Creating a more sustainable kitchen with zero waste swaps is a lofty goal and it sounds expensive, right? Well, yes and no.
Plastic stuff sure is cheap, but the environmental costs are huge. Not to mention they are generally junk and actually break easily.
So if you factor in that plastic-free kitchen cleaning tools actually last longer and don't have the horrible environmental costs they become the obvious and perhaps even affordable choice.
If you are here then you likely know how awful the plastic-pollution situation is. If not just read a couple of these blog post that focus on the plastic issue.
There are a lot of areas we could start with to create a more sustainable life, but this is the one that may have the biggest impact and may be one that we don't always think about first.
By creating a zero waste kitchen, we can significantly reduce the amount of waste we produce and live more sustainably.
What is Zero Waste?
Zero waste is an idea, a concept, a lifestyle well even a philosophy for some that aims to minimize waste by reducing, reusing, and recycling. You may have seen some famous influencers in this movement featured holding a mason jar with a year's worth of their trash.
This isn't likely feasible given the world we live in and all the hidden packaging and waste we generate just by merely existing. However, we shouldn't let perfect be the enemy of good. We need to do what we can now to all do our part. Of course you could always take the zero waste challenge.
In a zero waste kitchen, we aim to eliminate plastics and replace them with more sustainable alternatives. This can include using reusable containers, cloth produce bags, and natural sponges instead of disposable items.
What are Zero Waste Swaps?
Zero waste swaps are simple changes you can make in your kitchen to reduce waste and live more sustainably. Some examples of zero waste swaps include using a wood dish brush and wood bottle brush instead of plastic ones, investing in a zero waste kit that includes reusable containers, and using cloth napkins instead of paper ones.
Zero Waste Kitchen Ideas
There are many ways to create a zero waste kitchen, and it doesn't have to be difficult or expensive. Here are some zero waste kitchen ideas to get you started:
1. Use Reusable Containers
Instead of using plastic wrap or disposable containers, invest in reusable containers. Glass jars and stainless steel containers are great options for storing food and leftovers. If you need some these glass containers with bamboo lids are quite nice.
2. Cloth Produce Bags
Instead of using plastic bags to store produce, use cloth produce bags. These can be washed and reused, reducing your waste and saving you money in the long run. If you love using things for more than one thing than repurpose those Gaia Guy nut milk bags as produce bags.
3. Natural Sponges
Swap out synthetic sponges for natural ones made from materials like loofah or bamboo. These sponges are biodegradable and compostable, making them a more eco-friendly option. Naturally, we have you covered there with our natural loofah sponges which are also great as exfoliators too which is why it is nice that you can get value 10 pack. Check out this post that compares synthetic vs loofah sponges in more detail.
4. Wood Dish Brush
Replace your plastic dish brush with a wood one. Not only is it more sustainable, but it also looks great in your kitchen. These brushes are great as not only the handle is natural, but these zero waste kitchen brushes also have natural bristles that clean great and don't scratch.
5. Homemade Cleaning Products
Make your own cleaning products using natural ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils. This reduces the need for plastic packaging and eliminates harmful chemicals from your home. Baking soda is fantastic as an abrasive for pots and pans. Works great with Gaia Guy loofah sponges. Incredible to think how good it can scrub pans, but can also work wonders on your teeth and a diy toothpaste.
Sustainable Kitchen Products By Gaia Guy
In addition to zero waste swaps that abound on amazon, there are many sustainable kitchen products available that can help you reduce waste and live more sustainably right here.
Gaia Guy offers a range of sustainable kitchen products that we know work well and support not only your sustainable life, but also help to move us closer to a world we want to live in. One that doesn't always go for the cheap, plastic option and instead values natural solutions.
Wood Bottle Brush With Natural Fiber Bristles
A wood bottle brush is a great alternative to plastic ones, and it's perfect for cleaning reusable water bottles and other containers. It's durable and long-lasting, making it a sustainable choice for your kitchen.
3. Zero Waste Kit
Investing in a zero waste kit is a great way to get started on your journey to a more sustainable kitchen. These kits typically include reusable containers, produce bags, and other eco-friendly items to help you reduce waste and live more sustainably.
Suggestions From The Zero Waste Chef
The Zero Waste Chef has a great book on the topic. It is a great resource for anyone looking to live a more sustainable lifestyle. Some of her top suggestions for creating a zero waste kitchen include:
- Shop in bulk to reduce packaging waste
- Buy local and seasonal produce to reduce the carbon footprint of your food
- Make your own condiments and sauces to reduce packaging waste
- Use cloth napkins and towels instead of disposable ones
- Compost your food scraps to reduce waste
Zero Waste Journey
Creating a more sustainable kitchen with zero waste swaps is an easy, thought it takes time. We don't expect you to just toss all the perfectly good items you have even if they are made from plastic. However, you may want to bookmark this page or pin it or tweet it or however, you can keep it in mind so that you'll be ready to return for some inspiration on your zero waste journey.
