The 7 Best Eco-Friendly Alternatives To Ziploc Bags

Ziploc bags are very common in households, but they are not the best for environment. This is because they are made from plastic, which is not biodegrade and can end up getting thrown away or washed into waterways.

Fortunately, there are many eco-friendly alternatives that you can use instead of Ziploc bags. Let’s explore some of these sustainable swaps.

This post does contain affiliate links. The Honest Consumer will receive a commission if you decide to make a purchase. Our commission is at no additional cost to you. 

Common Uses for Ziploc Bags

Ziploc bags can be used for many different purposes in the home, such as storing leftovers, protecting food from freezer burn, organizing small items like receipts and coupons, or even packing lunches.

However, they are not the only option you have when it comes to these uses.

Why Switch to a Ziploc Bag Alternative?

There are many different reasons to ditch the ziploc bags such as environmental, health, and even saving a bit of money.

• It’s estimated that Americans use 100 billion plastic bags a year, which require 12 million barrels of oil to manufacture. Obviously the process to create this many bags requires a lot of resources and causes environmental harm.

• On top of creating the bags we must consider what happens to the bags at the end of their life. It was reported that in 2015 about 730,000 tons of plastic bags, sacks and wraps were generated (including PS, PP, HDPE, PVC & LDPE) in the United States, but more than 87% of those items are never recycled, winding up in landfills and the ocean.

• It is also reported that the plastic typically used in bottles, bags and food containers contains chemical additives such as endocrine disruptors, which are associated with negative health effects including cancers, birth defects and immune system suppression in humans and wildlife.

• On top of single-use plastic ziploc bags being bad for the environment, this swap can also save you so much money in the long run! If you invest in reusable alternatives that will last for years to come you can permenantly remove ziploc bags from your grocery list saving a few dollars every week.

Sustainable Alternatives to Ziploc Bags

If you’re ready to make the swap these are some of the best eco-friendly alternatives if you're looking to reduce your single use plastics.

These sustainable swaps are a good option for food items!

Reusable Silicone Bags

One alternative to Ziploc bags is reusable silicone food bags.

These bags are made from 100% food grade silicone, which is safe for both the environment and your family.

Silicone is also durable and can be reused over again, making it a great option for those who are looking to reduce their plastic waste. I personally love using Stasher bags.

Stasher bags are one of the best options for storing food, as they are airtight, freezable, microwaveable, and dishwasher safe.

These come in a variety of sizes including snack size and large sizes.

They also feature a range of different colors. I particularly love how durable they are and that they are easy to clean.

We just put ours in the dishwasher and have been using our same Stasher bags for years. They are crafted to last a long time.

These are pretty easy to find at grocery stores and online. They range in price based on size from $10-$30. While that may seem expensive upfront…just think about how much money you will save over time!

Beeswax Wrap

A great sustainable alternative to saran wrap is reusable beeswax wraps.

Beeswax wraps are made from a combination of beeswax, jojoba oil, and tree resin.

They are safe to use on food, as they will not leach chemicals into your food like plastic wrap can.

Beeswax wraps are also compostable, so you can feel good about using them without harming the environment.

There are a wide range of sizes and fun prints you can choose from. You can even find sandwich wraps which are great for packing lunches! Beeswax wrap comes in a set around the $18 price point.

Beeswax wrap is super easy to clean just use some mild dish soap and cold water. Be careful not to use warm water or this can melt the beeswax off.

Organic Cotton Muslin Bags

If you are looking for a swap that is both eco-friendly and stylish, then check out reusable organic cotton muslin bags.

They're also known as reusable produce bags as they're great for taking to the grocery store as a swap for plastic bag alternatives when picking out your produce.

These bags are made from natural materials, so they are completely biodegradable and easy to wash in your washing machine.

They are also cute and come in a variety of colors and patterns, so you can find the perfect one to match your personality.

Organic cotton produce bags can easily be found on Etsy, in zero waste stores, and even at some grocery stores.

Compostable Bags

Compostable bags are also a great option for those who want an eco-friendly alternative to Ziploc bags.

Compostable food storage bags are made from plant-based materials, such as corn or sugarcane, and will biodegrade completely in a matter of weeks.

These bags help reduce the amount of waste that ends up in landfills, which can cause serious environmental damage.

I've used BioBag's Gallon Size Compostable bags which are made from a breathable plant based resin sourced in Italy and manufactured in the USA from GMO free crops.

They also have smaller bags which are a great alternative to plastic sandwich bags.

I also love HoldOn’s compostable zip seal bags. These are great for taking sandwiches and snacks on the go.

Food Hugger's Keeping Produce Fresh

Food Huggers are specially designed to keep fresh produce. Food Huggers products are 100% BPA free, phthalate free, vegan, and made from FDA food grade silicone.

Conscious consumers can easily place the lid like huggers over the ends of produce to ensure freshness.

Then once the produce has been eaten consumers can easily place in the dishwasher. Food Huggers range in price depending on size and bundle from $13-$58.

Stainless Steel Storage Containers

Food grade stainless steel containers can be a great zero waste option for storing food. These reusable containers are great for packing lunches too!

Most stainless steel containers are dishwasher safe for easy cleaning too. This sustainable alternative is typically not too expensive.

Select stainless steel food containers we found range from $8-$34.

Glass Containers

One great alternative to Ziploc bags is glass containers. These are a more sustainable option, since they are reusable and do not contribute to plastic pollution.

Glass containers are another great way to store your food without using damaging plastic bags.

Glass can be recycled over and over again, making it a very sustainable option.

Glass containers are also airtight and will keep your food fresh for longer.

Plus, you can save glass jars and containers from purchasing food at the store and reuse these instead of purchasing new glassware.

In conclusion, there are many alternatives to Ziploc bags that you can use instead.

Whether you choose reusable silicone food bags, reusable beeswax wraps, compostable bags, or reusable cotton muslin bags, you can feel good about protecting the environment while also maintaining your lifestyle.​

Hopefully this guide has encouraged you to ditch those disposable plastics to the best of your ability and find a better option.

For more tips & tricks on sustainable living be sure to follow The Honest Consumer on social media, subscribe to our newsletter, & check out the Ethical & Sustainable Brand Directory.