{"id":363,"date":"2019-10-24T08:25:40","date_gmt":"2019-10-24T08:25:40","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/healthylifestyletips365.com\/?p=363"},"modified":"2019-10-24T08:25:43","modified_gmt":"2019-10-24T08:25:43","slug":"15-unique-tips-for-a-greener-kitchen-number-12-will-surprise-you","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/healthylifestyletips365.com\/15-unique-tips-for-a-greener-kitchen-number-12-will-surprise-you\/","title":{"rendered":"15 Unique Tips for a Greener Kitchen (Number 12 Will Surprise You!)"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/soundbodylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/15-Unique-Tips-for-a-Greener-Kitchen.png\" alt=\"15 Unique Tips for a Greener Kitchen\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>From recycling and keeping an eye on plastic consumption, to all-natural products and foods, many of us are doing all we can to reduce our environmental footprint. If you\u2019re looking for even more ways to go green, a great place to look is in the kitchen!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The kitchen is the hub in many of our lives and provides quite a few ways to be more environmentally conscious. Try incorporating some of the following eco-savvy ideas into your life in the kitchen, and see how good it feels to go a little greener. Lets take a look at 15 tips for a greener kitchen:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>1. Cut Down on Your Use of Plastic<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/soundbodylife.com\/category\/home\/green-products\/\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/soundbodylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/Cut-Down-on-Your-Use-of-Plastic.png\" alt=\"Cut Down on Your Use of Plastic\" class=\"wp-image-1827\"\/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Take a look in your kitchen and see how much plastic you find. You might be surprised! We think we\u2019re doing the best we can by recycling, but recycling only goes so far.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Recycling plastic is problematic. The numbers on plastic containers (#1-#6) all signify different types of plastic which have to be recycled separately. If they aren\u2019t, the whole recycling batch can be ruined. What\u2019s more, much of the plastic you think your local recycling company is taking care of is shipped overseas to China, which significantly contributes to the use of fossil fuels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you really want to go green, it\u2019s time to rethink your plastic consumption and start cutting down on the amount of plastic you use. This is pretty heavy when you consider we\u2019ve become accustomed to the following items in the kitchen that are all contained in plastic:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>Juice<\/li><li>Soda<\/li><li>Water<\/li><li>Milk<\/li><li>Nut-Butters<\/li><li>Condiments<\/li><li>Yogurt<\/li><li>Cheese<\/li><li>Eggs<\/li><li>Single-Use Snacks<\/li><li>Pasta<\/li><li>Chips, Crackers, and Cookies<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Many of these plastics aren\u2019t recyclable, and contribute to the almost 200 pounds of plastic the average American throws away each year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Cutting down on your plastic consumption is a huge commitment, but can be done. You can start by avoiding items that are packaged in plastic. For all the things you buy that are packaged in plastic, there are usually alternatives that can be found in glass, metal, or cardboard.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What else can you do?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>Stop drinking bottled water.<\/li><li>Buy your food in bulk.<\/li><li>Make your own cookies.<\/li><li>Make your own condiments.<\/li><li>Store leftovers in glass or\u00a0stainless steel containers.<\/li><li>Use\u00a0aluminum foil\u00a0instead of plastic wrap.<\/li><li>Buy cheese and meats at the deli counter and have them wrapped in parchment paper.<\/li><li>Buy eggs in cardboard containers.<\/li><li>Buy eggs at your local farmer\u2019s market and store them out of the fridge in a basket.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>With a bit of planning and work, these are just a handful of ways to cut down on your use of plastic in the kitchen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>2. Ditch Paper Towels<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/soundbodylife.com\/category\/home\/green-products\/\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/soundbodylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/Ditch-Paper-Towels.png\" alt=\"Ditch Paper Towels\" class=\"wp-image-1828\"\/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>To make one ton of paper towels, 17 trees are cut down and 20,000 gallons of water are used. Americans throw away 3,000 tons of paper towels every single day, and when those paper towels in the landfill start to decompose, they let off methane gas, the number one contributor to global warming.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Think it\u2019s time you rethink your paper towel habit? Us too. Some awesome alternatives to paper towels include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>Fabric Cloths<\/li><li>Towels<\/li><li>Rags<\/li><li>\u201cUnpaper Towels\u201d (there are tons to choose from on Etsy)<\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/soundbodylife.com\/product\/B00094EWE2\/US\/soundbodyli0f-20\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Recycled Paper Towels<\/a>&nbsp;(made from recycled paper and 100% compostable)<\/li><li>Newspaper (does a fantastic job of cleaning windows)<\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/soundbodylife.com\/product\/B00UGJ2XR8\/US\/soundbodyli0f-20\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">SKOY Towels<\/a>&nbsp;(one cloth is equivalent to 15 rolls of paper towels)<\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/soundbodylife.com\/product\/B00G4K0ECO\/US\/soundbodyli0f-20\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Full Circle Clean Again Towels<\/a>&nbsp;(they look just like paper towels, can absorb up to 7 times their weight, and are machine washable)<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>With so many eco-friendly options, there\u2019s little reason to purchase paper towels again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Full Circle Clean Again Towels \u2013 SoundBodyLife Approved<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/soundbodylife.com\/product\/B00G4K0ECO\/US\/soundbodyli0f-20\/?cart=n\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/soundbodylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/515Pe1lpX-L.jpg\" alt=\"\"\/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>3. Get Rid of Single Use Plates and Utensils<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/soundbodylife.com\/category\/home\/green-products\/\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/soundbodylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/Get-Rid-of-Single-Use-Plates-and-Utensils.png\" alt=\"Get Rid of Single Use Plates and Utensils\" class=\"wp-image-1829\"\/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Paper plates and plastic serving utensils have long been popular and convenient alternatives to regular plates and utensils. All the waste that is produced by these convenient items, however, ends up in landfills, contributing to the colossal waste problem already present.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>What to do? Stop using them. Take ten extra minutes to do the dishes. If you need plates for a party or picnic, there are environmentally-friendly alternatives made of\u00a0bamboo,\u00a0palm leaf, potato, and cornstarch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Natural Palm Leaf Dinnerware Set \u2013 SoundBodyLife Approved<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/soundbodylife.com\/15-unique-tips-for-a-greener-kitchen\/#\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/soundbodylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/51ITGr1wUYL.jpg\" alt=\"\"\/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>4. Invest in a Water Filter<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/soundbodylife.com\/category\/home\/green-products\/\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/soundbodylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/Invest-in-a-Water-Filter.png\" alt=\"Invest in a Water Filter\" class=\"wp-image-1830\"\/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>People in the United States go through 1,500 water bottles per second, every single day. Of the 50 million bottles of water that are purchased each year, 80% end up in a landfill, and producing them requires over 17 million barrels of oil.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you frequently purchase bottled water, consider investing in a\u00a0water filter for your kitchen sink. It will supply you with all the clean drinking water you could possibly need. It\u2019s also great for the environment\u00a0<em>and<\/em>\u00a0your wallet. Purchase an\u00a0aluminum water bottle\u00a0(which also cuts down on your plastic consumption and health risks) and fill it up as many times throughout the day you wish.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water Filter for Kitchen Sink \u2013 SoundBodyLife Approved<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/soundbodylife.com\/product\/B0009CEKY6\/US\/soundbodyli0f-20\/?cart=n\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/soundbodylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/41qkAWmdXAL.jpg\" alt=\"\"\/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>5. Conserve Water When Doing Dishes<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/soundbodylife.com\/category\/home\/green-products\/\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/soundbodylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/Conserve-Water-When-Doing-Dishes.png\" alt=\"Conserve Water When Doing Dishes\" class=\"wp-image-1832\"\/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Despite its convenience, using a dishwasher wastes more water than simply doing dishes by hand. On average, a load of dishes takes one gallon of water to wash by hand, and fifteen gallons to wash using the dishwasher.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Get in the habit of conserving water when doing the dishes by filling up a basin (or one side of the sink) with soapy dishwater. Instead of letting the water run continuously when washing, do them all first and then rinse. If you have to use a dishwasher, use it only for full loads to conserve as much water as possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>6. Grow Your Own Herbs<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/soundbodylife.com\/category\/home\/green-products\/\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/soundbodylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/Grow-Your-Own-Herbs.png\" alt=\"Grow Your Own Herbs\" class=\"wp-image-1831\"\/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>There\u2019s nothing quite like fresh, homegrown herbs to cook with. By growing your own, you eliminate the need for fresh herbs packaged in plastic. Growing your own herbs in a kitchen window is easy, rewarding, and will cut down tremendously on packaging consumption.<ins><\/ins><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Fresh herbs purchased at the store are often bundled in plastic, and are often fairly expensive. By growing your own, you\u2019ll save cash and save your local landfill from any unnecessary waste. Chives, basil, mint, parsley, oregano, and thyme are all super easy to grow, and will yield an abundant supply of herbs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>7. Shop Local<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/soundbodylife.com\/category\/home\/green-products\/\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/soundbodylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/Shop-Local.png\" alt=\"Shop Local\" class=\"wp-image-1833\"\/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>You may have heard about the benefits of shopping local, but have you thought about&nbsp;<em>why<\/em>&nbsp;buying local goods is so popular amongst eco-savvy shoppers?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The food you buy so readily available at the store has all been produced by huge food companies. Their food production methods are a far cry from how you think your food is actually produced, pollute soil and land, and waste fossil fuels being transported to your grocery store. According to the National Sustainable Agricultural Information Service, processed food travels an average of 1,300 miles. That fresh tomato? Not so fresh. The distance your food travels isn\u2019t the only factor in pollution. 83% of the food industry\u2019s greenhouse gas emissions comes from harvesting and production methods.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Shopping local is vital when looking for more ways to add more eco-awareness into your life. What are some ways you can do this?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>Buy your honey from a local bee-keeper.<\/li><li>If you\u2019re a meat eater, find out where you can purchase local beef, chicken, and pork.<\/li><li>Get your produce at the farmer\u2019s market.<\/li><li>Start a small backyard garden and grow your own vegetables<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Whenever you have the option to buy locally produced food items, you should do so. \u00a0While it may cost a bit more, it\u2019s worth it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>8. Get Rid of Toxic Cleaning Products<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/soundbodylife.com\/category\/home\/green-products\/\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/soundbodylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/Get-Rid-of-Toxic-Cleaning-Products.png\" alt=\"Get Rid of Toxic Cleaning Products\" class=\"wp-image-1834\"\/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Those cleaning products you may keep under your kitchen sink happen to be full of toxic ingredients, such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li><strong>Phthalates<\/strong><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Phthalates (the ph is silent) are known endocrine disruptors that are commonly used in products like dish soap. Phthalates are present in the residue left on dishes after washing, and are a poison that can enter your body. What\u2019s worse is that companies don\u2019t even have to label phthalates on their ingredients, so they could be there even if you don\u2019t see them listed. Stay away from anything with \u201cfragrance\u201d and opt for\u00a0all-natural dish soap that can be purchased online, at health-food stores, and some major grocery chains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>All Natural Dish Soap \u2013 SoundBodyLife Approved<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/soundbodylife.com\/15-unique-tips-for-a-greener-kitchen\/#\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/soundbodylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/51-zcTmdwIL.jpg\" alt=\"\"\/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul><li><strong>Triclosan<\/strong><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Found in common kitchen cleaners like anti-bacterial soap and liquid dishwashing detergent, triclosan is thought to be a possible carcinogen and may be an endocrine disruptor as well. The hand sanitizer you\u2019re using may actually be promoting the growth of drug-resistant bacteria.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li><strong>2-Butoxyethanol<\/strong><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>This ether-based ingredient is found in window cleaners and most multi-purpose kitchen cleaners. High levels of this toxic substance can cause pulmonary edema and severe liver and kidney damage. It\u2019s also known to cause sore throats when inhaled. Stay away from those widely-available multi-purpose kitchen cleaners and tend to your windows with diluted vinegar instead.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Diluted Vinegar \u2013 SoundBodyLife Approved<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><a href=\"https:\/\/soundbodylife.com\/product\/B00NPPCJ2O\/US\/soundbodyli0f-20\/?cart=n\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/soundbodylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/31Ifjyb7wbL.jpg\" alt=\"\"\/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<ul><li><strong>Ammonia<\/strong><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Ammonia, commonly found in window cleaners, is a powerful irritant. Those who use ammonia based products on a regular basis often develop asthma and chronic bronchitis. It is especially dangerous to children with developing immune systems, and amongst elderly people with lung issues. People with asthma are also particularly sensitive to ammonia.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li><strong>Sodium Hydroxide<\/strong><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>This dangerous chemical (also known as lye) is found in oven cleaners and drain openers. If it comes in contact with your skin or gets in your eyes, you can suffer terrible burns. If you inhale this toxic substance you\u2019re likely to have a sore throat that lasts for days. An alternative is baking soda paste, which will clean even the dirtiest of ovens. Baking soda and vinegar can also be used to unclog stubborn drains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ditching these kitchen cleaning doesn\u2019t have be expensive: there are many natural cleaners available that use plant-based solvents, or you can always opt to make your own.\u00a0Baking soda,\u00a0vinegar, and\u00a0castile soap\u00a0are all awesome natural cleaning agents that definitely won\u2019t break the bank.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>All Natural Cleaner \u2013 SoundBodyLife Approved<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/soundbodylife.com\/product\/B00NIYV78O\/US\/soundbodyli0f-20\/?cart=n\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/soundbodylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/51CPD0MEwnL.jpg\" alt=\"\"\/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>9. Buy in Bulk<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/soundbodylife.com\/category\/home\/green-products\/\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/soundbodylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/Buy-in-Bulk.png\" alt=\"Buy in Bulk\" class=\"wp-image-1841\"\/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Buying your food in bulk significantly reduces waste that ends up in landfills, and mitigates the environmental harm that comes from producing it, and can often be cheaper: on average, purchasing organic foods in bulk is almost 90% less expensive than buying pre-packaged organic foods.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Buying in bulk is also much better for your health. The amount of foods packaged in containers containing BPA is overwhelming. When you buy in bulk you eliminate these toxins from coming in contact with your food.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The amount of food that\u2019s available to purchase in bulk is extensive and includes:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>Brown Rice<\/li><li>Quinoa<\/li><li>Popcorn<\/li><li>Pasta<\/li><li>Beans<\/li><li>Spices<\/li><li>Granola<\/li><li>Cereal<\/li><li>Flour<\/li><li>Sugar<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019ve never taken the time to shop in the bulk section of your local grocery or market, consider making a trip down that aisle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>10. Reuse Glass Jars<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/soundbodylife.com\/category\/home\/green-products\/\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/soundbodylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/Reuse-Glass-Jars.png\" alt=\"Reuse Glass Jars\" class=\"wp-image-1840\"\/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Think of how many items you purchase on a regular basis that\u00a0come in glass containers. From sauces to condiments to jelly jars and salsa, much of the food you purchase is in a glass jar. Instead of recycling or throwing away these glass jars, make it a point to wash them when their contents are done, and reuse them for various things around the kitchen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>All that food you\u2019re now buying in bulk has to go somewhere, right? When you reuse your glass jars you\u2019ll have somewhere to put it. They\u2019re also great for a number of other uses around the house and make a great alternative to plastic food storage containers. Put your leftovers in a glass jar rather than a plastic container and you\u2019ll be doing one more thing to help your health&nbsp;<em>and<\/em>&nbsp;the environment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Glass Containers \u2013 SoundBodyLife Approved<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/soundbodylife.com\/product\/B00LN810PM\/US\/soundbodyli0f-20\/?cart=n\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/soundbodylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/510yb2N-bML.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"479\" height=\"479\"\/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>11. Start a Compost Bin<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/soundbodylife.com\/category\/home\/green-products\/\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/soundbodylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/Start-a-Compost-Bin.png\" alt=\"Start a Compost Bin\" class=\"wp-image-1839\"\/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>The typical household throws away almost 500 pounds of food a year. In fact, food waste accounts for the third largest portion of all waste generated next to paper and plastic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re ready to do more, starting a compost bin is a huge step forward. All that food waste in your kitchen doesn\u2019t need to go in the garbage. Starting kitchen compost is easy and will save hundreds of pounds of your food scraps from ending up in landfills each year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Starting a compost bin isn\u2019t hard, is a commitment. When it becomes a part of your everyday kitchen routine, however, you\u2019ll find how easy it can be. The following foods can all stay far from your local landfill by being composted in the comfort of your own home:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>All vegetables and fruits (even if they\u2019re moldy)<\/li><li>Bread<\/li><li>Pasta<\/li><li>Crackers<\/li><li>Grains (rice, quinoa, barley, etc)<\/li><li>Egg Shells<\/li><li>Coffee Grounds<\/li><li>Tea Bags<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Meat, fish, dairy products, bones, and grease or oil of any kind should be kept out of the compost. Meat will attract maggots (definitely not something you want) and adding any of these items will cause imbalance to the nutrient-rich structure of the other food waste.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There are a number of different ways to compost even if you don\u2019t have a ton of extra space, with a number of different bin sizes and types available.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Compost Bin \u2013 SoundBodyLife Approved<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/soundbodylife.com\/product\/B00FM0GLLK\/US\/soundbodyli0f-20\/?cart=n\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/soundbodylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/stainless-steel-compost-bin.jpg\" alt=\"stainless steel compost bin\" class=\"wp-image-1844\"\/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>12. Keep The Fridge and Freezer Full<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/soundbodylife.com\/category\/home\/green-products\/\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/soundbodylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/Keep-The-Fridge-and-Freezer-Full.png\" alt=\"Keep The Fridge and Freezer Full\" class=\"wp-image-1838\"\/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re looking to save a few dollars on your utility bills, consider keeping your refrigerator and freezer stocked full. When the freezer is full and the fridge is good and stocked, the energy used to keep your foods cold is regulated, and needs less power to maintain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you don\u2019t have the food to fill your fridge and freezer, consider putting bags of ice in the freezer or pitchers of cold water in the refrigerator. As long as you keep things 2\/3 full, you\u2019ll be doing a big part to cut down on excess energy consumption.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>13. Save Energy While You Cook<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/soundbodylife.com\/category\/home\/green-products\/\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/soundbodylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/Save-Energy-While-You-Cook.png\" alt=\"Save Energy While You Cook\" class=\"wp-image-1837\"\/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Whether you\u2019re cooking on a gas or an electric stove, we use a lot of energy when we cook. One pot boils water, a pan saut\u00e9s veggies, another pot cooks rice, and dessert is in the oven. As long as we\u2019re cooking and baking we\u2019re consuming energy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Short of going raw, here are some things you can do to save energy in the kitchen while you cook:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li><strong>Put a Lid on It<\/strong><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Putting a lid on pots and pans when you cook will save the amount of time it takes to cook them, and therefore use less energy. Water boils faster with a lid, and food cooks faster with a lid on the pot or pan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li><strong>Turn Off the Heat<\/strong><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Try turning the heat off a few minutes before what you\u2019re cooking is done. The pot or pan will be warm enough to continue cooking the food thoroughly, and you\u2019ll save a few minutes\u2019 worth of unrenewable energy. While it may not seem like much, it adds up, and makes a big difference in your energy consumption.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li><strong>Prep Food Before You Cook It<\/strong><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019ve gotten in the habit of turning the pan on\u00a0<em>before<\/em>\u00a0chopping veggies to saut\u00e9, it\u2019s time to think again. Preparing ingredients beforehand will save a great deal of energy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>14. Cook and Bake with Eco-Friendly Kitchen-Ware<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/soundbodylife.com\/category\/home\/green-products\/\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/soundbodylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/Cook-and-Bake-with-Eco-Friendly-Kitchen-Ware.png\" alt=\"Cook and Bake with Eco-Friendly Kitchen-Ware\" class=\"wp-image-1836\"\/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>While non-stick pans such as Teflon are convenient, you\u2019re doing your health more harm than good by using them. The fumes released by Teflon when cooking are toxic at high temperatures, and have been shown to kill pet birds and cause flu-like symptoms in humans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You may be surprised at how much of your kitchenware is finished with chemicals that leach into your food and environment. From cupcake tins and cookie sheets, to non-stick frying and baking pans, we\u2019ve all got our fair-share of chemically coated cookware.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Switch out the cookware that may be posing harm to your health and replace it with\u00a0stainless-steel, glass, green non-stick cookware, ceramic, and cast-iron. While it would cost a fortune to do this all at once, try replacing one item a month with a greener alternative.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Stainless Steel Pans \u2013 SoundBodyLife Approved<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/soundbodylife.com\/product\/B00MU2LR9O\/US\/soundbodyli0f-20\/?cart=n\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/soundbodylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/51oZRPb3roL.jpg\" alt=\"\"\/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>15. Invest in Energy Efficient Appliances<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/soundbodylife.com\/category\/home\/green-products\/\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/soundbodylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/Invest-in-Energy-Efficient-Appliances.png\" alt=\"Invest in Energy Efficient Appliances\" class=\"wp-image-1835\"\/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Kitchen appliances are responsible for much of your energy use. If you\u2019re a homeowner with the resources to invest in new appliances, making the switch to energy-saving appliances with the\u00a0Energy Star Label\u00a0could significantly cut down on your energy use.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019ve got older appliances in your home, the advanced technology in newer models helps to conserve energy, cut down on greenhouse emissions, and in the long run will save you money. Refrigerators, freezers, dishwashers, washers, and dryers\u00a0are all now available in energy-efficient models\u00a0and are a great way to go a little greener.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>It\u2019s Easy Being Greener<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Taking your eco-conscious actions a step further by adopting some of these habits in the kitchen is an excellent way to do more. Many of these tips are easy to add into your daily routine, and when put together will make a serious impact. What are some of the ways you choose to go a little greener? Let us know in the comments below!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>From recycling and keeping an eye on plastic consumption, to all-natural products and foods, many of us are doing all we can to reduce our environmental footprint. If you\u2019re looking for even more ways to go green, a great place to look is in the kitchen! The kitchen is the hub in many of our &#8230; <a title=\"15 Unique Tips for a Greener Kitchen (Number 12 Will Surprise You!)\" class=\"read-more\" href=\"https:\/\/healthylifestyletips365.com\/15-unique-tips-for-a-greener-kitchen-number-12-will-surprise-you\/\" aria-label=\"More on 15 Unique Tips for a Greener Kitchen (Number 12 Will Surprise You!)\">Read more<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[17],"tags":[],"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"jetpack_featured_media_url":"","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/healthylifestyletips365.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/363"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/healthylifestyletips365.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/healthylifestyletips365.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/healthylifestyletips365.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/healthylifestyletips365.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=363"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/healthylifestyletips365.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/363\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/healthylifestyletips365.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=363"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/healthylifestyletips365.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=363"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/healthylifestyletips365.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=363"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}