We all want to play our part in saving the planet, and we know even small changes can make a big difference. But it sometimes feels it has to come at the cost of your bank balance.
The kitchen is a great place to start when you want to be more sustainable. Did you know that a large proportion of household waste comes from this one area in your home? By implementing these 17 simple hacks, you can live a more sustainable lifestyle and save your bank balance in the long run.
Reusable Containers
Using reusable containers is a great way to become more sustainable in your kitchen. By investing in good-quality containers, you can declutter your kitchen, reduce plastic waste, and inspire yourself to prep for meals, leading to a healthier lifestyle. Not to mention, it can help you save on costly work lunches and unhealthy takeouts.
Wax Wraps
Wax wraps are a great way to save some cash and the planet. They keep your food fresh for longer without having to use disposable plastic or foil. Did you know that whilst foil is recyclable, it’s only if it’s washed and made into a ball? Save yourself the work and try wax wraps instead. They are super easy to wipe clean and reuse. Plus, they come in all sorts of patterns and styles to match your kitchen or even color code your food items.
Reusable Shopping Bags
Many of us have a drawer in the kitchen that's full of plastic bags that we tend to ignore and put off organizing for another day. But who has time for that?
Instead, consider investing in reusable shopping bags. Tote bags are an excellent way to help the environment by reducing the amount of plastic waste. They also create extra space in your kitchen and can serve as a stylish accessory to complement any outfit.
Linen Bread Bags
Are you tired of buying bread and having to settle for a paper bag that can't support its weight? No one wants to use a sweaty plastic bag either. You should try using linen bread bags instead. You won't have to worry about disastrous bread spillages, and you'll be doing your part for the planet. Plus, these bags can also help keep your bread fresh at home for longer.
Metal Straws
It’s 2024 and we all know plastic straws are out, but what's the alternative? Metal straws are the best way to go. Often available at a low price, mental straws don’t dissolve like paper ones and can be a great investment for your kitchen and to keep in your bag for when you are on the go. Most varieties come with easy-to-use cleaning brushes, leaving no horrible taste or smell.
A Coffee Machine
We all need that morning coffee fix. But have you ever thought about how much it costs, both your wallet and the environment?
Well, luckily for us, there are cheaper and more eco-friendly ways to get our caffeine fix. One option is to get yourself an at-home coffee machine. There are loads of styles and prices to choose from, so you can find one that works for you. And unlike buying takeout coffee every day, a coffee machine can last you a lifetime.
Reusable Coffee Mug
While you're at it, why not get a reusable coffee mug for when you want to take your homemade coffee on-the-go? Disposable coffee cups create a substantial amount of waste a year, having a significant impact on the environment. Not to mention some coffee shops give discounts when you bring your own cup. You know, for those days when a single cup just won't cut it.
A Hot Water Tap
Save time and energy when boiling water for drinks and cooking by investing in an instant hot water tap. Not only will it help you free up some valuable space on your kitchen counter, but it will also save you water and reduce your energy consumption, which means lower electricity bills. And hey, you'll be doing your part in saving the planet too.
SodaStream
Do you enjoy fizzy drinks on a hot summer day but hate the idea of wasteful plastic bottles? If so, you should consider SodaStream.
SodaStreams can be a bit pricey at first, but you will actually save a lot of money in the long run by not buying disposable soda. Plus, you'll be making a positive impact on the environment.
Glass Jars
Buying in bulk is a great way to save money. Plus, zero-waste shops are becoming more and more popular. Glass jars can be a great way to store these dried goods, shop zero waste and keep your kitchen organized and stylish.
These jars could even inspire you to make your grandma's famous jelly or preserve some of your favorite kitchen goodies.
Reuse Glass Jars for Storage or Even as Drinking Glasses
Don't toss that empty peanut butter jar just yet. Instead of making it a single-use item, take off the label and give it a quick clean. You can either put it in the dishwasher or soak in warm water. That way, you'll have a free container that you can use over and over again. Whether you want to store dried foods, leftovers, or homemade preserves, the jar will come in handy.
No lid? No problem. Get creative and use the jars as unique cocktail or iced coffee glasses.
Thrift Your Kitchen Utensils
When you think of thrift shopping, you may not consider looking for kitchen utensils. But you’ll be surprised at what you might find. Often thrift shops have a section for utensils and this little-known secret means it’s filled with untouched gems. Anything from pots and pans to teacups or coffee machines, the list of what you can find is endless. Often the utensils are brand new and at a fraction of the original price.
Make Your Own Herb Garden
Herbs are an essential part of cooking but often they’re expensive and wasteful. Why not save yourself a few bucks and make your own herb garden?
You can start by buying seeds from your local shop or use the stem of the herbs in your kitchen. Just put a stem of mint in a jar of water and in a few days, you'll have roots to pot. You’ll be surprised how much this will save you in the long run and it will be great fun watching your plants grow.
If you love what you grow, why not get the rest of the neighborhood involved and organize a community garden? You can all share the produce (and the work), and the bees will love it too.
Composting
Reduce your landfill waste and get yourself a small compost waste bin for your kitchen. It's a great way to keep your other waste bins from smelling bad (compost doesn’t smell) and helps save the environment.
When disposing of your compost, you can just put it in the outside food waste collection bins. Or, even better, add compost to your herb garden or plant pots and you’ve got yourself free fertilizer.
Refillable Cleaning Products
We all know we should reduce, reuse and recycle, but did you know you can do it with your kitchen cleaning stuff too?
Refillable cleaning products have been popular in the market lately, as we all become more aware of how wasteful cleaning products can be. Glass bottles for hand and dish soap are a great way to start. For cleaning sprays, you can also find similar products, and there are many brands offering eco-friendly dishwasher tablets, often at no extra cost.
Homemade Cleaning Products
Many kitchen cleaning products come with nasty ingredients that can do damage to you and the planet. You can use household items to replace these products and save a few bucks at the same time. Baking soda is a natural abrasive that can be used to clean those tough to remove spots and stains. Add some water to make a paste and leave to soak before scrubbing. Lemon can also be used as a natural disinfectant. It can clean chopping boards or your compost waste bin. Bonus, it smells great too.
Eco Sponges and Reusable Towels
While you’re at it, why not invest in some reusable eco sponges and towels too? They come in all shapes and sizes and are often priced similarly to their disposable alternatives but last much longer, saving the planet and your bank balance in the long run.
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