5 Sustainable Swaps for a Zero-Waste Kitchen

Are you ready to ditch plastic and make your kitchen more eco-friendly? Switching to a zero-waste kitchen doesn’t happen overnight, but with a few simple swaps, you can cut down on single-use plastics, reduce food waste and create a healthier home.

Here are five easy, sustainable swaps to help you get started:

1. Swap Plastic Wrap for Reusable Lidded Serveware

Instead of cling film or plastic wrap, choose eco-friendly serveware with lids made from 100% recycled plastic. Not only does it keep your food fresh, but it also eliminates the need for disposable wraps.

We love the vibrant, sustainable range from Put A Lid On It—locally made in Sydney from FDA-approved recycled plastic. Perfect for leftovers, meal prep, or storing snacks, these airtight containers are dishwasher-safe, freezer-safe, and built to last.

Bonus: When you're ready to retire them, you can send them back to be recycled again!

2. Swap Paper Towels for Reusable Cloths

Paper towels are convenient, but they create a surprising amount of waste. Try switching to reusable kitchen cloths. They’re absorbent and washable, saving money and the environment.

Use them for spills, wiping surfaces or even as napkins for a plastic-free dining table.

3. Swap Plastic Scrubbers for Natural Brushes

Traditional dish sponges and scrubbers are often made from plastic and shed microplastics into waterways. A better alternative? Wooden dish brushes with plant-based bristles or compostable sponges.

They work just as well (if not better), and once they’ve reached the end of their life, they can be composted rather than sent to landfill.

4. Swap Ziplock Bags for Silicone or Cloth Food Pouches

Ziplock bags are handy, but they’re not sustainable. Try reusable silicone food bags or cloth snack pouches for storing snacks, sandwiches or leftovers.

They’re leak-proof, washable and perfect for reducing plastic waste in lunchboxes, fridges and freezers.

5. Swap Plastic Bottles for Refillable Glass Jars

Instead of buying sauces, dressings or pantry staples in plastic containers, consider using glass jars and shopping at bulk stores or farmers’ markets.

Refill them with dry goods, spices or liquids and label them for easy organisation. It’s a simple swap that makes your kitchen look beautiful and reduces packaging waste.

Small Swaps, Big Impact

A zero-waste kitchen doesn’t mean perfection—it’s about making small, mindful choices that reduce waste over time. Whether you’re swapping out plastic wrap for reusable container's with lids or replacing paper towels with cloth, every change counts.

Ready to start? Explore our Put A Lid On It collection to find sustainable, Australian-made serveware that helps you store food without plastic.

Let’s put a lid on food waste—one colourful container at a time!