Alexei Volkov
Plastic is everywhere, and it's taking a toll on our health and the environment. While it can be tough to shake the plastic habit, there are many alternatives to plastic containers for kids. From glass and stainless steel food storage containers to silicone bags and bamboo utensils, there are plenty of options to reduce plastic usage. Reusing and repurposing plastic containers is also a great way to protect the environment and achieve a new level of organization at home.
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Use stainless steel, glass, or silicone containers for food storage
Plastic food storage containers are often made with Bisphenol A (BPA) or phthalates, which can leach into your food over time and cause health problems. For this reason, it is recommended to use stainless steel, glass, or silicone containers for food storage.
Glass containers are nonporous, meaning they won't absorb food odours or flavours. They are chemically inert, so they won't leach any chemicals into food or water. Glass containers are durable, transparent, safe, and eco-friendly. They are also usually microwave and dishwasher-safe, and easily recyclable. However, glass is relatively heavy and breakable, and may not be the best choice for travel purposes.
Stainless steel containers are also a good option for food storage. They are eco-friendly, durable, and stylish. They are also leakproof and airtight with silicone-sealing, snap-on lids. However, they are not transparent, so you can't see what's inside, and they cannot go in the microwave or oven.
Silicone is a good lining for the point of the seal in glass and stainless steel containers. If you choose to use silicone containers, make sure they are "food-grade".
While plastic containers are budget-friendly and lightweight, glass and stainless steel are more durable and sustainable. They may have higher upfront costs, but their durability and reusability make them more economical over time.
Sterilite Plastic Containers: Who's Behind These Popular Storage Solutions?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Store art and craft supplies in plastic containers
Plastic containers are great for storing art and craft supplies. They can be used to organise and store various items, from crayons and markers to feathers and beads. Small plastic containers are perfect for holding tiny items such as beads, while larger containers can accommodate items like ribbons and strings. You can even cut small holes in the containers for ribbons and strings, creating a homemade dispenser that prevents tangles.
Additionally, plastic containers are ideal for sorting and storing sewing supplies, such as buttons and needles. They can be stacked with the lids on or used to divide drawers, even if some lids are missing. Transparent plastic containers are especially useful as they allow you to see the contents at a glance. Some containers also come with adjustable dividers, enabling you to create compartments of different sizes to suit your specific needs.
When using plastic containers for storage, it is important to thoroughly clean them, especially if they previously held food, cleaning supplies, or other chemicals. Removing any labels and washing the containers ensures that your art and craft supplies remain safe and untouched by potential contaminants.
Instead of discarding old plastic containers, you can repurpose them for art and craft supply storage. This practice promotes sustainability by reducing waste and the need to purchase new storage containers. It also helps you achieve a higher level of organisation in your creative space.
There are numerous options available for purchasing plastic containers specifically designed for art and craft supply storage. These containers often feature compartments, adjustable spacers, and lids with snap-tight latches to securely store various art and craft materials.
Unlocking Plastic Containers: Easy Tricks to Open Sealed Containers
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Reuse plastic containers for gifting and packaging
Plastic containers are versatile and can be reused for gifting and packaging in many ways. Firstly, it is important to note that while most plastic does eventually degrade, it is not biodegradable, meaning it does not naturally break down. Instead, it shatters into smaller and smaller pieces, emitting harsh, dangerous chemicals into the water and soil. Therefore, it is recommended to reuse and repurpose plastic containers instead of throwing them away.
One creative way to reuse plastic containers is to transform them into vases. You can attach long wooden dowels to a plastic bottle to create a natural-looking vase for your home. You can also use plastic containers as planters if they are sturdy enough to hold the weight of the plant. However, it is advised to avoid growing consumable plants in plastic over the long term as chemicals may leach into the plant.
Plastic containers can also be used for gifting and packaging. Instead of using traditional gift boxes, you can place your gift inside a plastic container and wrap it as usual. This is especially useful for odd-shaped gifts that might not fit into standard boxes. You can also line old plastic containers with wax paper or foil and fill them with treats like holiday cookies to gift to friends and family.
Additionally, plastic containers are excellent for storage and organisation. You can use them to store art and craft supplies, such as crayons, markers, beads, and feathers. They are also handy for keeping small items like hair ties, rubber bands, and ribbons organised and tangle-free. For parents, plastic containers can be a lifesaver for storing kids' toys with small pieces that might otherwise get lost, such as dress-up accessories, jewellery, and badges.
Lastly, plastic containers can be repurposed for creative projects. For example, you can cut out snowflake designs from plastic bottles, decorate them, and hang them as winter décor. You can also save gallon milk jugs and create a Halloween decoration, such as a charming skeleton or a jetpack for a toddler's costume.
Where Do Plastic Containers Go After Restaurants?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Use plastic containers for storing small toys and accessories
Plastic containers are a great way to store small toys and accessories. They can be used to store toys with lots of small pieces, such as board game pieces, cards, jewellery, badges, and art supplies. You can also use them to store ribbons and strings, with a few small holes cut into the container to feed the ribbons through, creating a free homemade dispenser.
Clear plastic containers are ideal for this purpose as they allow you to easily view the contents inside. However, if you prefer opaque containers, you can always add labels to make the contents instantly identifiable. You can also use plastic containers to create a custom storage system for your child's closet or playroom. Group similar items together and designate specific areas for different activities to enhance organisation and create an efficient living space.
Plastic containers with lids are especially useful for storing small toys and accessories. The lids will keep the contents secure and help to maximise vertical storage space. Stackable plastic containers are perfect for storing small toys and can be neatly tucked away in closets, under beds, or on shelves. You can also use plastic storage bins or baskets, which can be easily transported and come in various colours and designs to match your child's preferences and room decor.
If you're looking for a soft storage option, canvas pouches with eyelets and a coloured string, such as the Play Pouch Australia, are a great choice. These pouches can store small toys like Lego pieces or Matchbox cars and can be hung on a hook when not in use. They also double as a play mat, minimising the scattering of toy pieces during playtime.
Plastic Containers: Ice Cream's Unseen Flavor Factor
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Make a bird feeder from an old plastic container
Making a bird feeder from an old plastic container is a fun project that can help bring nature to your doorstep. It's a great way to repurpose plastic containers and attract local birds to your garden. Here's a step-by-step guide to creating your own bird feeder:
What You'll Need:
- A clean plastic container (such as a hand soap refill container or a milk carton)
- Craft wire
- Box cutter or sharp scissors
- Craft paint
- Paintbrush
- Paint palette
- Bird seed (such as black oil sunflower seeds or sunflower hearts)
Steps to Make Your Bird Feeder:
- Prepare the Container: Start by thoroughly cleaning your chosen plastic container, especially if it previously held food or other chemicals. Remove any labels and give it a good wash.
- Cutting and Poking Holes: Ask an adult to help with this step. Use the box cutter or scissors to cut out holes on the sides of the plastic container. Cut out the flat parts where the labels were, leaving the bottom inch uncut. Make sure the holes are smooth to prevent feathers from getting caught. Then, poke two holes near the lid of the container.
- Stringing the Wire: String the craft wire through the holes near the lid and twist it together. This will form the hanger for your bird feeder.
- Decorating: Now for the creative part! Grab your paint and paintbrush and start decorating your bird feeder. You can paint flowers, stripes, rainbows, or any design you like. Let your creativity flow and don't forget to let the paint dry before moving on to the next step.
- Filling with Bird Seed: Once the paint is dry, it's time to fill your bird feeder. Pour bird seed into the bottom inch of the feeder. You can use black oil sunflower seeds or opt for popular choices such as sunflower hearts, black sunflower seeds, or seed mixes.
- Hanging the Feeder: Find a good spot to hang your bird feeder outdoors. You can hang it from a tree, a roof overhang, or a dedicated bird feeder hook. Make sure it's within a short distance from trees and bushes, but avoid shadowy areas where cats may lurk.
- Patience for Bird Visitors: It may take a few days for birds to discover your feeder and trust that it's safe. Keep the feeder filled, and they will eventually start visiting regularly. Enjoy watching your feathered friends enjoy their snack!
- Cleaning and Refilling: When the feeder is empty, use a warm rag to clean it out before refilling it with fresh bird seed. Remember to replace the feeder every so often to prevent the build-up of rotting food and bacteria, which could harm the birds.
By following these steps, you'll not only create a fun bird feeder but also contribute to providing an invaluable food source for local birds, especially during times of scarcity. Enjoy the beauty of nature and the satisfaction of reusing plastic containers!
Marking Plastic Containers: Permanent Methods for Easy Organization
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
You can replace plastic containers in your kid's lunchbox with glass or stainless steel containers. You can also use bamboo utensils instead of plastic ones.
Wood from sustainably-managed forests can replace plastic in toys. Felted or recycled wool is another option that is safe and compostable.
Plastic containers can be repurposed for storing toys with small pieces, such as board game pieces, jewellery, and art supplies. They can also be used for gift packaging or as a bubble station for kids.
