Zero Waste, Zero Toxicity | Kitchen
Hello Everyone,
I hope all is well!
On today’s episode we will be discussing where the heart of the home is: the kitchen! The kitchen is one of the biggest sources of waste and hidden toxins in our homes. From single-use plastics to chemical-laden cleaners, it’s easy to accumulate items that harm both the environment and our health. But but making small, intentional swaps can significantly reduce waste, lower your exposure to harmful chemicals, and create a more sustainable, toxin-free space.
This guide will walk you through every part of your kitchen overhaul—from food storage and cleaning to cooking and grocery shopping—so you can transition to an eco-friendly, zero-waste, zero toxicity kitchen without sacrificing convenience.
1. Food Storage & Packaging
Plastic wrap, Ziploc bags, and disposable containers contribute to massive amounts of waste each year. Switching to sustainable storage options helps cut down on single-use plastic while keeping your food fresh.
Sustainable Storage Swaps:
Glass Jars & Containers – Perfect for storing dry goods, leftovers, and bulk items. Repurpose jars from sauces and spreads instead of buying new ones. I have been making homemade dressings, milks, lemonades, sweet teas, sauces with the jars I have now repurposed!
Repurposing the Glass from Your Store-Bought Products
Beeswax Wraps – A reusable, compostable alternative to plastic wrap. Use them to cover bowls or wrap sandwiches.
Silicone Lids & Bags – Food-grade silicone storage bags and stretchable lids replace plastic wrap and disposable baggies. I have been loving using these and they are so easy to clean!
Stainless Steel & Bamboo Lunchboxes – Durable, plastic-free alternatives for meal prep and packed lunches.
2. Dishwashing & Cleaning
Most dishwashing products contain harsh chemicals and artificial fragrances, plus they come in plastic packaging that just ends up in landfills and in the dishes and utensils you use to eat. Here’s how to keep your dishes clean without the waste.
Zero-Waste Dishwashing Swaps:
Solid Dish Soap – A bar of dish soap or dish powder lasts longer and eliminates the need for plastic bottles. I have been loving the way the Blueland Dish Poweder lathers and cleans my dishes.
Dishwashing Cleaning Solutions
DIY or Refillable Dishwashing Powder – Many store-bought dishwasher detergents contain phosphates that can pollute waterways. Some brands also offer refillable dish powder in compostable packaging. The ones I list below are the ones I have been loving. I like to use one Blueland tablet with one Dirty Labs scoop as I feel they both enhance each other and remove all grime.
DIY dishwashing powder made with baking soda, washing soda, citric acid, and salt for a non-toxic, plastic-free alternative.
Compostable Sponges & Scrubbers – Loofahs, coconut fiber brushes, and Swedish dishcloths are great biodegradable alternatives to plastic sponges.
All-Purpose Cleaner – All-purpose cleaners are a kitchen essential, but most store-bought versions come with harsh chemicals, synthetic fragrances, and plastic waste. These ingredients don’t just pollute indoor air—they also end up in water systems, contributing to environmental damage. I have been liking the Grove Collaborative Cleaner.
Mix white vinegar, water, and lemon peels for a powerful, all-natural cleaner.
Blueland Multi-Surface Cleaner Tablet Refills + Reusable Glass Spray Bottle
Grove Collaborative Multipurpose Cleaner Concentrate + Reusable Glass Spray Bottle
3. Cooking & Food Prep
Many kitchen tools and appliances contain hidden toxins, from nonstick cookware that releases harmful chemicals to plastic utensils that break down over time. A zero-waste kitchen prioritizes durability and non-toxic materials.
Sustainable Cooking Essentials:
Cast Iron or Stainless Steel Pans – Avoid nonstick coatings that release toxic fumes. Cast iron lasts a lifetime and gets better with age!
Wooden & Bamboo Cooking Utensils – Ditch plastic utensils that can leach chemicals when heated.
Cloth Towels & Napkins – Swap disposable paper towels for washable fabric alternatives. They’re just as absorbent and last for years.
Silicone Baking Mats – A reusable alternative to parchment paper and aluminum foil for baking.
4. Grocery Shopping & Food Waste Reduction
Most waste starts before food even enters your kitchen—from unnecessary packaging to overbuying and throwing food away. Here’s how to make more mindful shopping choices.
Low-Waste Grocery Shopping Tips:
Bring Reusable Produce and Grocery Bags – Skip plastic and use mesh or cloth bags for fruits and veggies as well as packing all your groceries.
Shop in Bulk with Your Own Containers – Many stores allow you to bring your own jars or bags for grains, nuts, coffee, and spices.
Plan Your Meals – Reduce food waste by shopping with a grocery list based on your weekly meal plan.
Compost Food Scraps – Instead of tossing leftovers or peels, start a compost bin for nutrient-rich soil.
5. Energy & Water Efficiency
Beyond products and waste, your kitchen’s energy and water use have a major impact on sustainability. Here’s how to conserve resources without changing your lifestyle too much.
Sustainable Energy & Water Habits:
Use a Dishwasher (Efficiently) – Dishwashers use less water than hand-washing—just be sure to run full loads.
Cold Water for Rinsing – Rinse dishes with cold water instead of hot to save energy.
Induction or Gas Stovetops – Induction cooking is more energy-efficient, while gas stoves waste less electricity.
Unplug Appliances – Even when turned off, appliances still use power. Unplug coffee makers, toasters, and blenders when not in use.
6. Storage and Organization
Decluttering is just as important as swapping out unsustainable products. Minimalism and smart organization help reduce unnecessary purchases and waste.
Sustainable Storage Ideas:
Glass Jars for Storage – Perfect for holding cotton swabs, bath salts, DIY beauty products, or reusable rounds.
Bamboo or Recycled Storage Bins – Avoid plastic bins; instead, use sustainable materials for organization.
Hanging Racks & Reclaimed Wood Shelves – Keep things off the counter while using eco-friendly materials.
Mindful Decluttering – Get rid of excess products, focus on quality over quantity, and avoid overconsumption.
Final Thoughts: Small Changes, Big Impact
Creating a zero-waste, non-toxic kitchen doesn’t mean getting rid of everything overnight. Instead, start by using what you already have, then slowly swap out unsustainable items for eco-friendly, long-lasting alternatives as needed.
Even small changes—like switching to glass storage, reusable bags, and compostable sponges—can make a big impact over time. The key is progress, not perfection.
What are your favorite zero-waste kitchen swaps? Drop a comment below!
