How To Simply Remove Harmful Plastics From The Kitchen
Plastic has become an essential part of our daily lives since its creation. Our daily tasks have become more efficient by throwing those dinner leftovers in a plastic Tupperware container or carrying all the weekly groceries in provided plastic bags.
But at what cost?
Is it really worth a few conveniences today to put our sustainability at risk tomorrow? Not in our book!
Consider how much plastic waste takes up space in your home. Chances are, it's a lot. Many plastics contain harmful chemicals that can leach into food and water, which can harm our health. Recent studies have raised concerns about the potential effects of plastic on human fertility. Many plastics contain endocrine-disrupting chemicals, such as phthalates and bisphenol A (BPA), which can leach into our surroundings and, ultimately, our bodies. These chemicals have been linked to disruptions in hormone regulation, potentially affecting reproductive health. Research suggests that exposure to these harmful substances may lead to reduced fertility in both men and women, as well as complications during pregnancy. While the full extent of these effects is still being studied, it's clear that plastic has the potential to interfere with human fertility, highlighting the urgent need to address plastic waste and seek safer alternatives for the sake of our health and the health of future generations.
Additionally, plastic waste significantly contributes to pollution and can harm wildlife and the environment. Therefore, removing plastic in small, manageable ways from the kitchen is an essential step not only towards living a more non-toxic lifestyle, but also taking care of our planet. It's entirely possible and even easy!
Here are a few tips to simply remove plastics from the kitchen without breaking the bank:
Rethink the Tupperware
Plastic to-go containers are convenient, but they can leach chemicals into your food. The last thing you want to do is put hot food into a plastic container (or worse – to reheat it!) Switching to glass or stainless steel containers is more durable and can be used for hot and cold foods. Glass containers are also easy to clean and can be recycled. Don't be afraid to bring out the fancy dishes for your next dinner party!
Dump the Plastic Wrap
Sure, plastic wrap keeps your food fresh and secure until you're ready to dive in again, but those small pieces of plastic can create more harm than you think. Plastic wrap is commonly called "poison plastic" because it's jam-packed with dangerous chemicals known to cause harm to our health. Clear out your Ziploc and Saran Wrap drawer, and consider wrapping your leftovers in beeswax wraps, silicone stretch lids, or even cover food with a plate or container. These plastic wrap alternatives are free from harmful chemicals and work equally as well!
Put away the Paper Towels
Paper towels are often wrapped in plastic and create unnecessary waste. Switch to eco-friendly cloth dish towels for cleaning up spills, wiping down surfaces, and for your dinner table. They can be washed and reused, saving you money in the long run. Plus, they add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your dining table. You can choose from various colors, patterns, and textures to match your decor style. (I mean, who doesn't want their home to feel fancier?) Investing in a set of cloth napkins is a small step towards reducing your carbon footprint and creating a more sustainable home!
Bulk is Better
Buying food in bulk reduces the amount of plastic packaging you bring home. It's simple, really – buy larger quantities in one package instead of smaller quantities in multiple packages. You save money AND reduce unnecessary waste – Win/Win!
BYOB (Bring Your Own Bags)
Plastic bags are a major source of pollution and harm to wildlife. Switch to reusable shopping bags made from canvas or other durable materials. These bags are often available at grocery stores and can be used for many years! And don't forget the produce section – most items can be placed loosely in your basket (you really don't need to bag your bananas, do you?)
Ditch the bottled water
Nearly 20 billion plastic bottles are tossed in the trash each year. Plastic water bottles can also release harmful chemicals into your water (we know, gross, right?) Kick Ozarka to the curb and make the switch to stainless steel or glass water bottles that can be reused many times. This will also save you money and reduce the amount of plastic waste in the environment. If you’re on the go, look for Mountain Valley Spring water. They offer both glass and aluminum bottles.
Invest in Natural Cleaning Products
Most cleaning products come swathed in plastic that rarely reaches the recycling bin. Why not skip the plastic bottles and make your own cleaning products instead? In addition to reducing plastic in your home, making your natural cleaning products can help save you money and get away from nasty chemicals that are dangerous to you and your family. Making DIY cleaners is easier than you might think. For example, you can make a natural, all-purpose cleaner with nothing more than white vinegar, water, lemon juice, and essential oil. All you need is a glass spray bottle, and you're good to go!
Removing plastic from the kitchen may seem daunting, but making small changes can significantly impact your health and the environment.
By using glass and stainless steel containers, avoiding plastic wrap, using cloth dish towels, buying in bulk, using reusable shopping bags, choosing stainless steel or glass water bottles, and using natural cleaning products, you can create a more non-toxic kitchen and reduce your impact on the environment. You'll also be wondering: Why didn't I think to do this before? Going plastic-free has never been so easy!
Need plastic-free recommendations? Check out Simply’s Amazon Storefront for some environmentally-friendly inspiration!
