The kitchen is one of the easiest places to start cutting plastic and reducing everyday waste. You don't need to overhaul your entire routine — a few smart swaps can make a meaningful difference over time. Here's where to begin.
Replaces paper towels
Swedish Dishcloth
One Swedish dishcloth replaces up to 17 rolls of paper towels. Made from natural cellulose and cotton, they're super absorbent, dry quickly, and last 6-12 months. Toss them in the dishwasher or washing machine to refresh — and compost them when done.
Replaces liquid dish soap
Dish Block Soap
Liquid dish soap is mostly water in a plastic bottle. A solid dish block is concentrated, packaging-free, and cuts through grease just as well. Simply wet your brush and rub it on the block. One bar outlasts 2–3 plastic bottles.
Replaces plastic sponges
Wood & Sisal Dish Brush
Plastic sponges harbour bacteria and fall apart fast. A wood-handled brush with natural sisal bristles lasts far longer, dries quickly between uses, and is easier to handle. Many have replaceable heads — swap just the bristles, not the whole brush.
Replaces plastic pods or jugs
Plastic-Free Dishwasher Detergent
Skip the plastic jug or individually wrapped pods. Switch to a powder detergent in a cardboard box, or plastic-free dishwasher pods. Powder is often more cost-effective per wash, gives you dose control, and comes in fully recyclable packaging.
Shop all of our plastic-free, zero-waste essentials
More kitchen upgrades worth making
Beeswax wrap
A reusable, washable swap for cling film. Molds to bowls and covers cut produce naturally.
Glass spray bottle
Refill with concentrated cleaning tablets or a DIY solution like vinegar. Eliminates single-use cleaner bottles.
Reusable produce bags
Lightweight mesh bags for grocery runs — no more thin plastic bags in the produce aisle.
Compost bin
A small countertop bin sends food scraps to compost instead of landfill — easy and low-odor.
Loose-leaf tea & coffee
Skip plastic-wrapped tea bags and pods. A reusable strainer or French press does the job beautifully.
Bar soap for hands
A simple, long-lasting swap for the plastic hand soap pump by the sink. Often lasts twice as long.