We’ve all heard “reduce, reuse, recycle” since childhood — but making it a habit takes intention.
One of the easiest places to start is the kitchen, where single-use plastics pile up quickly in everything from food containers to cleaning supplies. So we spoke to a sustainability expert to get simple, effective swaps that make the biggest difference. These small changes prove that sustainable living doesn’t have to be complicated or inconvenient. And when it starts with your own daily routines, it’s easier than you think to make the habit stick.
Micaela Preston, sustainability specialist and founder of the natural-living blog Mindful Momma, shared a range of practical ways to cut plastic use, from compostable wraps that keep food fresh to dishwasher-safe containers you’ll find yourself reaching for every day. Keep scrolling to check out her top picks that are all available at Amazon with prices starting at $15.
Best Plastic-Free Kitchen Essentials
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Oxo Good Grips 3-Piece Wooden Utensil Set, $17 (orig. $20)
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PEOPLE-Approved: Lodge 10.25-Inch Cast Iron Skillet, $25
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Stasher Silicone Reusable Food Storage Bags Set of 4, $66
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Epicurean Kitchen Series Cutting Board, $30 (orig. $34)
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Bee’s Wrap Reusable Beeswax Food Wraps 3-Pack, $18 (orig. $20)
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Keeki Reusable Bread Bag, $28
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Goodful Universal Silicone Lids Set of 3, $18 (orig. $19)
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Food Huggers Avocado Huggers 2-Piece, $15
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Vejibag Large Cotton Vegetable Crisper Bag, $30
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4,000+ Just Purchased: Amazon Basics Glass Storage Containers Set of 7, $29
Oxo Good Grips 3-Piece Wooden Utensil Set
“Plastic cooking utensils could be leaching chemicals into the food you’re preparing,” Preston tells PEOPLE. Instead of plastic, she recommends reaching for sturdy options made from solid beechwood, like this set from Oxo. They’re naturally free of microplastics, hold up to daily use, and won’t leave scratches on your cookware.
Stasher Silicone Reusable Food Storage Bags
If you’re trying to cut back on disposable plastic bags in the kitchen, Preston suggests investing in reusable silicone options like these bags from Stasher. “They’re super durable and long lasting, with a leak-free seal that works for both wet and dry foods.,” she says. She uses them in her own kitchen for everything from storing cheese in the fridge to keeping nuts in the freezer and packing snacks on the go.
Epicurean Kitchen Series Cutting Board
“Plastic cutting boards shed microplastics into your food, which is something you want to avoid,” Preston explains. She points to Epicurean’s lightweight boards made from a durable paper composite that’s NSF certified for health and safety. She notes they hold up well for everyday chopping, are slim enough to tuck away when not in use, and can go right into the dishwasher for easy cleanup.
Lodge 10.25-Inch Cast Iron Skillet
“It’s time to ditch toxic nonstick pans and start cooking with cast iron,” Preston says. “The beauty of cast iron is that it develops a natural nonstick coating, it is extremely durable and is built to last a lifetime.” She adds that while many nonstick pans often rely on synthetic coatings that can wear down over time, cast iron only gets better with use — making it a long-lasting and sustainable swap for your kitchen. Plus, it’s one of the most useful pans in my own kitchen.
Bee’s Wrap Reusable Beeswax Food Wraps 3-Pack
Another easy kitchen swap for plastic wrap is beeswax wraps, which are made by coating cotton with beeswax. The material bends easily to cover food or bowls, and your hands warm it just enough to help it cling in place. “They’re nontoxic and can be used again and again,” Preston adds, explaining that they’re convenient for keeping produce or baked goods fresh without the waste of single-use plastic.
These aren’t the only swaps Preston recommends, so keep scrolling for more of her favorite plastic-free kitchen essentials.
Food Huggers Avocado Huggers 2-Piece
Amazon Basics Glass Storage Containers Set of 7
Keeki Reusable Bread Bag
Goodful Universal Silicone Lids Set of 3
Vejibag Large Cotton Vegetable Crisper Bag
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