A functional and organised kitchen goes a long way when trying to live a sustainable and healthy lifestyle: it’s where we prepare our meals, and the right tools can make our life easier and improve the quality of the food we eat.

Here are the top 10 swaps which will make your kitchen zero waste proof:

• next time you need washing liquid, buy washing pods or bars instead of plastic bottles, or choose a refillable option
• use compostable sponges and scourers
• reuse plastic containers you already own to store your food as long as they last; when you need to replace them, invest in durable glass, pyrex or stainless steel containers
• reuse empty jars to store spices etc.
• invest in some reusable non stick baking sheets to cook your food in the oven: you won’t need to buy disposable aluminum or baking paper anymore
• you can make cleaning wipes out of old clothes or sheets, instead of using paper towels; old socks are great for dusting.
• use bee waxed towels instead of cling film or foil to preserve food; or use our grandmothers’ technique and cover your food bowls with a plate.
• use packing bags you get when shopping, or paper bin liners as trash bags
• replace your paper napkins with fabric ones (similarly, you can use handkerchiefs instead of paper tissues).
• when you need to buy kitchen utensils, choose good quality ones, they are usually worth the initial investment.
• bring your reusable water bottle and coffee cup with you wherever you go – some coffee shops will even offer a discount on your drink if you bring your reusable cup!
• use reusable bags when grocery shopping, and when buying loose fruit and veg.
• do you really need those straws? If you do, there are reusable alternatives available.
• if you can, get your milk delivered in glass bottles.

What do you think of these eco swaps? Are you using any of these products in your kitchen? Let us know in the comments section below!