When it comes to being eco-friendly many of us are trying to do what we can to make better choices with sustainable alternatives. There is much more focus on the environment and the changes that we can make. Both with our lifestyle as well from ditching single-use plastics in those pesky plastic bottles on days out, to what you can do at home. The kitchen is one of those areas where we can make some changes that are better for the environment. So I wanted to share with you some of the eco-friendly swaps you can make in your kitchen.

Swap out the plastic wrap

One of the first things that you can consider is stopping the use of plastic wrap and plastic bags. Plastic wrap isn’t recyclable and isn’t something you can use again and again. You can make some easy swaps to things like beeswax wraps (made from beeswax-coated fabric) or even reusable containers or mason jars. Anywhere you are choosing a renewable resource is a great way to avoid plastic waste.

Taking reusable grocery bags to the grocery store, refilling glass bottles instead of plastic water bottles. Even stopping the use of plastic straws which are harmful to marine life. It's possible to find stainless steel straws or paper ones now. These are all eco-friendly alternatives to using products which have toxic chemicals and create plastic pollution.

Stop using kitchen paper in favour of reusable cloths

Kitchen paper is often seen in many kitchens but it isn’t the most eco-friendly thing that you can use. A great alternative could be to make the switch to reusable cloths that you can use time and time again rather than once and then throwing away. Kitchen paper isn’t often recycled and thrown away in general waste.

Invest in reusable containers

It is important to invest in reusable containers where possible. This is a great way to help you store things in your kitchen like leftovers or even organise your cupboards more effectively. Reusable containers can be made of glass or plastic and are a great investment to make.

Eco-friendly kitchen products

It might be time to start looking at some of the products you use in the kitchen and making the change to eco-friendly versions. You can pick up eco-friendly cleaning brushes or dish brushes, you can get eco-friendly cleaning products and use things like silicone utensils.

In packed lunches you could use paper bags for sandwiches instead of cling film or plastic ziplock bags. These are a great option for food storage for a day and are made from friendly materials rather than single-use plastic bags or wrap. Buy some reusable water bottles for all the family. We have a few now and we take them everywhere. Don't use disposable cutlery but buy some metal cutlery in the correct size for the adults and children in your household. These can then be used again and again on picnics or in lunch boxes.

Try to avoid disposable coffee cups by purchasing the best alternative, a lovely resuable cup from your favourite coffee shop. They make nice gifts and you often get a discount if you bring your own cup to the cafe.

Use refillable bottles for cleaning products

Another great way to be eco-friendly is to change the cleaning products that you use in your home and these are often used in your kitchen as well. Make up your own eco-friendly products and then use refillable glass jars or bottles to store them. It is an easy way to clean your home, it is affordable as well as environmentally friendly.

Biodegradable bags for food waste

Many of us throw out our food scraps and food waste into the bin but if possible using biodegradable bags for food waste means that you can recycle it properly. It can also be used for composting in the garden which can help your garden to grow.

Reusable straws

It is a small change but it can be quite significant, especially when you have children. Straws are often in the cupboard for drinks such as juice, milkshakes, and smoothies but if possible making the switch to reusable straws can be a great eco change.

Compost bucket

Finally, get a compost bucket in your kitchen instead of just using your general waste bin. Doing so means you have a dedicated spot for food scraps and waste that can be recycled properly or used as compost in your garden.

I hope these eco-swaps for your kitchen have inspired you to make some changes.