Four Products to Eliminate Microplastics from your Kitchen

Plastic was invented in 1907, and it's use spread quickly. It was a cheap, convenient, and disposable alternative to traditional materials. Now, over 100 years later, the negative affects of plastic on our environment and bodies are beginning to outweigh the convenience factor. 

A Harvard Medicine article states that "microplastics have been found throughout the human body, including in the blood, saliva, liver, kidneys, and placenta."

One of the most "plastic heavy" areas in my home was by far the kitchen. 

I have spent a few years slowly replacing my plastic items with healthier, plastic-free alternatives. While plastic can't be avoided entirely, I am more confident in the health of my family by eliminating those pesky particles wherever I can. 

We all know that plastic and heat do not pair well together. So why do we use plastic sponges and hot water to wash our dishes? Washing up with plastic sponges has been shown to release many microplastic particles into our waterways. I swapped all of my plastic sponges out for plant-based cellulose sponges.

These are made from 100% wood pulp cellulose. They are fast drying, and easy to sanitize. (A quick boil, or pop your wet sponge in the microwave!) At the end of their life, they are 100% compostable, but with proper care mine last for a long time!

I ditched plastic wrap many years ago. Not only is it super frustrating to use, but it can leech plastic particles into your food. I love beeswax wraps as a safer alternative! They are made from natural cotton fabric, and coated in a beeswax mixture. The warmth from your hands seals the wrap around whatever you're wrapping. I find that they keep my food much fresher than plastic, too! Just wash with room temp water and air dry. 

Trading my plastic cutting boards for wood has been life changing! Not only am I more confident that I'm not also slicing up plastic particles for dinner, but I find that using a wooden cutting board helps pro-long the life of my knives! I got a reasonably priced set from Target, but you can certainly invest here if you're constantly in the kitchen. I condition mine regularly with coconut oil to make sure they last for years to come! 

Finishing off with another tried and true plastic wrap alternative, food huggers! These are made from food-safe silicone, and are dishwasher, freezer, and microwave safe! The variety of sizes is super convenient. I use them to cover jars, store half a lemon or onion, or to cover a small bowl! The best part is they are super durable and have lasted me years!