Plastic has gotten a bad rap over the last few years. As we learn more about what happens to plastics over time and the way they degrade due to heat exposure, more and more of us are tempted to kick plastic out of our kitchen entirely.

Photo courtesy Tupperware

If you grew up dependent on plastic wrap and Tupperware, that might seem like a pretty radical idea. But it doesn't have to be scary, or expensive!

1. Use up what you have. Don't throw away a half-used box of plastic wrap because the fact of the matter is that continuing to use it until the package is empty won't kill you. This is all about finding a balance between your health and the environmental impact of your consumption.
2. Donate your plastic ware. Have a cupboard full of Tupperware and Rubbermaid leftover containers? Sort through them, recycle (if you can) the ones that are warped or have no lid, and donate the rest to your local shelter or community group.
3. Find other uses for your plastics. Use leftover containers to store beads, loose change, marbles, teabags or dry goods. I will even admit to using plastic containers in my pantry before I figured out that there were other solutions.

There are a few alternatives to plasticware.

Glass
Glass is the best choice both in function and in affordability. Yes, glass leftover containers often come paired with plastic lids, but most plastic lids on the market now are BPA-free. Pyrex offers a line of glass lids storage sets that contains both BPA-free plastic lids as well as oven & microwave safe glass lids. Many other brands such as Anchor Hocking offer glass containers with glass lids for baking and storage use.

Photo courtesy Anchor Hocking

Glass containers are also becoming more affordable. Check out this 12-bowl set from Crate & Barrel for $19.95. Healthy, affordable, and stylish, too!

You'll have to weigh the pros and cons before making the decision to switch your family fridge to glass. Glass does have one big benefit over plastic: it's easier to clean. Plastic stains and warps, but glass doesn't have this problem. Of course, there is one major down side to switching to glass. It breaks! Look for thicker-walled glass containers which are less prone to chipping and cracking. Also, use care when washing or when traveling with glass, like in your lunch bag. You may also want to think twice about making the switch if you have small children who like to help themselves to fridge containers.

Photo courtesy GoGreenStages.com

Steel
Another unbreakable option is stainless steel. Although these containers still have plastic lids, the body is made from recyclable stainless steel. Steel containers can be a bit pricey, but the upside is that they will last you a lifetime. You can find a 4-bowl set like this at GoGreenStages.com.

Photo courtesy Preserve Products

If you have to stick with plastic, go with an eco-friendly option like this affordable 6-container set from Preserve. Preserve products are made from 100% recycled plastic and are 100% recyclable. They also make cutting boards, colanders and mixing bowls from the same material and have a pretty nifty recycled toothbrush mail-in program if you're looking to spread your green living from the kitchen into the bathroom.