What are the Best Alternatives to Single-Use Plastics in the Kitchen? | Gear Heads

From plastic wrap to zipper-lock baggies, we all got a little used to single-use plastics in the kitchen. But now, there are so many reusable alternatives, and Hannah and Lisa are here to tell you about their favorites.

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[FlashOhJoy]

Ball canning jars are wonderful for storage too!

[likethedrinkbutspelleddiff]

The fact that Lisa is still using an actual iPod above her microwave for music in the kitchen is what really impressed me. 👍👍

[potterma]

Tip for washing plastic bags: turn it inside out, stick you hand inside, add a dot of detergent and "wash your hands". Works a treat!

[fahfahfred]

Yes! Please more sustainability content please :D

[Carol-ckpg]

Love this. Now use these products and options in your cooking demos...spread the word.

[CreamyJalapeno]

I love my glass straws more than any others. It's nice that you can see all the way through for cleanliness. I put mine in the dishwasher too.

[annek]

It is amazing how many of these kitchen tests produce an OXO winner!

[jake]

* The Pyrex nesting multi-bowl set with matching lids is an excellent alternative to the disposable plastic covers. One of ATK's best ever recommendations; I've used them for two years now and they're great.

* Store your stainless straws in the freezer and they won't become moldy. Works great for Camelbak bladders too.

[lettersnstuff]

been watching on and off for a while and I think you guys are really hitting your stride in terms of tone and target audience and just seeming so much more relaxed in front of the cameras, I’m happy for y’all

[Monica]

Awesome information Ladies! Plastics are a serious environmental problem that we all need to take responsibility for. You’ve inspired me to start TODAY!👍🏼

[jjpp]

Instead of plastic wrap or beeswax wrap on a bowl, just put a plate over top and plop it into the fridge. I do it all the time and if works perfectly. Or just buy bowls that come with lids (ceramic to match the pot). You have to look out for them but they’re out there.

[donlibes]

I have beeswax-infused cloth that I bought from a local crafter. She never explained that they seal with hand heat! (I've been using rubber bands to seal and hold them in place.) Thanks for the tip!

[DraconianMeasures]

So glad to finally see this kind of content from ATK- we’ve been alarmed at all the one-time-use stuff we’ve seen over the years... keep it up!!

[rve]

I've used some glass straws made from a Pyrex type of glass. Zero chips or breaks in years of use.

[codynewman]

I love the old school iPod in the background

[WaterNai]

Glass straws are great! They don’t chip. I get borosilicate glass (which most are), so they’re sturdy. I also like that they’re clear, so you can be sure that they’re clean. You can even get ones with little decorative glass animals, flowers, and geometric designs.

[sgodbout]

Loved this! I have the silicone covers like yours and have mesh bags for produce. I have had the wooden bag dryer for years. My parents grew up in the Depression and I learned to wash out plastic bags, glass jars and tin foil at a young age. We need to get back to that thinking.

[BP-ydvn]

I think this topic needs to be revisited regularly because there are always new products coming onto the market and newer concerns. For instance, right now, I'm all concerned about microplastics so bpa-free or not, I would still rather go for glass all the way. Also, I wish someone would come up with an easier way to wash/clean these wax/ silicon/ reusable grocery bags.

[watchingover]

I love the reusable silicone lids that she said were too difficult to stretch over a bowl. They don't fit every size but are excellent on the ones they do fit. I rarely us cling wrap anymore.

[montyollie]

Since the day you guys did the Rubbermaid Brilliance episode, I have bought them for myself and everyone I know. They are the best "tupperware" on the planet, thank you so much for doing the legwork to convince me to buy it. It's worth every penny. And I'm Canadian and they are super expensive here, but worth it.