Chicago Home and Lifestyles – Tips for a green kitchen

1. Reduce paper towel use. It is easy to grab a paper towel to clean up spills and such in the kitchen, but a reusable cloth or sponge is more eco-friendly. Just make sure to wash them frequently. A rack is better than paper towels to drain food. 

2. Reduce aluminum foil use. Though recyclable, it’s not good to overuse it. I use foil as a spatter shield by the stove. I reuse it several times before recycling. Check out silicone mats to use instead of foil lining. They are washable and durable. 

3. Reuse ziploc bags. Ziploc bags are another kitchen staple. Our mothers and grandmothers would always reuse bags to save money, we can reuse them to save money and the planet. Silicone bags are reusable and durable. 

4. Save water. If you are in an area where saving water is important here are a few tips to help. Don’t leave water running when hand washing dishes. Reuse water used for washing produce to water plants. Only run the dishwasher when full, this saves water and energy.

5. Use smaller appliances when you can. Air fryers, microwaves, and toaster ovens use far less energy and won’t heat up the kitchen like the oven, reducing air conditioner use. Other ways to save energy include only preheating the oven, if necessary, like when baking. Most foods can be placed in a cold oven and use the energy heating up to start cooking.

6. Keep conscious about the food in your refrigerator and freezer. Rotate food to prevent waste. Reuse leftovers, this uses less energy when cooking fresh and reduces waste. Make sure your refrigerator is running properly and at the right temperature. Use a refrigerator thermometer. Clean the coils twice a year with your vacuum attachment. They are located underneath the front or on the back. 

7. Buy reusable coffee items like reusable pods and mesh filters for pots. You can even bring your own travel cup along when getting coffee out. Use a French press for the best coffee and no paper filters needed. 

8. Try to purchase locally whenever possible. This has many advantages. You are supporting the local economy, eating healthier and fresher, and reducing energy use bringing goods from far away. 

9. Use eco-friendly products when you can in the kitchen. There are many biodegradable products out now that are affordable and available. This reduces pollutants in the water table. 

Do you have any other tips to make our kitchens green?