It's no secret that being a Mum is the closest thing on earth being Superwoman.

Between calling on their innate skills of heightened resourcefulness, razor sharp efficiency and extreme multitasking, 21st Century mums face 21st century challenges at a 21st Century pace - the effects of which are stifling any chance of trying to create a sustainable household.

According to new research by Kleenex Cottonelle, the biggest hurdles for today's Supermums to create a more sustainable household are lack of time, distractions of gadgets and technology and pressures of modern life.

Not only that - the research revealed that nearly half of mums said it was easier to be more sustainable in their parents’ generation.

Thankfully, you don't need to channel your inner hippie to try your hand at being more sustainable at home - just follow these small, simple, cost-effective tips.

Get connected

Instead of everyone on your block or street each buying a power drill that they use once a year, think about all pitching in to buy just one and sharing it. It’s less expensive, takes up less space and helps you stay connected to your neighbours.

Community Gardens

Share the task of growing local veggies (great way to save money) with your neighbours by tending to a community garden patch. This is great for beginners who aren’t sure how to start or residents who don’t have gardens at home.

Start a herb garden

Herbs are expensive, so create your own supply at home – you’ll be saving money and reducing packaging waste! You can easily create a micro garden in your kitchen by reusing your old jars to grow herbs. Fresh is always best!

Second hand doesn't mean second best

Consider buying items from a second-hand store like toys, bicycles, and roller blades. Second hand stores often sell these items in excellent condition since they are used for such a short period of time, and will generally buy them back! You could even hold a garage sale to get rid of old items and make a little money on the side.

Shop smartly

Make informed product choices in the supermarket. Look out for Forestry Stewardship Council (FSC) accredited products (such as Kleenex Cottonelle!). By purchasing these products you can be assured that it’s sourced from responsibly managed forests. You’ll also be doing your bit to help preserve endangered animals and wildlife so you can feel good about the choices you make.

Plant some seeds

Grow your seeds into seedlings - you can fill tubes of toilet rolls with soil and dirt. Plant straight into the ground when necessary and the cardboard breaks down into the soil as the plant grows. You don’t need to worry about buying new plant pots either!

Save money on electricity

Lights don't have to be on as soon as the sun goes down. Create some ambience with candle light, reduce your energy consumption and save some money all at the same time.