How to Build a Calm, Low-Waste Sink Setup You’ll Actually Want to Use

If your sink area is a chaos zone of mismatched bottles, soggy sponges, and that one gross scrub brush you swear you’ll replace (but don’t)... we get it.

But what if your sink setup could actually feel good? Like spa-for-your-dishes good?
Like cleaner, calmer, and less wasteful without turning your life upside down good?

Yeah, that’s more our style too.

Here’s how to create a sink situation that’s both low-waste and lovely to look at.

1. Start with a Refillable Bottle You Actually Like

Step one: ditch the crusty plastic bottle with the mystery label.
Whether it’s one of ours (hi!) or your own glass or ceramic dispenser, choose something that feels intentional and refillable.

It’s a small swap that makes a big visual (and environmental) difference.

2. Keep Refills Nearby (and Pretty)

Out of sight = out of refill.
Store your dish and hand soap refills in a dry drawer, basket, or cupboard near your sink. That way, when it’s time to refill, you don’t have to go spelunking under the bathroom sink for that pouch you “definitely put somewhere safe.”

Pro tip: A labeled jar or simple tin can turn a refill stash into something aesthetic and practical.

3. Curate (Just a Little)

You don’t need a dozen tools to keep things clean. A good sponge, a scrubber brush, maybe a bottle brush if you're fancy, that’s it.

Keep it simple. Keep it tidy. And maybe give that ancient plastic scrubber a graceful retirement while you’re at it.

4. Add One “Ahhh” Element

It could be a small plant. A nice tray. A candle you’ll never actually light but looks great.
This isn’t about being extra, it’s about turning a daily chore into a slightly more enjoyable ritual. (Because let’s face it, we’re all in our kitchen sinks a lot.)

5. Pick Products That Align with Your Values

This one’s obvious, but worth saying: choose products that make you feel good to use.
Whether that’s because they’re safer, refillable, low-waste, or just plain work, find your brand, find your flow.

We built Elcove for exactly this reason: so your sink setup could be effective, easy on the eyes and kind to the planet. Because doing good shouldn’t mean doing more.

Final Thoughts?

Your sink is the quiet MVP of your home. Give it a little glow-up, and it’ll give you back smoother days, fewer messes, and maybe even a tiny hit of satisfaction every time you rinse a plate.

Clean space. Clear conscience. Fewer bottles in the bin. That’s what we call a win-win-win.