Plastic Free Kitchen Products: 20 Zero Waste Kitchen Swaps
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Looking to create a more sustainable, plastic-free kitchen?
Whether you’re just starting your zero waste journey or upgrading your current setup, swapping out conventional items for plastic-free kitchenware is a simple and effective way to cut down on waste.
From reusable storage solutions to non-toxic cleaning tools, this guide covers 20 zero waste kitchen products that are practical, eco-friendly, and built to last.
These swaps will not only reduce your environmental footprint, they’ll also save you money and help you build healthier habits in the heart of your home.
Okay, so here’s the list of 20 essential plastic-free items for your kitchen:
1. Dish brush
A staple in many plastic-free kitchens, this reusable dish brush has a compostable head that can be swapped when worn.
Key features:
- Ideal for dishes, pans, and sinks
- Sturdy wood handle and plant-based bristles
- Replaceable heads reduce waste long-term
2. Loofah sponge
I love natural loofah sponges. They are an effective replacement for plastic scrubbers and are 100% compostable.
Key features:
- Plastic-free and quick-drying
- Safe for all dish types
- Fully compostable after use
3. Reusable cleaning cloths
One of the easiest zero waste kitchen upgrades: durable cloths that can be washed and reused.
Key features:
- Great for spills, wiping counters, or drying dishes
- Saves money and waste over time
- Machine washable and plastic-free
4. Natural scrubber pads
Ditch synthetic plastic sponges that shed microplastics down the drain. These pads, made from coconut coir, hemp, or cellulose, offer tough scrubbing power without damaging cookware or harming the planet.
Key features:
- Fully compostable after use
- Tough on grime, gentle on non-stick surfaces
- Free of synthetic fibers and dyes
- Great for pots, pans, and countertops
5. Dishwashing soap bar
Solid dish bars and pastes are compact, effective, and usually come in plastic-free packaging. Some great ones include Meliora Dish Soap, Natural Dish Soap, or No Tox Life.
Key features:
- Often made with non-toxic, biodegradable ingredients
- Long-lasting, compact, and spill-proof
- Works with cloths, brushes, or sponges
Liquid dishwashing soaps come in plastic and often contain ingredients that aren’t the best for your skin. These eco-friendly dish soap options are plastic-free, non-toxic, and long-lasting. It contains vegetable oils like castor, coconut, sunflower, and sometimes essential oils for scent.
6. Reusable dishcloth
Upgrade your cleaning routine with these highly absorbent, compostable dishcloths made from cellulose and cotton. A sustainable alternative to paper towels and synthetic sponges.
Key features:
- Machine washable and fully biodegradable
- Absorbs up to 20x its weight in liquid
- Ideal for cleaning counters, dishes, glass, and more
- Replaces 15+ rolls of paper towels per cloth
7. Plastic-free dishwashing tablets
These tablets come in biodegradable, plastic-free packaging and are free from synthetic additives. Perfect for a deep clean without polluting waterways.
Key features:
- Effective at removing grease and stains
- No artificial colors, synthetic fragrances, or dyes
- Compatible with all dishwasher types
- Water-soluble film made of polyvinyl alcohol
8. Silicone baggies
A long-lasting alternative to single-use plastic bags, these silicone baggies are ideal for storing snacks, freezing meals, or packing lunches. Durable, flexible, and endlessly reusable.
Key features:
- Freezer, microwave, and oven safe
- BPA-free, non-toxic, hypoallergenic
- Dishwasher safe
- Stasher offers a take-back program for recycling
9. Stainless steel container
Stainless steel containers are endlessly reusable, 100% recyclable, and safe for storing any kind of food, hot or cold.
Key features:
- Comes in various shapes and sizes
- Freezer & dishwasher safe
- Ideal for leftovers, lunches, or bulk store trips
10. Wax wraps
Wax wraps are reusable, breathable, and keep food fresh longer, without the waste.
Key features:
- Washable and biodegradable
- Made with cotton-hemp blend & plant-based waxes
- 100% plant-based and vegan
11. Silicone baking mats
Avoid throwing away parchment paper with these durable silicone baking mats. They’re non-stick, easy to clean, and perfect for frequent bakers.
Key features:
- Dishwasher safe (top rack only)
- No need for oils or sprays
- Reusable for years
12. Silicone cupcake cups
These food-grade silicone cupcake liners eliminate the need for paper liners. Reusable hundreds of times, they’re great for baking or freezing snacks.
Key features:
- Oven safe up to 400°F
- Dishwasher-safe
- Long-lasting and versatile
13. Plastic-free cutting board
Crafted from sustainably harvested bamboo, this plastic-free cutting board is both durable and biodegradable.
Key features:
- Finished with food-safe oils
- Lightweight and long-lasting
- Available in various sizes
14. Waste-free coffee
Swap disposable pods and plastic coffee makers for eco-friendly brewing options. Choose Reusable K cup, French press, or Moka pot, for a plastic-free cup.
Pros:
- Reusable
- Plastic-free
- Waste-free
15. Nut milk bag
Make your own plant-based milk at home with this organic cotton bag. A reusable alternative to Tetra Paks and cartons.
Key features:
- Unbleached cotton
- Machine washable
- Perfect for all nut milks
16. Nut milk maker
Speed up the process of making plant-based milk with an electric soy or nut milk maker. Quick, simple, and waste-free.
Key features:
- Fresh nut milk in under a minute
- Easy to use, just press a button
- No Tetra Paks required
Learn how to make plant-based milk with Soyabella works & a comparison of Soyabella & Almond Cow (+ which one I prefer and why).
17. Reusable produce bags
These reusable produce bags are perfect for shopping bulk goods, fruits, veggies, or even flour and nuts. Lightweight and long-lasting, they help you avoid disposable plastic and paper bags.
Key features:
- Machine washable & endlessly reusable
- Lightweight, foldable, easy to carry
- Available in various sizes
- With or without holes (great for small items like flour or seeds)
18. Compost bin
Composting transforms food scraps into rich soil and reduces methane emissions from landfills. Whether you’re in an apartment or have outdoor space, there’s a bin that works for your needs.
Key features:
- Odor-blocking with charcoal filters or freezer-safe designs
- Made from silicone, molded bamboo, or recycled materials
- Supports local or backyard composting
- Turns food waste into nutrient-rich compost
- Choose between Worm factory, Bokashi system, or countertop bin
19. Triple recycle sorter bag
Forget single-use plastic trash bags. This reusable recycling bag is lightweight, washable, and great for sorting recyclables.
Key features:
- Ideal for separating paper, glass, and plastic
- Washable and reusable
20. Japanese charcoal water filter
These Japanese charcoal sticks purify water without the need for plastic cartridges. A simple and natural way to improve the taste and quality of your tap water.
Key features:
- Made from sustainably harvested Japanese holm oak
- Absorbs impurities and improves taste
- Ready in about an hour
- Plastic-free, zero waste hydration
Final thoughts
Creating a plastic free kitchen doesn’t have to be overwhelming or expensive. With a few thoughtful swaps, you can drastically reduce waste, avoid harmful materials, and build a space that’s healthier for you and the planet.
Remember – sustainability isn’t about perfection. Use what you already have, replace things as they wear out, and choose better options when you truly need something new. Every small step counts.
If you’re ready to take things even further, here’s some relevant content to keep the momentum going:
Thanks for sharing such a worthy knowledge.