Kitchen

Key Takeaways Biodegradable garbage bags can leave microplastics behind, while compostable bags (ASTM D6400, BPI certified) fully break down into safe, natural materials. Composting facilities decompose bags in weeks, but in landfills they can last for decades and sometimes never fully break down. Plant-based materials like cornstarch or sugarcane, combined with certifications such as OK…

Key Takeaways Health experts say aluminum pans are generally safe for healthy adults, with only small amounts of metal leaching into food. Leaching is more likely with acidic or salty foods, long cooking times, and scratched or worn pans. Hard-anodized aluminum pans provide a safer, non-reactive surface that minimizes exposure. If you cook at home,…

Key Takeaways Food-grade silicone is safe for everyday cooking when used within normal oven and baking temperatures. Quality matters — low-grade silicone with fillers can leach more chemicals, especially with greasy foods. Silicone isn’t biodegradable, but it’s reusable and can replace hundreds of disposable items like foil or parchment paper. Care tips: avoid open flames,…

The kitchen may be the heart of the home, but it’s also where everyday frustrations show up. Leftovers lose their crunch, pans get scorched, and glasses come out of the dishwasher looking cloudy. Over time, these little problems pile up and make cooking feel less enjoyable. The good news is that most of these challenges…

Key Takeaways Hand-washing wooden utensils with warm, soapy water keeps them clean and crack-free. Deodorize naturally with lemon or baking soda instead of harsh chemicals. Regular oiling with food-grade mineral oil or beeswax preserves wood and prevents splintering. How to Clean Wooden Cooking Utensils is simpler than you might think: wash them by hand with…

Key Takeaways The best glass food storage containers are free of chemicals and microplastics, unlike plastic alternatives. Glass containers are durable, oven- and microwave-safe, and won’t absorb odors or stains. Choosing glass makes meal prep easier, keeps food tasting fresh, and supports a lower-waste kitchen. Plastic containers may be cheap and convenient, but they come…

Key Takeaways Plastic-free water bottles avoid chemicals like BPA and microplastics, keeping your water clean and safe. Options like stainless steel and glass provide better taste, strong durability, and a healthier alternative to plastic. Investing in a reusable plastic-free bottle helps reduce waste and saves money long-term. If you’re tired of contributing to the 1…

Key Takeaways Reverse osmosis systems remove up to 99% of PFAS, heavy metals, and microplastics. Top picks for 2025 include AquaTru, Waterdrop, and APEC—each proven for clean taste and efficiency. RO filters save money over bottled water and prevent thousands of plastic bottles from ending up in landfills. I never used to think twice about…

Key Takeaways A plastic-free coffee maker helps you avoid exposure to chemicals like BPA and microplastics in your daily brew. Choosing stainless steel, glass, or ceramic designs ensures your coffee stays pure and flavorful. Making the switch to a plastic-free coffee maker also reduces single-use waste and supports a more sustainable lifestyle. I used to…

Using a microwave cover is essential for splatter protection and even heating, but traditional plastic microwave plate covers pose serious health risks and environmental concerns. Plastic covers can release toxic chemicals, such as BPA and phthalates, as well as microplastic particles, into your food when heated, thereby contributing to plastic pollution and harming the ecosystem….

Food waste is one of the most overlooked environmental challenges of our time. In the United States alone, approximately 40% of food ends up in landfills, where it generates methane, a greenhouse gas 25 times more potent than carbon dioxide.1 For eco-conscious households seeking practical solutions, traditional barriers to composting have been significant: the need…

Key Takeaways Many commercial tea bags release billions of microplastic particles when steeped in boiling water. Watch out for materials like polypropylene, nylon, and PLA — they can shed plastics or fail to compost at home. Loose-leaf tea or certified plastic-free bags made from cotton or uncoated paper offer a cleaner, safer brew. You might…