Every year, millions of tons of plastic waste fill our landfills and oceans, harming the environment and health. However, with some simple changes, we can significantly reduce this waste. Here are some easy and eco-friendly swaps for everyday single-use plastics.Straws and UtensilsTakeout food is a staple of modern life, but single-use plastic straws and utensils contribute to plastic pollution. Switch to reusable stainless steel, bamboo, or other eco-friendly utensils and straws. Carry a set with you to avoid using disposable ones.Coffee Cups and Water BottlesDisposable coffee cups and water bottles are significant sources of plastic waste. Invest in a durable, stylish, reusable coffee cup and water bottle. Many coffee shops offer discounts for using your cup. A reusable water bottle is healthier and more cost-effective than buying bottled water.Plastic Bags and ContainersPlastic bags are a well-known environmental hazard. Replace them with Durbl silicone food storage bags and containers. These can be used in dishwashers, refrigerators, microwaves, and ovens, making them versatile and eco-friendly. They are perfect for keeping food fresh and preventing leaks and ideal for travel and daily use.
Cling Film and Aluminum FoilCling film and aluminum foil generate a lot of waste. Use beeswax wraps instead; made from cotton, beeswax, and plant oils, they are reusable and keep food fresh. Using silicone baking mats as a sustainable alternative to aluminum foil reduces waste and saves money.Female Hygiene ProductsDisposable female hygiene products, such as plastic pads and tampons, create significant plastic waste. Consider using menstrual cups, washable pads, and period underwear. These options are not only eco-friendly but also healthier and more economical.Reuse Existing PlasticsDon't discard single-use plastics immediately. Repurpose them at home, such as using plastic bags as trash liners. Proper recycling is crucial; ensure plastics are recycled correctly to minimize environmental impact.We can drastically reduce plastic waste and protect our planet by adopting these simple swaps. Every small change makes a big difference, so let's work together for a more sustainable future. Choose eco-friendly options and embrace a greener lifestyle.
A day in the sun and sand doesn’t need to rely on disposables. When we think of a picnic, we often think of lots of plastic-wrapped food, disposable utensils, and paper towels. But with a few simple swaps, you can help pack a trash-free beach picnic for an unforgettable beach picnic.Step 1: Prepare your foodPack up a variety of treats with Durbl’s reusable silicone bags. Sandwiches, salads, fruit slices, and snacks can be stored securely in these bags. The Durbl bags’ excellent seal keeps sand out and keeps food fresh.Easy food ideas:Sandwiches: Place turkey, cheese, lettuce, and tomato on whole-wheat bread in a Durbl silicone food storage bag.Fruit salad: Place sliced watermelon, cantaloupe, grapes, and blueberries in a Durbl lunchbox to keep the fruit fresh and tender.Energy bars: Make peanut butter oatmeal energy bars ahead of time and store them in a Durbl bag for a quick and easy meal.
Step 2: Portable CoolerFill a Durbl large-capacity silicone bag with ice to create a portable cooler. Ice keeps drinks and perishables cold, making it ideal for a beach picnic.
Cooler Ideas:Cold Drinks: Fill a Durbl quart bag with ice and your favorite drink for an excellent, icy taste.Salads: Prepare a green salad and refrigerate it in a Durbl container to ensure it tastes fresh.
Step 3: DIY Snacks and DrinksUse Durbl snack bags to create healthy snacks and refreshing drinks. Reusable Durbl bags are perfect for homemade popsicles and frozen fruit.
Snack and Drink Ideas:Homemade Popsicles: Pour juice into a Durbl silicone bag, seal it, and freeze it to enjoy at the beach.Frozen Fruit: Freeze blueberry, strawberry, and mango chunks in a Durbl sandwich bag for a delicious summer snack.Iced Coffee: Make iced coffee at home in a Durbl quart size bag and enjoy it at the beach anytime.
Step 4: Pack Out TrashOne of the fundamental principles of an eco-friendly beach picnic is to leave no trace. Take all trash with you, including food wrappers or disposable items.
Durbl’s silicone bags are reusable and washable, so you can easily clean them after use to avoid adding to beach trash. We recommend bringing a sizeable Durbl gallon bag to collect trash or pick up litter.Have a few extra Durbl bags to store wet swimsuits, keep your phone dry, or store leaky items like sunscreen.By incorporating Durbl’s reusable bags into your beach picnic plans, you can positively impact the environment while enjoying delicious food and drinks. Pack responsibly, reduce waste, and adopt reusable alternatives for a more eco-friendly beach experience.
We've all faced this situation: you’ve just finished cooking a delicious meal, but there are leftovers, and you wonder, "Can I put hot food in the fridge?" The answer isn't straightforward, but let's delve into why you should or shouldn't do it.
Thermal Shock and Glass Containers
Firstly, if you're using glass containers, you need to be cautious. Glass has a property known as thermal expansion. This means it expands when hot and contracts when cold. If you place a hot glass container directly into the fridge or freezer, it can experience thermal shock and potentially shatter. This risk is especially high with standard glass, but using borosilicate glass can mitigate the risk as it's more resistant to thermal shock. Still, it's best to avoid sudden temperature changes.
Refrigerator Efficiency
Putting hot food directly into the fridge isn't ideal for the appliance's efficiency. Hot food raises the fridge's internal temperature, making it work harder to cool down, which can affect its overall performance and longevity. This can also impact other foods stored in the fridge, potentially leading to spoilage.
Food Safety
Contrary to popular belief, placing hot food directly into the fridge is generally safe from a food safety perspective. The danger zone for bacterial growth in food is between 40°F (4°C) and 140°F (60°C). Leaving hot food out to cool for extended periods can actually pose a greater risk than refrigerating it immediately. The key is to cool the food down quickly. You can do this by dividing it into smaller portions or placing it in shallow containers before refrigerating.
Practical Tips
Cool Down First: Allow food to cool slightly on the counter before placing it in the fridge. You can use an ice bath to speed up the cooling process.
Use the Right Containers: Use shallow, wide containers to store food, which helps it cool faster. Opt for borosilicate glass or food-grade silicone like Durbl bags, which can handle temperature changes better.
Avoid Overloading: Ensure there is enough space around containers in the fridge to allow air circulation for faster cooling.
Conclusion
So, is it bad to put hot food in the fridge? It depends on the circumstances. For food safety, it's generally okay, but consider the type of container you're using and your fridge's efficiency. Cooling food quickly in shallow containers or using an ice bath can mitigate many of the potential issues. Remember, keeping your food safe and your fridge running efficiently are both achievable with a few mindful practices.By following these tips, you can enjoy your leftovers safely and keep your fridge in good working order. Happy cooking and storing!
For nail enthusiasts, organizing nail polish and manicure tools can be challenging. Here’s how to effectively store and organize your collection while ensuring your nail polish lasts longer.
Nail Polish Storage Tips
To make nail polish last longer, store bottles in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Avoid bathrooms due to temperature and humidity fluctuations. Remove dried polish from bottle necks and ensure lids are tightly closed.
Organization Ideas
Using Durbl bags is a smart way to organize your nail polish collection. Here are some effective nail polish organization tips:
1. Nail Polish Organizer
Group polishes by color, brand, or frequency of use in Stand-Up Mini Bags. This allows for neat, upright storage in drawers or cabinets.
Clear bags let you easily see the contents, while colorful bags can be labeled with chalk markers for added organization.
2. Nail Polish Storage for Travel
Durbl bags are leak-proof, durable, and washable, making them ideal for on-the-go storage. Secure your nail polishes in these bags to prevent messes during transport.
Use the same method for storing nail tools like polish remover, base coats, and nail files.
3. Display and Storage
If you prefer to display your nail polish, consider clear acrylic beauty organizers, wall-mounted racks, or stackable trays. These options keep your collection accessible and visually appealing.
For a home spa vibe, display seasonal colors while storing off-season shades out of sight.
4. Plastic Organizers
Plastic organizers with drawers can be tucked away in cabinets or closets for out-of-sight storage. Combine this with Durbl bags for extra leak-free protection.
Choose a storage method that suits your needs and preferences. Keeping your nail polishes organized not only helps you find the perfect shade quickly but also extends the shelf life of your products. Happy organizing!
Sous vide cooking is an emerging home kitchen technique that involves vacuum-sealing food and cooking it in a temperature-controlled water bath. This method ensures perfect results every time, especially for thicker cuts of steak like filet mignon, ribeye, strip steak, and T-bone.
Tools Needed:
● Sous vide machine or a large pot with a digital thermometer● Durbl silicone bags (Half Gallon or Quart size)● Tongs for handling hot bags
Steps:
1. Prep:
Preheat your sous vide machine to the desired temperature.
Season your steak with salt, black pepper, herbs like rosemary or thyme, minced garlic, and a tablespoon of butter.
Place each steak in a Durbl bag and use the water displacement method to vacuum seal the bag.
2. Cook:
Submerge the sealed bags in the water bath, ensuring the steaks are fully submerged. Use silicone weights or clips if needed.
Refer to the following sous vide steak time and temperature chart:
■ Rare: 120°F (49°C) - 128°F (53°C), 1 to 2.5 hours ■ Medium-Rare: 129°F (54°C) - 134°F (57°C), 1 to 4 hours ■ Medium: 135°F (57°C) - 144°F (62°C), 1 to 4 hours ■ Medium-Well: 145°F (63°C) - 155°F (68°C), 1 to 3.5 hours ■ Well-Done: 156°F (69°C) and up, 1 to 3 hour
3. Sear:
Remove the bags from the water bath and take out the steaks.
Heat olive oil or butter in a stainless steel or cast iron skillet on medium-high heat until it starts to smoke.
Sear the steaks for about one minute on each side and quickly sear the edges. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.
Tips:
Use Durbl silicone bags for a safer, eco-friendly alternative to plastic bags.
For best results, use thicker cuts of steak to prevent overcooking during the searing process.
Sous vide cooking guarantees a juicy and perfectly cooked steak every time, making it an ideal method for home chefs aiming for restaurant-quality results.
scaping into nature is a thrilling experience, and a well-packed backpack can make multi-day hikes enjoyable. Here's how to pack a hiking backpack effectively, while reducing single-use plastics:
Bottom of the Pack: Sleeping Bag & Mid-Weight Gear
Place your sleeping pad, thick clothes, and compressed sleeping bag at the bottom. This area is also ideal for bulk food stored in Durbl Gallon bags, like oatmeal and dried fruit.
Middle Back: Tent, Cookware & Heavy Items
For optimal balance, place heavy items like a water reservoir, cookware, camping stove, fuel canister, and tent near your mid-back. Use cooking pots to store bagged food and pad them with clothes to avoid wear on your pack.
Middle Front: Clothes, Toiletries & Light Items
Store lightweight items you don’t need frequently, such as extra clothing, a towel, and less-used toiletries, in the middle front of your pack. This area can also hold lightweight slippers or flip-flops.
Top of the Pack: Easy-Access, Light Items
The top is ideal for lightweight, frequently accessed items like a water filter, hand sanitizer, toothpaste, sunscreen, bug wipes, and an emergency kit. Use pouches or Durbl bags for organization.
Side Pockets & Hip Pockets
Keep a rain jacket in an outer pocket and store a water bottle and day food in side pockets, using Durbl Quart bags for food portions. Use waistbelt pockets for snacks and dog treats in Durbl Snack bags.
Waterproofing Your Backpack
Consider using a rain cover for your backpack and store essentials in dry bags and Durbl bags to keep them dry.
Essential Packing Checklist
1. Important Gear:
Backpack
Rain cover
Tent
Sleeping bag
Pillow or stuff sack
Sleeping pad or air mattress
Durbl bags (various sizes)
2. Clothing:
Hiking boots
Wool socks
Underwear or long underwear
Hiking pants or shorts
Short-sleeve and long-sleeve T-shirts
Insulated or fleece jacket
Rain jacket and waterproof pants
Sunglasses and hat
Gloves and beanie (seasonal)
3. Toiletries:
Toothpaste, toothbrush
Sunscreen
Bug spray
Toilet paper
Face wash
Hand sanitizer
Biodegradable soap
Feminine hygiene products
Trowel
4. Food & Water:
Water bottles or reservoirs
Water purification method
Cooking utensils and cookware
Lighter or waterproof matches
Meals and snacks
Stove and fuel
5. Emergency Supplies:
Map, compass, GPS
Cell phone and extra battery
Whistle or emergency beacon
Headlamp or flashlight and extra batteries
First aid kit
Knife or multitool
Duct tape
Bear canister (if in bear country)
Permits (if required)
6. Personal Items:
Keys
ID
Credit card
Cash
Detailed itinerary left with an emergency contact
Preparation Tip
After packing, take a short walk to ensure the pack feels balanced and comfortable. Adjust if necessary and ensure nothing is missing. Now, you're ready to disconnect, immerse in nature, and enjoy your hike! Happy hiking!
Looking for easy baby food ideas? You're in the right place! Ensuring your baby gets all the nutrients they need is crucial for healthy development. Store-bought baby food is often packaged in single-use plastic, which isn't eco-friendly. So, we're sharing some low-waste, healthy, and nutritious baby food ideas that you can make in bulk, then freeze and reheat in reusable Durbl containers.Making homemade baby food requires some basic tools to ensure the food is safe and suitable for babies. Here are some common tools for making baby food:
Blender or Food Processor: To puree food to a smooth consistency, ideal for baby food puree.
Hand-Held Stick Blender: Convenient for small batches of infant puree recipes.
Steamer or Steamer Basket: To steam vegetables and fruits, preserving nutrients.
Peeler: For peeling vegetables and fruits like baby food carrots and apples.
Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping and preparing ingredients.
Spoons and Spatulas: For mixing and scraping food.
Small Bowls or Storage Containers: Such as reusable silicone bags for storing and freezing.
Ice Cube Trays: For portioning and freezing baby food.
Here are ten easy and nutritious baby puree recipes:
Carrot Purée:Peel and chop baby food carrots. Steam for about 10 minutes until soft. Cool and blend with a bit of water until smooth.
Avocado Purée:Peel, pit, and mash avocado until smooth. Great for a quick and nutritious meal.
Banana Purée:Peel and mash a ripe banana with a fork until smooth. A simple and healthy option.
Sweet Potato Purée:Peel and chop sweet potatoes. Bake at 400°F for 45 minutes, then blend until smooth.
Apple Purée:Peel, core, and chop apples. Steam for 10 minutes, then blend until smooth.
Pear Purée:Peel, core, and chop pears. Simmer for 25 minutes, then blend until smooth.
Broccoli and Cauliflower Purée:Chop broccoli and cauliflower. Steam for 10 minutes, cool, and blend until smooth.
Pea Purée:Steam peas for 4 minutes. Cool, then blend with a bit of lemon juice and mint for added flavor.
Mango Purée:Peel and chop mango. Blend until smooth. A sweet and nutritious option.
Spinach Purée:Steam spinach for 5 minutes, cool, and blend until smooth.
Foods to Avoid for Babies:
Honey: Risk of botulism.
Cow's Milk: Can cause allergies and digestion issues.
Hard Foods: Like nuts and grapes, can cause choking.
High-Salt Foods: Harmful to baby's kidneys.
High-Sugar Foods: Affect dental health and cause obesity.
Undercooked or Raw Foods: Risk of food poisoning.
Caffeinated Foods and Drinks: Affect baby's nervous system.
Nut Butters: Risk of choking and allergies.
Foods with Additives and Preservatives: Potential health risks.
Citrus Fruits: Can irritate the digestive system.
Making homemade baby food allows you to be creative and ensure your baby gets the best nutrition. With the right tools and some delicious recipes, you can make mealtime a fun and healthy experience for your little one!
Marinating food can be time-consuming, but with Durbl vacuum storage bags, you can speed up the process and achieve delicious results. Here's a fun and efficient way to get your meals marinated in no time.Why Durbl Silicone Bags?Durbl storage bags are eco-friendly and reusable and provide an airtight seal that ensures your marinades penetrate the food more effectively. Plus, their flexibility allows you to massage the marinade into the food, further enhancing the flavours.
Step-by-Step GuideChoose Your Marinade: Whether you're using a simple mix of olive oil, garlic, and herbs or a more complex blend of spices and sauces, start by preparing your marinade in a bowl.Add Your Food: Place your meat, vegetables, or tofu into a Durbl sandwich bag. These bags come in various sizes, so choose one that fits your ingredients comfortably.Pour and Seal: Pour the marinade into the silicone bag with your food. Seal the bag tightly, ensuring there are no leaks.Massage the Marinade: Here's where the magic of Durbl food storage containers shines. Gently massage the marinade into the food through the bag. The flexible silicone allows you to evenly distribute the marinade evenly, ensuring every piece is coated.Speed Up the Process: Place the sealed bag in the fridge for at least 30 minutes for a quick marination. If you have more time, let it sit for a few hours or overnight. The airtight seal helps the marinade infuse more rapidly than traditional methods.Cook and Enjoy: Once your food is marinated, cook it as desired. Thanks to the thorough marination process in your Durbl food container bag, you'll notice the enhanced flavours and tender texture.Fun TipsExperiment with Flavors: Be bold and try different marinades. From tangy citrus blends to spicy Asian-inspired mixtures, the possibilities are endless.Use for Meal Prep: Marinate multiple meals using different Durbl reusable bags at once. This saves time and ensures you have flavorful meals ready to go throughout the week.Easy Cleanup: After using, wash your Durbl vacuum bag with warm, soapy water or place it in the dishwasher. They are durable and ready for your next culinary adventure.
With Durbl ziploc bags, marinating becomes a quick, easy, and environmentally friendly task. So next time you're prepping for a meal, grab your Durbl food-saver bag and enjoy the convenience and flavour boost it brings to your cooking. Happy marinating!
I had the kind with a plastic slider on the top - I hated using them & they didn't seal well and things got freezer burn quickly. These seem to seal much better and are much easier to use, and the silicone being really clear so you can see the contents easily is very helpful too. You can fit a lot more in them than you think, I've been using the snack size more than I thought I would. I wish they would offer the quart size individually - I don't understand why you can get every size except that one. Definitely recommend them
These are great, but I wish they would offer more buying options. They only come in a 3-pack and they don't offer just the size you want individually. I am loving using these for work lunches and that they are safe to heat up in the microwave. They seal well and are heavy duty enough to be sturdy, but don't feel heavy to cart around.
I bought these to stop buying 1-time use Zip-Loc bags. They aren't quite as convenient to use or store, but overall MUCH better. I will buy more. I also bought another top brand but I am sticking with Durbl.