Clean Kitchen Swaps 

Clean Kitchen Swaps 

Our attempts to stay wary of the dangers of toxic chemicals in our everyday life has had many of us swapping to non toxic make-up brands or organic produce. But there are many more ways in which we unknowingly come in contact with these dangerous substances on a daily basis. For starters, look in your kitchen! From those hardy tupperwares that has lasted you years to the sponge brand you’ve been loyal to – simple things like that are potential entry points for these toxic compounds. I’ve put together a list of easy and convenient swaps for you that will make your kitchen a safer and more sustainable place!

Silicone Mats vs Aluminium Foil

A silicone mat can be used 3000 times as opposed to single use aluminium foil or parchment paper. This eco-friendly and cost effective swap is super convenient – silicone can be easily cleaned, allows even baking and can endure temperatures up to 480°F! This set from amazon is a good choice.

Biodegradable Sponges vs Commercial Sponges 

The scrubby part of kitchen sponges are made from polyester or nylon – neither of which are biodegradable or recyclable. Plus, we use an average minimum of 57 sponges per year! Instead, a reusable one like this one is a perfect clean addition to your kitchen. Bonus – the prints are bold enough to pep up your kitchen!

Beeswax Film vs Cling Wrap 

Beeswax wrap is a clean alternative to plastic film typically used to wrap sandwiches, store nuts, fruit slices etc. It can be used for upto 6-12 months if looked after correctly. While cling film can leech harmful compounds into food when exposed to heat, the natural beeswax alternative doesn’t pose this threat. This brand is very reliable. 

Stasher Bags vs Ziplocs 

Ziplocs, just like cling wraps, can expose our food to microplastics and endocrine disrupting compounds, posing serious threats to our long term health, fertility etc. I have been using ziplocs for as long as I can remember, but my switch to shasher bags proved to be amazing. Stasher bags are studier and prevent snacks from getting crumbly. Plus, they’re easily washable and last a lifetime. You get them on amazon or at several of department stores. 

Biodegradable Kitchen Cleaner vs Commercial Cleaner

Kitchen surface cleaners come packed with a ton of chemicals, environmental contaminants and compounds that pose a threat to your respiratory tract, reproductive system etc. Unfortunately, many products labelled ‘green’ and ‘nontoxic’ aren’t safe either. This article suggests a list of brands with a cleaning product range – check it out to see what line suits you best and make an informed swap!

Nontoxic Pans vs Non Stick Toxic Pans 

The biggest concern in nonstick pans is the presence of perfluorooctanoic acid, or PFOA, a chemical formerly used in the production of nonstick pans like Teflon. If the pan is overheated – teflon can cause flu like symptoms etc. Ceramic nonstick is a great alternative. This  line from GreenLife is a great option. 

Reusable Tea Bags vs Single Use Tea Bags 

Plastic tea bags leech several microplastics into the boiling hot water they’re immersed in. Alternatively, metal tea bags are a safe option and easily washable. You can invest in organic loose leaf teas and even make your own blends! You can catch one at almost any tea store or online.