Reusable wraps made with bees wax or (vegan) soy, which just required a quick wash with cool, soapy water after use.
Why swap plastic wrap for reusable food wraps?
Plastic cling film is single-use, petroleum-based, and rarely recyclable. It’s used for minutes but can persist in the environment for hundreds of years. Reusable food wraps offer a practical alternative that fits easily into everyday life, helping to reduce household plastic waste without sacrificing convenience.
Estimated reading time: 4 minutes
What are reusable food wraps made from?
Reusable food wraps are typically made from:
- Cotton fabric
- Beeswax or soy wax (vegan option)
- Natural oils and tree resins
The warmth of your hands softens the wrap, allowing it to mould around food, bowls, or containers. Once cooled, it holds its shape surprisingly well.
How to use beeswax or vegan food wraps
These wraps work best for:
- Cheese
- Bread and baked goods
- Fruit and vegetables
- Covering bowls or cups
Simply press the wrap gently around the item and let the warmth of your hands do the work. For sandwiches or awkward shapes, tying with a little string can help keep everything secure.
⚠️ Note: They’re not recommended for raw meat or hot food.
How to care for your reusable food wraps
- Wash in cool water with mild soap
- Air dry
- Avoid heat (hot water, microwaves, ovens)
With good care, wraps typically last around a year or more.
What happens when they wear out?
When a wrap starts to lose its stickiness, it doesn’t need to go to waste. You can:
- Refresh it with a re-waxing method
- Cut it into strips and add it to your compost
This makes reusable wraps a genuinely low-waste option from start to finish.
Are reusable food wraps worth it?
They may take a few seconds longer to use than plastic wrap, but that small adjustment comes with a big environmental benefit. If you’re starting your zero-waste journey, food wraps are an easy, visible swap that quickly becomes second nature.
There are many online stores, based in the UK, which stock food wraps. I purchased mine from the Waste Away pop-up shop, at the Northwich Artisan Market, but they are also available at the Knutsford Makers Market and online in a variety of online shops.
Key Takeaways
- Reusable food wraps, made from cotton and beeswax or vegan soy, are a sustainable alternative to plastic wrap.
- They help reduce plastic waste while being convenient for wrapping food, though not suitable for raw meat or hot items.
- Care for them by washing in cool water and avoiding heat, and they can last around a year or more.
- When worn out, they can be refreshed or composted, making them a low-waste option.
- Overall, reusable food wraps are an easy choice for those starting a zero-waste journey.
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