As we become more aware of the impact of our waste on the environment, we’re obligated to change our lifestyle to promote a better, sustainable world. Small actions in our daily lives can make a difference and it can start with one of the most wasteful parts of your home, the kitchen.
Besides protecting the environment, using eco-friendly kitchen products saves you money, while promoting a healthy lifestyle for you and your family. If your goal is to have an eco-friendly minimalist kitchen, this top 10 list of eco-friendly products will set you on the right path.
1. Beeswax Wrap
Beeswax wraps are a fantastic way to reduce plastic waste in your kitchen. They’re breathable and naturally antibacterial, which keeps your food fresher for longer. Cleaning is hassle-free (cold water and mild detergent will get the job done) and proper care will allow them to last for up to 1 year.
When they reach the end of life, you can cut them up and throw them in your compost because beeswax wraps are 100% compostable and biodegradable.
2. Silicone Bags
When it comes to storing food, silicone bags are better for the environment than single-use plastic bags. They’re made with durable food-grade silicone and don’t contain toxins like BPA, phthalates, lead, or latex, making them safer for you and your family.
Silicone bags are washable and you can use them again and again for three to five years.
3. Mason Jars
A favorite for DIY enthusiasts, mason jars are more than a fun décor item, they‘re a functional kitchen staple.
Mason jars are some of the most versatile containers and you can store almost anything in them, from leftovers, nut butter, cooking ingredients, to dried fruits and veggies. They can be kept in the pantry, fridge, or freezer depending on your needs.
4. Reusable Paper Towels
Did you know that 51,000 trees are required to replace the number of paper towels we throw away every day? That’s unsustainable for a planet that is losing its forest cover at an alarming rate!
Switching from paper towels to reusable cloth towels can save trees and your pockets in the long run. They can be used multiple times before you toss them into the bin. Invest in a pack so you can always have a clean stash in your kitchen rotation.
5. Silicone Baking Mat
Unlike parchment paper, silicone baking mats can be used more than 2,00 times before showing signs of wear. Being able to withstand heat up to 475°F, they can be taken straight from the freezer to the oven with no issue.
They come in fun colors and a non-stick surface which makes them easy to clean. Silicone mats are also good for kneading dough on.
6. Plastic-Free Dish Soap
Eco-friendly dish soaps have two major benefits, they’re packaged with sustainable materials and are often made with plant-based ingredients.
This means that they’re kind to the environment and you. There are plenty of options on the market to suit your preferences from soap bars, powder, and liquids.
7. Almond Cow
Almond Cow is a non-dairy milk maker that has been changing the game since it hit the market in 2017. The device takes away the waste and mess of making your own milk with the touch of a button.
The Almond Cow starter set includes the milk maker, a 64-ounce glass milk jug, and a packet of raw almond nuts to get you started on your first batch.
8. Sqwishful Sponge or Dish Brush
To reduce your plastic waste even more, add eco-friendly cleaning tools to your kitchen arsenal.
Sqwishful pop-up sponges are made from plant-based cellulose from sustainably grown trees. They’re perfect for light dishwashing and keeping countertops, sinks, and surfaces clean. When you’re done with one, cut it up and hurl it into your home compost bin.
If you prefer dish brushes, Sqwishful is a 100% plant-based option made from natural bamboo, sisal, and hemp with zero plastic or varnish. The best part is you can keep the handle and replace brush heads when they wear out.
9. Tea Towels
Tea towels are often confused with dish towels but they have some major differences. Dish towels are used exclusively for washing and drying dishes while tea towels can be used to line serving baskets or cover warm baked goods like scones, biscuits, and rolls.
Tea towels are good for the environment because they can reduce your dependency on paper towels.
10. Tea Balls
Avoid waste and billions of microplastics released from tea bags with a more eco-friendly option. Tea balls are made with fine mesh enclosures designed to hold loose tea leaves while they are being steeped in hot water.
Made with stainless steel, tea balls are highly durable and easy to clean. They’re perfect for quickly making small quantities of tea.
For more inspiring zero-waste kitchen content, check out my blog post, 10 Ways to Store Veggies and Keep Leafy Greens Fresh (Without Plastic!)
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