8 Plastic Kitchen Gadgets I’m Replacing

As a health-conscious person working in food media, I am painfully aware of the various studies that come out about the materials we use in the kitchen. In the last year, I’ve learned that black plastic spatulas likely leach a lot of microplastics into our food, and scientists have discovered them in the human brain (yikes!). Beyond that, after speaking to scientists, it’s confirmed that many items in our kitchen pose a risk, most of which contain plastic. 

Now, I am not the kind of person to immediately overhaul all of my things—who has the budget for that these days? It just so happens that I’m moving, and it’s the perfect opportunity to make a few swaps that could transform my kitchen. The good news is that most of these items are below $35, so it’s a little easier to do. (That’s what I’m telling myself, at least.) If you want to join me on this non-toxic journey, here are the plastic-free swaps I’ll be making.  

Ditching: Plastic Cutting Board

Grabbing: Bamboo Cutting Board 

Farberware Non-Slip Bamboo Cutting Board 

With this cutting board, I don’t have to sacrifice my two favorite features of my plastic board: During testing, we found that the grippy corners ensure the board never moves, is a huge highlight. While the tabs are plastic, my food won’t come in contact with them. The bamboo board is just half an inch thick, so it’s compact for storage, like my plastic model. Oh! It’s also only $16. 

Ditching: Plastic Wrap 

Grabbing: Reusable Wrap 

Bees Wrap Reusable Bees Wax Wrap Roll 

Unfortunately, plastic wrap will always be in my kitchen, but I would love to swap it out with this Bees Wrap alternative. I can use this to cover bowls, wrap up produce odds and ends, keep sandwiches fresh and so much more. Because it’s a roll, I can cut it to size. Plus, it’s reusable–I just need to wash each sheet with cold water and soap. 

Ditching: Single-Use Plastic Bags 

Grabbing: Silicone Bags 

Stasher Silicone Reusable Food Storage Bags, 2-Pack

Silicone is different and more durable than plastic and likely poses less risk of releasing microplastics. These Stasher bags are great because I can replace the plastic single-use versions. Since they’re reusable, they’ll save me money and time at the grocery store. When we tested these reusable bags, we found them incredibly sturdy with tight seals, keeping whatever we put in them fresh. Because of that, I know they’ll be reliable for the wide range of uses I already grab plastic bags for. 

Ditching: Plastic Produce Bags 

Grabbing: Cotton Produce Bags 

Organic Cotton Mart Reusable Produce Bags

Those plastic produce bags at the store are easy and convenient to use, but it’s time I stopped. Plastic aside, it’s wasteful. I live in New Jersey, where we have no choice but to bring our reusable shopping bags to the store because of an enacted law (I’m not complaining, I love this rule!), so why not add some produce bags into the mix? I plan to buy these cotton ones because they’re washable and reasonably priced. This set of six comes with three different-sized bags, which I appreciate. The drawstring at the top makes it easy to close but not impossible to re-open, which is another feature I love. 

Ditching: Quart and Pint Containers 

Grabbing: Glass Mason Jars 

Ball Wide Mouth Mason Jar Set 

Glass mason jars are a classic for a reason: They’re versatile, easy to wash and last for ages. Plus, the lid’s double seal keeps ingredients fresh. I plan to stock up on a few more, that way I have them on hand to use instead of quart and pint containers, whether I’m storing tomato sauce or packing away pantry grains. 

Ditching: Black Plastic Kitchen Utensils 

Grabbing: Silicone Utensil Set 

GIR Essentials All-Purpose Set

Another silicone option, this GIR set is a realistic replacement for black plastic kitchen utensils. It’ll provide the ease and softness of the plastic without the risk. I already own a spatula from GIR, and use it frequently because of its perfect balance of strength and flexibility. Plus, the design is streamlined and fuss-free to clean by hand. This set has five tools, including everyday essentials like a turner and a ladle. 

Ditching: Plastic Food Storage Containers 

Grabbing: Glass Food Storage Containers 

Pyrex Simply Store Glass Containers with Lids 

I love these glass containers and have a fresh set on the way! They’re just the best at-home storage option. They’re durable, stain- and odor-resistant and can go in the microwave. My favorite thing of all is how easy the lids are to clean. There are no gaskets, nooks or crannies—a wash with a sponge or brush gets it like new in a jiffy. There’s nothing less motivating than having containers that are so hard to clean; I think it’s why many of us reach for easier plastic containers. 

Ditching: Nonstick Pans 

Grabbing: Enameled Cast-Iron Pans 

Le Creuset Enameled Cast-Iron Braiser 

This is an investment, but one I am sure will be worth it. My favorite material to cook with is enameled cast-iron, and I want to replace more of my nonstick pieces with it. Not all nonstick is bad—the ones with Teflon and PFAs or PFOAs contain plastic. Enameled cast-iron retains heat, sears foods with a golden brown finish and it’s easy to clean. And I know Le Creuset is durable and long-lasting, because my family owns and still uses Dutch ovens from the brand that are over 20 years old. This braiser has all the elements I need: The surface area at the bottom is wide enough for searing. Thanks to its walls, I don’t need to worry about food flying out of the pan and can use it for sauces. Lastly, the domed lid gives me wiggle room for those moments when I pile in just a little too much kale.