How Can You Host a Fun, Low-Waste BBQ This Summer?

Summer is almost here, and that means it’s BBQ season. Backyard cookouts, porch hangs, and patio parties are some of the best ways to enjoy the longer days and warm evenings. But with all the good food and good company often comes a not-so-good side effect: waste.

Disposable plates, plastic utensils, and trash bags full of leftovers can add up fast. Luckily, hosting an eco-friendly BBQ is easier than you think. With just a few simple swaps, you can keep your cookout fun, flavorful, and eco-friendly.

1. Say Goodbye to Single-Use Everything

Paper plates and plastic forks are convenient, but they’re also a one-way ticket to the landfill. Instead, break out your everyday plates and silverware, or gather a set of reusable picnic gear for outdoor parties. Hosting a crowd? Look for compostable options made from bamboo, palm leaf, or recycled paper—and make sure there’s a compost bin handy.

2. Shop Local

Cut your carbon footprint and support your community by sourcing ingredients locally. Think: corn from the farmers market, buns from your neighborhood bakery, and pasture-raised meat from a regional farm. Bonus points for including a few plant-based dishes like grilled portobello caps, watermelon salad, and veggie skewers.

3. Choose a Cleaner Burn

Not all charcoal is created equal. Skip the chemical-laden briquettes and opt for natural lump charcoal made from sustainably harvested wood. Better yet, fire up a gas or electric grill, which burns cleaner and creates fewer emissions overall.

4. Decorate Naturally

Keep it festive without the plastic. Decorate with fresh flowers, potted herbs, string lights, and cloth table linens. Mason jars make charming drinkware or candle holders—and they can go right in the dishwasher after the party.

5. Make Waste Sorting Easy

Want your guests to help keep things green? Set up clearly marked bins for compost, recycling, and trash so folks know exactly where everything goes. A simple sign or two goes a long way.

Get Your Home Party-Ready the Green Way

Before the first guest arrives and the grill gets going, let us help you create a space that feels clean and calm—without harsh chemicals or plastic-heavy supplies.

At Green Home Cleaning, we take a thoughtful, holistic approach to cleaning. Our in-house, handmade products are crafted in small batches using organic essential oils and natural ingredients that are safe for your family, your pets, and the planet. Every home we clean is treated with the same care and respect we’d give our own.

Whether you're prepping for a backyard bash or simply want your space to feel summer-ready, we’re here to help. Contact us today to book a green cleaning session.