8 Ways to Get Plastic Out of Your Kitchen
By Becky Hughes. Photos courtesy of Amazon.
Good alternatives to plastic are more necessary now than ever before. Plastic usage is taking a major toll on the environment, and it's not looking great for your health, either—even if you're buying BPA-free plastic, you might still be ingesting harmful chemicals. That being said, it's a tough habit to shake, because plastic is just so damn convenient sometimes.
Packing snacks? Plastic bag. Storing leftovers? Plastic wrap. Lunch to-go? Plastic silverware. But the convenience just doesn't outweigh the personal and ecological impact of all this plastic. So here are 8 alternatives you can lean on if you're clearing plastic out of your kitchen once and for all:
These reusable silicone bags can be used to steam or sous vide food, but they're also perfectly handy to store snacks and lunches in. Each bag is self-sealing, making it super easy to use. As per one Amazon customer, "It will pay for itself in one month, and stores food in [the] refrigerator and freezer with no problem. And it's dish-washable to boot...what's not like?"
Stasher Reusable Silicone Food Bag, $11.99 on Amazon
These wraps are made of beeswax, GOTS certified cotton, organic jojoba oil, and tree resin, and they make a damn good alternative to plastic wrap. Use them to keep your guacamole fresh and to store leftovers, and feel good while doing it—then wipe 'em clean with a damp cloth when you're done.
Bee's Wrap Sustainable Reusable Food Storage, $18 for a pack of 3 on Amazon
These 4-ounce glass jars are perfectly suited for storing herbs and sauces, plus they're freezer-safe, so you can make a ton of baby food or pesto to have on hand for months. According to Amazon commenters, the rubber ring around the lids of these jars makes them seal up perfectly without spillage.
Shay Holmes Glass Containers, $19.99 for a pack of 6 on Amazon
These zip-top silicone bags are leak-proof and insulated. Stick a sandwich in there and be on your merry way, or use them in the freezer like this reviewer: "[The bags] are very thick and sturdy, and close easily and securely. I used them to freeze [blackberries for cobbler](http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/blackberry-pear-cobbler-240119) in the winter." We can get behind that.
Beehome Reusable Silicone Food Bag, $17.69 for a pack of 4 on Amazon
Here's a brilliant solution to the problem of plastic baby bottles. These leak-proof stainless steel bottles are well-reviewed by parents. As one writes, "these bottles are a huge investment. From birth to age 5 they can be reused."
Pura Kiki Stainless Steel Infant Bottle With Silicone Nipple & Sleeve, $19.99 on Amazon
This 25-ounce reusable leak-proof container is made of food-grade stainless steel, and the removable divider means you can pack a main and a snack for your little ones to tote to lunch. (The lid is made of plastic, however, which might be a deal-breaker if you're going 100% plastic-free.)
U Konserve Divided Rectangle, $16.95 on Amazon
These lightweight bamboo utensils solve the problem of grabbing food on the run and feeling guilty about all that plastic silverware. They're dishwasher safe, too, but if you hand-wash them they'll have an even longer lifespan. Also, that carrying case is cute AF.
To-Go Ware Bamboo Travel Utensils, $12.95 for a set on Amazon
It's easy to grab a bottle of water when you're running around all day—but, boy, is it detrimental to the environment. Pick up one of these for you (and one for the kids) so you can stay hydrated without the harm.
Soma Glass Water Bottle $29.99 on Amazon
This story originally appeared on Epicurious.
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