick and keeps my routine lean: a few trusted products that get me through every day and the occasional special event.

When emptied out, the bag reveals a deliberately small set of essentials:

I use a compact bronzer and blush in recyclable packaging that add color and double as an eye shadow when needed. A quick curl of the lashes, a coat of mascara and a dab of brow gel are usually all I need. I’m not into liquid liner or false lashes, and that’s fine—this simplified kit speeds up my routine and still leaves me looking polished and ready for the day.

Giving up perfume was another choice that reinforced a simpler lifestyle. After years of regular use I decided to stop wearing fragrance. Synthetic scents can be irritating and contribute to indoor air pollution; I prefer the subtle natural scents of organic soaps and lotions. Not wearing perfume has reduced my desire to buy every new product I read about in magazines and freed me from the pressure to keep up with beauty trends.

Choosing to acquire fewer items—and to focus on organic, all-natural products when we do buy—has made impulse purchases rarer. This approach doesn’t feel like deprivation. Instead, it delivers real benefits: a healthier, cleaner household, more storage space, extra money in the bank and time reclaimed from shopping and maintaining excess products.

Simplifying has turned daily routines into easier, more intentional rituals. We save time, reduce waste and enjoy a calmer living space. Life feels better when it’s less complicated, and we’ve found that a few thoughtful changes can go a long way.

I’d love to hear what others are doing to simplify and live with less. Whether you share products, buy in bulk, make items at home or let go of routines that no longer serve you, your tips might inspire someone else to start clearing space—both in their home and in their life.

*There’s a growing movement toward back-to-basics living and mindful consumption. Many people find that limiting products and choosing natural options helps make daily life easier and healthier.

**For specific product recommendations and a list of certified organic and chemical-free favorites, check comments or community discussions where people share what they use and love.