Less Waste, More Charm: Ditch the Disposables in Your Kitchen
Starting fresh in a new year is the perfect time to look for ways we can live better. Switching to more sustainable options is often on the list of resolutions, which often goes hand-in-hand with other goals like saving money and staying organized!
While sustainable living can feel overwhelming at times, experts agree that small steps really do make a difference. Let’s start in the kitchen with those pesky disposable plates, cups, and cutlery!
Plastic vs. Paper vs. Foam
Disposable options are vast, and the effect they have on the environment varies. Experts state that polystyrene, or foam, is especially harsh on our planet. Did you know it can take an estimated 500 years for foam cups and plates to decompose in a landfill?
All disposable options, whether paper, plastic, or foam, are manufactured using huge quantities of water and energy, and in most cases, harsh chemicals. And, many times, even paper plates and bowls can’t be recycled because of food stains.
You might be wondering about the water used to wash reusable dishes. How do they stack up? Experts agree, although you use water to wash reusable dishes, the cost per use of our natural resources is no comparison to disposables. Reusable dishes are definitely the way to go!
Cost Effectiveness
When you break down your choices in dollars and cents, reusable dishes come out on top yet again. Even better, if you gather your dishes, glasses, and silverware at an Ohio Valley Goodwill thrift store, your expenses are greatly reduced.
Using thrifted dishes saves you money, saves on manufacturing waste, and saves items from the landfill. It just makes sense!
Bring on the Charm
Choosing thrifted dishes comes with an added bonus: instant eye candy! Designers suggest choosing a theme for your dish set, whether it’s a color scheme or pattern when choosing your dishes. Mismatched vintage dishes are beautiful and versatile, and will certainly add a layer of sophistication and playfulness to your dinner table.
From mugs to plates, bowls, pots and pans, and more, you can find it all at Goodwill! You can even pick up kitchen organization items at your local Cincinnati Goodwill retail store, such as utensil holders, drawer organizers, and shelves. Plus, a recent study concluded that the right cutlery and dishes can actually trick your brain into making food taste better. Talk about a win-win!
Shop at Goodwill for a Sustainable 2023!
It’s time to find your next dining room showpiece. Search for your nearest Ohio Valley Goodwill thrift store and start your search for stylish, reusable dishes to bring interest and sustainability to your next meal.
