20 Sustainable Kitchen Swaps for an Eco-conscious Makeover

The kitchen is the soul of our home! Its where we lovingly prepare meals, celebrate small wins and hearty occasions with family, and create a lifetime of cherished memories. Yet, it’s also a place where single-use plastics and harmful chemicals can easily sneak in, wreaking havoc on the environment and our well-being. But you can create a kitchen that is mindful instead of being wasteful. And this is where sustainable kitchen swaps comes into play.

Of course, transitioning to a zero waste kitchen can seem daunting, especially when almost everything comes wrapped in packaging. But, just like we helped you implement simple sustainability resolutions and easy-to-execute sustainability tips for a purposeful lifestyle; today, we are here with loads of eco-friendly kitchen swaps. Whether it’s reusable silicone bags, compostable dish brushes, non toxic air fryer or safe food storage containers, these sustainable options can be reused, composted, or responsibly recycled. Let’s check them out!

20 Sustainable Kitchen Swaps

Why Go for Sustainable Kitchen Swaps

Opting for sustainable kitchen swaps is a conscientious choice driven by the urgent need to take up on our environmental responsibility. It is a known fact that traditional kitchen practices often generate substantial waste and contribute to pollution, harming our planet. From single-use plastics to energy-inefficient appliances, the kitchen can be a hub of wastefulness. In fact, numerous researches have already proven that the excessive use of plastic packaging and disposable items adds to overflowing landfills and plastic pollution in our oceans. On the other hand, energy-intensive appliances increase our carbon footprint, and the food we waste, due to poor storage or overbuying, further straining our resources.

By adopting sustainable kitchen swaps, we can not only reduce our ecological footprint but also enjoy long-term benefits. These include curbing waste generation, saving money through reduced consumption, thriving in clean surroundings and supporting mindful brands that care for our planet. In making these swaps, we take a proactive step towards fostering a more responsible marketplace, driving the demand for sustainable practices. So it’s a win-win scenario for everyone!

20 Awesome Eco Friendly Kitchen Swaps

Making conscious choices about regular-use items can kickstart your path to a greener life. And your kitchen is a great place to start, with everyday essentials that can set the stage for an green home. Explore these fantastic eco-friendly kitchen swaps that won’t burden landfills when you’re ready for replacements. 

1. Vitamix Food Cycler

Rating: 5

If you don’t have an outdoor area for composting, the Vitamix FoodCycler provides an indoor-friendly, high-tech alternative. While the main unit is quite sizable, the inner bucket conveniently fits on your kitchen countertop. After cooking and cleaning up, you can slide the main unit under the sink and use the inner bucket. This clever machine efficiently dries, grinds, and cools your food scraps, transforming them into nutrient-rich fertilizer without emitting strong odors, making it suitable for indoor use. The processed compost can be mixed into your soil or taken to a nearby composting facility, offering a convenient way to reduce food waste.

2. Chemex Pour-Over Glass Coffee Maker

Rating: 4.8

The Chemex Pour-Over Glass Coffee Maker is celebrated for its timeless and refined design, setting the stage for an elegant coffee brewing experience. Its glass carafe exudes sophistication while keeping your coffee free from any plastic contact. A standout feature of the Chemex is its wooden collar, which not only shields your hands from the hot glass but also imparts a natural, inviting aesthetic. Bound securely with a leather strap, it adds to the classic charm. With a paper filter, the Chemex ensures your coffee remains pure, free from any sediment or oils, delivering a clean cup of coffee.

Unlike conventional brewing methods involving plastic components, the Chemex coffee maker guarantees that your coffee interacts solely with high-quality glass and paper filters, making brews that are 100% plastic-free.

3. FinalStraw Reusable Straws

Rating: 4.8

While plastic straws offer convenience and prevent teeth staining from colorful beverages, they pose significant sustainability issues, with Americans using enough straws daily to encircle the Earth 2.5 times. This creates a major problem as lightweight straws often find their way into our oceans, endangering marine life. However, FinalStraw presents a clever solution: A collapsible stainless steel straw that fits neatly into a portable case with a cleaning brush, making it an eco-friendly alternative on the go. To add some fun to your daily sipping, these reusable straws are available in various colors and cases.

Furthermore, FinalStraw’s participation in the 1% for the Planet initiative underscores their dedication to environmental protection.

4. Plantish Future Dish Soap Bar

Rating: 4.8

Want an eco-friendly solution to tackle those dirty dishes? Then Plantish Future has got a fantastic option for you! Their new Solid Dish Soap Bar is not only environmentally conscious but also incredibly effective. Handcrafted in Vancouver, their Zero Waste Dish Soap Bars are expert grease fighters. The 8oz Solid Dish Soap Bar can replace up to three plastic bottles of liquid dishwashing soap, while the 13oz Solid Dish Soap Brick can replace up to five. Both options are tough on grease without resorting to harmful chemicals, and they are packed with natural materials like coconut oil, olive oil, etc. These plant-based soaps are palm oil and preservative-free, and they’re also scent-free, making them a safe choice for allergy concerns.

Thanks to their impressive lathering abilities and the power of coconuts, these dish soaps efficiently and safely clean your dishes. Plus, they come in two delightful scents: Minty Mint and Fresh Citrus.

5. EcoRoots Swedish Dishcloths

Rating: 4.7

EcoRoots is a sustainable woman-owned business that offers super absorbent Swedish dishcloths— a fantastic eco-friendly substitute for artificial sponges. Crafted from biodegradable cellulose and cotton, these washable dishcloths are ideal for dishwashing, cleaning countertops, and mopping spills. They are versatile across multiple surfaces, including glass, granite, tile, ceramic, and stainless steel. These non-abrasive cloths work well with just water, soap, or cleaning sprays and don’t leave any watermarks or scratches. Plus, they dry fast, absorb 20 times their weight, and don’t harbor bacteria or odors like regular sponges.

EcoRoots Swedish dishcloths are not only functional but also cute, as they come in fun prints. The best thing— each cloth can be washed up to 200 times, making them a sustainable kitchen swap. Just make sure to keep them clean for ongoing use.

6. East Fork Dinnerware

Rating: 4.7

If you’re on the lookout for visually appealing non toxic dinnerware, then you’re going to fall in love with East Fork’s collection. Their exquisite and durable ceramic dinnerware is skillfully made in Asheville, North Carolina, using locally sourced materials, showcasing their dedication to quality. Products are sold either individually or in small packs, making it easy for you to shop according to your requirements. These dishes are dishwasher and microwave-friendly, and free of lead.

East Fork carries the prestigious B Corporation certification, indicating its commitment to transparency and responsible business practices. Furthermore, the label collaborates with Climate-Neutral advisors to minimize its environmental impact and actively participate in the fight against global warming.

7. ARIA 10-Quart Air Fryer

Rating: 4.7

If you’re in search of a high-quality, all-in-one, and non-toxic air fryer that combines the functionalities of a deep fryer, toaster, convection oven, and more, The Aria 10 Qt Air Fryer Oven is the ultimate solution. This versatile air fryer, free from Teflon, boasts a sleek and contemporary design that seamlessly complements any kitchen decor. With its generous capacity, you can easily prepare multiple items at once, catering to your entire family, even unexpected guests.

The in-built rotisserie ensures even cooking with 360° food rotation, and the spinning cage mixes ingredients for consistent results. Made of FDA-approved stainless steel, this non-toxic air fryer is free from harmful substances. Its large touchscreen display and internal lamp let you watch your food without constant opening.

8. Silpat Non-stick Baking Sheet

Rating: 4.7

Transform any pan into a non-stick surface with Silpat reusable baking sheets. This versatile alternative to disposable parchment paper is ideal for both sweet and savory baking recipes and eliminates the need for excessive butter, grease, oils, or sprays. Crafted from premium materials, including fiberglass mesh and top-quality food-grade silicone, Silpat ensures even heat distribution for consistent baking and browning.

A trusted choice among renowned chefs worldwide, Silpat complies with US regulations for food-grade silicone and boasts NSF and Kosher certifications. This baking mat is suitable for use in the freezer, microwave, and oven, withstanding temperatures from -40 C° to 250 C°. Cleaning is hassle-free; just rinse with water and wipe dry with a dishcloth.

9. Purifyou Reusable Mesh Produce Bags

Rating: 4.6

For your next grocery run, consider swapping out plastic storage bags for Purifyou Reusable Mesh Produce Bags. They feature an easy-glide drawstring closure and are made from durable double-stitched mesh polyester fiber, ensuring their long-lasting durability. These bags are a breeze to clean, easy to fold, lightweight, and transparent. They can also be used in the fridge to keep non-leafy produce fresh for longer, thanks to their breathable design.

These bags aren’t just for storing produce; they’re suitable for packing up groceries, food items, laundry, essentials, gardening, camping gear, kids’ toys, kitchen items, bathroom supplies, and more. You can even use them as gift bags, for shopping, or for home organization.

10. EcoRoots Wooden Dish Brush

Rating: 4.6

It’s time to say goodbye to those wasteful plastic brushes that barely last a few months and switch to a more eco-friendly option. The Wood Dish Brush serves as an excellent plastic-free alternative for your kitchen. The handle of the brush is crafted from eco-friendly German beech wood, and the bristles are composed of sisal, a Mexican agave plant. As a result, it is entirely a plant-based product. It’s ideal for scrubbing and cleaning dishes, pots, and sinks. What makes it even better is that the brush head is replaceable, so you can keep the handle and purchase just a replacement head, reducing your waste when the brush eventually wears out.

The EcoRoots Wooden Dish Brush is not only aesthetically pleasing but also biodegradable, making it a perfect match for zero waste dish soap or DIY eco-friendly cleaning solutions.

11. Dropps Dishwasher Pods

Rating: 4.6

Dropps Dishwasher pods have revolutionized the dish-cleaning game, making it not only ten times easier but also more eco-friendly. Their innovative triple-action dishwashing detergent relies on natural minerals to effortlessly remove baked-on food and stains, eliminating the need for pre-washing. The result? Sparkling glasses and spotless dishes, ready for your next meal. While many major brands use oversized plastic containers and contain questionable ingredients, Dropps is challenging the norm.

Dropps’ compact and efficient dishwasher pods are compatible with all machine types, including European and smaller apartment-sized models. With three delightful scents to choose from, Fresh Rain, Lemon, and Unscented, these pods are also dye-free, chlorine-free, phosphate-free, phthalate-free, and cruelty-free. As an added eco-bonus, they arrive at your doorstep in recyclable and compostable packaging with 100% carbon-neutral shipping.

12. Seventh Generation Free & Clear Liquid Dish Soap

Rating: 4.6

Switching to a new cleaning product might feel like a draining task, but the Seventh Generation Free & Clear Liquid Dish Soap is a plant-based superstar that can deliver exceptional performance. This biodegradable liquid soap is a pro at tackling tough grease and dried-on food, all while being dermatologist-tested and hypoallergenic, making it perfect for sensitive skin. It contains no fragrances or dyes and proudly holds certifications like USDA Certified, Leaping Bunny Certified, and EPA Safer Choice. Even the entire bottle, right down to the cap, is crafted from recycled plastic, showcasing its sustainability. What’s more, the brand’s transparency about its ingredients is commendable.

As a testament to its excellence, The New York Times awarded Seventh Generation Free & Clear dishwashing liquid the Wirecutter’s title for the best dish soap. Besides the Unscented Free & Clear option, this dishwashing liquid is available in five enticing natural scents: Chamomile & Lemon, Fresh Lime & Ginger, Lavender Flower & Mint, Clementine Zest & Lemongrass, and Summer Orchard.

13. Sippy Hippy’s Eco-Friendly Stainless Steel Tea Infuser

Source: sippyhippyteaco / Instagram

Rating: 4.5

If you’re a tea lover looking to cut down on packaging waste that comes with tea bags, here’s a simple solution: make the switch to loose-leaf tea and tea steepers. Not only does this choice eliminate your exposure to microplastics found in plastic teabags, but it also enhances the taste of your brew. And Sippy Hippy’s Eco-Friendly Stainless Steel Tea Infuser does the task right on point! With its stylish and practical design, it has become my favorite steeper. Featuring a retractable handle for easy use, it’s ideal for brewing loose-leaf teas.

As the infuser is crafted from high-quality stainless steel, it’s not only easy to clean but also dishwasher-safe (although handwashing is recommended for long-lasting use). Plus, it’s a perfect gift for tea enthusiasts who appreciate both the environment and great flavor.

14. U.Konserve Food Storage Containers

Rating: 4.5

For those who appreciate the minimalist charm of functional stainless steel, U.Konserve is your ideal choice. When it comes to mess-free and safe food storage, this brand’s sustainable storage solutions are an obvious selection. As a certified B Corporation, they have played a significant role in helping people shift away from plastic containers in favor of their high-quality stainless steel and silicone alternatives. U-Konserve’s non-toxic food containers are meticulously examined by CPSIA-accredited labs, assuring that they are free from harmful substances such as lead, BPAs, phthalates, cadmium, and more.

With various sizes and shapes, these containers are freezer-friendly, making them perfect for preserving leftovers. If you’re a fan of silicone, their BounceBox is a versatile star, capable of withstanding the dishwasher, microwave, freezer, and even ovens up to 400°F.

15. SOMA Water Pitcher

Rating: 4.5

The SOMA Water Pitcher is the perfect solution to drink better water for everyday hydration. Presented in a sleek design, it is made from eco-friendly materials like BPA-free plastic and a bamboo handle. It’s compact, affordable, user-friendly, and assures you of clean drinking water at every sip. Each pitcher comes with a free filter to begin with, and these filters are designed to last for two months, effectively removing impurities from your water. The activated coconut shell carbon and charcoal in Soma filters ensure your water is free from chlorine, mercury, zinc, cadmium, copper and unwanted tastes or odors.

To get the best deal, you can start with buying SOMA’s 2-pack of filters bundle that will last about four months and then purchase more. The company’s commitment to sustainability and its B-Corp certification make it a reliable choice and a better alternative to plastic water bottles.

16. Bee’s Wrap Plastic-Free Food Wraps

Rating: 4.5

Bee’s Wrap is an eco-friendly reusable beeswax food wrap crafted from certified organic cotton, sustainably sourced beeswax, jojoba oil, and tree resin. This versatile wrap is your ideal replacement for single-use plastic wrap, designed to keep your food fresh and cater to various needs, from meal preparation to preserving leftovers or packing snacks for your adventures. Made in the USA, Bee’s Wrap is Green America-certified and is available in three sizes that can be reused countless times. Just warm it with your hands to mold it over food, a bowl, or a container. As it cools, it forms a natural seal to keep your food fresh. And cleaning it is a super easy task. All you have to do is simply rinse the beeswax wraps with cold water and mild soap after each use.

Please note that while they are excellent for various purposes, they may not be entirely airtight, so they’re most suitable for foods that don’t spoil quickly.

17. Green Earth Kitchen Trash Bags

Rating: 4.4

Green Earth is on a mission to promote a more eco-friendly lifestyle through its range of compostable trash bags. Made entirely from plant-based materials, these bags are not just biodegradable; they’re also designed to reduce plastic waste, contributing to a healthier environment. The company offers a wide variety of sustainable and organic products that meet the latest international standards, such as ASTM D6400, suitable for both home and commercial use. Additionally, the USA BPI organization has certified these bags for safe disposal in landfills across the United States.

Green Earth’s commitment to providing affordable and eco-conscious alternatives to traditional plastic bags reflects its dedication to a greener future. You can easily find their best compostable trash bags online and in stores nationwide, perfect for disposing of wet trash, kitchen waste, and organic materials.

18. Stasher Reusable Silicon Storage Bag

Rating: 4.4

Stasher reusable bags are a great eco-friendly and cost-effective alternative to plastic bags and Ziplocs. These silicone bags are sturdy, flexible, and come in various sizes and colors. They feature a secure Pinch-Loc seal that’s easy to use, and the bags are made from 100% pure platinum-grade silicone, free from harmful substances like BPS, BPA, lead, and more. Whether you’re packing snacks, doing meal prep, or organizing, these bags are versatile for everyday use.

In addition, Stasher partners with TerraCycle for easy recycling, making each bag a sustainable replacement for 260 single-use plastic bags yearly. They’re also safe for the dishwasher, microwave, and freezer.

19. Homeostasis Living Reusable Paper Towels

Rating: 4.4

Ditch the endless regular paper towel rolls and go green with these reusable paper towels from Homeostasis Living. These washable, biodegradable towels, thoughtfully packaged with zero waste, are ideal for cleaning up messes in the kitchen or playroom. What’s even better, for every product sold, Homeostasis Living plants a tree through their partnership with One Tree Planted. This small change can have a significant impact on the environment, one step at a time. Additionally, Homeostasis Living’s Reusable Paper Towels are GOTS-Certified organic, benefiting both you and the environment.

20. Caraway Non-toxic Cookware

Rating: 4.3

Caraway is home to all kinds of high-quality, non-toxic cookware. From food storage containers, frying pans, and pots to bakeware sets, cutting boards, and kettles, they have got all your cooking essentials sorted. Unlike commercialized conventional cookware, Caraway’s products are crafted without the use of harmful chemicals such as PFAS, PTFE, PFOA, and so on. This ensures that no dangerous substances seep into your food. Additionally, the naturally smooth surfaces of their utensils require minimal oil or butter, making it effortless to cook foods like eggs without sticking, and simplifying the cleaning process.

Caraway’s cookware is also thoughtfully designed to harmonize with any home, with attention to detail and a range of appealing colors that are sure to brighten your kitchen and bring joy to your cooking experience.

Swaps for Zero Waste Kitchen: A Systematic Approach for a Total Makeover

Sustainable Kitchen Swaps: Where to Begin

1. Single-Use Plastics: Reduce your environmental impact by replacing single-use plastic items with reusable alternatives. Consider investing in reusable silicone food bags, glass or stainless steel containers, and bamboo utensils. These sustainable options not only help minimize plastic waste but are also durable and long-lasting.
2. Energy-Efficient Appliances: Upgrade to energy-efficient kitchen appliances. Modern eco-friendly appliances are designed to consume less energy, reducing your carbon footprint and energy bills. Look for the Energy Star label when shopping for new appliances to ensure they meet high energy efficiency standards.
3. Sustainable Cookware: Choose non-toxic and sustainable cookware options. Opt for best material for cooking utensils like cast iron, stainless steel, or ceramic cookware that doesn’t release harmful chemicals when heated. These alternatives are durable and can last for generations, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
4. Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products: Transition to eco-friendly cleaning products to maintain a clean and green kitchen. Many cleaning brands offer non-toxic, biodegradable, and plant-based solutions that are safe for your health and the environment. Alternatively, you can create your own cleaning products using simple ingredients like vinegar and baking soda.
5. Reducing Food Waste: Minimize food waste by implementing strategies such as meal planning, proper food storage, and composting. Meal planning helps you buy only what you need, reducing excess food that might go to waste. Proper food storage, like using airtight containers or beeswax wraps, helps extend the shelf life of your ingredients. Composting kitchen scraps can significantly reduce the amount of organic waste sent to landfills, benefiting the environment.
6. Water-Saving Fixtures: Install water-saving faucets, dishwashers, and filters to reduce water consumption in your kitchen. Water-efficient fixtures can save both water and energy used for water heating, contributing to lower utility bills and a smaller ecological footprint.
7. Reusable Coffee Filters: For coffee enthusiasts, reusable coffee filters are a sustainable choice. Ditch single-serving pods, opting for stainless steel, paper or cloth filters that can be used repeatedly, reducing waste.
8. LED Lighting: Replace incandescent and fluorescent lighting in your kitchen with energy-efficient LED bulbs. LED bulbs consume less energy, have a longer lifespan, and provide bright, warm light for your kitchen space.
9. Natural Dish Soap: Choose natural and biodegradable dish soap to wash your dishes. Look for brands that use plant-based ingredients and eco-friendly packaging to minimize harmful chemicals in your wastewater.
10. Kitchen Garden: If you have outdoor space, consider starting a kitchen garden. Growing your own herbs, vegetables, and fruits not only reduces the need for store-bought produce but also connects you with your food source and encourages sustainable gardening practices.

Tips for a Total Kitchen Makeover

1. Assess Your Kitchen: Begin your kitchen makeover by evaluating its current state. Identify areas where sustainability improvements can be made, such as energy usage, waste management, and the use of eco-friendly materials.
2. Prioritize Sustainable Swaps: Determine which sustainable swaps are most urgent and effective for your kitchen. Consider your budget and needs when deciding where to start. For example, you might prioritize switching to reusable kitchen items like paper towels, reusable water bottles, eco-friendly storage containers, and so on.
3. Create a Budget: Plan a budget for your kitchen makeover, keeping in mind the long-term cost savings associated with sustainable choices. While some eco-friendly options may have a higher upfront cost, they often lead to reduced utility bills and less frequent replacements.
4. Research and Shop Smart: Research sustainable brands and products, comparing prices and reading reviews. Look for certifications and labels that indicate eco-friendliness, such as Energy Star for appliances, or USDA Organic for food products. Smart shopping ensures you get the best value for your money.
5. Implement Changes Gradually: Don’t just throw away everything. Start with small, simple swaps and gradually transition to larger changes. For instance, begin by switching to LED lighting, using cloth napkins instead of paper, or installing a low-flow faucet. This gradual approach allows you to adapt to sustainable habits without overwhelming your budget.
6. Buy Pantry Goods in Bulk: When you want a greener kitchen, it’s not just about changing what you use but also how you shop. Think about how many boxes and containers you throw away after grocery shopping. If you buy things like grains, flours, beans, and coffee in larger quantities, you can bring your own containers. This way, you won’t need all those single-use plastics and cardboard boxes that usually end up in the trash or recycling.
7. Monitor Energy Usage: Keep an eye on your kitchen’s energy consumption. Invest in energy monitors to track usage and identify areas where you can reduce wastage. Adjust your habits, such as turning off lights and appliances when not in use, to lower your overall energy consumption.
8. Reuse and Recycle: Look for creative ways to repurpose items and recycle materials that are no longer in use. Consider upcycling old furniture, donating items you no longer need, and recycling materials like glass, paper, and plastics. Recycling and reusing contribute to a more sustainable kitchen and home.

How to Go About It in an Affordable Way

1. Focus on Essential Swaps: Begin your journey towards sustainability by focusing on the most essential changes required in your kitchen. Start with simple, cost-effective substitutes like switching to reusable grocery bags, using energy-efficient LED light bulbs, or opting for cloth napkins. These fundamental changes are budget-friendly and create a significant impact.
2. Buy Secondhand: Consider purchasing pre-owned sustainable kitchen items that are still in great condition. Items like glass storage containers, stainless steel utensils, or cookware are often available in online thrift stores or such marketplaces at a fraction of the cost of new products. Shopping secondhand not only saves you money but also minimizes waste, and you might end up with some unique vintage pieces.
3. DIY Solutions: Explore do-it-yourself projects for making eco-friendly cleaning products and reusable items. Create your homemade cleaning solutions using ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils. Crafting reusable items, such as cloth produce bags or beeswax wraps, can be a fun and budget-friendly way to embrace sustainability.
4. Take Advantage of Sales and Discounts: Keep an eye out for deals, promotions, and discounts on sustainable products. Most brands offer special sales during Earth Day, Black Friday, Christmas and other events. Additionally, subscribe to newsletters from eco-friendly companies to receive exclusive offers and stay informed about discounts.
5. Calculate Long-Term Savings: When making sustainable swaps, emphasize the long-term savings to justify the initial investment. For example, energy-efficient appliances may have a higher upfront cost, but they lead to reduced energy bills over time. Reusable products like stainless steel water bottles or cloth grocery bags eliminate the need for single-use items, saving you money in the long run while reducing waste.

Concluding Thoughts…

Creating a sustainable kitchen is not just an Earth-friendly endeavor but a practical one. It’s about saving money, reducing waste, and nurturing the environment. The kitchen, with its daily use of resources and generation of waste, is an ideal place to make changes that can have a lasting impact. And you don’t need to start big. Just simple sustainable kitchen swaps like reusable bags, eco-friendly cookware, green cleaning products, and meal storage hacks to reduce food waste can substantially transform your kitchen into an eco-conscious space.

Take it one step at a time, and you’ll soon be able to stand in a kitchen that not only nourishes your family but also strives to keep the planet healthy. Remember, sustainability is a conscious choice that leave a positive mark on the world. So, let’s cook up a better tomorrow, one kitchen swap at a time.