10 Low-Waste Baking Tips

This week, I focused on the environmental impact of common baking materials so I can start being more sustainable in the kitchen. There are so many small changes that can both save money and cut back on landfill bound waste. These tips are helpful waste shrinkers for all levels, even if you're new to the baking scene.

Save butter wrappers to grease pans

Save money and eliminate the need for cooking spray by reusing butter wrappers to grease pans, bowls, muffin tins and cookie sheets.

Use a silicone baking mat

Silicone baking mats are non-stick and can be washed and reused countless times. They save money and reduce the need for single-use parchment paper and aluminum foil.

The baking mats pictured above are 2 for $12.99. Use code TINYWASTE10 for 10% your purchase at Zulay Kitchen.

Replace plastic cling wrap with beeswax wraps

Beeswax wraps are fabric coated in beeswax so they can hold in moisture. They can be used to cover containers and wrap food, but unlike plastic cling wrap, they can be cleaned and reused over and over again. Beeswax wraps are extremely easy to make at home, but if you aren't in a crafty mood, you can purchase them from places like Package Free Shop.

Opt for unbleached, compostable parchment paper

Compostable parchment paper gives you all the benefits of regular parchment paper, without ending up in a landfill.

Use an upside down cookie sheet in place of aluminum foil

If you are using aluminum foil to retain heat, try an upside down baking sheet instead.

Reuse aluminum foil

Aluminum foil can be used and reused without losing it's integrity. Instead of tossing used aluminum foil after every use, keep clean pieces for your next bake!

Buy bulk ingredients

Save money and cut down on packaging by purchasing frequently used ingredients, like flour and sugar, in bulk.

Use silicone baking cups instead of disposable ones

Silicone baking cups are a perfect solution for your cupcakes and muffins, since they can be washed and reused over and over again.

The baking cups pictured above are $9.99 for a pack of 12.Use code TINYWASTE10 for 10% your purchase at Zulay Kitchen.

Choose reusable silicone piping bags over disposable plastic ones

If your baking involves icing decor, opt for Silicone Piping Bags, which can be washed and reused multiple times, saving money and cutting down on waste.

Use code TINYWASTE10 for 10% your purchase at Zulay Kitchen.

Make natural food coloring

Instead of buying tiny plastic bottles of food coloring, try making natural dye from fruits and vegetables.