We should all be trying our best to reduce unnecessary plastic in our home. And when it comes to single-use plastics, the kitchen is often one of the worst offenders. From bags and containers to straws and cutlery, there are so many cheap plastic products we use as a matter of convenience.
However, going plastic-free in the kitchen actually doesn’t have to be hard work! It’s the small changes that can have a massive impact when we all take action. With a few clever hacks and some simple product alternatives, you’d be surprised how well your kitchen can function without plastic.
Keep reading for 6 simple hacks to reduce plastic in the kitchen, without compromising on convenience.
Opt for reusable shopping bags
There’s no reason to be using plastic shopping bags with so many great reusable alternatives now available. Say no to single-use plastic bags and instead opt for eco-friendly options made from sustainable fabrics like cotton. Don’t forget to keep a stash of reusable bags stored in your car and kitchen cupboards so you’re never left without them!
If you do have some old plastic bags lying around at home, don’t discard them immediately. Instead, think about some ways you can repurpose these around the home. For example; storing dirty clothes when travelling, lining your bathroom bins, or stuffing pet beds and cushions.
Store food sustainably
Instead of reaching for cheap plastic containers or zip-lock bags to store food and pack lunches, opt for an eco-friendly alternative such as stainless steel lunch boxes or reusable food pouches instead.
Our lightweight (and easy to clean!) stainless steel lunch boxes also have the added benefit of individual compartments to keep your snacks and condiments separated.
Replace cling wrap with beeswax wraps
Plastic wraps like cling wrap are a huge environmental issue, due to being discarded after just one use. Instead, switch to beeswax wraps as an amazing eco-friendly alternative!
These reusable wraps have a multitude of different purposes - from wrapping sandwiches and snacks for the lunch box, to covering leftovers and storing food safely. Beeswax wraps are super easy to clean and designed to be used again and again for your convenience.
Recycle glass jars
Glass jars are ideal for pantry organisation. So hold on to those jam jars and pasta sauce bottles and repurpose them! We love using glass jars for storing pantry staples like rice, pasta, cereals and flour. Many self-serve wholefood stores will also allow you to BYO containers, so keep some jars handy for your weekly grocery shop, too.
Say no to plastic cutlery
Plastic plates, cutlery and straws are some of the biggest culprits when it comes to single-use plastics. So why not keep some sustainable alternatives on hand instead? Bamboo plates and cutlery can easily be stored in your cupboard and re-used for picnics and barbecues, while bamboo or stainless steel straws can be used both at home or on-the-go.
Go biodegradable with your bin liners
Instead of plastic bin liners, make the switch to a biodegradable option (available at most good supermarkets!). Another great option is to line your bins with old newspaper and simply replace each time you empty the rubbish.
Ready to reduce plastic in the kitchen? We proudly stock a wide range of reusable and eco-friendly kitchen products online here at Inspire Me Naturally, with AfterPay and ZipPay available. Don’t forget, we’re also committed to using eco-friendly packaging for all purchases.
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