Kitchen waste is a big thing that many of us overlook or turn a blind eye to. It is an area of our home where we use a lot of single-use items, especially during the preparation, storage and disposal of food. Much of this is through our use of freezer bags, produce bags, cleaning products, sponges and soaps, paper towels and even our cookware! We can reduce some of these things before getting to our kitchen. Let’s ditch those single-use products before they even enter our door! Although many of these items seem essential in your mind, we are here to share with you and encourage a shift towards lower-impact swaps you can introduce into your day-to-day. 

We know the shift can be overwhelming, and by no means do we want to encourage throwing out what you have and starting fresh. We actually encourage the opposite. The best route is to use your items until they have reached their useful life. Run out of dish soap? Great, let’s switch to a solid bar. Let’s make this transition manageable; as discussed in our sustainable habits post, we know the importance of making this easy and taking small steps. 

Things to swap!

Paper Products: Paper Towels & Napkins

One of the most seamless swaps is ditching paper towels and paper napkins! Since these products mimic reusable products already. We recommend switching to cleaning rags, dish towels and cloth napkins. These materials can be easily tossed into your washing machine after use. Some of our favourites include bamboo “paper towels,” which can be wrapped like the traditional option. Swedish dishcloths are entirely biodegradable when they end their useful life. 

Bottled Soap

When your next bottle of dish soap runs out, why not try a solid soap! This is an excellent option that typically lasts longer than the traditional detergent due to lower water content. It also looks fabulous on your counter. If you prefer liquid soap, why purchase it in a larger format and refill a bottle at your sink or purchase soap tabs that require adding water. 

Sponges

Let’s stay away from plastic materials and shift towards more natural fibres. Many natural fibres, including loofa, sea sponge, and sisal bristles, can do the job just as well, if not better, than the synthetic kind. 

Produce Bags

Initially, it might feel a little weird, but why not let your produce sit in the cart bagless? Many produce items we purchase have a gorgeous outer skin that does not need to be wrapped again just to return to your home! If you crave more organization, buying a set of reusable produce bags is the way to go! 

Jars

One of our favourite ways to store food is in jars! You don’t need to rush to buy an entire set of mason jars. You can repurpose many of the jars you purchased at the store. Think jarred pasta sauce, beans, & jams. Most of these jars come in a consistent mouth size, meaning you can buy extra lids.

Glass over Plastic Containers 

Typically, we opt for glass containers where we can. Not only are they more sturdy and long-lasting than plastic, but They also avoid stains and can be easier to clean. Reducing the need to replace them as frequently when they become a bit worse for wear. 

Wraps & Papers 

Plastic wrap, tin foil, and parchment paper have become household essentials and can be hard to come out of the habit of using. Our favourite swaps for these products include beeswax wraps and silicone mats.

Anything we’ve missed? Have you already started swapping to more eco-friendly alternatives? We would love to know what you are using!