It’s no secret that the kitchen is one of the most commonly used rooms in the house. Whether you’re cooking, cleaning, or just hanging out, chances are you spend a lot of time there.
So, why not make it a more eco-friendly space? It’s easier than you might think!
Check out these 10 ways to make your kitchen more green. From simple swaps like using reusable bags to more involved projects like installing solar panels, there’s something for everyone.
10 Ways to Make Your Kitchen More Green
Choose Long-Lasting Cookware And Utensils
When it comes to cookware and utensils, choose long-lasting over disposable whenever possible.
This means investing in quality pots and pans, knives, and other tools that will last for years (or even decades) with proper care.
Not only does this make your kitchen more green, but it’s also better for your wallet in the long run.
Use An Energy-Efficient Stove
Gas stoves, induction cooktops, ceramic-glass cooktops, and electric coils are all great options that will save you energy and money in the long run.
Not only do these cooking appliances use less energy than their traditional counterparts, but they also help you to control the temperature of your food better, so you can avoid overcooking or undercooking meals.
Plus, many of these stoves come with features that make them even more efficient, such as automatic shut-off timers and simmer settings.
Compost Any Uncooked Organic Waste
If you have a garden, composting is a great way to reduce your waste and provide nutrients for your plants.
To make your own compost bin, all you need is a large plastic container with a lid.
Drill or poke holes in the bottom of the container for drainage.
Then, fill the container with equal parts organic matter (such as fruit and vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, eggshells, etc.) and brown matter (such as dead leaves, shredded paper, etc.).
Stir the contents of the bin every week or so, and add water if it becomes too dry.
After several weeks, you should have rich compost that you can use in your garden or on potted plants.
If you don't have a use for it yourself, consider giving it to a friend or neighbor who does!
Use Soap Nuts
Next, make some tweaks to the dish cleaners you use.
There are a number of eco-friendly options on the market that are just as effective as their traditional counterparts.
One option is to use soap nuts.
These are dried berries that contain a natural soap.
When they come in contact with water, they create a sudsy solution that can be used to clean dishes.
Simply add a few soap nuts to a bowl of water and let them soak for a few minutes.
Then, use the sudsy water to scrub your dishes clean.
Use Vinegar And Baking Soda For Cleaning
Another option is to use vinegar and baking soda.
This combination can be used to clean a variety of surfaces, including dishes.
Simply mix equal parts vinegar and baking soda and use it like you would any other cleaner.
Commercial Eco-Friendly Dish Cleaners
Finally, you can also opt for commercial eco-friendly dish cleaners.
These are formulated without harsh chemicals or artificial fragrances. Look for brands that are USDA-certified organic or Green Seal certified.
Replace Plastic Grocery Bags With Reusable Bags
Another way to make your kitchen more green is to use reusable grocery bags.
This simple change can help reduce your reliance on disposable plastics, which are a major source of pollution.
Reusable bags come in all shapes and sizes, so you can find ones that fit your needs and lifestyle.
If you're always on the go, look for bags that fold up small and can be easily stashed in your purse or backpack. If you do a lot of bulk shopping, invest in sturdy reusable totes that can hold everything from groceries to laundry.
Making the switch to reusable bags is not only good for the environment, but it can also save you money in the long run.
Many stores offer discounts for customers who bring their own bags, so you'll end up saving money every time you shop.
Use Plastic-Free Food Storage Containers
This includes both plastic wrap and storage bags, as well as disposable containers like those used for take-out food.
There are a few reasons:
- Reducing the amount of plastic waste that ends up in landfills or the ocean.
- Better for your health, as some plastics can leach chemicals into food.
There are plenty of eco-friendly alternatives to plastic wraps and bags, like beeswax wraps or silicone storage bags.
For disposable containers, look for options made from biodegradable materials like bamboo or sugarcane.
Use Natural Air Fresheners
Air fresheners are a great way to make your kitchen smell more pleasant, but many commercial air fresheners are full of chemicals that can be harmful to your health.
Instead, opt for air fresheners made from natural ingredients like essential oils.
These air fresheners will not only make your kitchen smell great, but they will also be better for your health.
Conclusion
Making your kitchen more green doesn't have to be difficult or expensive. With a few simple changes, you can reduce your environmental impact and save money at the same time.
We hope after reading this article, you’ve got 10 ways to make your kitchen more green without breaking the bank. Thanks for reading!
