Monday, for Earth Day, I posted on my Instagram feed a few ways that we are trying to use less plastic in our kitchen in a slow and budget-friendly way.
As the reports on the news grow scarier and scarier, we’re trying to do what we can. But I think we all know we have to balance what we want to do with what we can actually do. I greatly admire people who have zero waste kitchens or zero waste children, but doing something that in-depth is beyond our reach right now, both in time, money, and just our ability to function.
I know, I know. Someone will probably tell me that I’m just making excuses. But,
So, my husband and I decided that we were going to help make ourselves and our home more environmentally friendly step by step. If I have to buy something, I buy one thing a month. Other things happen more naturally.
For this blog, I’m just going to focus on the kitchen.
By the way, this blog is not sponsored. These are the items we’ve found that have been truly helpful and good replacements for plastic (i.e. they don’t make our lives harder. We tried a few products that just weren’t worth the switch). I did receive a discount code on one of them, but I haven’t tried them yet, so we’ll see how they work out (more on that below).
1. Stasher Bags
I adore Stasher Bags. They’re simple to use and, maybe
2. Silicone Lids
We tried a few different types of lids/plastic wrap replacements, but none of them were great. These silicone lids fit pretty much all the of the bowls in our house. They’re easy to clean (dishwasher safe), and we’re really enjoying them.
3. Metal Straws
The metal straws are great because they’re easy to use, easy to clean, and they actually stay cold, so added bonus (especially during the summer!). And we haven’t had an issue with any metallic taste.
Also, the baby absolutely loves them. I don’t know if it’s because they stay cold, or it’s a straw, or what, but she goes out of her way to use them.
We ordered metal straws from Amazon (we’re not as crazy about the silicone straws), but I also just ordered these really cute metal straws from a company that contacted me with a discount code on Instagram. I really liked the straws and their mission, so I’ll report back on the product once I get them.
4. Jars and Small Bowls/Containers
We’ve collected glass jars over the years for various reasons and in various ways. Some we bought, some came as a gift, and others I think came with my mom’s original mixer from the sixties. They’re great for storing so many things, like asparagus, frozen and refrigerated soup stock, baby food, leftovers, etc. Whatever fits, really.
The small bowls and containers we use are from 1) a collection we got from a Pampered Chef party years ago, and 2) the Container Store. They’re just small little bowls with lids that are great for storing little things like baby food, leftover baby lunch, sauces, and fruit.
5. Glass Containers
I bought a set of four rectangular glass containers from The Container Store with a coupon. They’re dishwasher-, freezer-, microwave-, and even oven-safe, apparently (I haven’t tried the oven yet), so they’re super versatile. So far, they fit everything we need them to. I wouldn’t be averse to getting another set, actually. I’ve also used these for packing lunch, dinner, and even breakfast when I need to.
What about you—what are your tricks and trade-outs for plastic in the kitchen? We’re always looking for new ideas.
‘Till next time!