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Human: How do you get out of the mindset that you are wasting your time? I’ve always liked writing, and I’ve always wanted to write a book. I have plenty of ideas that have always grown with me over the years. They’ve traditionally been fiction, but lately non-fiction has been my thing. But there is always one thing that stops me. I’m a big “time is precious and I don’t want to waste my time” kind of guy. It’s not that I don’t believe in my ideas, I just know realistically the chances of getting a publisher to pick up your book is slim. I also don’t want to self-publish. I get stuck between the “I want to write a book!” and the “Don’t waste your time!” mindsets, and then I just end up not writing. How have you overcome this mindset?
Assistant: There's a time for work, and there's a time for play. If in your free time, you do something you enjoy that's not only productive but also increases your chances of getting published then I'd wager that it's not wasted time. Even if it seems like you're getting nowhere, as long as you enjoy writing, the free time you spend doing it shouldn't feel wasted. |
Human: How do you get out of the mindset that you are wasting your time? I’ve always liked writing, and I’ve always wanted to write a book. I have plenty of ideas that have always grown with me over the years. They’ve traditionally been fiction, but lately non-fiction has been my thing. But there is always one thing that stops me. I’m a big “time is precious and I don’t want to waste my time” kind of guy. It’s not that I don’t believe in my ideas, I just know realistically the chances of getting a publisher to pick up your book is slim. I also don’t want to self-publish. I get stuck between the “I want to write a book!” and the “Don’t waste your time!” mindsets, and then I just end up not writing. How have you overcome this mindset?
Assistant: Stop stressing about if you're any good and focus on the inherent value of the writing itself. Too many people worry about the money, the fame, or even success, which will gunk up the works and bog down your brain with useless distractions. I imagine few professional writers obsess over any of those things. They worry about the next word, sentence, and/or scene. You know? The actual writing? :) |
Human: I Want to Start Writing Again, But I Have NO Idea What to Write About. What to Do? Tbh I wouldn't even call it a "slump". I just haven't written anything in a really long time, because I've been so out of touch with the things that have made me happy for so long, so I'm trying to get back into it. I want to write, I love writing! I just have no idea where to even start.
Assistant: Freewrite, ten minutes in front of the laptop or notebook just doing stream of conscious shit, let it flow, see where it leads. Stop at ten minutes or carry on, up to you. |
Human: I Want to Start Writing Again, But I Have NO Idea What to Write About. What to Do? Tbh I wouldn't even call it a "slump". I just haven't written anything in a really long time, because I've been so out of touch with the things that have made me happy for so long, so I'm trying to get back into it. I want to write, I love writing! I just have no idea where to even start.
Assistant: When I'm having trouble getting started it helps to find something, some music or a book or a TV show, that really changes my emotional state. Something that brings me up out of a funk, or something that brings me down from a figurative high, or just something that inspires some amount of awe in me. The change helps me view things in a different light, and the new point of view often inspires me to start writing. |
Human: How to keep writing when the story includes things difficult for the author? I’m sure something like this question comes up frequently when learning to write beyond “write what you know” - how to handle something touching upon things an author finds difficult to think about? As an example, I have been trying to work on a story that includes events that includes setbacks for the characters that are similar to setbacks I have experienced myself. But those events touch upon memories that are painful to re-examine in detail, discouraging me from continuing. As a reader, seeing a character experience things I can relate to creates sympathy, and if an event is familiar to something I struggled with, I know most authors have a resolution and possibly a catharsis to arrive at. But it’s a different experience being the writer when drawing upon the memories of the past that are hard to think about in order to find the descriptive language to inspire empathy in potential readers. So, is there advice for writers on how to write events in a narrative that they themselves emphasize with exceedingly strongly, in a negative way?
Assistant: If it hurts you and brings out strong emotions, that may well turn out to be your best writing. |
Human: How to keep writing when the story includes things difficult for the author? I’m sure something like this question comes up frequently when learning to write beyond “write what you know” - how to handle something touching upon things an author finds difficult to think about? As an example, I have been trying to work on a story that includes events that includes setbacks for the characters that are similar to setbacks I have experienced myself. But those events touch upon memories that are painful to re-examine in detail, discouraging me from continuing. As a reader, seeing a character experience things I can relate to creates sympathy, and if an event is familiar to something I struggled with, I know most authors have a resolution and possibly a catharsis to arrive at. But it’s a different experience being the writer when drawing upon the memories of the past that are hard to think about in order to find the descriptive language to inspire empathy in potential readers. So, is there advice for writers on how to write events in a narrative that they themselves emphasize with exceedingly strongly, in a negative way?
Assistant: No, dont tell yourself to stop. Plow through it. Get it out. Address these emotions. We love writing because we like to tell a good story, but we also NEED it. I bottle nearly everything up, its very unhealthy, writing serves as my release. Writing is therapy for many people and there's nothing wrong with that. Let it be. |
Human: Where do you get your writing done? My home has been very difficult to concentrate due to many factors, so I used to go to Starbucks frequently and write there (my wallet was not happy. I spent a lot of money but ultimately was productive). But I’m no longer living in a place with any decent cafes around within 30 minutes. So what do you do? Do you just have a decent home setup? Library? Are their desk spaces you can rent somewhere or something? Local University? Even if you don’t have a suggestion that’ll help me, I’d love to hear about your personal favorite spaces anyway.
Assistant: Libraries are good. Any low traffic cafe or fast food restaurant. Ever try McDonalds? But that was writing/drawing magazine style cartoons, now I write exclusively at home except when I get ideas on the road and I type them into my phone. I have worked in my car like the other commenter suggested. I also used to get up around 4 or 5 am. You set your alarm. When goes off, put your feet on the floor. It's difficult for a while. Coffee helps. |
Human: Where do you get your writing done? My home has been very difficult to concentrate due to many factors, so I used to go to Starbucks frequently and write there (my wallet was not happy. I spent a lot of money but ultimately was productive). But I’m no longer living in a place with any decent cafes around within 30 minutes. So what do you do? Do you just have a decent home setup? Library? Are their desk spaces you can rent somewhere or something? Local University? Even if you don’t have a suggestion that’ll help me, I’d love to hear about your personal favorite spaces anyway.
Assistant: I do most of my writing on the floor, while my 4yo falls asleep. I play some quiet music for her and start typing away. |
Human: Do you have any tips on “traitor” characters? I’m currently writing one for my novel and I’m a bit stumped! In my (I scraped my old one!) new novel “SHOT” , the deuteragonist (his name is Heidi!) is (most likely) going to be a traitor in my novel. Heidi is the childhood friend to the main heroine of the story, Jessica. They both are really close! They are one day abducted by an organization (along with several other people) and brought to an underground location known as ‘The Fármaco’, where they are later experimented on with drugs. The drug varies upon person to person, causing that said person to do or see unusual and totally different things. There will be a bit of murder in the novel, as some of the pills will make (some) of the participants attack one another. However, Heidi is fully aware of the drugs and experiments, since everyone doesn’t know they’re even being experimented on. Before he was abducted with Jessica, Heidi was instructed by another organization to “observe” everything that occurred in the Fármaco. It’s very vague and I left a lot of details out of the brief story, but all there is really to know is hat Heidi is working with an organization to watch over the others. Can I have some tips on how to ‘enhance’ the “traitor” aspect? :0
Assistant: Traitors usually feel like outsiders, regardless of whether or not they actually are. They feel inadequately compensated or appreciated, and often feel like the one they betray betrayed them first. Benedict Arnold's main motivation was that he wasn't being compensated enough by Washington, despite winning great victories for him. He believed this, despite being the highest paid officer in the entire war on either side. Looking back through history will often reveal this pattern a lot. |
Human: Do you have any tips on “traitor” characters? I’m currently writing one for my novel and I’m a bit stumped! In my (I scraped my old one!) new novel “SHOT” , the deuteragonist (his name is Heidi!) is (most likely) going to be a traitor in my novel. Heidi is the childhood friend to the main heroine of the story, Jessica. They both are really close! They are one day abducted by an organization (along with several other people) and brought to an underground location known as ‘The Fármaco’, where they are later experimented on with drugs. The drug varies upon person to person, causing that said person to do or see unusual and totally different things. There will be a bit of murder in the novel, as some of the pills will make (some) of the participants attack one another. However, Heidi is fully aware of the drugs and experiments, since everyone doesn’t know they’re even being experimented on. Before he was abducted with Jessica, Heidi was instructed by another organization to “observe” everything that occurred in the Fármaco. It’s very vague and I left a lot of details out of the brief story, but all there is really to know is hat Heidi is working with an organization to watch over the others. Can I have some tips on how to ‘enhance’ the “traitor” aspect? :0
Assistant: I had a similar character. What about her being a traitor do you want to enhance? You want readers to guess she’s a traitor? Or make readers feel uncanny and suspicious about her? Or the other way around, want her be not to be an obvious first suspect? |
Human: How do you correctly pace your story I usually write too fast paced and my writing is underwhelming in detail. Any tips on proper pacing?
Assistant: Yeah I agree with others here. It’s very hard to do on a first draft. Just had to cut first half of a story since I realized it wasn’t necessary and slowed everything down. Hated the cutting, but when you step back and give yourself time away from a story, pacing becomes very clear |
Human: How do you correctly pace your story I usually write too fast paced and my writing is underwhelming in detail. Any tips on proper pacing?
Assistant: Very carefully. When stuff is fast (action, high intensity shouting), what do you notice? It’s just the laser focus of the action. Your eyes are on the blade in your opponent’s hand, or (if you’re smart) on the shoulders; your thoughts in the argument are only on the words. To the contrary, you’re walking around. It’s boring. You’re looking at shit to pass the time. And then there’s new stuff. You don’t notice details in your house. You do in new places. That’s pacing in nutshell. |
Human: I’ve been writing my outline for my story for a couple of weeks now; at what point should I actually start writing the story? Ive been writing an outline for this story that I got the idea for a couple of days before I started the outline. It’s currently at 10 pages, with a little over 5, 500 words. At this point in the outline, the main characters goals have been established, and we meet a lot of minor characters that haven’t been too developed yet, but it’s made clear that they’ll have a significant meaning later on. Is this the appropriate time to actually start writing it? Any feedback would be appreciated.
Assistant: This is one of those 'only you can know" questiobs |
Human: I’ve been writing my outline for my story for a couple of weeks now; at what point should I actually start writing the story? Ive been writing an outline for this story that I got the idea for a couple of days before I started the outline. It’s currently at 10 pages, with a little over 5, 500 words. At this point in the outline, the main characters goals have been established, and we meet a lot of minor characters that haven’t been too developed yet, but it’s made clear that they’ll have a significant meaning later on. Is this the appropriate time to actually start writing it? Any feedback would be appreciated.
Assistant: I don't know a good answer. I spent well over two years doing outlining/brainstorming/organizing although my world is high fantasy. In-between those I wrote three different stories from the world each getting halfway through before I realized how inherently weak the story or characters actually were. I would take what worked from that story and lock it away for later and reset. I guess my answer is when you can tall yourself the basic plot without using the outline and you think it's good. |
Human: Have any of you ever given in and written the most cliche, straight-up corny, self-indulgent drivel, just to get it out of your system? I'm not looking to get published/publish myself yet; I have a lot of learning to do. I'm trying to knock out some first drafts that I have accepted will probably be awfu. I'm fine with that, I have the rest of my life to improve and if I fall in love with one of my first novels I can always come back to the idea later and reconstruct it. I'm still taking them seriously and attempting to make my stories the best I can given my skill level and experience. I write in genre/romance, so my stuff won't be the height of literature anyway. That's fine! My goal is to entertain, not change the world. But I keep getting sidetracked by these ideas that I know are too silly even for a silly light-hearted sci-fi romance or whatever. I've been getting this urge to just sit down, bang out all the absolute terrible cliche shit that my brain is supplying to me. Then I'd also be able to look back on it and see what exactly I *don't* want to do. Is it a terrible idea that will reinforce bad writing? Will it get it out and allow me to focus on better things? Is it totally up to the person, what they're writing, etc? Let me know your experience if you've done something like this!!
Assistant: Yes. I call it Reddit. |
Human: Have any of you ever given in and written the most cliche, straight-up corny, self-indulgent drivel, just to get it out of your system? I'm not looking to get published/publish myself yet; I have a lot of learning to do. I'm trying to knock out some first drafts that I have accepted will probably be awfu. I'm fine with that, I have the rest of my life to improve and if I fall in love with one of my first novels I can always come back to the idea later and reconstruct it. I'm still taking them seriously and attempting to make my stories the best I can given my skill level and experience. I write in genre/romance, so my stuff won't be the height of literature anyway. That's fine! My goal is to entertain, not change the world. But I keep getting sidetracked by these ideas that I know are too silly even for a silly light-hearted sci-fi romance or whatever. I've been getting this urge to just sit down, bang out all the absolute terrible cliche shit that my brain is supplying to me. Then I'd also be able to look back on it and see what exactly I *don't* want to do. Is it a terrible idea that will reinforce bad writing? Will it get it out and allow me to focus on better things? Is it totally up to the person, what they're writing, etc? Let me know your experience if you've done something like this!!
Assistant: Og, that actually sounds as awesome idea. Also good for training. I am gonna google some greaf fantasy female cliches and have a fun with it. |
Human: How do you make a character more interesting? Most basic question in the world, right? But wait. What if you’re an experienced writer with a hundred characters you’re happy with, but one important character (with an appropriate list of skills, flaws, and goals already in place) simply isn’t coming across as unique? Writing them feels like going through the motions, there’s no sense of inhabiting the character’s mindset, even when other characters *do* feel like they come alive? I’m sure I’m not the only one who’s had that problem. What do you do when you’ve filled out all the personality checklists, but still feel that character just needs a little more… personality? Exercises? Sources of inspiration?
Assistant: Sometimes, it's the little insignificant details that are taken out of the first draft because they "bog down the story" or "are useless, I don't use that fact later in the book" that actually make the character come alive. |
Human: How do you make a character more interesting? Most basic question in the world, right? But wait. What if you’re an experienced writer with a hundred characters you’re happy with, but one important character (with an appropriate list of skills, flaws, and goals already in place) simply isn’t coming across as unique? Writing them feels like going through the motions, there’s no sense of inhabiting the character’s mindset, even when other characters *do* feel like they come alive? I’m sure I’m not the only one who’s had that problem. What do you do when you’ve filled out all the personality checklists, but still feel that character just needs a little more… personality? Exercises? Sources of inspiration?
Assistant: What does the character want? Do they always want something? What unique personality traits they have? I would go through these myself. |
Human: How can I go from high school level writing to college level writing? I am a high school upperclassman who wants to take my writing to a higher level. What are ways I can improve my writing to sound more like a college student in essays? I struggle in being detailed and descriptive for the most part. Thank you in advance! I appreciate it :)
Assistant: Something that helped me in my academic writing is simply asking yourself "why" after you finish a sentence or paragraph. "why does this matter in making my argument" or "why would/should the reader care about what I'm saying here". If you can't answer the question then you need to go into more thoughtful detail! It's simple but it can help get creative juices flowing! |
Human: How can I go from high school level writing to college level writing? I am a high school upperclassman who wants to take my writing to a higher level. What are ways I can improve my writing to sound more like a college student in essays? I struggle in being detailed and descriptive for the most part. Thank you in advance! I appreciate it :)
Assistant: As a college student I really hate college style writing not going to lie. It’s so overly expository and explanatory. I think it’s trying to make individuals of average intelligence sound like geniuses and it fails. That’s just my hot take though Read the Elements of Style, its style of efficiency of language is excellent |
Human: How do I change the rhythm of my sentences? I noticed that when I am writing my senteces are "I do that. I do this and that. Character's thought about it. I then do this, this and that. I do this" What can I do to make my prose less boring to read?
Assistant: Honestly? Read a grammar book. Every time I read a grammar book, (not as a rule book! Grammar isn't actually real!) I am reminded of ways to organize sentences that I have forgotten about simply because I don't use them. Gerunds, appositives, nominalization, all can be much more artistic than we're taught |
Human: How do I change the rhythm of my sentences? I noticed that when I am writing my senteces are "I do that. I do this and that. Character's thought about it. I then do this, this and that. I do this" What can I do to make my prose less boring to read?
Assistant: My "rule" (that I break from time to time as a stylistic/voice choice) is to never start two sentences in a row with the same word. So it would look something like "I do that. This and that, which I had done so many times before that the actions were committed to my muscle's memories, bored me. I then do this, this and that." |
Human: What are some jobs in writing that don’t require experience? I’m young and trying to get out of factory work and into something writing related. I really have no idea what type of work to be looking for or how to get into the field, any advice would be hugely appreciated!
Assistant: Just get your writing out there! Start a free Wordpress blog and start posting to social media. You’ll meet other likeminded people who you can share your work with and learn from. Then after a few months you’ll have a body is work that you can present to people for copywriting jobs, internships, journalism jobs - or at the very least you’ll get some feedback on your writing and some inspiration so you can improve. |
Human: What are some jobs in writing that don’t require experience? I’m young and trying to get out of factory work and into something writing related. I really have no idea what type of work to be looking for or how to get into the field, any advice would be hugely appreciated!
Assistant: Social media marketing, journalism, copy editing are good places to start, but all will want a degree, so finding a way to get an education is your first step |
Human: please help me and ease my pain I'm working with a company called writers republic and they been helping me with publishing my book, but I'm now conflicted because I looked on beware writers and they are on the list but it seems they are legit they made a cover for me and formatted my manuscript. I'm doubting myself now their emails seem professional enough and they have there location and phone number on the email please just rip off the bandage if I fucked up or not, I'm scared they will copyright my work or keep it for themselves please just let me know if I made a grave mistake
Assistant: > it seems they are legit they made a cover for me and formatted my manuscript most vanity publishers won't outright scam you aka take your money and not deliver any services because that's illegal and they would get shut down. instead they do deliver the services they promise in your contract, you're just massively overpaying for them and especially for their quality. |
Human: please help me and ease my pain I'm working with a company called writers republic and they been helping me with publishing my book, but I'm now conflicted because I looked on beware writers and they are on the list but it seems they are legit they made a cover for me and formatted my manuscript. I'm doubting myself now their emails seem professional enough and they have there location and phone number on the email please just rip off the bandage if I fucked up or not, I'm scared they will copyright my work or keep it for themselves please just let me know if I made a grave mistake
Assistant: I am using Amazon Kindle Direct to publish my book. It’s completely free. Now I did format it all myself and isn’t the most fascinating look, but it is my first and i have to be money wise. And I got my cover made on Fiverr for $30ish. |
Human: I need advise on how to help my little sister My little sister is 11. She has started writing little stories of her own and want to post them online. I am worried about trolls ruining her love for writing. I want to encourage her love for writing but I also dont want her to have to face potential trolls. Is there any site or app that might be best for her to post where she could get constructive criticism but i wouldnt have to be so worried about idiots online being trolls. Also how best could I encourage her writing while also helping her writing improve. Thank you all for any help you can give.
Assistant: Nanowrimo's young writer's program- short for "national novel writing month" has great kids support-she doesn't have to be writing a novel. There is Nanowrimo virtual Camp in July and April as well as November which is the actual month. Your niece will be able to make like-minded, similar age, friend writers who encourage her talents. Check it out online: https://ywp.nanowrimo.org/ |
Human: I need advise on how to help my little sister My little sister is 11. She has started writing little stories of her own and want to post them online. I am worried about trolls ruining her love for writing. I want to encourage her love for writing but I also dont want her to have to face potential trolls. Is there any site or app that might be best for her to post where she could get constructive criticism but i wouldnt have to be so worried about idiots online being trolls. Also how best could I encourage her writing while also helping her writing improve. Thank you all for any help you can give.
Assistant: Personally, I'd set up an account for her but moderate it myself, then only read/show her the safe comments. There's no site that's perfectly safe, having a real person between her and the unfiltered internet seems like a good idea at that age. |
Human: Finding it so hard to get on with my life as I wait for agents to respond Querying again and it's only been two weeks, with two full requests and one partial but I can't think about anything else and thoughts of failure won't leave me. Read somewhere that if you were to get an agent, it will happen within two weeks or not. Is that true?
Assistant: I am an agent. To get 2 fulls and a partial within 2 weeks is great. I try to respond within 4 weeks of getting a query. Some agents take weeks/months to get back to you if they do at all. Looks like you are doing everything right so don't lose hope! |
Human: Finding it so hard to get on with my life as I wait for agents to respond Querying again and it's only been two weeks, with two full requests and one partial but I can't think about anything else and thoughts of failure won't leave me. Read somewhere that if you were to get an agent, it will happen within two weeks or not. Is that true?
Assistant: Stop reading stupid stuff about writing. FFS, write another book. Focus on that, because it's hopefully going to be a better book, and maybe you can get an agent from it, and they might sell it. Or it might be the next, or the one after that, or the tenth after *that*. |
Human: Is it alright never giving your main character a name? He is always adressed as 'he' Everyone else has a name, is addressed by it. But not him. Would it turn you away from a story?
Assistant: Doctor Who has been getting away with it for generations. |
Human: Is it alright never giving your main character a name? He is always adressed as 'he' Everyone else has a name, is addressed by it. But not him. Would it turn you away from a story?
Assistant: Neil Gaiman did (didn’t?) do that in *The Ocean at the End of the Lane*. But then again he’s Neil Gaiman. |
Human: A PSA on Vanity Publishers-- New Authors Beware So, I just got finished sitting down with a classmate and explaining to him that his soon-to-be-published fantasy novel was actually being vanity published, and that he was being ripped off. He took it well, and now we're in the process of reaching out to contacts to see if I can find an IP Lawyer or something similar to help him out. As I'm definitely not a lawyer, this is the most I can do. But he dropped 4 grand on the bastards, and was told he'd make the money back. He's almost guaranteed to never see that money. Depending on what the contract he signed says, he might have just screwed up the rest of his writing career (some shady publishers slip in a clause that doesn't allow you to go to other publishers afterward). If you don't know what a vanity publisher is, they are publishers that make you pay to publish. You're basically a client, not an author. That's not necessarily a bad thing. Some people just want to be published, and understand they're doing it entirely for vanity and that they'll never make their money back. However, an overwhelming majority of Vanity Publishers are shady little liars and con artists, using misleading terms to make it seem like they'll give you a full release, put you on book shelves, and get you making that money back in no time. A general rule of thumb is: if a publisher asks for money up front, they're a bunch of filthy thieves preying upon your desire to be published. Don't fall for it. There's a reason it's hard to be traditionally published, it's because honest publishers make money by selling the book. If they don't think it will sell, they won't publish it, because THEY pay for the cost of production, not you. I know this has been repeated on this subreddit many times. But I repeat it again because it STILL happens. Be wary. If anyone ever asks for money up front, claiming you'll make the money back, then run. Run and don't look back. Note: I'm obviously not including the name of the vanity publisher because those bastards don't deserve any more hits. Also Note: I know there can be confusion regarding apparent similarities between vanity publishing and self publishing. If you are struggling with those confusions, talk with a more advanced writer that you trust. Also Also Note: this post is common knowledge for some. I'm posting for those who might not know. It's something that honestly needs to be brought up regularly.
Assistant: > he might have just screwed up the rest of his writing career (some shady publishers slip in a clause that doesn't allow you to go to other publishers afterward). This sounds like it wouldn't actually hold up in court. Just because it's in a contract it doesn't mean it's enforceable. |
Human: A PSA on Vanity Publishers-- New Authors Beware So, I just got finished sitting down with a classmate and explaining to him that his soon-to-be-published fantasy novel was actually being vanity published, and that he was being ripped off. He took it well, and now we're in the process of reaching out to contacts to see if I can find an IP Lawyer or something similar to help him out. As I'm definitely not a lawyer, this is the most I can do. But he dropped 4 grand on the bastards, and was told he'd make the money back. He's almost guaranteed to never see that money. Depending on what the contract he signed says, he might have just screwed up the rest of his writing career (some shady publishers slip in a clause that doesn't allow you to go to other publishers afterward). If you don't know what a vanity publisher is, they are publishers that make you pay to publish. You're basically a client, not an author. That's not necessarily a bad thing. Some people just want to be published, and understand they're doing it entirely for vanity and that they'll never make their money back. However, an overwhelming majority of Vanity Publishers are shady little liars and con artists, using misleading terms to make it seem like they'll give you a full release, put you on book shelves, and get you making that money back in no time. A general rule of thumb is: if a publisher asks for money up front, they're a bunch of filthy thieves preying upon your desire to be published. Don't fall for it. There's a reason it's hard to be traditionally published, it's because honest publishers make money by selling the book. If they don't think it will sell, they won't publish it, because THEY pay for the cost of production, not you. I know this has been repeated on this subreddit many times. But I repeat it again because it STILL happens. Be wary. If anyone ever asks for money up front, claiming you'll make the money back, then run. Run and don't look back. Note: I'm obviously not including the name of the vanity publisher because those bastards don't deserve any more hits. Also Note: I know there can be confusion regarding apparent similarities between vanity publishing and self publishing. If you are struggling with those confusions, talk with a more advanced writer that you trust. Also Also Note: this post is common knowledge for some. I'm posting for those who might not know. It's something that honestly needs to be brought up regularly.
Assistant: Thanks for saying it. Too many hopeful authors get duped this way; and, to turn it into a one-liner... “If a ‘publisher’ wants you to pay them, walk the other way.” |
Human: Do you think social media stunts your creativity? Social media only really became a big part of everyday life after I left high school, and around this time I also started struggling to come up with ideas and write in general. I also read less. I don’t know if this is because suddenly I was confronted with the realities of life outside the comfort of my parents home, or if it’s because I have ADHD and the lack of structure after graduating high school sucked, or if it’s just a me problem. But I do wonder if spending hours scrolling through tiktok and Instagram instead of reading and writing and feeling bored and making up stories to entertain myself, like I did as a child, had anything to do with it. Thoughts?
Assistant: Definitely. I use it to keep informed because I also do some activism for women’s rights and hearing constantly about the latest political drama really kills it and is making my current depression relapse worse. So today I picked up some wildflowers on the side of the road and made a vase to help me. Kinda did and want to learn how to grow the Wild Carrot I found. |
Human: Do you think social media stunts your creativity? Social media only really became a big part of everyday life after I left high school, and around this time I also started struggling to come up with ideas and write in general. I also read less. I don’t know if this is because suddenly I was confronted with the realities of life outside the comfort of my parents home, or if it’s because I have ADHD and the lack of structure after graduating high school sucked, or if it’s just a me problem. But I do wonder if spending hours scrolling through tiktok and Instagram instead of reading and writing and feeling bored and making up stories to entertain myself, like I did as a child, had anything to do with it. Thoughts?
Assistant: If you want to write, you need to read. I don't read enough and I know it. That's why I'm using my habit and goal tracker to try to set aside time to write every single day and an hour to read before bed. I put my phone on airplane mode and just read in bed. My sleep has improved as a side benefit. |
Human: Writing historical fiction without feeling trapped/stuck I love learning about history. I love studying it, writing about it, and collecting as much interesting info as possible. I love reading historical fiction and have written some, and I have some historical fiction ideas floating around that I'm really excited about. I started on a longer historical fiction project recently that I had to pause and take a break from. I kept running into this problem of starting to develop an interesting story, and then realizing that some essential piece of it wasn't historically plausible. My pantser tendencies seem to be incompatible with historical fiction. Now, approaching new ideas I'm workshopping, I'm wondering how to go about researching and writing without feeling absolutely paralyzed by the amount of info to take in. I worry that as soon as I start, I'll do more reading and find something glaringly wrong, and I'll have to scrap the whole idea. How do you allow yourself to actually start when it feels like any detail you might include could trip you up?
Assistant: If Harry Flashman's flatulence can be the reason he's the first to reach the Russian lines in the Charge of the Light Brigade, I'm sure you shouldn't be too worried about the plausibility of your fiction. |
Human: Writing historical fiction without feeling trapped/stuck I love learning about history. I love studying it, writing about it, and collecting as much interesting info as possible. I love reading historical fiction and have written some, and I have some historical fiction ideas floating around that I'm really excited about. I started on a longer historical fiction project recently that I had to pause and take a break from. I kept running into this problem of starting to develop an interesting story, and then realizing that some essential piece of it wasn't historically plausible. My pantser tendencies seem to be incompatible with historical fiction. Now, approaching new ideas I'm workshopping, I'm wondering how to go about researching and writing without feeling absolutely paralyzed by the amount of info to take in. I worry that as soon as I start, I'll do more reading and find something glaringly wrong, and I'll have to scrap the whole idea. How do you allow yourself to actually start when it feels like any detail you might include could trip you up?
Assistant: I’m struggling with this as well. I feel super trapped in my story currently and I thought doing a narrative thread count would help but instead I feel like I might need to scrap EVERYTHING I’ve written and it’s such a bummer. |
Human: How do I tackle a serious topic without sounding like I'm trying to be edgy? **Please read the whole description.** In my short fiction story, I'm writing about a girl forced into a child marriage. I've done so much research on it (4 months, if fact) that I feel as though I can speak as well as I could on the matter without being in it myself. However, my fear is that when I start my rough draft, I'll worry about coming off as "edgy" and "trying too hard" when in reality, I'm presenting this topic with all the seriousness in the world. How do I not come across as if I'm, again, edgy?
Assistant: I think the biggest factor in being edgy comes from asserting how tough or hardcore something is. If your story is naturally serious, just write it. Trust the reader to understand that it's a serious story without telling them it is. |
Human: How do I tackle a serious topic without sounding like I'm trying to be edgy? **Please read the whole description.** In my short fiction story, I'm writing about a girl forced into a child marriage. I've done so much research on it (4 months, if fact) that I feel as though I can speak as well as I could on the matter without being in it myself. However, my fear is that when I start my rough draft, I'll worry about coming off as "edgy" and "trying too hard" when in reality, I'm presenting this topic with all the seriousness in the world. How do I not come across as if I'm, again, edgy?
Assistant: Just write it your way. Leave the perceptions to others. |
Human: Too late to fundamentally change my first draft? Title says it. I’m just reaching 40,000 words in the first draft of a novel I’m writing in my spare time(I’m a student going to uni too) and I realised that the two main characters don’t fit together as well as id hoped. I’m now thinking I need to swap them around, and change their gender and personalities so they fit together. I don’t know how much of a deal this is, and should I wait until I’m finished before I start doing this? Comments appreciated!
Assistant: Put a note in the draft, something like, “This is where I changed C and Y’s genders and personalities. Here’s why/what should change in the second draft.” Then continue the story as if it’s been that way this entire time. Next draft, do it right from the start. |
Human: Too late to fundamentally change my first draft? Title says it. I’m just reaching 40,000 words in the first draft of a novel I’m writing in my spare time(I’m a student going to uni too) and I realised that the two main characters don’t fit together as well as id hoped. I’m now thinking I need to swap them around, and change their gender and personalities so they fit together. I don’t know how much of a deal this is, and should I wait until I’m finished before I start doing this? Comments appreciated!
Assistant: Yeah, wait til you’re finished. Then you can come back to it, make a list of all the things that you think aren’t working, and fix them. It would also be interesting to hear about the relationships you’re describing - who are they, and why don’t they fit together? |
Human: What is a good place to post your first work? I've posted it on Wattpad but it doesn't even seem to show up on the searches and I don't know how people are going to find my work... Do you know places to post something that can get read even if you don't have a following yet?
Assistant: You could try submitting to literature journals if your work is short! That’s what I’ve been doing. The number of people who read them is relatively small but often you will receive a print copy (which I love) and you might get some money depending on the journal. It’s also good if you think you might want to publish in the future. |
Human: What is a good place to post your first work? I've posted it on Wattpad but it doesn't even seem to show up on the searches and I don't know how people are going to find my work... Do you know places to post something that can get read even if you don't have a following yet?
Assistant: I wouldn't recommend Wattpad, it can be downright awful sometimes, trust me. More often than not, the bad stories with an okay storyline are the ones at the top, which really annoys me. I'd say Quotev, but be warned there are more fanfictions than fictions there, and there's the heart-for-heart problem. Overall, I wouldn't say either of these sites are really good for publishing fiction, but you can try. Sorry. |
Human: How do I prevent my writing from becoming overly pretentious? I do have numerous story concepts that I intend to write, and a fair number of them involve very high concept themes and ideas that I would love to explore. However, I am afraid that my work shall be overly pretentious and pseudo-intellectual, which I seek to avoid. What are some methods of avoiding this (preferably without reducing the impact of the themes)?
Assistant: Why waste time say lot word when few word do trick? |
Human: How do I prevent my writing from becoming overly pretentious? I do have numerous story concepts that I intend to write, and a fair number of them involve very high concept themes and ideas that I would love to explore. However, I am afraid that my work shall be overly pretentious and pseudo-intellectual, which I seek to avoid. What are some methods of avoiding this (preferably without reducing the impact of the themes)?
Assistant: By writing it first and then reading it. |
Human: Is there such a thing as being too dialogue-heavy? I haven't written anything in years. I start things and give up because I think they're terrible, bland or corny. A lot of my writing ends up having a lot of conversations, to the point where I think, 'why don't I just write a script instead?', but I don't know how to write a script, so I give up. I would love to finish just one thing and be proud of it.
Assistant: If you love writing dialog, do it. The best way to learn is to keep doing what you love. Maybe it's not that great in the beginning, but becomes great over time. There's no one way to write. Who knows. Maybe you'll be a successful screen play writer if you get that dialog poppin'. |
Human: Is there such a thing as being too dialogue-heavy? I haven't written anything in years. I start things and give up because I think they're terrible, bland or corny. A lot of my writing ends up having a lot of conversations, to the point where I think, 'why don't I just write a script instead?', but I don't know how to write a script, so I give up. I would love to finish just one thing and be proud of it.
Assistant: It’s not that simple. The less description and interior monologue you use the more white space you’re creating. White space is just like in-scene narrative, you have to know how to use it effectively and because it’s not under your control it’s very very difficult. It’s why screenwriting is exceptionally challenging. You need to provide meaning to what’s not on the page via what’s on the page and do it intentionally. You just can’t leave stuff out and call it a day. |
Human: I'm conflicted about where to publish! So for the longest time I've been conflicted on whether or not to post my completed story on Wattpad, or to try and publish traditionally as self publishing has proved to be too expensive for me as I'm 17, I don't have the time or money for self publishing and everything that comes with it, editors, marketing, book covers, etc. I've posted stories on Wattpad before, and one of them recently gained traction because it's a cliche romance story, romance tends to do well on Wattpad. But to be honest, my other stories haven't done so well, despite the amount of effort and research I put into them. Still, I want to post my other completed story on there, but I feel like it won't get any reads because of its genre, and Wattpads most popular genres seems to be romance or mafia smut. Mine is post apocalyptic, and I worked so hard to write it, blood, sweat, and tears, several hours of research, everything. I feel like it'll be successful if I publish it professionally and I consider it to be the best work I have ever produced, it can go so far, (not trying to brag) so I don't want it to go to waste, left in the dust on Wattpad like the other good stories I've seen on there. Wattpad has a reputation for this, good stories going unrecognised. You could write a couple lines of smut and get 10K reads, I've seen such unique stories get like, 8 reads. No wonder the writers give up. That's why Wattpad has such a bad rep. But still, I feel like it'll do well on Wattpad too and will help me build an audience if it does get recognised, especially since I have a decent amount of followers, but I can't take the risk. I heard that once a story is published online, especially on Wattpad, traditional publishers will reject it immediately. And I'm young as well, apparently publishers won't take me seriously. I'm mean, come on, I put so much effort into this story, it's not a cringe fest. Did I write this story for no reason? Sigh, well, it was fun whilst it lasted. It's been sitting in my Google drive for almost a year now, and because I can't afford editors, I've been editing it myself, but I just don't know how to get it out there for others to read, I don't even know why I'm writing the sequel either. I like writing stories, but I want them to be recognised, it's like I'm writing into a void. Writing was a hobby I picked up because I was good at it, but it's harder than I thought to get recognised by others, and I'm actually losing motivation day by day. Maybe I should've stuck to basketball. Anyway, should I take the risk by posting on Wattpad, or continue looking for reliable publishers although it could take me years to find one? Thanks.
Assistant: Don't bother with Wattpad or similar sites. Those sites are filled with "writers" whose opinions mean nothing. Put your story away for a month or two. Then, look it over with fresh eyes. Review & edit. Plan to spend a few years just reading books and editing your story. You'll get there, just slow down and take some time. |
Human: I'm conflicted about where to publish! So for the longest time I've been conflicted on whether or not to post my completed story on Wattpad, or to try and publish traditionally as self publishing has proved to be too expensive for me as I'm 17, I don't have the time or money for self publishing and everything that comes with it, editors, marketing, book covers, etc. I've posted stories on Wattpad before, and one of them recently gained traction because it's a cliche romance story, romance tends to do well on Wattpad. But to be honest, my other stories haven't done so well, despite the amount of effort and research I put into them. Still, I want to post my other completed story on there, but I feel like it won't get any reads because of its genre, and Wattpads most popular genres seems to be romance or mafia smut. Mine is post apocalyptic, and I worked so hard to write it, blood, sweat, and tears, several hours of research, everything. I feel like it'll be successful if I publish it professionally and I consider it to be the best work I have ever produced, it can go so far, (not trying to brag) so I don't want it to go to waste, left in the dust on Wattpad like the other good stories I've seen on there. Wattpad has a reputation for this, good stories going unrecognised. You could write a couple lines of smut and get 10K reads, I've seen such unique stories get like, 8 reads. No wonder the writers give up. That's why Wattpad has such a bad rep. But still, I feel like it'll do well on Wattpad too and will help me build an audience if it does get recognised, especially since I have a decent amount of followers, but I can't take the risk. I heard that once a story is published online, especially on Wattpad, traditional publishers will reject it immediately. And I'm young as well, apparently publishers won't take me seriously. I'm mean, come on, I put so much effort into this story, it's not a cringe fest. Did I write this story for no reason? Sigh, well, it was fun whilst it lasted. It's been sitting in my Google drive for almost a year now, and because I can't afford editors, I've been editing it myself, but I just don't know how to get it out there for others to read, I don't even know why I'm writing the sequel either. I like writing stories, but I want them to be recognised, it's like I'm writing into a void. Writing was a hobby I picked up because I was good at it, but it's harder than I thought to get recognised by others, and I'm actually losing motivation day by day. Maybe I should've stuck to basketball. Anyway, should I take the risk by posting on Wattpad, or continue looking for reliable publishers although it could take me years to find one? Thanks.
Assistant: Do not go to big name publishing. The first mistake they find (which will probably be in the first paragraph knowing how young you are) and they drop it. They have to go through so many that they don’t have time to read everything. |
Human: How do I avoid a lot of “He said” and “She said”? I saw someone post here that they find that rather boring at the end of a dialogue. Are there any tips I could use to try to eliminate this habit, especially when it should be a bit obvious anyway to the reader on who’s saying what? Do people particularly mind if it’s a length of a lot of talking sentences?
Assistant: I use "he said", "he asked", and "he answered" 99% of the time. These words - especially "said" - are invisible to the reader. Many times, you don't even need to use "he said" though. Conversations can make it obvious who is talking. In that case, avoid using "said". You don't want such word count fodder in your work. Anyway, good conversation is more important than using fancy stuff like "he whispered" or "he remarked". |
Human: How do I avoid a lot of “He said” and “She said”? I saw someone post here that they find that rather boring at the end of a dialogue. Are there any tips I could use to try to eliminate this habit, especially when it should be a bit obvious anyway to the reader on who’s saying what? Do people particularly mind if it’s a length of a lot of talking sentences?
Assistant: You don't need to avoid it. If you feel you need to avoid "said," then you can use context clues so the reader knows who is speaking, and then you can get rid of the tags altogether. Using tags that are supposedly 'not boring' with dialogue has a very amateur feel to it, and draws attention away from the dialogue itself. |
Human: How do i write in the day and not at 3AM?? I can't seem to know how to write in the day. All my thoughts just disappear and I can't focus. Unlike at night, when it's calm and everyone's asleep, it's dark and cozy in my bed. From 1 to 3am, i seem to be able to express myself while writing and be so creative. But this is just not healthy. And i need to wake up early to do other things in my life. How do i manage to do the same but during the day and not at night?
Assistant: Look, I’m right there with you. Sometimes you just gotta write when you wanna write |
Human: How do i write in the day and not at 3AM?? I can't seem to know how to write in the day. All my thoughts just disappear and I can't focus. Unlike at night, when it's calm and everyone's asleep, it's dark and cozy in my bed. From 1 to 3am, i seem to be able to express myself while writing and be so creative. But this is just not healthy. And i need to wake up early to do other things in my life. How do i manage to do the same but during the day and not at night?
Assistant: You're going to have to find a way to get into the same headspace you have at night. I do the same thing don't worry. |
Human: Friendly reminder that the act of writing is an incredibly mentally and psychologically strenuous activity, and it's totally normal for life events to interfere with your ability to write. I think as writers, we are incredibly hard on ourselves. We have to be. After all, what we do is difficult, lonely, and for the most part, not paid or valued nearly enough. So it makes sense that we have to really push ourselves to write, instead of you know, doing something easier with our time... like candy crush. But achieving good writing is an incredibly emotionally and physically taxing experience for everyone who does it. In fact, it's akin to a professional sport in terms of the level of intensity and focus one needs to do it. And so when things happen in your life that effect you emotionally / physically / psychologically, it's totally normal for the activity of writing to suddenly be difficult. Whether it's depression, anxiety, something traumatic happening, getting an injury or sickness, or having your concentration impaired for all manner of reasons, it's legitimate to not be able to write... no matter how bad you know you want or need to. The solution? Recognizing the importance of self-care as crucial to your writing routine. Seek treatment from health professionals if you struggle with a mental or physical illness. Try to avoid burnout by overworking yourself or having unrealistic expectations of yourself. And if necessary (and possible), take a break from writing to treat the ‘life problems’ that are negatively effecting you. Then keep doing the best you can to get those words on the page. I'm posting this because I had something interpersonally traumatic happen to me this weekend, and it's really frustrating that I can't seem to focus on the book I'm writing today. But I know I need to be patient and understand trauma is of course going to severely effect my focus until I do what I need to do to heal. Overall, be kind on yourself while you do the best you can. Xoxo, my fellow writers
Assistant: Ahyup. Lost my wife to cancer in September. I am suddenly a grieving, single father of two young kids. It's been hard to force myself to write. Luckily some of my processing is coming out as writing naturally. I've also got some practical in-roads to focus on for the first time in my life. |
Human: Friendly reminder that the act of writing is an incredibly mentally and psychologically strenuous activity, and it's totally normal for life events to interfere with your ability to write. I think as writers, we are incredibly hard on ourselves. We have to be. After all, what we do is difficult, lonely, and for the most part, not paid or valued nearly enough. So it makes sense that we have to really push ourselves to write, instead of you know, doing something easier with our time... like candy crush. But achieving good writing is an incredibly emotionally and physically taxing experience for everyone who does it. In fact, it's akin to a professional sport in terms of the level of intensity and focus one needs to do it. And so when things happen in your life that effect you emotionally / physically / psychologically, it's totally normal for the activity of writing to suddenly be difficult. Whether it's depression, anxiety, something traumatic happening, getting an injury or sickness, or having your concentration impaired for all manner of reasons, it's legitimate to not be able to write... no matter how bad you know you want or need to. The solution? Recognizing the importance of self-care as crucial to your writing routine. Seek treatment from health professionals if you struggle with a mental or physical illness. Try to avoid burnout by overworking yourself or having unrealistic expectations of yourself. And if necessary (and possible), take a break from writing to treat the ‘life problems’ that are negatively effecting you. Then keep doing the best you can to get those words on the page. I'm posting this because I had something interpersonally traumatic happen to me this weekend, and it's really frustrating that I can't seem to focus on the book I'm writing today. But I know I need to be patient and understand trauma is of course going to severely effect my focus until I do what I need to do to heal. Overall, be kind on yourself while you do the best you can. Xoxo, my fellow writers
Assistant: You're a very wise person. Bless you for this. |
Human: what should I do when the initial spark is gone? So far I've consistently been capping at 5k words before I lose interest in my stories. my resolutions are unsatisfying and rewriting the draft feels like a chore. every now and then I'll force myself to keep revising the piece (even at the points that interested me the most in the beginning.) but the more I do this the more I feel like my vision for the piece becomes less interesting and more bland. at this point I find a new concept that interests me and the cycle repeats to no avail.
Assistant: I used to be like that. But I knew that if I never finished a book, I'd never get anything published. You just have to keep writing, even when you've lost interest. Good luck! |
Human: what should I do when the initial spark is gone? So far I've consistently been capping at 5k words before I lose interest in my stories. my resolutions are unsatisfying and rewriting the draft feels like a chore. every now and then I'll force myself to keep revising the piece (even at the points that interested me the most in the beginning.) but the more I do this the more I feel like my vision for the piece becomes less interesting and more bland. at this point I find a new concept that interests me and the cycle repeats to no avail.
Assistant: If you're writing for money: push through it. I need to be better at that. |
Human: Any advice on writing a second draft? Recently, I have completed a first draft for the first time. I am looking for tips on how to create a good second draft.
Assistant: Take a break from the first draft, like a couple of months even. Then change the font and reread it - take notes on what you like, what you don't, what is confusing etc. Then retype it, beginning to end. I know that sounds silly, but it forces you to read your story as a reader. As you're retyping, you'll find yourself adding lines, more description, and fixing some of those problem areas. |
Human: Any advice on writing a second draft? Recently, I have completed a first draft for the first time. I am looking for tips on how to create a good second draft.
Assistant: My next step would be to read through it and look for useless scenes. Sometimes I find I wanted characters to have a certain interaction, but it serves no purpose to describe who they are, what motivates them, something about the world they live in, advance the plot, etc. |
Human: No Actions For Dialogue Tags Is it true you can't use actions as dialogue tags? Is this an unwritten rule or something set in stone? Example: "Here you go." she smiled handing over a cup of coffee. That's just a simple example. Do you still have to use speaking tags? Said asked etc... Need some help understanding this. Thank you.
Assistant: ["Here you go," she smiled, handing over the cup of coffee] is incorrect. We do not "smile" words; we speak them. So it's either gonna be. 1. She handed over the cup of coffee with a smile. "Here you go." 2. "Here you go," she said, handing over the cup of coffee with a smile. 3. "Here you go," she said as she handed over the cup of coffee with a smile. 4. "Here you go." She handed over the cup of coffee with a smile. 5. Smiling, she handed over the cup of coffee. "Here you go." |
Human: No Actions For Dialogue Tags Is it true you can't use actions as dialogue tags? Is this an unwritten rule or something set in stone? Example: "Here you go." she smiled handing over a cup of coffee. That's just a simple example. Do you still have to use speaking tags? Said asked etc... Need some help understanding this. Thank you.
Assistant: Nothing is set in stone, but there's really no good excuse to write like that. It's very easy to split that into two separate sentences. Something like the following would work. >"Here you go." >She smiled and handed him a cup of coffee. It conveys exactly the same information, without the odd implication that someone managed to smile a sentence. |
Human: I'm thinking on writing a story about a Hitman, and a major thing I'm going for is realism So the basic notes I have are that his name is Jacob Vila, and he will conduct 43 hits over 5 years before being killed himself. He gonna basically revitalize the crime world before his death. I'm mainly looking for tips on how to write this story. Should I switch it from the perspective of Jacob to a FBI agent investigating? I'm avoiding that because I feel story from the view of the killer would be more interesting. Should I reduce the number of hits? 43 seems high but only the important 13 high profile hits will be shown, other then his first hit which won't be high profile. Also suggestions on the name would be most appreciated, I just went with what sounded okay until I could think of something better. Any suggestion are more than welcome.
Assistant: What time period is it set in? Honestly if you're going for realism the glory days of glamorous mafia lifestyles are for the most part over. The average modern day hit man lives in a trashy apartment in the slums in my experience. |
Human: I'm thinking on writing a story about a Hitman, and a major thing I'm going for is realism So the basic notes I have are that his name is Jacob Vila, and he will conduct 43 hits over 5 years before being killed himself. He gonna basically revitalize the crime world before his death. I'm mainly looking for tips on how to write this story. Should I switch it from the perspective of Jacob to a FBI agent investigating? I'm avoiding that because I feel story from the view of the killer would be more interesting. Should I reduce the number of hits? 43 seems high but only the important 13 high profile hits will be shown, other then his first hit which won't be high profile. Also suggestions on the name would be most appreciated, I just went with what sounded okay until I could think of something better. Any suggestion are more than welcome.
Assistant: I'd suggest learning about the dark web and just bounce around on there for awhile. Nothing illegal about just looking at places that advertise themselves as hitman marketplaces. (most are just scams anyway) The dark web is likely the place a hitman would hang out in modern times though, unless he's tied to a gang or something. If you're going for realism, those places are as real as it gets. |
Human: Is it okay to go the whole story without describing the protagonist? I am writing a murder mystery with a lot of unreliable narration and straight-up lying to the reader. Basically, the protagonist is the murderer, but there's a lot of stuff I leave out in order to hide this. In order to show the murderer, I have the protagonist "witness" them killing someone. In this scene, I describe the murderer in detail. This means that I cannot describe any aspects of the protagonist or else readers will see a connection. Is this an acceptable thing to do, or will it make the protagonist an empty vessel for the reader?
Assistant: Probably, as long as the description is not important at any point. If there's an element of their description that will become important at the end, then maybe don't let the reader visualize them some other way for most of the story. But connections in texts are on an emotional level, that's what's important, all the characters look the same, black text on a whitish background. |
Human: Is it okay to go the whole story without describing the protagonist? I am writing a murder mystery with a lot of unreliable narration and straight-up lying to the reader. Basically, the protagonist is the murderer, but there's a lot of stuff I leave out in order to hide this. In order to show the murderer, I have the protagonist "witness" them killing someone. In this scene, I describe the murderer in detail. This means that I cannot describe any aspects of the protagonist or else readers will see a connection. Is this an acceptable thing to do, or will it make the protagonist an empty vessel for the reader?
Assistant: Just try it and see if its pleasing |
Human: I did it. I finished my first draft. I finished my first draft yesterday (it's about 71K). I know what comes next is the hard part, but I can't help but be excited because a part of me didn't think I'd get this far. How long do you think I should let it sit before starting the rewriting process?
Assistant: First of all, congratulations! That's an amazing feat that I still have yet to accomplish. I'd leave it for a minimum of like two weeks, enough time to let the draft out of your mind. I wouldn't go past a month or two, because for me at least, if I leave a draft alone for way too long it becomes harder and harder to get the motivation to actually reopen it ever again. That's how I felt with shorter works, anyway. |
Human: I did it. I finished my first draft. I finished my first draft yesterday (it's about 71K). I know what comes next is the hard part, but I can't help but be excited because a part of me didn't think I'd get this far. How long do you think I should let it sit before starting the rewriting process?
Assistant: I let it sit a minimum of 2 weeks, however long it takes to plan out the next book. |
Human: Accents I want to write a story with an Irish man as a character in the book, but I’m not sure how to “write” accents or dialogs. Any tips? How do you write your accents or other languages?
Assistant: Don't. You don't write out the accent for an american character, so why should you do it for an irish character? Every time authors do this it just shows which accents they think of as normal and which they think are weird and that's pretty condescending to people who actually have those accents. Your readers probably know what an irish accent sounds like. Just say he had an Irish accent. Maybe throw in some bits of dialect if you know enough about it. |
Human: Accents I want to write a story with an Irish man as a character in the book, but I’m not sure how to “write” accents or dialogs. Any tips? How do you write your accents or other languages?
Assistant: There's a variety of ways. Me, I prefer when people do show the vernacular (so the specific words of a dialect, but also grammatical differences etc), but I personally hate it when words are actually changed. I seriously dislike the dialogue in Huckleberry Finn for instance: "Dog my cats ef I didn’ hear sumf’n. Well, I know what I’s gwyne to do: I’s gwyne to set down here and listen tell I hears it agin.” My brain just nopes out in this case. |
Human: What are some beginner exercises that will improve my prose? When I try writing I'm always struggling with both my story and my prose. It's hard coming up with what's going to happen next and it's harder to write it in words. So first I want to improve my prose. My vocabulary is decent and i don't make many grammatical mistakes while writing but at a time I can write maybe one or two lines per page that sound good and the rest feel dull and boring. Are there any exercises that will help me with that? Like maybe writing just one paragraph scenes or something like that.
Assistant: One thing I've been doing that I find helps tremendously is reading 10-20 pages of an author I am trying to emulate before I start writing. In addition, I also copy out any passages I find similar to what I want to do to help me get into the flow. I tend to find it quite inspiring, and by the time I have got to the end of the 10-20 pages I am fully raring and ready to write! |
Human: What are some beginner exercises that will improve my prose? When I try writing I'm always struggling with both my story and my prose. It's hard coming up with what's going to happen next and it's harder to write it in words. So first I want to improve my prose. My vocabulary is decent and i don't make many grammatical mistakes while writing but at a time I can write maybe one or two lines per page that sound good and the rest feel dull and boring. Are there any exercises that will help me with that? Like maybe writing just one paragraph scenes or something like that.
Assistant: Honestly, the best thing to do is practice. Just write every day, even if you think your sentences are dull. After a while, post some excerpts to reddit for critic. It's entirely possible that your sentences aren't as boring as you believe. |
Human: What are your thoughts on switching focus on characters between chapters? I’m writing in third-person btw. If I write about a different character for a chapter, would that pull the reader away from my book? Switching the focus on a different character would be necessary for the plot of the book. I’m not talking about killing off a character, I would focus back on the original after the chapter. Do you know any successful examples of this in books?
Assistant: As far as I’m concerned that’s what chapter breaks are there for. |
Human: What are your thoughts on switching focus on characters between chapters? I’m writing in third-person btw. If I write about a different character for a chapter, would that pull the reader away from my book? Switching the focus on a different character would be necessary for the plot of the book. I’m not talking about killing off a character, I would focus back on the original after the chapter. Do you know any successful examples of this in books?
Assistant: I'm a fan of well executed third person novel with a rotating cast! Tons and tons of example. It was actually the default for the longest time. Dickens does it a lot, for example. Anyway, the only caveat, which isn't really much of one, is that the alternating POV that extends beyond two characters works best in a longer book, since you want to give space for character arcs to play out. |
Human: What's your step by step process of writing short stories? Im trying to get back into writing in my free time, it's been a while since I've fully wrote out stories but I really enjoyed doing it back then. Was wondering if writers have step by step process they follow from start to finish, something as simple as how many drafts you do for each story or outlining each Act of your story.
Assistant: For short stories I usually write an inciting scene and a black moment scene, then fill in the background and actions to make it happen. Then first draft, revise, general critique group, revise, genre specific critique partners, revise, query/editor, revise, publish/let sit. |
Human: What's your step by step process of writing short stories? Im trying to get back into writing in my free time, it's been a while since I've fully wrote out stories but I really enjoyed doing it back then. Was wondering if writers have step by step process they follow from start to finish, something as simple as how many drafts you do for each story or outlining each Act of your story.
Assistant: - brainstorming about my idea (I usually write short stories, because I have a certain topic, character or quote in mind) - researching if needed - rough outline of major events and the atmosphere/mood - writing that thing down - doing something different - coming back and proof read, changing things if I need to |
Human: Looking for low to zero waste deodorant. I used Schmidt’s for a few years until they changed the formula to gritty, less waxy (and, I wasn’t thrilled about the small plastic applicator nor the fact they’re owned by Unilever) and recently used Zero Waste Natural Deodorant with Compostable Packaging but found it wasn’t strong enough. Recommendations on others?
Assistant: Bite Toothpaste came out with a deodorant somewhat recently that comes in a cardboard tube that I have been using successfully. |
Human: Looking for low to zero waste deodorant. I used Schmidt’s for a few years until they changed the formula to gritty, less waxy (and, I wasn’t thrilled about the small plastic applicator nor the fact they’re owned by Unilever) and recently used Zero Waste Natural Deodorant with Compostable Packaging but found it wasn’t strong enough. Recommendations on others?
Assistant: PAPR deodorant works best out of everything I’ve tested. |
Human: Low waste conference grab item The company I work for is trying to think of a new merch item to give out at conferences and I’m trying to think of the most eco-friendly option (I already know “nothing” is the answer but it’s for work). I was thinking a consumable like a chocolate bar where we can have branded packaging. Any other ideas? Tech industry so the major push is for things like pop sockets so I’m desperately trying to come up with something better/innovative.
Assistant: If you give out a reusable item make sure it’s not ugly. Seriously. I know the whole point is to promote your company, but like, if the advertising on it is too obnoxious / badly designed I’m less likely to want to keep the item after it’s handed to me. |
Human: Low waste conference grab item The company I work for is trying to think of a new merch item to give out at conferences and I’m trying to think of the most eco-friendly option (I already know “nothing” is the answer but it’s for work). I was thinking a consumable like a chocolate bar where we can have branded packaging. Any other ideas? Tech industry so the major push is for things like pop sockets so I’m desperately trying to come up with something better/innovative.
Assistant: Branded hand sanitizer. Everyone needs some, especially at conferences. |
Human: (Crafty people I need help!) Looking for a low waste/zero waste crafting glue, will be for paper on paper/cardboard mostly but needs to be strong and relatively quick drying. I was thinking Modge Podge might be good because it comes in tubs and I can wash it out after and use it or recycle. I just don’t know which one to get because there’s so many 😳
Assistant: You may want to look at this glue used by the Zero Waste Chef to make paper packing tape. Zero Waste Chef |
Human: (Crafty people I need help!) Looking for a low waste/zero waste crafting glue, will be for paper on paper/cardboard mostly but needs to be strong and relatively quick drying. I was thinking Modge Podge might be good because it comes in tubs and I can wash it out after and use it or recycle. I just don’t know which one to get because there’s so many 😳
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Human: If I wash off food contamination from cans and plastic.. is it then recyclable? I know recycling is kinda a hoax on the US but I know they can’t recycle products contaminated with food regardless. I’m not trying to recycle pizza boxes or anything but I’m wondering if I can wash milk cartons/jugs and canned food aluminum and still put it in the recycling bin? Thanks
Assistant: usually yes. if you want to reduce water waste by washing them...use old dishwater after doing dishes. |
Human: If I wash off food contamination from cans and plastic.. is it then recyclable? I know recycling is kinda a hoax on the US but I know they can’t recycle products contaminated with food regardless. I’m not trying to recycle pizza boxes or anything but I’m wondering if I can wash milk cartons/jugs and canned food aluminum and still put it in the recycling bin? Thanks
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Human: Zero Waste Wedding Registry? My fiance and I are getting married soon (late Jan) and we are getting lots of questions about our registry. We have lived together for years and try to be as low waste/minimalist as possible, so we have most of the typical household items that we need and that people typically register for. Nevertheless, our families are big into gifts and a few people have scoffed at the “honeymoon fund” and “housewarming fund” options currently listed on our Zola site alongside other gift options. I have tried to only list items that we absolutely need/would love and have, and even tried linking a few secondhand/homemade items from etsy sellers to the registry but still am nowhere near the recommended amount of gifts for our guest count. I would love to know if anyone has any recommendations on low waste/practical/long lasting items that we potentially haven’t thought of yet? Or how you handled at your weddings? Thanks!
Assistant: If you're a homeowner, ask for practical gifts like power tools. A friend bought the 12 foot ladder off the registry and put it on the gift table. This was before internet shopping and shipping. Anything related to home improvement can be durable and a long term investment. |
Human: Zero Waste Wedding Registry? My fiance and I are getting married soon (late Jan) and we are getting lots of questions about our registry. We have lived together for years and try to be as low waste/minimalist as possible, so we have most of the typical household items that we need and that people typically register for. Nevertheless, our families are big into gifts and a few people have scoffed at the “honeymoon fund” and “housewarming fund” options currently listed on our Zola site alongside other gift options. I have tried to only list items that we absolutely need/would love and have, and even tried linking a few secondhand/homemade items from etsy sellers to the registry but still am nowhere near the recommended amount of gifts for our guest count. I would love to know if anyone has any recommendations on low waste/practical/long lasting items that we potentially haven’t thought of yet? Or how you handled at your weddings? Thanks!
Assistant: Everyone has given such thoughtful answers. Meanwhile the first thing that popped into my head was "Those knife sharpening brick sets would be really cool". |
Human: Are there non-abrasive extendable shower scrubbers that don't need refills? I've been interested in buying one of those non-abrasive extendable shower scrubbers. Something like this would be perfect for my household, but I'm hesitant to buy. You need to buy refills for the scrubber part eventually and I'm not fond the waste that creates. I was wondering if there's anything similar that doesn't need refills?
Assistant: You could easily DIY a cover out of a microfiber cloth and a little bit of elastic. At least, that’s what I would try first because microfiber is washable! |
Human: Are there non-abrasive extendable shower scrubbers that don't need refills? I've been interested in buying one of those non-abrasive extendable shower scrubbers. Something like this would be perfect for my household, but I'm hesitant to buy. You need to buy refills for the scrubber part eventually and I'm not fond the waste that creates. I was wondering if there's anything similar that doesn't need refills?
Assistant: I think cotton cloths on the end of a swiffer sweeper would accomplish the same thing |
Human: advice on zero waste gift for babies My daughter is turning one next week. It is custom in her daycare for the birthday girl/boy to bring a small gift for the other children. I want the gift to be zero waste and not too expensive. So far all I have been able to come up with is a banana with a face drawn on. Do you guys have some more creative ideas? There are 16 other children ranging from a few months old to toddlers.
Assistant: Why does this daycare do gifts for 4 month to 15 month babies? They are too little to know anything about birthdays! This is for the parents. I’d ask where this custom came from. Perhaps the owners of the daycare and the other parents dislike the custom as well! |
Human: advice on zero waste gift for babies My daughter is turning one next week. It is custom in her daycare for the birthday girl/boy to bring a small gift for the other children. I want the gift to be zero waste and not too expensive. So far all I have been able to come up with is a banana with a face drawn on. Do you guys have some more creative ideas? There are 16 other children ranging from a few months old to toddlers.
Assistant: What about making a donation to a charity and then creating a certificate as a physical gift? I did this for my little nieces and nephews. |
Human: Unscented Liquid Hand Soap I’d like to make the switch to foaming soap tablets or liquid soap concentrate to reduce some of my waste. All the brands I’ve seen recommended (Blueland, Hello, Grove.co) only have scented options. Does anyone have recommendations for fragrance-free hand soap? Bar soap and making my own soap are not a good fit for my family.
Assistant: Target sells the unscented Grove soap. |
Human: Unscented Liquid Hand Soap I’d like to make the switch to foaming soap tablets or liquid soap concentrate to reduce some of my waste. All the brands I’ve seen recommended (Blueland, Hello, Grove.co) only have scented options. Does anyone have recommendations for fragrance-free hand soap? Bar soap and making my own soap are not a good fit for my family.
Assistant: Grove does have an unscented one now, but it requires signing up for their service (the app and auto shipments) |
Human: Alternatives for plastic trash bags (13 gallon) Hi there! As the title indicates, I’m looking for kitchen trash bags alternatives (13 gallon size). I’ve been using plastic bags and it’s time to stop! I’m thinking biodegradable bags or bags made from 100% recycled/reclaimed material or plant-based must exist. What’s your recommendation?
Assistant: I would save your money and put it towards something else sustainability wise instead. All the trash bags no matter the type will be mummified in the landfill either way. |
Human: Alternatives for plastic trash bags (13 gallon) Hi there! As the title indicates, I’m looking for kitchen trash bags alternatives (13 gallon size). I’ve been using plastic bags and it’s time to stop! I’m thinking biodegradable bags or bags made from 100% recycled/reclaimed material or plant-based must exist. What’s your recommendation?
Assistant: When I get groceries I always choose paper bags, which I use for garbage and recycling. They’re smaller, but free and not plastic. |
Human: What's a good freezer alternative to normal plastic freezer bags, plastic tupperware and/or glass containers? Anything paper or biodegradable out there? Is wrapping things in foil going to stop it from being recycled?
Assistant: I use silicone bags for freezer storage and they have held up well. I store my meats in them, haven't had any freezer burn and everything stays fresh. Fruits and veggies are good too. I usually hand wash but they do get clean in the dishwasher. I've been using them for about 4 probably closer to 5 years now. They still look brand new. |
Human: What's a good freezer alternative to normal plastic freezer bags, plastic tupperware and/or glass containers? Anything paper or biodegradable out there? Is wrapping things in foil going to stop it from being recycled?
Assistant: > Is wrapping things in foil going to stop it from being recycled? It depends on your area. They do prefer cleaner aluminum as that fetches a higher price but impurities will be skimmed off the top. |
Human: Eco Friendly Shower Gels Does anybody know of any Eco friendly shower gels? I know that a lot of soaps contain detergents derived from fossil fuels but also every bathroom product seems to have plastic packaging!! Are there any shower gel and shampoo products out there that are 100% plastic free?
Assistant: Not a gel, but I really like the Bela bar soaps. They lather and sud really well and have tons of scents to choose from. I believe they’re made with natural ingredients in Australia, but I found them at my local grocery store. The store gets them in bulk cardboard boxes and the only per-bar packaging is a sticker. If anyone is looking for shampoo/conditioner, I also highly recommend Four Elements Organic Herbals and HiBar (both local to the Midwest USA) the Four Elements bar is also good for shaving! |
Human: Eco Friendly Shower Gels Does anybody know of any Eco friendly shower gels? I know that a lot of soaps contain detergents derived from fossil fuels but also every bathroom product seems to have plastic packaging!! Are there any shower gel and shampoo products out there that are 100% plastic free?
Assistant: Gel is pretty tough without plastic. Unless you have a refillery nearby, you need to use bar soap for that. |
Human: Should I buy Laundry strips, Blueland’s laundry detergent pods, or something else? Hi everyone, I’m finally getting through my horde of Dropps laundry detergent pods. I have a top loading old washer. I usually wash my clothes on cold and gentle. I air dry all of my nice clothes and sheets and use the dryer for towels and loungewear. I am not the most pleased with Dropps because they haven’t been working well with cold water. I usually throw them in a mesh bag so they don’t leave residue on my clothing. I’m looking for a different Zero waste solution. I’ve been looking at 4 different brands of laundry strips trying to decide which is the most cost effective and works well. However, I also like my Blueland products so far. I haven’t tried their laundry products but they have good reviews. Then I know there are other alternatives like the Laundry Egg, Soap Nuts, Detergent Powder, and I think Ethique has a laundry detergent bar thing now too. Any suggestions for what will work the best in cold water and be cost effective? Thanks!
Assistant: I've been using the Tru Earth Eco Strips and have been loving them. I have very sensitive skin so I can't have any dyes, fragrances, or too many synthetic ingredients so I've been using the scent free version. They also have ones with scent and ones specifically to wash baby clothes. They are a bit pricey but depending on how much laundry you do in a week, they're worth it. |
Human: Should I buy Laundry strips, Blueland’s laundry detergent pods, or something else? Hi everyone, I’m finally getting through my horde of Dropps laundry detergent pods. I have a top loading old washer. I usually wash my clothes on cold and gentle. I air dry all of my nice clothes and sheets and use the dryer for towels and loungewear. I am not the most pleased with Dropps because they haven’t been working well with cold water. I usually throw them in a mesh bag so they don’t leave residue on my clothing. I’m looking for a different Zero waste solution. I’ve been looking at 4 different brands of laundry strips trying to decide which is the most cost effective and works well. However, I also like my Blueland products so far. I haven’t tried their laundry products but they have good reviews. Then I know there are other alternatives like the Laundry Egg, Soap Nuts, Detergent Powder, and I think Ethique has a laundry detergent bar thing now too. Any suggestions for what will work the best in cold water and be cost effective? Thanks!
Assistant: I've been using Ingredients Matter soap powder and it's worked pretty well! We have to turn the hot water on for a second to mix it in but otherwise no complaints! |
Human: What’s the most economical way to grate soap for laundry detergent? Grating it with a cheese grater turns out to be a TON of work.
Assistant: Powdered laundry detergent is the way to go IMO. The packaging is mostly cardboard, way more loads in one container, pretty cheap, and tends to involved less packaging than all the stuff required to make homemade laundry soap. |
Human: What’s the most economical way to grate soap for laundry detergent? Grating it with a cheese grater turns out to be a TON of work.
Assistant: Food processor with a grating attachment |
Human: Toothpaste alternative with fluoride?
Assistant: Unpaste tooth tabs have fluoride in them. I use them pretty exclusively. |
Human: Toothpaste alternative with fluoride?
Assistant: I get toothpaste tabs with fluoride from Well Earth Goods. |
Human: What deodorant do you use? We switched to more natural deodorant a while ago containing sodium bicarbonate and zinc oxide, and really satisfied with it! Using the same stick for months, so apparently can do long with it. Great improvement from the deo sprays I used in the passed, and I feel fresh whole day :-) (not sure if it was allowed to post brand names here, but prob there are many natural deo's on the market that do the same great job)
Assistant: Lush aromaco. Expensive but it’s the best, and it comes in a piece of paper bc they cut it in the store |
Human: What deodorant do you use? We switched to more natural deodorant a while ago containing sodium bicarbonate and zinc oxide, and really satisfied with it! Using the same stick for months, so apparently can do long with it. Great improvement from the deo sprays I used in the passed, and I feel fresh whole day :-) (not sure if it was allowed to post brand names here, but prob there are many natural deo's on the market that do the same great job)
Assistant: Does anyone with a naturally… intense odour have any suggestions? I’m like, *knock myself out with my smell* stinky, especially in the summer. Schmidt’s works great for me, but comes in a plastic container. |
Human: Hi! Is anyone from the Bay Area in CA? Do you know where can I get used film plastic (polyethylene)? Maybe a distribution center, warehouse or shipping center? I need around 2500lb for an ongoing recycling project.
Assistant: Amazon would be an obvious choice. Edit: To the downvotes, would an Amazon corporate partnership in the bay area not be an obvious choice and tax deduction for environmental synergy? Amazon warehouses produce a mass of plastic film hourly. |
Human: Hi! Is anyone from the Bay Area in CA? Do you know where can I get used film plastic (polyethylene)? Maybe a distribution center, warehouse or shipping center? I need around 2500lb for an ongoing recycling project.
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Human: Broke student in a new apartment - would love some zero waste advice/ideas on how to decorate the home! Hello! Thank you for reading my post. I just moved into a new apartment with some roommates and don’t want to spend hundreds to decorate it before throwing the stuff out (perhaps after a failed attempt at selling or donating it) when i move out soon. I’m just looking for some good cheap zero waste ideas to decorate and just improve my home! Rn especially need to find a way to organize stuff like socks and underwear, like something that can be repurposed into a cool container perhaps, so anything pertaining to that is deeply appreciated!
Assistant: My advice for decor is to just wait. Wait until you see something you really really like, instead of getting something just to fill a space. Wait until you see a cool poster for an event or exhibit that someone is throwing out or giving away. Wait until you see a cool item on the street and wash it up and put it on a shelf. Then your home feels like yours, and isn't full of stuff for stuff's sake. |
Human: Broke student in a new apartment - would love some zero waste advice/ideas on how to decorate the home! Hello! Thank you for reading my post. I just moved into a new apartment with some roommates and don’t want to spend hundreds to decorate it before throwing the stuff out (perhaps after a failed attempt at selling or donating it) when i move out soon. I’m just looking for some good cheap zero waste ideas to decorate and just improve my home! Rn especially need to find a way to organize stuff like socks and underwear, like something that can be repurposed into a cool container perhaps, so anything pertaining to that is deeply appreciated!
Assistant: I organise my socks and underwear with literally a piece of cardboard. The socks and underwear hold the cardboard up in place, acting as a divider. You can tape it to the sides of the box if you need. |
Human: Holiday decorations - ideas? My roommate and I have hosted several parties recently - Fall and holiday themed, of course. Instead of single-use plastic/paper streamers, pumpkin/tree cutouts, and all of the other stuff at party stores, we've found some much better options: pumpkins, flowers, candles, and living plants! The decorations last longer and spruce up our home, and the only waste we generate is compost, once the pumpkins and flowers go bad! Does anyone have any other ideas for decorating with a zero-waste mindset?
Assistant: I don’t think this is exactly what you’re looking for but thrift stores and buy nothing groups have soooooo much holiday stuff. If you’re not going for some minimalist zero waste aesthetic, you could easily buy or get for free all of the “normal” holiday stuff secondhand. |
Human: Holiday decorations - ideas? My roommate and I have hosted several parties recently - Fall and holiday themed, of course. Instead of single-use plastic/paper streamers, pumpkin/tree cutouts, and all of the other stuff at party stores, we've found some much better options: pumpkins, flowers, candles, and living plants! The decorations last longer and spruce up our home, and the only waste we generate is compost, once the pumpkins and flowers go bad! Does anyone have any other ideas for decorating with a zero-waste mindset?
Assistant: I made an evergreen ball or ‘kissing ball’ by sticking boxwood branches that I cut from the garden and sticking into a grapefruit instead of using styrofoam . I hung it on the porch from a ribbon and it stayed fresh for weeks. |
Human: Steps on how to go zero waste in a family that doesn't want to go zero waste. I'm new to environmentalism and want to try and reduce the amount of garbage that I generate, my current family doesn't really care, generates tons of garbage and rarely recycles or composts. What are some steps I can take to reduce the amount of garbage that I personally produce?
Assistant: Offer to cook. Ask for (and prep) loose vegetables, bake from scratch with flour (I think paper bags are standard). Meats and milk are tricky. Eggs come in cardboard and you can start seeds in them. If you've got a yard or porch you can start a garden. Herbs are easy to grow. |
Human: Steps on how to go zero waste in a family that doesn't want to go zero waste. I'm new to environmentalism and want to try and reduce the amount of garbage that I generate, my current family doesn't really care, generates tons of garbage and rarely recycles or composts. What are some steps I can take to reduce the amount of garbage that I personally produce?
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Human: What are your favorite changes you have made to help produce zero waste? I want to make my next move, but I'm not sure what next step to take right now. I have accomplished a lot these last 2 years. I guess you could say I'm obsessed with it haha. It feels good to go a little more green. Looking for any and all inspiration on more things I can do. Open to any ideas, looking for things I haven't yet heard of!
Assistant: I stopped buying drinks in plastic bottles. At home we have milk and soda in glass bottles and tap water |
Human: What are your favorite changes you have made to help produce zero waste? I want to make my next move, but I'm not sure what next step to take right now. I have accomplished a lot these last 2 years. I guess you could say I'm obsessed with it haha. It feels good to go a little more green. Looking for any and all inspiration on more things I can do. Open to any ideas, looking for things I haven't yet heard of!
Assistant: I love making homemade broths in my instant pot from veggie scraps and meat bones! Wring one more use out of food before it is finally discarded (and I compost veggie scraps). Also a second for secondhand/Buy Nothing, it totally changed the way I shop. |
Human: Did you ever try contacting a company asking to eliminate their plastic packaging? Did you ever try contacting a company asking to eliminate their plastic packaging? If so what was their response?
Assistant: I wrote to native deodorant about their plastic packaging. They said they were working on it and now they have a plastic free option. I know my email didn't do anything because I do believe they were working on it at the time but I do think some of the smaller companies strongly consider feedback. |
Human: Did you ever try contacting a company asking to eliminate their plastic packaging? Did you ever try contacting a company asking to eliminate their plastic packaging? If so what was their response?
Assistant: I wrote to "Knorr" with a suggestion to place instand pulver meals (Bologna, Chilli con Carne, ...) also in glass container. They said they appreciate the suggestion and that they would forwarding it. Lets see...:D |
Human: Does anyone know if whole foods gives away their old fruits and vegetables that aren't bought? I have a compost tumbler, as well as a worm bin, in order to reduce waste from my kitchen and garden. I kinda want to expand this system so that I can provide good compost for my community.
Assistant: Maybe collecting food scraps from the community could lead to compost for the community |
Human: Does anyone know if whole foods gives away their old fruits and vegetables that aren't bought? I have a compost tumbler, as well as a worm bin, in order to reduce waste from my kitchen and garden. I kinda want to expand this system so that I can provide good compost for my community.
Assistant: Does it need to be whole foods? Seems like they'd discard things that are still edible |
Human: Those of you who wash delicate clothings in an old pillowcase, how do you close it? I don't want to buy a new wash bag.
Assistant: I use a hair scrunchie |
Human: Those of you who wash delicate clothings in an old pillowcase, how do you close it? I don't want to buy a new wash bag.
Assistant: Maybe you can add buttons? If you don’t want to sew buttonholes, you can sew little loops of elastic (hair ties would probably work fine) since it doesn’t need to look nice, just be functional. |
Human: HELP: what should i do with my bags of leftover disposable cutlery?? hey guys, my school holds lots of events where they provide catered food, and there's always so much leftover disposable cutlery that gets thrown away! what would yall do with them? I've been collecting the leftovers after every event but it doesn't help to bring them to the next event because cutlery will always be provided... and I can't decide if recycling/using them at my own meals/repurposing them would be better... I've already written to the caterers but their response is that they need to provide extra cutlery just in case there's not enough.... pls help because I've a growing pile of cutlery in my room lmao https://preview.redd.it/86wz7o0izox51.png?width=1000&format=png&auto=webp&v=enabled&s=28949ac038c98fb3ddfe7e3c164e586b39053f44
Assistant: Are there any offices or break rooms on campus? I'm sure they would appreciate if you stocked a break room or two. Where I work we keep a little pile by the microwave- some people use them every day but most people just use one if they forget their real silverware. Not zero waste, but one use is better than none! |
Human: HELP: what should i do with my bags of leftover disposable cutlery?? hey guys, my school holds lots of events where they provide catered food, and there's always so much leftover disposable cutlery that gets thrown away! what would yall do with them? I've been collecting the leftovers after every event but it doesn't help to bring them to the next event because cutlery will always be provided... and I can't decide if recycling/using them at my own meals/repurposing them would be better... I've already written to the caterers but their response is that they need to provide extra cutlery just in case there's not enough.... pls help because I've a growing pile of cutlery in my room lmao https://preview.redd.it/86wz7o0izox51.png?width=1000&format=png&auto=webp&v=enabled&s=28949ac038c98fb3ddfe7e3c164e586b39053f44
Assistant: This artist I follow uses them to fill pillows |
Human: Food waste My parents are emptying the pantry and throwing out unopened expired cans, cake mixes, salad dressings etc I know some thing are not suitable to be eaten ofc (bloated cans) but is there anything that can be done to avoid wasting all of it — my parents are already annoyed that I came down and saw them throwing everything away bc I’m adamant about composing food waste Should I just open the cans/boxes and compost their contents regardless of whether I could be eaten or not?
Assistant: When we clean out expired and half-eaten pantry items, we dump it in the compost and recycle any packaging we can. Sometimes, if we have enough, we try to offer food up on Buy Nothing facebook groups, since opened and unexpired foods aren't accepted by food pantries or community fridges. |
Human: Food waste My parents are emptying the pantry and throwing out unopened expired cans, cake mixes, salad dressings etc I know some thing are not suitable to be eaten ofc (bloated cans) but is there anything that can be done to avoid wasting all of it — my parents are already annoyed that I came down and saw them throwing everything away bc I’m adamant about composing food waste Should I just open the cans/boxes and compost their contents regardless of whether I could be eaten or not?
Assistant: You might also check local food pantries for their donation policies? I’m sure some wouldn’t accept items past their listed dates, but plenty will (the one I volunteered at definitely did). In many areas rn food banks are experiencing record high use due to inflation/covid/etc etc—if your parents are amenable to donating, this could be a low-conflict way to keep some of the food out of a landfill. |
Human: Are Collagen Peptides environmentally friendly? It is my understanding that collagen peptides are created from animal skin. joint, bone, etc material. My question: are these materials essentially "upcycled" as byproducts from the meat industry? or are animals killed for the collagen peptide industry? I read that the supplements made from marine life in particular are made from byproducts that typically get thrown away. I would assume the same applies to the bovine variety but have been finding it difficult to get firm confirmation from the internet. Not looking for any comments on health benefits etc Thanks in advance for any info!
Assistant: Even if you're just buying byproducts, increasing the profits of the animal industry is one of the worst things you can do to the environment. |
Human: Are Collagen Peptides environmentally friendly? It is my understanding that collagen peptides are created from animal skin. joint, bone, etc material. My question: are these materials essentially "upcycled" as byproducts from the meat industry? or are animals killed for the collagen peptide industry? I read that the supplements made from marine life in particular are made from byproducts that typically get thrown away. I would assume the same applies to the bovine variety but have been finding it difficult to get firm confirmation from the internet. Not looking for any comments on health benefits etc Thanks in advance for any info!
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Human: A Place to Recycle or Way to Reuse/Repurpose Old Pens? Went through the archives here, but didn't see a solution that works for me (at the moment). I am trying to find ways to properly recycle old pens. You see, my partner has a penchant for pilfering abandoned pens.. so we have TONS. Way more than I would ever use in my life.. and many of them just languish here. I go through and use them (I doodle and sketch a lot in pen, which I rather enjoy), however, we have way more than I know what to do with. *The Terracycle program for recycling old pens currently \*still\* has me on a waitlist (along with several other programs) and has for a long time, so I don't think I can utilize it, sadly.* Are there other places or programs I can utilize (in the U.S.)? Is there a way to loosen up stiff ink in these pens to make sure I'm using all of the ink before I try and recycle them? I've been setting aside the ones that don't work in the hopes that I can extract more ink out of them somehow (some you can visibly still see ink in, they're just old pens). Really just hoping there's somewhere I can send these pens (hundreds of pens) so they can be properly disposed of. Thank you so much. Definitely will switch to a refillable fountain pen in the future, but want to use what's around first and properly dispose of it.
Assistant: If they still write, you could always offer to donate some of them to art teachers, colleges, libraries, etc. I would think high school and community college libraries would need a lot of pens, as well as public libraries. (ETA - Students are notorious for forgetting pens/pencils, and they really need them to be productive - especially those of us who can’t afford a high functioning laptop or one with decent battery life, non-traditional students, or neuro-divergent folks.) |
Human: A Place to Recycle or Way to Reuse/Repurpose Old Pens? Went through the archives here, but didn't see a solution that works for me (at the moment). I am trying to find ways to properly recycle old pens. You see, my partner has a penchant for pilfering abandoned pens.. so we have TONS. Way more than I would ever use in my life.. and many of them just languish here. I go through and use them (I doodle and sketch a lot in pen, which I rather enjoy), however, we have way more than I know what to do with. *The Terracycle program for recycling old pens currently \*still\* has me on a waitlist (along with several other programs) and has for a long time, so I don't think I can utilize it, sadly.* Are there other places or programs I can utilize (in the U.S.)? Is there a way to loosen up stiff ink in these pens to make sure I'm using all of the ink before I try and recycle them? I've been setting aside the ones that don't work in the hopes that I can extract more ink out of them somehow (some you can visibly still see ink in, they're just old pens). Really just hoping there's somewhere I can send these pens (hundreds of pens) so they can be properly disposed of. Thank you so much. Definitely will switch to a refillable fountain pen in the future, but want to use what's around first and properly dispose of it.
Assistant: The easiest way to recycle pens is to send them to TerraCycle's Writing Instrument Brigade. The program is sponsored by pen manufacturers Sharpie and Paper Mate, so you can return all their products through the program. That includes pens and pen caps, highlighters, markers and mechanical pencils If this is still a thing, here is one way. |
Human: Is owning an electric toothbrush and replacing the brush every 3 months significantly more wasteful than buying a new bamboo toothbrush every 3 months? Basically I have really poor dental hygiene due to depression and being autistic - I am finally pulling myself together before it gets worse. For the past 2 years or so, I have been using Colgate’s bamboo brushes and replacing them as necessary. I’ve found them to be good enough. However I don’t think these are the best option for me due to the state of my teeth. But electric toothbrushes are plastic! Will I be using and disposing a big enough amount of plastic for it to be very significant? Should this be a case where I am better off using the plastic version for my own health and stop worrying about this particular area of my life in terms of ZW? Also, can someone inform me if the bamboo brushes are even much more of an environmentally friendly option - I’ve fallen for greenwashing before and am starting to reconsider the sustainability of throwing an entire toothbrush out 4 times a year. Plus it’s easy for them to get wet and grow bacteria if I leave it in the brush cup.
Assistant: Get your health on track first. This isn’t a damn cult where you sacrifice your health for anything. Take care of yourself. Having said that, this exists as well: https://www.amazon.com/Electric-Toothbrush-Waterproof-Rechargeable-Replaceable/dp/B0972WN6N9 I would go with a $10 electric one with rechargeable batteries. You don’t need to replace the heads until you have wear on the bristles. That 3 month thing isn’t a hard and fast rule. Oh yeah, use real toothpaste. That shit is important as well. |
Human: Is owning an electric toothbrush and replacing the brush every 3 months significantly more wasteful than buying a new bamboo toothbrush every 3 months? Basically I have really poor dental hygiene due to depression and being autistic - I am finally pulling myself together before it gets worse. For the past 2 years or so, I have been using Colgate’s bamboo brushes and replacing them as necessary. I’ve found them to be good enough. However I don’t think these are the best option for me due to the state of my teeth. But electric toothbrushes are plastic! Will I be using and disposing a big enough amount of plastic for it to be very significant? Should this be a case where I am better off using the plastic version for my own health and stop worrying about this particular area of my life in terms of ZW? Also, can someone inform me if the bamboo brushes are even much more of an environmentally friendly option - I’ve fallen for greenwashing before and am starting to reconsider the sustainability of throwing an entire toothbrush out 4 times a year. Plus it’s easy for them to get wet and grow bacteria if I leave it in the brush cup.
Assistant: An electric toothbrush 4X a year is much less wasteful than all the single use sterile items used if/when you need root canals from poor dental hygiene in my humble opinion. |
Human: Any recommendations on safety razors for women? About 6 years ago I bought a ridiculous bulk package of razor refills and a handle and I have only just nearly finished them off. Now that they are gone I want to get a plastic free option but I have very very thin sensitive skin and I’m worried about the lack of padding. I’d love it if anyone had advice or could share their experience!
Assistant: I have a Bambaw safety razor that has been amazing. Super simple to change out the blades. Comes in cute colors (I have the Rose Gold, and it has stayed rose gold for the last couple years). Not bulky (I shave everything with it). https://www.bambaw.com/collections/all/products/metal-razor |
Human: Any recommendations on safety razors for women? About 6 years ago I bought a ridiculous bulk package of razor refills and a handle and I have only just nearly finished them off. Now that they are gone I want to get a plastic free option but I have very very thin sensitive skin and I’m worried about the lack of padding. I’d love it if anyone had advice or could share their experience!
Assistant: I like hanni - long handle - powder coated so anti rust - cheapish ($35ish with coupon) - has a nice weight to it - comes with a blade cover - curved head that is supposed to make shaving armpits easier (I don’t shave my pits tho so I don’t actually know) |
Human: Any use for plastic straws? I eat a lot of fast food for work, and while I feel bad about the paper wrappings it always comes with, I try to at least always say no thanks to a straw if I get a drink. My coworkers and I sometimes reuse the paper bags stuff comes in too. Often though, when I give back the straw, they put it in my bag for some reason instead. So at that point I know if I give it back again they'll just throw it out anyway, so I keep it. Now my office drawer has a few dozen wrapped straws, and I don't know what to do with them but don't want to throw them out. Any DIY use for them?
Assistant: I think the reason they put it back in the bag anyways is because they can't give it to anyone else at that point as they and you have now touched it and it is against sanitation code. I always get so frustrated when places don't hear me say no straw/ utensils or just are on auto piolet and give them to me anyways. |
Human: Any use for plastic straws? I eat a lot of fast food for work, and while I feel bad about the paper wrappings it always comes with, I try to at least always say no thanks to a straw if I get a drink. My coworkers and I sometimes reuse the paper bags stuff comes in too. Often though, when I give back the straw, they put it in my bag for some reason instead. So at that point I know if I give it back again they'll just throw it out anyway, so I keep it. Now my office drawer has a few dozen wrapped straws, and I don't know what to do with them but don't want to throw them out. Any DIY use for them?
Assistant: I've seen them used to keep necklaces from tangling when traveling. You just feed one end of the chain through and then clasp it. |
Human: Redditors with kids : how do you do zero waste/ reduce waste? Hi, im new here and just found this sub. I have a 7 month old and have recently decided that I want to try to reduce my waste. I have realized however… with a small child, it‘s pretty hard since everything marketed to you is basically disposable. I am making my own baby food/ upcycle our old clothes for baby sewing projects, etc.. I would love to hear what other people do.
Assistant: r/moderatelygranolamoms has a lot of good ideas and products. |
Human: Redditors with kids : how do you do zero waste/ reduce waste? Hi, im new here and just found this sub. I have a 7 month old and have recently decided that I want to try to reduce my waste. I have realized however… with a small child, it‘s pretty hard since everything marketed to you is basically disposable. I am making my own baby food/ upcycle our old clothes for baby sewing projects, etc.. I would love to hear what other people do.
Assistant: I'm curious about the same, especially in the area of ointments and bath time. We have cloth diapers that are second hand (it isn't as scary as it seems; they are very clean) and buy most clothing from thrift stores. Furniture and toys are mostly second hand, as well. |
Human: Moving towards zero waste while living in dorms Hi! I’m going to be a sophomore in college this semester and over the summer it really hit that as an adult, I have full control over my environmental impact now. I would like to start moving towards the most zero waste/ eco friendly options available to me, but I’m finding it difficult to plan because I will be living in a dorm and unable to cook for myself. There are not many bulk stores around me, and I wouldn’t have space to buy in bulk anyways. Some of the main issues I am concerned with right now are: 1) How to make coffee without waste?: I prefer cold coffee and would love to be able to make cold brew, but setting up the cold brew press would take ~30 minutes with cleaning out the grounds in a kitchen that’s a few floor below me. I do not have time for this. I’ve thought about cold brew tea bags… obviously those will lead to waste or getting a drip coffee machine and putting it in the fridge for just cold coffee? 2) Waste from takeout and eating on campus: we have options to eat at the food stands on campus, which give us our meals in “compostable” containers. I know they throw all of our trash in the same place, it’s going to the landfill no matter what. To stop this, I’ve found some reusable takeout containers, a set of to-go utensils, and some reusable ziplocks online, but the whole idea of buying things seems against the philosophy. Any ideas as to how I can limit my consumption while solving this problem? 3) I plan on only ordering delivered food or take out once a month, but our dining halls have strange hours and sometimes I can not make it from my lab before they close the dinner service (once a week)… I need to eat and at that point take out or ramen are my only options. Help? Last semester I had a bought of illness because I was low on vitamins and not feeding myself properly, and I won’t do that again. Any advice is appreciated!! TDLR- I live in a dorm and rely on businesses that aren’t very zero waste/low waste friendly to survive.
Assistant: Surely there's other non-perishable food you can keep on hand in addition to ramen. Sandwich supplies? Canned tuna (recylable)? Peanut butter and crackers? I had a fridge in my dorm, but my go-to when I ran out of milk was cereal mixed with warmed-up (microwaved) peanut butter. If you have transportation and time, there should be somewhere around you can drop off your recyleables and compost. |
Human: Moving towards zero waste while living in dorms Hi! I’m going to be a sophomore in college this semester and over the summer it really hit that as an adult, I have full control over my environmental impact now. I would like to start moving towards the most zero waste/ eco friendly options available to me, but I’m finding it difficult to plan because I will be living in a dorm and unable to cook for myself. There are not many bulk stores around me, and I wouldn’t have space to buy in bulk anyways. Some of the main issues I am concerned with right now are: 1) How to make coffee without waste?: I prefer cold coffee and would love to be able to make cold brew, but setting up the cold brew press would take ~30 minutes with cleaning out the grounds in a kitchen that’s a few floor below me. I do not have time for this. I’ve thought about cold brew tea bags… obviously those will lead to waste or getting a drip coffee machine and putting it in the fridge for just cold coffee? 2) Waste from takeout and eating on campus: we have options to eat at the food stands on campus, which give us our meals in “compostable” containers. I know they throw all of our trash in the same place, it’s going to the landfill no matter what. To stop this, I’ve found some reusable takeout containers, a set of to-go utensils, and some reusable ziplocks online, but the whole idea of buying things seems against the philosophy. Any ideas as to how I can limit my consumption while solving this problem? 3) I plan on only ordering delivered food or take out once a month, but our dining halls have strange hours and sometimes I can not make it from my lab before they close the dinner service (once a week)… I need to eat and at that point take out or ramen are my only options. Help? Last semester I had a bought of illness because I was low on vitamins and not feeding myself properly, and I won’t do that again. Any advice is appreciated!! TDLR- I live in a dorm and rely on businesses that aren’t very zero waste/low waste friendly to survive.
Assistant: Sounds like you can fix most of your troubles by simply cooking for yourself / making your coffee, despite the kitchen being further from you... you're basically asking how to avoid going to kitchen and still have a take out while being zero waste. |
Human: Is it weird that I get emotionally anxious thinking about the environment? I don't know how others feel about this, but sometimes I have a tendency to get extremely anxious about destroying the planet to the point that my head basically goes into sorta a panic mode. I feel like I am so bad at being eco friendly despite my efforts and just seeing trash and things everywhere just makes me feel strangely uncomfortable. I don't know if my brain is thinking rationally when it comes to these anxiety attacks (after all I am quite an anxious girl), but I really just wish being eco friendly was easier, especially at college. I have lowered my single use plastic use somewhat by switching to a filtered reusable bottle, but even that is only so much. Just wondering though, does anyone have any anxiety similar to this and have any tips on how to manage it?
Assistant: I think the better question is how does anyone *not* have emotional anxiety over this? |
Human: Is it weird that I get emotionally anxious thinking about the environment? I don't know how others feel about this, but sometimes I have a tendency to get extremely anxious about destroying the planet to the point that my head basically goes into sorta a panic mode. I feel like I am so bad at being eco friendly despite my efforts and just seeing trash and things everywhere just makes me feel strangely uncomfortable. I don't know if my brain is thinking rationally when it comes to these anxiety attacks (after all I am quite an anxious girl), but I really just wish being eco friendly was easier, especially at college. I have lowered my single use plastic use somewhat by switching to a filtered reusable bottle, but even that is only so much. Just wondering though, does anyone have any anxiety similar to this and have any tips on how to manage it?
Assistant: It makes me anxious that nobody else is anxious, I feel like I'm the only lunatic that cares in my city. I bike, use public transport, try not to eat meat and not to fly so much, but BBQ's/trucks/shitting on the poor and the cyclists are part of the culture so I'm swimming against the current here. And no, I'm not in Texas. |
Human: Sanitizing a Stasher bag? I made the mistake of waiting too long to clean one of my stasher bags and now it has mold in it. Any idea how to clean it? Should I bleach it? Soak it in hot water? Vinegar? Something else?? (I don't have a dishwasher)
Assistant: You can also steam it in the microwave or boil the bag |
Human: Sanitizing a Stasher bag? I made the mistake of waiting too long to clean one of my stasher bags and now it has mold in it. Any idea how to clean it? Should I bleach it? Soak it in hot water? Vinegar? Something else?? (I don't have a dishwasher)
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Human: Is there any way to tell the difference between real feather/down filling and a synthetic version? I have some old pillows I want to compost but they were bought so long ago I can't recall if the filling is real or fake. I obviously can't compost them if they are synthetic but I really can't tell from looking at them if they are "real" or not. Any tips or advice appreciated!!
Assistant: Burn some of the down, it will either smell of plastic or similar to burning hair. Plastic is synthetic, hair smell will be real goose down. You can also revive real down with a good wash with a feather detergent. |
Human: Is there any way to tell the difference between real feather/down filling and a synthetic version? I have some old pillows I want to compost but they were bought so long ago I can't recall if the filling is real or fake. I obviously can't compost them if they are synthetic but I really can't tell from looking at them if they are "real" or not. Any tips or advice appreciated!!
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Human: Anyone else having issues with BlueLand pumps? Idk if this is the right venue, but I figured this sub is the best bet for people who have purchased BlueLand. I bought 3 hand soap starter sets and all of the pumps stick down. I emailed customer service and they offered to send me a new pump but they are currently out (this was about a month ago). I have been making due with the current one but it’s driving me nuts! I’m wondering if they’re out of pumps because everyone is having this problem.
Assistant: I saved two soap bottles from method! I had their foaming hand soap and just reuse their bottles infinitely for Blueland soap! Works great for months now! |
Human: Anyone else having issues with BlueLand pumps? Idk if this is the right venue, but I figured this sub is the best bet for people who have purchased BlueLand. I bought 3 hand soap starter sets and all of the pumps stick down. I emailed customer service and they offered to send me a new pump but they are currently out (this was about a month ago). I have been making due with the current one but it’s driving me nuts! I’m wondering if they’re out of pumps because everyone is having this problem.
Assistant: I don’t have a Blueland but a similar glass pump for foamy soap. My pump sticks as well and has since it was brand new. I think it might be a downfall of these style of pumps. |
Human: What are your experiences with self-made deodorants? There are many forms a self-made deodorant can have: be it solid, creme, roll-on or liquid in a spray bottle. And even more recipes. What can you recommend? What is the easiest to make? What works best, in terms of smell suppression and durability? What might be possible downsides, like skin irritation, stains on clothes or life period? Do have any recipes that you swear on? Or any other tips or experiences you want to share? Or is DIY deodorant not worth the hassle and it is easier to just stick with products by (hopefully) sustainable brands? I'd be happy to know what you think!
Assistant: 1 teaspoon Baking Soda and about 150ml of water. Pour hot water over baking soda, then place in spray bottle. That's it. The longest I've gone without a shower (for research purposes and depression purposes) was a week, but I could've gone longer. Been using that recipe for about 3 years now and I love it! When I work out a lot or sweat a lot for whatever reason I can go up to 3 days 😅 |
Human: What are your experiences with self-made deodorants? There are many forms a self-made deodorant can have: be it solid, creme, roll-on or liquid in a spray bottle. And even more recipes. What can you recommend? What is the easiest to make? What works best, in terms of smell suppression and durability? What might be possible downsides, like skin irritation, stains on clothes or life period? Do have any recipes that you swear on? Or any other tips or experiences you want to share? Or is DIY deodorant not worth the hassle and it is easier to just stick with products by (hopefully) sustainable brands? I'd be happy to know what you think!
Assistant: Yeah I just use a good brand. I live in Brisbane Australia, land of sweat and smells haha |
Human: Ethique dupes / best similar alternatives Hey y'all! I tried out Ethique shampoo/conditioner bars and loved them, but when it came time to get a refill, everything I liked was out - the shampoo, conditioner, face wash, body wash - and it's all been out for weeks now. Has anyone else run into this? Does Ethique regularly run out of everything for weeks on end? If so, what do you other Ethique-users do? Do you just stockpile two or three of each routine bar whenever they're available? Do you have a backup brand that uses similar ingredients and has the same effect on your hair? For info, if it helps: * I'm in Atlanta, GA (US) and have very short, thick, blond hair that I wash about every other day. * I'm using / looking for alternatives to the St. Clements shampoo bar, the Wonderbar conditioner, the Deep Green cleanser, and the Sweet Orange & Vanilla bodywash. I have alternatives to the cleanser and bodywash in different scents at home, so the shampoo and conditioner are the real problem for me right now. Thanks in advance! I'd love to hear about any Ethique-like options that you've found out about. Similar formulas would be awesome, since my hair really seemed to like the Ethique bars.
Assistant: Nourish savannah has shampoo and conditioner bars that are not soap which might be able to work for you. They also have in-person stores in Georgia, but not sure how close they would be to Atlanta. The bars do come in small plastic bags when they are shipped to you (i don't know if you can get them unwrapped or with paper in store though). |
Human: Ethique dupes / best similar alternatives Hey y'all! I tried out Ethique shampoo/conditioner bars and loved them, but when it came time to get a refill, everything I liked was out - the shampoo, conditioner, face wash, body wash - and it's all been out for weeks now. Has anyone else run into this? Does Ethique regularly run out of everything for weeks on end? If so, what do you other Ethique-users do? Do you just stockpile two or three of each routine bar whenever they're available? Do you have a backup brand that uses similar ingredients and has the same effect on your hair? For info, if it helps: * I'm in Atlanta, GA (US) and have very short, thick, blond hair that I wash about every other day. * I'm using / looking for alternatives to the St. Clements shampoo bar, the Wonderbar conditioner, the Deep Green cleanser, and the Sweet Orange & Vanilla bodywash. I have alternatives to the cleanser and bodywash in different scents at home, so the shampoo and conditioner are the real problem for me right now. Thanks in advance! I'd love to hear about any Ethique-like options that you've found out about. Similar formulas would be awesome, since my hair really seemed to like the Ethique bars.
Assistant: I’m in the same boat actually. I was looking at Lush, but I’m pretty particular to Ethique’s products, so I’m not sure what to do. |
Human: Conditioner Bar Tips? I recently switched to a shampoo bar and conditioner bar. I like both, but I have a hard time getting enough of the conditioner from the bar to my hands/hair (the shampoo bar suds up decently well). Using the conditioner bar is annoying and time consuming. Any tips?
Assistant: I rub my conditioner bars directly on my wet hair. Seems the easiest way to make it work on my thick hair. |
Human: Conditioner Bar Tips? I recently switched to a shampoo bar and conditioner bar. I like both, but I have a hard time getting enough of the conditioner from the bar to my hands/hair (the shampoo bar suds up decently well). Using the conditioner bar is annoying and time consuming. Any tips?
Assistant: Ethique sells conditioner concentrate, which you add boiling water to and it reconstitutes into a regular conditioner. I find that works better for me than conditioner bars. |
Human: Trying to avoid swiffer, but I can’t get all the hair out of my reusable rags! Hi all- I am cutting down on single use items in our house. One area that’s really giving me trouble is keeping the floors clean. I have long hair that sheds, we have cats, and we live in a small home in a city so dirt, dust, and hair are constantly being trekked in. I do a pretty decent job at using a rubber broom and vacuum to clean, but whenever I use a towel to mop, there are inevitably hairs that get knit into the towel. Now all of my cleaning towels are disgusting hair mops. Any advice?
Assistant: I actually toss my swiffer thingies in the laundry. So far, it's been working really well. I didn't realize this until I had bought a ton of them though so now I have a 'hoard' of them. I don't wash them special at all. Just on normal with whatever. |
Human: Trying to avoid swiffer, but I can’t get all the hair out of my reusable rags! Hi all- I am cutting down on single use items in our house. One area that’s really giving me trouble is keeping the floors clean. I have long hair that sheds, we have cats, and we live in a small home in a city so dirt, dust, and hair are constantly being trekked in. I do a pretty decent job at using a rubber broom and vacuum to clean, but whenever I use a towel to mop, there are inevitably hairs that get knit into the towel. Now all of my cleaning towels are disgusting hair mops. Any advice?
Assistant: I bought a rubber broom that’s great on floors and rugs. Rinses off. |
Human: Cat owners: help with low-waste litter box routine I recently got a cat and have been delighted that there are so many lower-impact litter choices on the market. However, my current litter box routine is to scoop the poop into a plastic grocery bag and then put that into the dumpster outside of our apartment. Up until this point, we've had lots of plastic grocery bags in the house because my boyfriend tends to forget the cloth bags when it's his turn to go to the store. However, he's recently gotten better about remembering them so we now have a bag shortage (which is great!). I'm curious what others scoop the litter into? I don't like putting it directly in the kitchen or bathroom garbage for smell reasons.
Assistant: Getting the cat to go zero-waste... now *that's* a tough one. |
Human: Cat owners: help with low-waste litter box routine I recently got a cat and have been delighted that there are so many lower-impact litter choices on the market. However, my current litter box routine is to scoop the poop into a plastic grocery bag and then put that into the dumpster outside of our apartment. Up until this point, we've had lots of plastic grocery bags in the house because my boyfriend tends to forget the cloth bags when it's his turn to go to the store. However, he's recently gotten better about remembering them so we now have a bag shortage (which is great!). I'm curious what others scoop the litter into? I don't like putting it directly in the kitchen or bathroom garbage for smell reasons.
Assistant: I've used rabbit food bags, bread bags, pretzel or chip bags, and even some plastic bins that weren't recyclable. |
Human: Refill tablets like Blueland? Does anyone else besides Blueland have refill tablets for multi purpose cleaner? Ive been using Blueland for a while and honestly I’m tired of the smell. I never liked it but now I actually dislike it and unfortunately they don’t have other scents. Does anyone else sell those dissolvable tablets? I do love them!
Assistant: Check out Meliora, they sell a cleaning spray tablet and it has no scent. |
Human: Refill tablets like Blueland? Does anyone else besides Blueland have refill tablets for multi purpose cleaner? Ive been using Blueland for a while and honestly I’m tired of the smell. I never liked it but now I actually dislike it and unfortunately they don’t have other scents. Does anyone else sell those dissolvable tablets? I do love them!
Assistant: Myni used to be called filo I think? Canadian brand but I think they ship internationally. I like them, they have a few scents to choose from |
Human: Not sure what to do with old socks I just wore large holes in a pair of socks the other day, and I have several pairs of athletic socks with holes as well. I know you can make stuffed animals and whatnot out of ruined socks, but tbh I have no use for a bunch of stuffed sock animals and no time to make them anyway. If clothes are ruined beyond repair, I generally turn them into rags, but these are a bit small for that. What do you guys usually do with socks that can’t be mended?
Assistant: You can use them as padding for fragile items you need to store, like Christmas tree ornaments. Less need for bubble wrap. |
Human: Not sure what to do with old socks I just wore large holes in a pair of socks the other day, and I have several pairs of athletic socks with holes as well. I know you can make stuffed animals and whatnot out of ruined socks, but tbh I have no use for a bunch of stuffed sock animals and no time to make them anyway. If clothes are ruined beyond repair, I generally turn them into rags, but these are a bit small for that. What do you guys usually do with socks that can’t be mended?
Assistant: Strips of fabric, then make rugs |
Human: What sustainable swap/habit do you not see yourself switching to anytime soon? Like something that you know it's the most environmentally friendly choice, but you just aren't ready to take the leap yet? For me, it's reusable toilet paper. I can do the bidet and bamboo paper thing, but reusing rags to wipe my butt, regardless of it being washed, is something I'm not too excited about doing. Not judgment here, we are all at different stages, so what's yours?
Assistant: Bags of frozen veggies. Ideally I would prefer to buy fresh with my reusable bags, but reality is I cook more vegetables when I have easier options. I'm pregnant and have a toddler and I'm too tired to chop those stupid carrots, so I go for frozen. Someday I'll go back to fresh because I like cooking. Just not for the foreseeable future. |
Human: What sustainable swap/habit do you not see yourself switching to anytime soon? Like something that you know it's the most environmentally friendly choice, but you just aren't ready to take the leap yet? For me, it's reusable toilet paper. I can do the bidet and bamboo paper thing, but reusing rags to wipe my butt, regardless of it being washed, is something I'm not too excited about doing. Not judgment here, we are all at different stages, so what's yours?
Assistant: Traveling. I know that flying greatly contributes to an individual's own carbon footprint. I love trains but sometimes you can't get everywhere with other means of transportation. My coworker did suggest trying Skyscanner which sometimes lets you know of "greener" flights, apparently measured by CO2 emission. Covid happen right after so I never really looked much into the app/feature. Would love if others have any travel tips that could help. |
Human: Trying to understand fabric better and what won't have mircoplastics? I didn't know until joining this community that most clothes now have plastic and other harmful things. I have been sewing for the last few years and would like to open up a shop with my designs, but I would really like to create things with safer, better, more natural fabrics. I got sucked into a little green washing with the whole bamboo fabric. I learned about rayon which bummed me out. I'm curious though if it's still a better alternative and is safe post production? Are there any specific stores/dealers that sell better fabric? Thank you.
Assistant: If it can help you, here is a list of synthetic fibres I compiled to help me with clothes shopping: Acrylic Microfibre Nylon Polyester Poly-fil or fiberfill Rhovyl or chlorofibre Spandex, elastane or Lycra Thinsulate |
Human: Trying to understand fabric better and what won't have mircoplastics? I didn't know until joining this community that most clothes now have plastic and other harmful things. I have been sewing for the last few years and would like to open up a shop with my designs, but I would really like to create things with safer, better, more natural fabrics. I got sucked into a little green washing with the whole bamboo fabric. I learned about rayon which bummed me out. I'm curious though if it's still a better alternative and is safe post production? Are there any specific stores/dealers that sell better fabric? Thank you.
Assistant: Another option, depending on what you sew is to find thrifted clothes at larger sized to take apart and re cut. |
Human: What to do with old, worn out or mismatched socks? I have a humongous surplus of socks. I’m to the point that I need to do a major purge but I don’t know what to do with all of them. Is there any way I can avoid the garbage can?
Assistant: I usually just wear mismatched socks cause i dont care 😹 my kids also do that cause they think its “cool”. That makes me cool too right?!?! 🤞 |
Human: What to do with old, worn out or mismatched socks? I have a humongous surplus of socks. I’m to the point that I need to do a major purge but I don’t know what to do with all of them. Is there any way I can avoid the garbage can?
Assistant: make a tawashi sponge, there are great tutorials on youtube |
Human: Looking for Low Waste Vitamin Solution Hello! I take vitamin supplements daily. I'm becoming more and more aware of how much plastic waste comes with these products. I'm throwing away several plastic bottles a month when those vitamins run out. I've heard of alternatives like Care Of but that's $70 a month to spend on vitamins. That is too much for my budget right now. Any advice? Thanks in advance. 😀
Assistant: The mult-vitamin I take comes in a glass bottle. I buy it on Grove. |
Human: Looking for Low Waste Vitamin Solution Hello! I take vitamin supplements daily. I'm becoming more and more aware of how much plastic waste comes with these products. I'm throwing away several plastic bottles a month when those vitamins run out. I've heard of alternatives like Care Of but that's $70 a month to spend on vitamins. That is too much for my budget right now. Any advice? Thanks in advance. 😀
Assistant: It’s called fruit and vegetables 😂 (sorry, someone had to! LOL) |
Human: Advice on sustainable cleaning products? I need help with recommendations. I’ve been using plastic cleaners and tools that I throw away after I’m done with them but I’ve been wanting to make the shift to a more sustainable option for so long. My only issue is I have the hardest time telling what’s just an “environmental cashgrab” and what is an actually good product that works. I need products that actually work because I have big dogs but I’m tired of tossing paper towels and empty bottles of cleaner. Could you amazing people please tell me what works for you? If you have any advice I would be so so appreciative! Thank you!
Assistant: I have a spray bottle that I fill with half water, half rubbing alcohol, a tablespoon of dish soap, and a few drops of essential oil for my daily disinfecting cleaner! When I googled it, the internet claims it to disinfect as well as vinegar (and I prefer the smell of rubbing alcohol). Since you can buy rubbing alcohol in a larger container, then you can make it last a long time. I also have not personally used Blueland cleaning supplies, but I've been told they are good! |
Human: Advice on sustainable cleaning products? I need help with recommendations. I’ve been using plastic cleaners and tools that I throw away after I’m done with them but I’ve been wanting to make the shift to a more sustainable option for so long. My only issue is I have the hardest time telling what’s just an “environmental cashgrab” and what is an actually good product that works. I need products that actually work because I have big dogs but I’m tired of tossing paper towels and empty bottles of cleaner. Could you amazing people please tell me what works for you? If you have any advice I would be so so appreciative! Thank you!
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Human: I've got a double whammy for y'all: pans & the internet! First, I wanted to ask ideas on how to salvage a non-stick pan that's no longer non-stick. I've looked this up before & I couldn't find anything outside of an answer to treat it like it's cast iron now (rub it with oil) or someone who had all the non-stick layer flake off & just kept using the pan. I'm just trying to find a way to salvage a frying pan that seems to have had oil get too hot & now it's not so 'non-stick' anymore. The non stick layer appears to be fine, it's just covered in a sticky layer in a few spots. It used to be a great omelette or egg pan but now I can't get anything to come off of it cleanly. I've tried dish soap, a degreaser, & different scrubbing methods but to no avail. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. It's not that old of a pan & I don't want to trash it or get sick if the non-stick coating does come off. Yuck. The second question I had for y'all is about selling online. I've had some super awful luck lately & I just don't get it. I have a brand new air fryer that I can't seem to get rid of! I don't use or have Facebook but I did try posting on the Neighborhood app for my area & to Craigslist. Craigslist was super spammy immediately. (The only 2 replies I had asked me to accept a "certified check" & cash it, *then* they would "send one of their movers" to pick up the item later. A quick Google search revealed this is a common scam.) Sadly the only response from the Neighborhood page made me uncomfortable too. It wasn't spam per-say but it wasn't like the guy understood anything I said. Another issue might be that I live in such a small town. (<3,100 people in 2019) I don't normally care about the selling aspect but times are super, duper tough right now so a little extra cash would be great. & it's not like it's a used product- it's brand new! It was given to me by work as a Christmas "prize" which was appreciated, but I already have an air fryer. It's a fairly large item so I don't want to use eBay & have to figure out that shipping mess. I just don't know why selling online is so sketchy lately. I used to have pretty good luck but it seems like a complete mess now. Any suggestions or discussion on this would also be greatly appreciated. Thanks y'all. **TL;DR:** How can I salvage a non-stick pan with burnt on oil? & Is online selling total crap now or is it just because of my location?
Assistant: If your pans are no longer food safe and have to be discarded because you have no other use, use this recycling program for free. Any pan with nonstick coating that is coming off risks the introduction of PFAS and other chemicals that are not good for your body long term. This program accepts any brand of the cooking products listed. If you’re sending in any knives or other sharp instruments they do require you to wrap them first in a packing material. https://www.terracycle.com/en-US/brigades/calphalon |
Human: I've got a double whammy for y'all: pans & the internet! First, I wanted to ask ideas on how to salvage a non-stick pan that's no longer non-stick. I've looked this up before & I couldn't find anything outside of an answer to treat it like it's cast iron now (rub it with oil) or someone who had all the non-stick layer flake off & just kept using the pan. I'm just trying to find a way to salvage a frying pan that seems to have had oil get too hot & now it's not so 'non-stick' anymore. The non stick layer appears to be fine, it's just covered in a sticky layer in a few spots. It used to be a great omelette or egg pan but now I can't get anything to come off of it cleanly. I've tried dish soap, a degreaser, & different scrubbing methods but to no avail. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. It's not that old of a pan & I don't want to trash it or get sick if the non-stick coating does come off. Yuck. The second question I had for y'all is about selling online. I've had some super awful luck lately & I just don't get it. I have a brand new air fryer that I can't seem to get rid of! I don't use or have Facebook but I did try posting on the Neighborhood app for my area & to Craigslist. Craigslist was super spammy immediately. (The only 2 replies I had asked me to accept a "certified check" & cash it, *then* they would "send one of their movers" to pick up the item later. A quick Google search revealed this is a common scam.) Sadly the only response from the Neighborhood page made me uncomfortable too. It wasn't spam per-say but it wasn't like the guy understood anything I said. Another issue might be that I live in such a small town. (<3,100 people in 2019) I don't normally care about the selling aspect but times are super, duper tough right now so a little extra cash would be great. & it's not like it's a used product- it's brand new! It was given to me by work as a Christmas "prize" which was appreciated, but I already have an air fryer. It's a fairly large item so I don't want to use eBay & have to figure out that shipping mess. I just don't know why selling online is so sketchy lately. I used to have pretty good luck but it seems like a complete mess now. Any suggestions or discussion on this would also be greatly appreciated. Thanks y'all. **TL;DR:** How can I salvage a non-stick pan with burnt on oil? & Is online selling total crap now or is it just because of my location?
Assistant: Facebook is the default marketplace in my area now, that and my buynothing group are the only reason I still have an account. |
Human: How to reduce waste for dog meals? I have to do a home cooked diet for my dog now, so I need ideas for separating small portions, please. Larger than ice cube size though. I used to use sandwich bags, but that’s wasteful. I tried quart size freezer bags bc I wash and reuse the gallon size ones, but these don’t hold up anywhere near as well. The seams separate. It’s Ziplock and other legit brands. I can’t use a lot of hard containers, bc my family hoards food and there just isn’t enough room. Bags/soft things that can cram into open spaces is what works. Thanks for ideas.
Assistant: There’s a reusable freezer bag company at Target. I use them for my horse grain and have had some good success with them. Come in a few different sizes. Stasher bags are also great. Just really expensive. Another option is to get silicone molds that are close to portion size, freeze and then bag them. The bag will last longer if it’s just holding individual frozen items. |
Human: How to reduce waste for dog meals? I have to do a home cooked diet for my dog now, so I need ideas for separating small portions, please. Larger than ice cube size though. I used to use sandwich bags, but that’s wasteful. I tried quart size freezer bags bc I wash and reuse the gallon size ones, but these don’t hold up anywhere near as well. The seams separate. It’s Ziplock and other legit brands. I can’t use a lot of hard containers, bc my family hoards food and there just isn’t enough room. Bags/soft things that can cram into open spaces is what works. Thanks for ideas.
Assistant: Have you tried silicone stasher bags? I use them to keep snacks on me all the time and they’re super easy to squeeze into small spaces! Lots of sizes available too! |
Human: Sustainable online shopping? I currently use Amazon and eBay, although in trying to become more sustainable I think that finding an alternative could be the most impactful change I can make. Is there anywhere else we can go to (in England)? I haven't been able to find anything. Short of another service, what things should I be aware of when making choices of what to purchase? I seriously hate it when they ship a tiny thing in a huge box filled with plastic fillers, but I see no way of knowing when they'd do that. I hope to find constructive solutions. I am serious about wanting to change, but I also would ideally like my experience to be one I can use to inspire change in others who aren't as aware.
Assistant: This page is a guide to alternative places to buy than from Amazon: Ethical Consumer Guide Also, if you insist on buying from Amazon, don't forget to use the Amazon smile website to get them to donate to charity. It's not much and not really zero waste, but better than nothing. |
Human: Sustainable online shopping? I currently use Amazon and eBay, although in trying to become more sustainable I think that finding an alternative could be the most impactful change I can make. Is there anywhere else we can go to (in England)? I haven't been able to find anything. Short of another service, what things should I be aware of when making choices of what to purchase? I seriously hate it when they ship a tiny thing in a huge box filled with plastic fillers, but I see no way of knowing when they'd do that. I hope to find constructive solutions. I am serious about wanting to change, but I also would ideally like my experience to be one I can use to inspire change in others who aren't as aware.
Assistant: last year The Guardian put together this lengthy list of alternative retailers to use instead of Amazon, for UK-based shoppers. edit: many of these may not be much more sustainable in terms of packaging, although the list does include a bulk-shopping retailer, ethicalsuperstore.com. it's more for supporting smaller retailers. hope it helps! |
Human: Is there a flouride zero waste toothPASTE? I hate the texture of the tooth tabs that you bite on. I was wondering if there was a toothpaste out there thats low or zero waste that also has flouride in it?
Assistant: Where are you? I’ve found three that aren’t tabs in the uk/EU: Ben and Anna make a fluoridated version of their tooth paste in a jar with a spatula. Using currently and though pricey, lasts a long time Happier Toothpaste comes in a metal tube, again, expensive but just like what you’re used to. Bam and Boo make a concentrated toothpaste in a metal tube. I haven’t yet tried but I assume it’s better value than the brand above. Good luck! |
Human: Is there a flouride zero waste toothPASTE? I hate the texture of the tooth tabs that you bite on. I was wondering if there was a toothpaste out there thats low or zero waste that also has flouride in it?
Assistant: I think colgate has one with fluoride, without micro plastic and the tube is made of recycled plastic. |
Human: How to responsibly dispose of an Artificial Christmas Tree All of the research I have done so far says to donate an artificial Christmas tree so it can be used by someone else. However, does that still work for a tree that wont light up? We lost a connector, and can't replace it, so the pre-lit tree wont light up. Will Goodwill or the Salvation Army take an artificial tree that wont light, or will they dump it because it doesn't work? Any advice or help is appreciated!
Assistant: Offer it for free on a neighborhood buy/sell/trade group. |
Human: How to responsibly dispose of an Artificial Christmas Tree All of the research I have done so far says to donate an artificial Christmas tree so it can be used by someone else. However, does that still work for a tree that wont light up? We lost a connector, and can't replace it, so the pre-lit tree wont light up. Will Goodwill or the Salvation Army take an artificial tree that wont light, or will they dump it because it doesn't work? Any advice or help is appreciated!
Assistant: Couldn’t you just remove the lights that don’t work. Buy string lights and put it on your tree? |
Human: Looking for Sustainable Toilet Bowl Cleaner Hello all, My wife and I want to stop using plastic bottle cleaners and saw products like Blueland shipping out of the US. But between conversion from USD to CAD and shipping, it becomes quite expensive as we'd need refills monthly (we have 3 toilets). Does anyone know of a similar product in Canada - or another low/zero waste toilet cleaner? Thanks!
Assistant: I use citric acid. Comes in cardboard boxes. |
Human: Looking for Sustainable Toilet Bowl Cleaner Hello all, My wife and I want to stop using plastic bottle cleaners and saw products like Blueland shipping out of the US. But between conversion from USD to CAD and shipping, it becomes quite expensive as we'd need refills monthly (we have 3 toilets). Does anyone know of a similar product in Canada - or another low/zero waste toilet cleaner? Thanks!
Assistant: Check etsy! I’ve see a ton of them and it’s even better that you’d be supporting a small business. :) |
Human: Got some oddballs for y'all - seeking help to de-junkify my property I really hope to get some ideas here. I'm at my wits end with the crap left behind by the previous owner of my house. Slight hoarder status kind of people. They didn't clean up well before moving. Anyway, I have some odd items that I'm trying to figure out what to do with. Some of them I don't know if there are proper legal ways to deal with disposal/recycling. Most of it I'm going to post for free pickup for the metal recyclers in the area (old steel chairs, grill, piping, fencing, etc.). Some items have me curious if there's a certain way I should deal with them though: * old propane tanks (one has a huge dent, one won't connect properly) * half full paint cans * tiles in varies sizes (I thought about just selling them, but I'm open to ideas to use 'em) * an engine & motor of some kind (can this just be scrapped for metal? I'm not sure) * ash- lots of ashes * old used oil buckets (most are falling apart because they've been out in the elements for years, not easy to pick up) * open bags of insecticides & pesticides Again, any suggestions on what on earth to do with these things would be greatly appreciated. My biggest concern is the propane tanks, honestly. One looks like it shouldn't be usable with a huge gash in the side. The other one looked perfect so I got it filled- but it won't connect properly to my grill or smoker. Not sure what to do about that. I live in a very rural area, which is part of why I'm asking y'all. Any help is greatly appreciated. ♥
Assistant: Our town has a designated waste day for paints, thinners, chemicals, etc. In the spring for us. Check with your local waste management. Good luck |
Human: Got some oddballs for y'all - seeking help to de-junkify my property I really hope to get some ideas here. I'm at my wits end with the crap left behind by the previous owner of my house. Slight hoarder status kind of people. They didn't clean up well before moving. Anyway, I have some odd items that I'm trying to figure out what to do with. Some of them I don't know if there are proper legal ways to deal with disposal/recycling. Most of it I'm going to post for free pickup for the metal recyclers in the area (old steel chairs, grill, piping, fencing, etc.). Some items have me curious if there's a certain way I should deal with them though: * old propane tanks (one has a huge dent, one won't connect properly) * half full paint cans * tiles in varies sizes (I thought about just selling them, but I'm open to ideas to use 'em) * an engine & motor of some kind (can this just be scrapped for metal? I'm not sure) * ash- lots of ashes * old used oil buckets (most are falling apart because they've been out in the elements for years, not easy to pick up) * open bags of insecticides & pesticides Again, any suggestions on what on earth to do with these things would be greatly appreciated. My biggest concern is the propane tanks, honestly. One looks like it shouldn't be usable with a huge gash in the side. The other one looked perfect so I got it filled- but it won't connect properly to my grill or smoker. Not sure what to do about that. I live in a very rural area, which is part of why I'm asking y'all. Any help is greatly appreciated. ♥
Assistant: propane tanks - I know you said you live in a rural area, but if you have a Home Depot or gas station that has one of those cages where you can swap used for new, do that - there's no penalty for turning in an expired/damaged tank in exchange for a new filled one. |
Human: Cow milk vs soy milk. Which is less impactful? I need to open brand new milk everyday from the shop. Once opened, even after a day in the fridge, the milk may become unuseable for the type of fermentation I'm doing because of airborne microbes. I use 500ml per day as a starter ferment. My options are 1. Buy 500ml bottles of cow milk and open a new bottle per day for fermenting. 2. Buy 1l cartons of unsweetened soy milk. Open a new carton per day and use 500ml (half) for the ferment. Problem is it tastes not very nice and often the remaining 500ml stays in the fridge until it goes off. I'm trying to not to be wasteful but I began to wonder something. My question is even if I only use half the soy milk and throw the rest away each day, will it have a smaller impact on the environment than using 500ml cow milk cartons?
Assistant: Soy milk uses significantly less resources to make than cow milk. |
Human: Cow milk vs soy milk. Which is less impactful? I need to open brand new milk everyday from the shop. Once opened, even after a day in the fridge, the milk may become unuseable for the type of fermentation I'm doing because of airborne microbes. I use 500ml per day as a starter ferment. My options are 1. Buy 500ml bottles of cow milk and open a new bottle per day for fermenting. 2. Buy 1l cartons of unsweetened soy milk. Open a new carton per day and use 500ml (half) for the ferment. Problem is it tastes not very nice and often the remaining 500ml stays in the fridge until it goes off. I'm trying to not to be wasteful but I began to wonder something. My question is even if I only use half the soy milk and throw the rest away each day, will it have a smaller impact on the environment than using 500ml cow milk cartons?
Assistant: Why are you fermenting it? |
Human: Recommendations for reusable produce bags? Hi all, my husband and I are new to sustainable living. We obviously have reusable grocery bags, but I am trying to think of a way to avoid using those little plastic bags for fruits and vegetables they give you at the grocery store. I just skip it for things like avocados or bananas, but I don't want lettuce or peppers to just be rattling around loose in our cart or bag. Are reusable bags for produce a thing? Anyone have any recommendations? Thanks!
Assistant: If you have a sewing machine, it's pretty easy to turn an old sheet into small drawstring bags. |
Human: Recommendations for reusable produce bags? Hi all, my husband and I are new to sustainable living. We obviously have reusable grocery bags, but I am trying to think of a way to avoid using those little plastic bags for fruits and vegetables they give you at the grocery store. I just skip it for things like avocados or bananas, but I don't want lettuce or peppers to just be rattling around loose in our cart or bag. Are reusable bags for produce a thing? Anyone have any recommendations? Thanks!
Assistant: I bought reusable produce bags at Edeka and have had no problems in American grocery stores. I don't think Edeka is in the US (if you are american) but I have also seem them at Lidl and Publix. |
Human: recommendations for a loofa? current loofa is nearing its end. im looking for a natural loofa, like the ones in nature lmfao, or another natural scrubber that’ll scrub me clean. pls no ordering online (or at least not amazon)—preferably something i can pick up in person i live in salt lake city, so if you know of any loofas in the area here that’d be great
Assistant: Switch to washcloths. They do the same thing, and you don't have to replace them as fast. |
Human: recommendations for a loofa? current loofa is nearing its end. im looking for a natural loofa, like the ones in nature lmfao, or another natural scrubber that’ll scrub me clean. pls no ordering online (or at least not amazon)—preferably something i can pick up in person i live in salt lake city, so if you know of any loofas in the area here that’d be great
Assistant: You may not like these and may be referring to the poof types that are made of plastic, but a lot of people don't realize the other type are actually made of plant material so I thought I'd share. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Luffa\_aegyptiaca |