If you’ve ever looked at your overflowing trash can and thought, there has to be a better way, you’re not alone. Zero waste living has gone from being a “hippie lifestyle” to a mainstream movement and for good reason. Not only does it help the environment, but it also saves money, simplifies life, and brings a sense of purpose to everyday choices.

When I started my sustainability journey, I quickly realized that inspiration and practical tips are best found in books. They go deeper than quick online lists and really show you how to create lasting habits. So, if you’re ready to make your home a little greener, a little simpler, and a lot more intentional, here are my top 5 books for zero waste living at home. Find more sustainability related posts here.

5 Books to guide you towards zero waste living.

1. Zero Waste Home by Bea Johnson

Let’s start with the queen of zero waste living herself. Bea Johnson’s Zero Waste Home is practically the bible for anyone looking to shrink their trash footprint. She famously reduced her family’s yearly household waste to fit in a single mason jar (yes, a jar!).

What I love about this book is how practical it is. Bea breaks down the “5Rs”: Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and Rot. Each section comes with clear steps you can start applying immediately. From grocery shopping tips to beauty swaps, she shows you that zero waste isn’t about perfection but about small, consistent changes.

Takeaway tip from the book: Start by refusing what you don’t need, instead of focusing only on recycling. It makes a huge difference.

2. 101 Ways to Go Zero Waste by Kathryn Kellogg

This book feels like having a supportive friend cheering you on. Kathryn Kellogg makes zero waste feel approachable, even fun. She admits she’s not perfect and encourages readers to start small rather than stressing over eliminating every bit of trash.

What’s great is that the book is structured into bite-sized tips, everything from DIY beauty products to kitchen hacks and shopping swaps. It’s perfect for flipping through when you want a quick dose of inspiration without feeling overwhelmed.

Takeaway tip from the book: Reuse glass jars—they’re free, abundant, and way more useful than you think.

3. Plastic-Free: How I Kicked the Plastic Habit and How You Can Too by Beth Terry

Plastic is one of the biggest challenges in modern homes, it sneaks in everywhere. Beth Terry’s Plastic-Free is a wake-up call and a guide rolled into one. After seeing a shocking picture of a seabird that had died from plastic ingestion, she committed to cutting plastic from her life.

The book is packed with product swaps, easy lifestyle changes, and inspiring stories of how individuals and communities are reducing plastic waste. Beth doesn’t preach, she relates. She admits it’s hard, but she also proves it’s doable.

Takeaway tip from the book: Shop with a “plastic radar”, before buying, ask yourself, “Will this create more plastic waste?”

4. The Zero-Waste Chef by Anne-Marie Bonneau

If the kitchen is your biggest waste problem (hello, food scraps and packaging), this book is a lifesaver. Anne-Marie Bonneau shares recipes and tips for eating well while wasting less. It’s not just about food storage, it’s about cooking creatively, preserving food, and rethinking how we approach meals.

She also touches on meal planning, bulk shopping, and creative uses for leftovers. Her recipes are accessible, delicious, and designed to minimize waste.

Takeaway tip from the book: Freeze veggie scraps to make homemade broth, it saves money and keeps food out of the trash.

5. Sustainable(ish) Living Guide by Jen Gale

Zero waste can sometimes feel intimidating, but Jen Gale makes it feel realistic. This book is about imperfect sustainability, it’s not about being perfect, but about making better choices most of the time.

What makes this book stand out is its humor and honesty. Jen knows life gets busy, and she gives you flexible strategies that actually fit into daily routines. She covers everything from reducing waste at home to eco-friendly travel and family living.

Takeaway tip from the book: Don’t underestimate the small swaps, switching from paper towels to reusable cloths saves hundreds of dollars and thousands of sheets.

Final Thoughts

Zero waste living isn’t about fitting your yearly trash into a jar, it’s about making mindful choices that add up over time. These books will not only teach you practical steps but also inspire you to see waste differently. Start with one, take what works for you, and build from there.

Your home doesn’t have to be perfect to make an impact. Every swap, every choice, and every small step is a victory.

So, which of these books are you adding to your reading list first?