Sanitize, reuse and then recycle.
Many of us count on our zip-top plastic bags as an affordable and easily accessible choice in the kitchen.
Even with our best intentions, we often end up getting rid of plastic bags when they still have plenty of life left in them.
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One simple way to cut back on plastic waste is to just reuse the plastic bags you already have. But is it really safe to use zip-top plastic bags more than once, and if so, how can you properly clean them to make them last longer? We asked the people at Ziploc these questions and more, and the good news is that yes, you can absolutely reuse their plastic bags.
“Because Ziploc brand bags are made with durable materials that can withstand repeated use, our bags can be used multiple times,” a spokesperson told us.
By following these steps and tips, you’ll be able to clean your plastic bag effectively and maintain its original appearance.
It’s perfectly fine to reuse plastic bags, but it’s a good idea to rinse them between uses to stay sanitary and get rid of any lingering smells. Cleaning a reusable zip-top bag is pretty easy: just add warm water and dish soap, close the zipper, and gently swirl the soapy water around inside.
You’ll want to be careful not to be too forceful when doing this process. Try to prevent turning the bag inside out, as this could damage the stitching. If the seams break, it will naturally shorten the bag’s lifespan and reduce its performance.
Just rinse and shake the water out, then prop the bag open to dry completely before reusing,” Ziploc recommended. “You already have what you need at home, so just use a dish rack or even chopsticks to dry the bag and let some air in. Another solution I’ve found helpful is using magnetic bag clips to dry the bags right on the side of my fridge.
Some bags may not be suitable for our needs because of their dull or worn condition. If this is the case, they can be repurposed. Plastic bags can be stuffed into old clothes or used as a deterrent against ants or snails in your flower beds.
Extending the life of your plastic bags for as long as possible can be achieved by thoroughly cleaning and drying them after each use. To do this effectively, you should handle the bags delicately in order to prevent them from tearing or developing punctures. Although recycling and reuse are common with plastic bags, they may become unusable after being used just once in some cases.
“We do not advise reusing bags that held raw meat, fish, eggs, or foods that can cause allergic reactions, as this can lead to a food safety problem,” the Ziploc spokesperson said. He also noted that if the bag is placed in the freezer, it won’t affect the bag’s lifespan.
In addition to disposing of bags used for raw meats and common food allergens, very acidic ingredients such as tomato sauce can cause stains and reduce the lifespan of any plastic product, including bags.
**Your old coffee maker, blender, or other gadgets**: When’s the last time you used these? Be honest.
Plastic Bag Alternatives
If you’re ready to bid farewell to plastic bags for good, there are plenty of affordable alternatives available. In recent years, silicone pouches and bags have gained a lot of attention. Ziploc Endurable is a line of silicone pouches and containers designed to handle extreme temperatures, going from the freezer to the oven (up to 425°F) and even to the dinner table. Plus, they’re dishwasher safe. Other similar reusable bag options include (re)zip, Stasher and Ello. You can also use Bee’s Wrap, which not only gets reused, but also breaks down in a compost heap.
These alternatives to plastic bags come with a higher price, but they’re a good option. Consider using washable storage containers like Mason jars or glass containers. Mason jars and many glass containers can be safely stored in the freezer, but be cautious of big temperature swings, as they might break.
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Whether you use a standard plastic bag or a specialized silicone container for storage, it is crucial to dispose of these items correctly. To begin, check the regulations regarding waste and recycling in your state and note that you normally need to recycle plastic bags separately from your curbside blue box. RecycleNation can also provide valuable information on disposing of plastic bags.
Most grocery stores will accept plastic packaging for recycling, such as shopping bags and zip-top bags. Before taking them to the store to recycle, make sure to thoroughly clean and dry them. I often look for the NexTrex program, which collects recyclable materials like plastic bags and turns them into decking material. Who knows, that plastic bag you used to store frozen fruit for smoothies might prevent it from ending up in the landfill and could even end up being used to make your backyard deck instead.
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