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In the last article, we discussed why silicone isn’t always the best alternative to plastic. Sure, it leaches fewer chemicals, but it also never biodegrades and becomes another item clogging up our landfills.
To give you an idea of what you can use instead of silicone products. We created this list for your sustainable life to go to the next level.
Let us know if we didn’t mention your favorite silicone replacement product, and we make sure to add it to the list.
Swaps for the Kitchen
Silicone Spatula
The silicone spatula is my first silicone product which is unnecessary. There are beautiful wooden or bamboo ones, and this stainless steel one has a hollow handle, so you don’t get burned. What’s not to like?
Stainless Steel Spatula
Stasher Bag
It’s not always black and white when it comes to living plastic-free. Stasher bags pop up in every zero waste shop nowadays, and while they might come in quite handy and are the better alternative than Ziploc bags. I would still opt for a steel container, or if I bring a sandwich, I wrap it in beeswax wrap and in these cool-looking organic cotton bags from ecolunchbox. Easy peasy. But if you need to do a lot of freezing foods, then perhaps the stasher bags will work quite well for you.
Beeswax Wrap
Lunch Bag
Silicone Muffin Tray
Yikes, I wouldn’t want my brownies to be cooking in this stuff. Easy zero waste swap. A standard muffin tray.
Stainless Steel Muffin Tray
Related: The 5 R’s of sustainable life and zero waste living.
Silicone Oven Mittens
Total no-brainer. Standard mittens aren’t even made from natural fabrics anymore, but why have they been made out of silicone?
Oven Mittens
Silicone Tea Infuser
Yeah, sure, they are cute, and that’s what the advertisers count on. They don’t mention the fact that you might mix your tea with some chemicals. Just use the stainless steel ones. Much healthier.
Stainless Steel Tea Infuser
For your baby
Silicone Oven Mittens
Hey, I must admit, those adorable tea infusers can be quite tempting, and that’s exactly what the advertisers want, right? But here’s something to consider: have you ever thought about the possibility of mixing your tea with unwanted chemicals? Well, worry not! I’ve got a solution for you. Why not opt for reliable and health-conscious stainless steel infusers instead? They not only make a stylish choice but also ensure a healthier tea-drinking experience. We just had a baby girl, yay. I was shocked to see how much plastic there is in all the baby products. Be it the bottle or the pacifier. Luckily you can get them from natural rubber, like the one from natursutten. Definite zero waste swap. With the bottles, I am using the klean kanteen baby bottle or a glass bottle with latex nipple.
Pacifier
For the Lady
Diva Cup
Let me introduce you to a game-changer: the diva cup! When it comes to finding an excellent alternative to pads, silicone truly comes in handy. This remarkable cup is crafted from medical-grade silicone, ensuring both safety and comfort. And guess what? It even has the stamp of approval from zerowasteman (or should we say his wife)! So, say goodbye to traditional pads and embrace this friendly, eco-conscious solution that will revolutionize your experience. There you have our list of the most useless silicone products that you don’t need. Sure the diva cup is perhaps the best product out there that is zero waste and a much better alternative than tampons, but then I am not the expert when it comes to lady care products.
For the Bathroom
Silicone Tea Infuser
This is essentially a massive toothbrush that will circulate the earth for millennia. The wooden version looks and feels much more luxurious.
Back Brush
For the Phone
Silicone Phone Case
While I actually prefer my phone without a case. I understand that a lot of people want to protect their phones. Luckily, a company called Pela makes great biodegradable phone cases for most phones out there. So definitely check this one out.
Good afternoon Hendrik,
You are quite right, these products are nearly all silly and unnecessary. There are so many good and natural products which can substitute all this nonsense. I suppose that companies break their heads trying to invent again a new product to boost their sales. Back to natural products that do not contaminate our environment. Thank you for keeping us informed.
Regards, Taetske