Recently, I have been reading more about zero waste and it really has me re-evaluating my life and how I can do more for our planet. Zero waste isn’t hard but I do find that requires a different way of thinking. So here I am trying to adopt some easy swaps into my life.
First up is single use plastics. There is just so much waste from one time use plastics so I really wanted to start eliminating food packaging wherever possible. In fact, the UK is set to ban all sales of single-use plastics like straws and plastic bags. It’s estimated that 13 million tonnes of plastic items are finding their way into our oceans each year. World Environment Day was two days go and an in an effort to clean up our environment, the theme is #beatplasticpollution. Every small change can impact our environment and cleaning our oceans up from harmful plastic can protect our marine life.
At home, we already use pots and bowls with lids, glass jars and cloth bags as much as we can (although not as much as we should). Sometimes, at the grocery store I realize I had left my reusable cloth grocery bags at home. Take out is another struggle that I’m having because often they come in plastic containers. Really the best option is to cook at home more but sometimes you just need a break right? I’ve also recently ordered some reusable metal straws and I’m excited! It’s definitely a work in progress!
WHY BEESWAX WRAPS?
A friend of mine told me about an amazing idea of using beeswax wraps and knew I had to share this with you all. This is a no sew project and takes only a few minutes to make. These wraps are meant to replace single use plastic wraps like ziplock bags and plastic wrap in your everyday life. Beeswax has antibacterial properties so it helps keeps things clean and reduces the risk of bacterial contamination. Personally, I use it to cover bowls that I put in my fridge or to wrap around snacks and sandwiches. All you have to do is warm it up in your hands to mold. Added bonus is that I got to use up my extra sewing scrap fabric to make mine.
IT IS OKAY CHANGE YOUR WAY OF THINKING
One of the lessons I’m slowly learning is that it’s okay to change the way you think and to break out of the norm. Going zero waste is not the norm, it really means buying less, spending time looking at alternatives and finding time-saving tips. Marie Kondo says “does this REALLY bring me joy”. Honestly, this is a great way of thinking and I can definitely apply that perspective to all aspects of my life. It also reminds of the Gilmore Girls episode where Emily tries to get rid of everything she owns haha!
As with everything, I’m making small changes into my life. Once I feel comfortable with these I’ll adopt more. It’s a transition like anything else. Personally, I’m really considering my everyday use of single-plastic items, trying to see if it’s necessary and if there is something I could use instead.
So, onto making your own beeswax wraps. Let’s get started!
WHAT YOU’LL NEED:
- Cotton cloth (cut to whatever size you prefer). If you plan on wrapping your food directly with the cotton, you may prefer to use organic cotton.
- Beeswax or vegan alternative
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Knife/grater
- Oven
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 250F. Cut small chunks out of your beeswax or use a grater. I opted to cut mine to avoid the cleanup with the grater.
Step 2: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper. Then place your fabric on top and sprinkle the beeswax evenly across.
Step 3: Place in the oven until the beeswax has fully melted ~ approximately 5 minutes (keep an eye on it!). If the fabric is not fully coated, lift it and move it back and forth along the melted beeswax on the parchment paper. Sometimes the beeswax hardens while you do this, so place back in oven until it’s melted again. Then remove from the oven and lift the fabric up, let the excess drip off and place on another parchment paper to cool.
HOW TO TAKE CARE OF YOUR BEESWAX WRAP
It’s easy. Rinse with cold water and wipe down with a sponge. If needed, use a natural soap. If they start to crack, simply reheat and spread the wax. They are super easy to maintain!
Have you tried to minimize your waste? Definitely give this a try with your scrap fabric.
