In an era where sustainability, cost-cutting, and personal independence are top priorities, becoming self-sufficient even within the limited space of an apartment is not only possible, but also necessary. Let me state the obvious, of course you won’t be raising livestock or installing large solar panels, but there are practical, effective strategies you can adopt to reduce your dependence on external systems and create a more self-sufficient lifestyle.
Here are five ways you can become self-sufficient in your apartment. I am currently doing all of these except for number two. I have big plans for number two so stay tuned!
1.Start a Balcony or Window Garden
Grow plants like herbs, tomatoes, cucumbers and more. Checkout my YouTube channel to see my garden from last year (2024)
2. Start a Compost Bin (Even Indoors!)
Use a small countertop compost bin or a worm bin (vermicomposting) to recycle food scraps and feed your plants later.
3. DIY Body and Hair Products
Make your own lip balm, soap, or sugar scrub using natural ingredients. It’s customizable and saves money over time. I currently make all of my soaps! Check them out on my Youtube channel.
4. Cook from Scratch
Practice cooking basic staples like bread, soups, and sauces. Anything you want to cook I can guarantee there is a recipe out there. Right now my favorite thing to bake from scratch is bread. And let me tell you, after baking my own bread I can’t go back to store bought bread, it is just not the same!
5. Mend and Upcycle Clothing
Learn basic sewing skills to repair or repurpose old clothes instead of tossing them. I have prolonged the life of many pieces of clothing just by repairing a hole. It doesnt have to be anything fancy, all you need is a needle, thread, and a basic stitch.
Being self-sufficient in an apartment is about maximizing your control over your environment, resources, and habits even with less space. It’s not about achieving perfection but building small, consistent habits that lead to greater independence and peace of mind overtime. Whether you’re growing basil on a windowsill or learning to sew on a rainy afternoon, every step you take is a meaningful stride toward a more sustainable and empowered life.
Here is a video on my youtube channel of a bar of soap I made