The media is awash with articles warning of the environmental consequences of plastic usage and its incorrect disposal. I have noticed a growing trend amongst my clients to opt for more eco-friendly products. The problem is, it’s inexpensive, incredibly useful and has numerous uses. From cutlery trays to containers and drawer dividers, plastic is everywhere and it is particularly useful for organising pretty much anything! Luckily, it is possible to organise your home from top to bottom without it and I’m going to detail some of my favourite alternatives!
1. Baskets
Ranging in all different shapes, sizes, and designs, baskets are an obvious and versatile alternative to plastic containers and in my opinion look so much more beautiful, particularly if they are on a shelf for example! I use them to hold anything from toys to spare toiletries, toilet rolls and craft supplies.
There are so many places to purchase baskets inexpensively. I love this one from a website called ethicalsuperstore.com that is bucking the trend and promoting ethical products and they have a lovely range of storage baskets which look so good that you won’t want to hide them away behind closed doors! I have this one at home and use it to store my winter hats, gloves and scarves!
2. Fabric boxes and bins
These are great for storing smaller and lighter items like soft toys or for use in your wardrobe. IKEA has a particularly good range of these and I love to use them as drawer dividers to organize underwear, socks, scarves, and accessories.
3. Cardboard boxes
Plastic draw dividers can be replaced with cardboard boxes or their lids and it’s likely that you may already have some lying around the house! It’s not only an inexpensive solution but can look particularly effective if they are covered with patterned or coloured wrapping paper. These boxes from Ikea are surprisingly study and work perfectly for anything from clothing to paperwork.
4. Glass jars and ceramic containers
It’s particularly easy to find storage alternatives for the kitchen and whilst many plastics are now BPA free, it’s something to be aware of. Why not try decanting foods into ceramic or glass mason jars (something I love to do!) or replacing plastic lunch boxes with bamboo or stainless steel ones? They look great, are easy to clean and keep food fresher for longer.
5. Metal Bins
If you are looking for something a little bit tougher and rodent-proof, particularly if you are storing items in the garage or loft, then metal bins are a great solution. Bear in mind that they will be heavier than plastic so bear this in mind when filling them! Depending on what you are storing inside them, it’s important to look for galvanized or stainless steel containers that won’t rust. I love the industrial look of these baskets and they can look particularly effective on open shelving!
I hope you enjoyed this article and if you have any comments or plastic-free product recommendations then I would love to hear from you!