Sustainable Living Blog

This behind-the-scenes update offers an honest look at the current realities of running a small retail business. After a particularly difficult winter shaped by economic uncertainty, shifting consumer habits, and broader industry challenges, we’re making thoughtful adjustments to strengthen the future of Reboot Eco. In this post, we share what we’ve been experiencing, the changes you may have already noticed, and what to expect in the months ahead. From updates to product selection and programming to the realities of working with small brands, this is a transparent look at how we’re adapting while staying grounded in our mission.

The Swap Studio was created as a space rooted in abundance, community, and access. It’s a place where people can take what they need, give what they can, and experience secondhand shopping in a way that feels welcoming, organized, and even a little joyful. Over time, it’s become something really special—serving seasoned thrifters, folks new to secondhand, and many in our community who rely on it in different ways. And while the Swap Studio has always been free, it’s not without cost. Behind the scenes, there’s ongoing time, labor, and resources that go into keeping the space clean, organized, and filled with high-quality items. As it continues to grow, so does the level of care it requires. To help sustain the Swap Studio and keep it accessible for as long as possible, we’re introducing a suggested donation: $5 per visit(or $2 per item) This is entirely optional, and the space will remain free and accessible to anyone who needs it. If you’re in a position to contribute, your support will go directly toward helping us maintain and care for the space so it can continue to serve the community. We also want to acknowledge the impact this space has already had—helping keep clothing in circulation, reducing waste, and saving people money while offering high-quality items at no cost. That impact is only possible because of this community. Thank you for being part of it, and for helping us keep the Swap Studio a space where everyone can take what they need and give what they can. To donate: https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/9VJ4F785GKLWY

Over the past few years, we’ve offered a variety of free specialty recycling programs in the shop as a way to help divert hard-to-recycle items from the landfill. As we’ve grown, we’ve taken a closer look at what’s most impactful, sustainable, and realistic for us to maintain long-term. After a lot of consideration, we’ve made the decision to phase out these programs. We will continue accepting disposable masks and writing utensils (pens, pencils, and markers) until those collection boxes are full. Once they are, these programs will also be discontinued. If you’re looking for other ways to recycle these types of items, we recommend checking out TerraCycle or your local municipality’s website for updated drop-off programs and special collection events. More than anything, this shift reflects something we talk about often: recycling isn’t always the solution. Many of the programs we’ve offered focus on single-use items like disposable razors and oral care products. While recycling can help, it still requires energy, resources, and systems that aren’t always as circular as we’d hope. Whenever possible, choosing reusable or low-waste alternatives can have a much bigger impact. We’re proud to offer options in the shop for many of these everyday items—making it easier to move away from disposable products altogether. We know this change may feel like a loss for some, and we truly appreciate everyone who has used these programs over the years. Your efforts have made a difference. Thank you for continuing to grow with us and for being part of a community that’s willing to rethink what sustainability can look like.

What really happens when we throw something “away”? In this personal re-introduction, Reboot Eco founder Yasemin Ugurlu shares the story behind her refill shop, the moment that changed how she viewed plastic waste, and why sustainable living should feel realistic instead of overwhelming. If you’re curious about refill stations, low-waste home essentials, and simple ways to reduce single-use plastic without perfection, this is where the journey begins.