Did you know that most single-use wipes contain plastic? I wasn’t aware of this until very recently either! After watching the BBC documentary War on Plastic, I was shocked to find out that this was the case, and the amount of plastic in a ‘disposable' wipe can be as high as 84%! That’s insane. A lot of this plastic is non-biodegradable too. Apparently the plastic is what helps to make them stretchy and strong. Honestly, stretchy and strong is not something I want from a wet wipe. I just want something that will remove my make-up or clean my hands thanks.

Here are some more shocking facts for you…

Every year, over 8.8 million tons of plastic waste enter the oceans. Among this huge amount of trash are such items as single-use cups, bottles, straws, and you guessed it, wet wipes.

While many hygiene firms claim they break down, water companies and scientists disagree, saying they are still very slow to degrade.

Even when they eventually do break down, the small remaining pieces of plastic add to the global micro-plastics problem, as marine life consume them. 

A 2017 study revealed wet wipes made up to 93 per cent of the material that forms blockages in sewage pipes.

To put that in context, toilet paper made up just 0.01% of the material blocking in our pipes and sewers.

The UK government recently set a target to eliminate single-use wipes in their 25-year plan, with Theresa May pledging to eradicate all "avoidable plastic waste" by 2042. But come onnnnn. 25 more years of this? Meanwhile, our oceans and landfill already cannot cope with our sheer consumption of these ‘disposables.’  

After this shock, I decided to make the switch to something kinder to our environment, especially as I’m trying to reduce my overall plastic consumption. Along my sustainable journey, I’ve been swapping out many different household and beauty products, and I’ve found the process really satisfying. What I’ve found is that most, if not all, of the sustainable options have been just as nice or have outperformed their far less eco-friendly counterparts. And these reusable cotton-pads/wipes are no exception!

Now of course, I could have tried to find a brand that advertises “biodegradable”, or even “compostable” wet wipes, but I really thought moving away from single-use items was the best route. It’s so much better for the planet, and as long as you can commit to washing your wipes/pads every now any then, there’s no real difference.

I decided to go for these Bambaw reuseable cotton pads/wipes. Bambaw aim to provide zero-waste products to help build a better future. Conventional cotton pads are also a disaster for the environment. Cotton is grown with a massive use of pesticides, fertilisers and water.

These makeup remover pads are made from bamboo and are so, so soft. Far more luxurious than any conventional cotton pad or wipe I’ve used in the past. This set includes 12 soft and 4 scrub makeup removal pads.

The scrub pads are perfect for cleaning off tougher products (i.e waterproof mascara) and exfoliating the skin. Whereas the soft pads are great for sensitive areas like the eyes and everyday makeup.

After using, the pads can simply be washed in the laundry. They come with a handy laundry bag to wash them all together, so there’s no risk of losing them in the washing machine, unlike that pesky mystery sock.

Retailing at just over £13 - these feel like a bargain. I hate to think about how much money I’ve spent on wipes over the last decade or so. Especially when they just end up in the bin! I’m sure these reusable ones will last me years, and save me so much money in the process. All of their products are also shipped neutrally, which I thought was another great bonus.

So there we have it! I’m fully converted to the reusable cotton pad, and will certainly never go back. Who wants to wipe their own face with the plastic equivalent of a sandwich bag anyway?

To find out more about Bambaw visit: https://bambaw.com

I would just like to point out that these products were not gifted and this is not a sponsored ad. Just putting out my genuine love for this brand and these products. All stats and prices correct as of Sept 2019.

Did you know that most single-use wipes contain plastic? I wasn’t aware of this until very recently either! After this shock, I decided to make the switch to something kinder to our environment, especially as I’m trying to reduce my overall plastic consumption. I decided to go for these Bambaw reuseable cotton pads and wipes. Bambaw aim to provide zero-waste products to help build a better future.

Sustainable Reusable Cotton Pads

Hello lovely ones! As always it’s been a while. You may have noticed that over the last few years Heart + Bowl has stayed relatively quiet. There have been many reasons for this! So I thought today I would open up to tell you a little bit more about why that is, and hopefully let you in on some exciting news about why that might be changing.

It’s safe to say there have been some fairly big changes in my life over the last year that have been quiet time consuming, and have taken up a lot of my mental and physical energy! I’ve bought a house, moved into said house, gone part-time, changed jobs, started working from home and rehomed a beautiful little cat.

All of these transitions and changes have been so positive for me and I’m feeling so much better in myself. For anyone who knows me, knows that I’ve been struggling for many years with my mental health, and this is a large reason why I’ve not been posting as much as I used to. It’s hard to be creative or commit to much of anything when you’re battling your own thoughts, and your self esteem has hit rock bottom.

On my journey to improving my headspace, I’ve really tried to delve into the world of self-care and self-love. The journey hasn’t been a quick one, nor has it been a straightforward climb to improvement. I’m sure it’s the same for everyone. There are no miracle pills or magic bullets when it comes to mental health. I have however, taken the time to discover some lifestyle tips, helpful practises and day-to-day activities that have really helped me. I’ve taken inspiration from some of the happiest countries, and learned about everything from Hygge to Lagom. I’ve started practising meditation regularly, thanks to amazing apps like Calm. I’ve taken up Pilates, and have been attending classes for over a year now.

On my climb to wellness, I’ve really loved trying and learning new things. These things have become so ingrained in my day to day, and it’s hard to think of life without them now. I’ve learned that happiness isn’t just something you are or aren’t, you really have to work for it. Life will kick you in the face regardless, and you can’t do anything about that. So you have to work at the things you can control, and build a life you love. It’s definitely not easy, but it’s 100% worth it.

There are still things in my life I’d love to change and I certainly still have bad head days, but hopefully I’ve found the tools and built better habits, in order to help me cope better with those bad days.

I’ve not only started to think about self-care and looking after myself, but this has lead me to be more conscious about our planet too. I’ve been watching a number of documentaries about the impact of our actions on the environment, and they have been quite eye-opening in some cases. I’ve become very sad and angry about the state of our consumption culture today, and it’s made me realise that I can do more in the fight to save our planet.

I’ve been reading as much as I can about sustainability, and it’s something I’m getting increasingly passionate about. I’ve vowed to eat less meat, to stop funding fast-fashion, and to reduce my use of single-use plastics. I’ve been slowly switching out my products for greener, more sustainable alternatives, researching ways I can reduce my household waste and simply ways to use less.

So what does this mean for Heart + Bowl? Well, I’m hoping to blog more of course, and I’m hoping to document this sustainable journey with you. I want to continue to post recipes every now and then, this time with much more of a focus on plant-based eating. Expect to see lots of posts on thrift shopping and sustainable fashion, or tips on how to reduce plastics in the kitchen or bathroom. My mind is bubbling with ideas, and it’s nice to have that creative excitement and energy back again.

I want to reiterate that I am by no means perfect. I’m just trying to make changes bit by bit and do what’s best for the planet. What works for me, might not work for you. That’s what makes this world we live in so wonderful. We’re all different. Plus, that’s part of the reason I want to do this, I want to document the journey and discuss the swaps I’m making, as I make them. I’m hoping these little adjustments I'm making everyday, will eventually add up to a big lifestyle transformation.

I'm just aiming to be another voice out in the world helping to raise awareness around these issues and ideas. However quiet that voice might be! And if I can inspire some people to make their own changes along the way, well that would be pretty neat too.

A New Direction

This month I’m turning 29! Yikes. Does this make me a grown-up now? I don’t feel very grown-up. While age is just a number and all that, I wanted to share the 29 things I’ve taken away from the past year. You may remember when I did this last year when turning 28?

Overall, 28 has been a pretty groundbreaking year for me. I don’t want to go into too much detail, but I feel like it’s the first year I’ve really put my mental and physical health first. Especially in my adult life anyway. I’ve moved house, gone part-time, started pilates, changed jobs and rehomed a gorgeous little cat. All of these changes have been so positive. They’ve allowed me to put myself first, and create a lifestyle + environment that makes me happy.

Life isn’t perfect, but I feel like I’ve designed a life to benefit all aspects of my wellbeing, even in times of hardship. While there have been quite a few challenges this year, I’m proud of myself for getting through them. I’ve also been kinder on myself when I’m not 100%, and accepted that it’s ok not to feel okay sometimes.

Right, I’m not going to waffle on any longer. Here comes the list!

Ramen is one of my favourite things to cook and eat.

Although nothing can beat a good roast dinner.

Don’t say no to something, just because you’re scared of change.

Working from home is liberating and suits my personality.

For an introverted person, I have an insane number of friends. How did this happen?!

Thoughts are just thoughts, they can simply be acknowledged and let go.

You can’t eliminate stress from your life, but you can control your reaction to the it.

I hate fast-fashion and everything it’s doing to the planet.

Capitalism has corrupted almost everything.  Wow that escalated quickly!

I’m proud of the progress I’ve made with my anxiety.

Pilates is now an essential part of my life.

Take care of yourself, everything else can wait.

Don’t give up on things you’re not automatically good at. Practice until you are.

A good home and work environment works wonders.

I’m learning to love myself and to stop being my own worst critic.

I’m an old lady stuck in a young lady’s body.

It’s easy not to treasure what you already have, it’s important to do the opposite.

Slow down. (Sometimes it’s more productive.)

Fuck tradition. If it feels right, do things your way.

This month I’m turning 29! Yikes. Does this make me a grown-up now? I don’t feel very grown-up. While age is just a number and all that, I wanted to share the 29 things I’ve taken away from the past year.

Twenty Eight

As soon as Sponge announced their Gluten Free Hazelnut Praline cake, I knew I would have to find an excuse to treat myself! So when Sponge gave me the opportunity to try out a cake of my choice – I jumped up and down with excitement! (Preemptively burning off calories before the inevitable cake coma.) Free cake – was this a fairy-tale?! Somebody pinch me.

Having already tried and loved many from Sponge’s gluten free selection (see my Baby Shower post here) my expectations for this latest seasonal flavour were very high indeed. Particularly because I’m in love with anything hazelnut praline related. You’re looking at a girl who makes homemade Nutella and eats it straight from the jar! 

So with all that in mind, I’m pleased to report that this cake did not disappoint! My expectations were not only met but dazzlingly exceeded, and all my Praline dreams came true. This is the Prince Charming of the cake world.

The victoria + chocolate marbled-sponge was light and moist (which is often difficult to achieve from a gluten-free cake!) The buttercream was sweet, creamy, and packed with praline flavour that feels oh-so decadent! To top it all off, caramelised hazelnuts added a great crunchy texture to finish the cake off beautifully.

I feel so lucky to have found an online cake company that can cater for my dietary requirements, whilst not compromising on flavour or indulgence! It’s not just gluten-free either, Sponge have recently launched an entirely new vegan range!

So if all that cake-y goodness wasn’t enough, Sponge have kindly given me a Vegan Cake for 8 to giveaway for FREE!! Now that’s a happily ever after! The winner will have the choice of either a Vegan Carrot Sponge or a Vegan Chocolate Sponge.

Enter below in the rafflecopter to be in with a chance of winning. You seriously haven’t tried cake until you’ve had a Sponge cake!

Due to postage reasons, I will be accepting entries from the UK only. Accept my huge apologies to those readers from the rest of the world!

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT SPONGE AND ALL THEIR DELICIOUS FLAVOURS HERE.﻿

Gluten Free Hazelnut Praline SPONGE CAKE + A GIVEAWAY!!!

Hands up who hasn’t been to the Bowling House in Norwich yet? If you’re raising your hand right now… what were you thinking?!

OK, so maybe you were too busy washing your car or walking the dog (or walking the car and washing the dog.) Who knows?! I’ll forgive you. Life’s busy and we’re often lucky if we know what day of the week it is sometimes. Wouldn’t it be nice to find a place to unwind from it all? Enter Bowling House!

Located at the top of Dereham Road, and a stone’s throw away from the hustle and bustle of St Benedicts, the Bowling House is perfectly situated for a night out in our fine city.

I recently visited with my partner on a Friday evening at the end of a busy week. On entering, we were immediately taken over by how relaxed and friendly the atmosphere was. We were given a very warm Norwich welcome, and shown to our table for dinner. The dining area is located right by the bowling lanes, so you can watch all the action and listen joyfully to the sound of pins tumbling over.

The Bowling House (or BoHo) has a retro style throughout, with bright decor and pops of neon lighting. Every corner is waiting to be snapped and posted on Instagram. We admired our surroundings whilst perusing the menu and enjoyed some retro music, packed full of nostalgic hits. I felt like I was in scene from a classic cult movie, sitting in an old-school American diner but with a classy “Norwich” spin.

Our waiter was already very clued up on my dietary requirements, having specified these in advance. He happily answered all of my questions regarding allergy information and made some helpful suggestions. Being gluten-free, the kitchen catered so flexibly and easily to my needs. They took all of the pressure out of navigating through the menu, which can be a daunting process when you have any form of dietary requirement.

It was recommended that we order 2-3 dishes per person (we never need much persuasion when it comes to ordering multiple dishes!!) My partner ordered Beef Nachos and BBQ Back Ribs. I went for the Moroccan Meatballs and Tiger Prawns. We also ordered some Chorizo Style Crackling to start us off. Anyone who knows me knows my (slightly worrying) addiction to anything crackling related – and this was sublime. I’ve never had Chorizo Style Crackling before, and it really added a new twist on a much loved snack. They were so deliciously smoky and moorish. Needless to say, they didn’t last very long.

When our main plates arrived, we were very impressed by the sheer amount of food. Dan and I are not ones for small portions, so our eyes lit up when a feast was laid out before us.

The casual style of dining was just what we needed after a long week, as we picked from the various dishes. This would be perfect for large groups of friends or family, as it encourages sharing and creates a very social and laid-back atmosphere.

Each plate was delicious in its own way, perfectly seasoned and packed full with flavour. Every dish added a new sensation on the palate. The sheer variety was so refreshing, and we were spoiled for choice at what to try next.

A personal favourite were the Moroccan Meatballs, which were so juicy and flavoursome. Dan loved the BBQ Back Ribs – the meat just fell off the bone!

To wash it all down, I opted for a couple of mocktails. Being a non-drinker, I often judge a place purely by the soft drinks on offer. I had nothing to worry about here though, I found some unique mocktails on the menu, which were more thought-out that the usual non-alcholic Mojito or Pina Colada. Care has clearly been taken to make sure there’s something for everyone here!

Looking at the regular cocktail menu, I could clearly see these being a hit for those who like a good drink. Just in itself, the bar would be a great place to grab a chilled drink with friends in the evening – even if you’re not in the mood for bowling!

Despite the mountain of food we had just conquered, dessert looked too tempting to pass up!

I opted for the BoHo Pinapple, which was by far the best dessert I’ve eaten since being gluten-free. The ingredients were so perfectly balanced – the tropical pineapple paired beautifully with the heat from ginger and chilli. The toasted coconut ice-cream pulled everything together with a creamy velvet finish.

Dan ordered an Eton Mess Sundae and was equally as delighted with his choice. The dessert was gone in seconds.

Next we turned our hand to a few rounds of bowling. Shocked we could move after all that food? So were we.

It’s been a while since Dan and I went bowling, so it must have been the excitement to get playing. Needless to say we were both hilariously rusty – but isn’t that half the fun of bowling?

The Bowling House offers 5 intimate lanes for you to practice your strikes (or spares in my case!) The boutique bowling alley adds a hint of sophistication to a night of bowling that you wouldn’t get from any of the current chains in and around Norwich.

I can see it becoming a staple addition to the city’s nightlife, and seems perfect for any occasion – whether that be date night, a family day out or fun with friends + co-workers.

Bowling isn’t something we’ve done together just the two of us, and we found it a really fun and refreshing addition to date night. It reminded us that we need to step out of our usual go-to activities and mix things up every now and then.

While I didn’t come away victorious, I certainly left in high spirits feeling like we had shared a wonderful evening together as a couple – and what could be better than that?

OK, so maybe a few strikes would have been nice. But there’s always next time – right?

YOU CAN FIND OUT MORE AND BOOK ONLINE HERE.

The Bowling House kindly offered me a free meal and a couple of games of bowling in return for this review. My opinion remains honest and unbiased.

Sustainable Reusable Cotton Pads

A New Direction

Twenty Eight

Gluten Free Hazelnut Praline SPONGE CAKE + A GIVEAWAY!!!

Bowling House – Review