Today, we’re diving into the world of reusing plastic Ziploc™ bags. I think a huge part of prepping is reusing what we have. I can’t tell you how many different Ziploc™ bags I have thrown away. However, a few years ago, I started to reuse them! I want to talk about how to reuse Ziploc™ bags properly.
Plastic as a significant environmental hazard is getting a lot of attention, and rightfully so. The global economy on our planet seems to rely so much on plastic packaging, and especially plastic storage bags. Most people view these bags as single-use plastic bags. Not only are landfills inundated with plastic shopping bags and plastic packaging, but they are also adversely affecting our waterways, lakes, and oceans. They harm ecosystems ranging from coral reefs, to commercial fisheries, to spawning grounds for numerous species. We need to figure out other ways to use these bags, and Ziploc brand bags are a favorite we all tend to use.
Why Reuse Ziploc™ Bags?
First things first, why bother reusing Ziploc™ bags in the first place? Besides the obvious benefit of reducing waste, it’s also a fantastic way to save cash. Those bags can add cost and clutter, so why not get the most bang for your buck? There are many ways to reuse Ziploc™ bags properly.
1. Cleaning and Maintenance
Before we dive into the fun stuff, let’s talk about keeping those bags clean and in tip-top shape. After each use, please give them a good rinse with warm or hot, soapy water. Hot water with soap can help kill any bacteria, mildew, and mold that may be present in or on the bag’s surface. If they’re super greasy or sticky, you might need to break out the big guns and use some vinegar or baking soda squeaky clean. Be careful with greasy stuff. They rarely come out clean and leave a residue. I toss those. I never reuse bags where I have stored any raw meat; it’s not safe, in my opinion. 20 Easy Spring Cleaning Tasks You Can Do Today
You also need to consider people with allergies to things like peanuts. Allergy-triggering foods can be very dangerous, and it’s not worth trying to save money reusing the bag if it risks sickness. Also, make sure the bags are dry by using a dry rack to air dry the bag and to hold the bags open before any reuse.
If you smell any strange odors or if the bag still has stains, I’d be throwing that bag out!
2. Food Storage
One of the most obvious ways to reuse Ziploc™ bags is for food storage. Whether packing lunches, storing leftovers, or prepping ingredients for your next culinary masterpiece, these bags are kitchen essentials with lots of convenience built in. Just make sure to label them with the contents and date to avoid any mystery meals lurking in the back of your fridge or on your pantry shelf. Effective Ways To Prepare For Food Shortages
The sandwich bags can easily be used a number of times if used to hold dry foods. It may just take wiping them out with a cloth or paper towel to get any crumbs remaining.
Due to their strength, they make great freezer bags that aren’t prone to tear open easily. They are convenient to store things in your refrigerator for a few days. Just make sure they are tightly sealed and stored upright.
3. On-the-Go Essentials
Ziploc bags are also perfect for keeping your essentials organized when you’re on the go. Toss your phone, keys, and wallet into a baggie to keep them safe from spills or leaks in your purse or travel bag. Plus, they’re great for stashing snacks, hand sanitizer, or other adventure must-haves. What Are 20 Basic Items in an Emergency Kit?
4. Travel Companions
Speaking of adventures, Ziploc™ bags are a traveler’s best friend. Use them to separate your toiletries and prevent shampoo explosions in your suitcase. They’re also handy for packing snacks, storing dirty laundry, or keeping your passport and other important documents safe and dry. 35 Items Every Prepper Should Have When Traveling
If you have to travel with some prescription medications, you can use these bags to safely transport the meds. I’d plan to use small bags and keep the various prescriptions separate from each other. Their use makes drug administration during the day very easily accomplished. You could even do the same thing at home with the various bags kept safely in their child-safe container but stored in the bags in a convenient drawer.
5. DIY Projects
Get ready to flex those creative muscles because Ziploc™ bags are high-quality zip-top bags and are perfect for all DIY projects. Use them as piping bags for frosting cupcakes, make ice packs by filling them with water and popping them in the freezer, or get crafty and turn them into waterproof pouches for your phone on beach days. How to Reduce Waste as a Prepper
6. Gardening Expert
Believe it or not, Ziploc™ bags can be helpful in the garden. Use them to collect seeds, start seedlings, or protect delicate plants from frost. They’re a great way to store small tools or keep your gardening gloves clean and dry when not digging in the dirt. How To Improve The Soil In Raised Garden Beds
7. Arts and Crafts
Calling all crafters! Ziploc™ bags are a must-have for all your creative endeavors. Use them to organize beads, buttons, and other small supplies, or get messy and use them as paint palettes or small makeshift aprons for messy projects. The possibilities are endless! How to Use Chalk in Emergency Preparedness
8. Pet Palooza
Furry friends deserve some love, and Ziploc™ bags can help keep them happy and healthy. Use them to store pet treats, organize grooming supplies, or even make DIY ice packs for hot summer days. Just keep them out of curious paws’ reach to avoid accidental snacking. What to do With Your Pets in an Emergency
More Tips
- Forget Your 72-Hour Bug-Out Bag You Need More
- 30 Non-Food Survival Items To Stockpile
- How to Connect with Like-Minded Emergency Preppers
Final Word
With a little creativity and a whole lot of Ziploc™ bags, you can reduce waste, save money, and keep your life organized and tidy. So, the next time you reach for that plastic baggie, think twice about tossing it in the trash and give it a second life instead. May God Bless this World, Linda
The post How to Properly Reuse Ziploc™ Bags appeared first on Food Storage Moms.
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