SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — When Amy Shelton's granddaughter was born, she started to think about the world her granddaughter would grow up in. 

After learning about pollution and changing weather patterns, Shelton was inspired to change what she purchased and how she lived her life. 

"When she was born I just started to think more in terms of 'what more could I be doing?'" said Shelton. "I read about stores where you could refill products and try to minimize the amount of plastic waste you have in your household. I really wanted one near us but there wasn't one so I decided just to open one up myself." 

After a few months of research, Shelton opened the Keep Store in April 2021. She calls it a refillery, because people bring their own containers in and refill them with bulk products. Just last week she moved to a larger location, with the hope of expanding her inventory. 

"People come in all the time and recommend new products like carpet cleaner, and then I do my best to buy that in bulk," said Shelton. 

Right now, the Keep Store carries over 50 types of products. These include: 

  • Cleaning supplies (multi-purpose spray, toilet cleaner, glass cleaner, dishwashing powder)
  • Laundry supplies (detergent, dryer balls, detergent sheets)
  • Hygiene Products (shampoo, conditioner, body wash, deodorant)
  • Make up and skincare products (brushes, foundation, lip balm, sunscreen, aloe) 

Everything sold at the store either comes in bulk to be refilled or is sold in compostable or recyclable packaging. 

While it may be tempting to completely make the switch to zero waste product, Shelton says it is ideal to slowly transition to sustainable products, so you aren't making more waste.

"I just encourage people as they run out of things to maybe think about refilling or using one of our simple swaps to find something a little more sustainable," said Shelton. 

The Keep Store accepts donations of containers that people can use to put products in. They also partner with Terracycle to recycle certain packaging like razors, juice pouches, and certain brands of baby foods. 

For more information on The Keep Store and their products, visit their website here. 

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