reduce, reuse recycle | idea no. 1

Ever since my daughter was 18 months old, I’ve been giving her easy-to-eat snacks in Ziploc bags.  It makes it easier for her to eat in places I wouldn’t normally allow (car, living room, etc…)  For some reason, it eliminates the mess and she knows she has to throw the bag away when she is finished. 

I’ve started feeling guilty about buying box after box, using them once and throwing them away - knowing there had to be a better way.

Then, I stumbled upon MamaMade’s shoppe on Etsy.  In case you’ve never been to Etsy, it is the place to buy and sell things that are handmade.  I love browsing all of the sellers and it is a great place to buy unique gifts.  It’s like eBay but, better.  One day, I would love to have my own Etsy store but, that would require more “free” time and considering the fact that I have zero of that today…

Anyway, I ordered two reusable sandwich bags for now.  I’ve already used them several times for things like Wheat Thins and Gold Fish and I would be completely comfortable with using them for wet snacks like strawberries, grapes, apples, etc… b/c of the lining.  It’s great b/c the lining is not tacked in the bottom of the sack.  So, I can flip it inside out and rinse it or wipe it w/ a damp cloth and tuck it back inside.  I don’t have to worry about getting the outer cotton fabric wet. 

Here are mine.  Just love the bird patterns!

They come in the cutest patterns and are lined with PUL (a laminated knit that is waterproof, durable, machine washable, dryer safe and lead and phalate free).  She also offers an unbleached cotton lining, or uncoated water-resistant nylon lining.  I just ordered the PUL because I am not planning to dish wash or dry in the dryer so breaking down certain chemicals with heat isn’t a concern for me.  But, if you find convenience in anything involving heat, be sure to ask for an alternative lining. 

I’ll continue to share my tips to reduce, reuse and recycle as I learn them myself.