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What is a Conscious Consumer?

You may have hear this term being bandied around on social media and wondered what it means? Here at Cheeky, being a conscious consumer really resounds with us and our mission to create 'Simple Reusable' products since way back in 2008.

A conscious consumer is someone who makes thoughtful, informed purchase decisions about what they purchase, prioritising sustainability, ethics, and long-term value. It involves considering the environmental, social, and economic impacts of our consumption habits.

With the rise of Temu 'shop like a billionaire' and companies like Shein who use cheap labour at prices which mean the products are almost disposable, conscious consumption is pretty much the antithesis of this.

However it doesn’t mean giving up the things you love but rather finding alternatives that align with values like reducing waste, supporting ethical labour, and minimising our carbon footprint.

Here at Cheeky, we're sharing some practical ways that we're embracing ethical consumerism this year.

How to Be a Conscious Consumer in 2025

1. Opt for Quality Over Quantity

Instead of buying multiple cheap items that quickly wear out or become obsolete, invest in high-quality sustainable products that last longer. Not only will you save money in the long run, but you'll also reduce waste. For example, durable stainless steel water bottles or well-crafted clothing from ethical brands can replace low-quality, disposable items.

For me, I've been avoiding buying new clothing, instead looking for quality second hand clothing from Vinted. Not only is it fun, but you can grab a bargain price tag too!

2. Ditch Single-Use Products for Reusable Alternatives

Single-use products like plastic bags, disposable razors, tampons and incontinence pads contribute significantly to global waste. Women will use around 11,000 period products during their lifetime, so that can have a really high environmental impact over time.

Instead, switch to reusable alternatives, such as Cheeky’s reusable period pants and pads. These products are not only better for the environment but also save you money over time. Cheeky’s reusable options are made with breathable, comfortable materials, providing irritation-free, environmentally conscious solutions to period care.

'I have been using the incontinence products for years now. They work at least as well as any disposable products, probably better. They are so easy to wash in the machine and I feel so much better about having to wear them as there is no waste.' Trustpilot Review

3. Minimise Plastic Use

Plastic waste is a global crisis, with less than 10% of plastic waste being recycled (source: OECD). Avoid items packaged in plastic by choosing glass jars, metal containers, or compostable packaging. Small changes, like carrying reusable shopping bags and ditching cling film for beeswax wraps, can have a big impact over time.

'Easier to manage than you think! I keep coming back here & trying new things; each idea seems even better than the previous. Hubby is now involved in the change to reusables & very pleased with the wipes & spray I bought for him to keep in the car / workshop instead of baby wipes to clean his hands. Yes, there is a little more effort involved to clean reusables, but we are now getting into a routine & feel we are making an - albeit tiny - contribution towards plastic reduction.' Trustpilot Review

Learn more about why reusable wipes and products are a game changer in this blog: Are Reusable Wipes Actually Convenient?

4. Support Ethical and Local Brands

Purchasing from local and ethical brands helps reduce the carbon emissions associated with transportation and supports fair wages for workers.

Here at Cheeky, we've just submitted our application to become part of the B Corp movement which means we have to meet high ethical, social enviromental and transparency standards throughout our supply chain.

Discover more ways to make sustainable choices here: Eco Family Blog.

Barstools

5. Embrace DIY and Upcycling

Give your old items new life through upcycling. For instance, turn old T-shirts into reusable cleaning rags or create home decor from discarded materials. DIY projects not only save money but also reduce the demand for new products, minimizing waste.

We are HUGE fans of marketplaces like Ebay and Facebook Marketplace for second hand furniture. Just recently, some leather dye totally transformed some IKEA leather stools we found on marketplace and gave them a new lease of life, which isn't just environmentally friendly, it's also pretty damn satisfying!

6. Educate Yourself and Advocate for Change

Understanding the impact of your consumption is the first step toward change. Follow blogs like Cheeky’s Sustainable Lifestyle Hacks to learn practical tips. Share your journey with friends and family to inspire others to adopt socially and environmentally aware habits.

7. Reduce Energy and Water Use

Being mindful of your energy and water consumption is another way to live more sustainably. Install energy-efficient appliances, use LED lightbulbs, and conserve water by taking shorter showers or using reduced water shower heads. Small adjustments to consumer behaviour like these collectively make a big difference.

8. Plan and Shop For Meals Thoughtfully

I am a HUGE fan of menu planning and cooking from scratch. Not only is it healthier than eating lots of ultra processed foods, it's also cheaper and better for the planet. Try and reduce the amount of meat you eat too, which again will have a positive impact on the planet.

Avoid impulse purchases by planning your meals and shopping with a list. This reduces food waste and ensures you only buy what you need. Additionally, consider buying in bulk to minimise packaging waste.

Conclusion

Conscious consumerism is about making small, impactful changes to your buying decisions, based on the benefits to our planet and future generations. Whether it’s switching to reusable products, supporting ethical eco friendly brands, or minimising plastic waste, every step counts.

Recommended Products for Conscious Consumers

Washable Baby Wipes Kits
Washable Baby Wipes Kits

Washable Cloth Baby Wipes Kits for cloth or disposable nappy users. For hands & faces or bottoms too.

Browse
Period Pants
Period Pants

Period Pants and Period Starter kits from Cheeky Wipes UK

Browse

For more sustainable living tips, visit our blog:

We’d love to hear from you! Share your conscious consumer tips or questions in the comments below, or contact us for more information. Together, we can make 2025 a year of real change.

About the Author: Helen Rankin founded Cheeky Wipes, the original reusable wipes kit back in 2008 after disposable wipes caused her eczema to flare up. 4 kids later, she went on to develop their range of 'Simple Reusables' to include period pants, reusable period kits and reusable sanitary pads.  Both she and the rest of the leadership team are now navigating menopause, with all the joys it brings!

The Cheeky customer services team pride themselves on providing honest, friendly advice and just LOVE to chat pee, poo and periods all day long, helping people make the switch to reusables! The Company was recognised for their hard work in developing environmentally friendly products with the Queens Award in Enterprise for Sustainable Development in 2021.