The 2021 Best Sustainable Kitchen Products
Transitioning into an eco-friendly kitchen does not have to be a stressful process. Asking your friends to recycle their water bottle does not have to be an awkward conversation. Taking care of the environment should be every one’s priority. And just like with everything else, you’ve got to start somewhere. Swapping out single use items for reusable ones is a great place to start! For example, instead of buying plastic water bottles, buy a reusable one. Instead of buying paper towels, buy cloth ones. Instead of leaving the grocery store with a million plastic bags, bring your own tote bags to the grocery store. Instead of using plastic straws, buy a couple reusable straws! There are so many quick and easy ways to become more sustainable in your kitchen. Beyond that, buying reusable products will also save you a couple bucks. I’ve attached some products below that I think you’ll enjoy and that I think will kick start your journey to a more sustainable kitchen.
Alternatives for Plastic Wrap
As we all know, plastic is a big threat to our environment. Even when it’s recycled and ends up in landfills, it releases a toxic chemical called Dixon into our environment. So, if you want to start somewhere, start by brainstorming ways you can cut out plastic wrap. One way to do so is by using a reusable bowl cover when storing your left overs. It’s actually a win-win because they’re reusable, you can find affordable ones for as low as $10 and you won’t have to keep spending money on plastic wrap once you’ve run out.
Another alternative to plastic wrap is microwave food covers. These are typically made out of silicone and you can find some for as low as $10. And yes, they come in a range of different sizes so they can cover any size dish that you put in the microwave. A third alternative to plastic wraps are eco-friendly wraps. You can find some that are made of cotton and are covered in beeswax and tree resin. I have linked a couple above. My last alternative for you are flour kitchen towels! Instead of using a plastic bag, use a flour kitchen towel. They’re lightweight, breathable bags that’ll store anything you like, whether it’s a loaf of bread or just a left over dish.
Alternatives for Ziploc Bags
Besides the fact that ziploc bags are killing the environment, they are also just a hassle overall. Making sure they’re perfectly zipped is such a burden and one you can easily avoid. Here’s how: Reusable silicone bags are some of the best things to invest in. They take two seconds to seal and they keep your vegetables, fruits, and leftovers fresh for an extended period of time. They come in a wide variety of sizes, and they’re affordable! And that’s not all, you can even buy leak proof reusable storage bags that look exactly like Ziploc bags but are even better. These are usually sold in sets, so it’s a pricier item but it’s worth it. You were going to spend that money on non-reusable plastic bags anyways.
Alternatives for Plastic Food Storage
Why store your food in a plastic bag when you can store them in visually appealing glass containers and glass jars with lids? They come in almost every size, they make your pantry look aesthetically pleasing and organized, and they keep things fresher for longer. There are many great brands, I guess it just depends on the look you want. Some have logos, some have stainless steel tops. The classic one’s are the mason jars but these are not as aesthetically pleasing as an all glass jar in my opinion. If jars aren’t your thing, you can buy glass lock containers. Although the lids are made of plastic, they are still reusable and a much better alternative. They come in many different sizes and are sold in sets for an affordable price. If you’re looking for a sustainable lunch box that won’t leak, travels well, and is good for the dishwasher, then you might want to check out stainless steels lunch boxes. If you’re just looking to carry a snack and a lunch box seems unnecessary, you can buy a seal-tight bowl. They’re stylish, they don’t leak, and they travel well.
Alternatives for Plastic Produce Bags
Why fish for 10 individual plastic bags when picking your produce if you could just bring your own reusable produce bag? You’re not just making it easier for the environment, but for yourself too! Reusable produce bags exist in a variety of materials such as cotton and linen and are breathable, lightweight, and sustainable, duh! Cotton is also said keep your fruits and veggies fresher for longer.
Alternatives for Plastic Beverage Containers
Switching from a plastic cup to a stainless steel cup is simply just doing yourself a favor. I mean who wouldn’t prefer a cup that keeps your hot drink hot all day? Or your cold drink cold? Unlike plastic, these cups are also indestructible. The most common stainless steel cup is the Yeti. But depending on the drink, you have a variety of options. There are some that are made for coffee, some that are made for water bottles, and some that are made for cocktails. That is of course a preference thing and any insulated cup you buy can hold any kind of drink you like.
Sustainable Dish Soaps
Believe it or not, there are many chemicals that go down your drain every day. Yes, I know, it’s gross. Buuuuut, there is a solution and it’s to buy biodegradable dish soap. The most common biodegradable dish soap brand is Mrs. Meyers. If liquid dish soap is not your thing, you can buy a non-toxic dish washing block. And lastly, I’d recommend switching to biodegradable dishwasher pods too. They are affordable, will clean your dishes better, and can be delivered to your house in sustainable packaging!