So why is the domestic recycling rate so low in Singapore? According to experts, some key contributors include the lack of recycling knowledge amongst consumers in Singapore, and the contamination of recyclables. Since 2018, 40 percent of the recyclables cannot be recycled due to contamination.
To address this issue and promote a more sustainable future, it is crucial to understand and identify the different types of plastics, whether they are recyclable and how to ensure that they are recycled at their highest value.
There are 7 categories of plastics in general, and they each have a resin identification code, which helps facilitiate the sorting process during recycling. You can easily identify the plastic type by checking the triangle plastic code usually found at the bottom of the plastic.
However, note that the triangle recycling symbol on the plastic does not mean that the product is recyclable nor recycled. Not all plastics are made equal, and only some can be recycled. Read on to find out about the different types of plastics, and what can be recycled.
Characteristics: Lightweight, strong and usually transparent and single-use.
Commonly used for: Beverage bottles, and home, personal care and food containers.
Recyclable: Yes. Also accepted at reverse vending machines.
Things to note: rinse containers (with used dishwashing water – as we live in a water-scarce world) and squash them (to make more space in your recycling bin).
Characteristics: Strong, durable and resistant to chemicals, UV light and moisture.
Commonly used for: Milk bottles, detergent bottles, shampoo bottles, bottle caps.
Recyclable: Yes
Things to note: Clear HDPE (like milk bottles) are more easily recycled coloured HDPE (like shampoo or detergent bottles). Always rinse containers to remove any residue or food waste.
Characteristics: Cheap, hard and rigid, resistant to chemicals and weathering. Versatile and widely used. One of the most dangerous plastics to human health.
Commonly used for: Pipes, cables, construction materials, packaging, cling wrap, toys.
Recyclable: No. Hard to recycle and should be avoided if possible
Things to note: PVS is a dangerous plastic. When incinerated, it produces toxic chemicals that stay in the ash. This plastic also looks very similar to PET and can therefore contaminate the PET recycling value chain. In Singapore, PVC items should be disposed of with general waste instead of being placed in recycling bins.
Characteristics: A softer, thinner and more flexible version of HDPE.
Commonly used for: Plastic bags, shrink wraps, and squeeze bottles.
Recyclable: Yes. However, it can be challenging to recycle due to their low density.
Things to note: Refuse LDPE plastic bags when you can, or if you have it, reuse them as liners for trash bins.
Characteristics: Strong, with high melting point. One of the most durable types of plastic.
Commonly used for: Yoghurt containers, food containers, car parts.
Recyclable: Yes
Things to note: A low percentage of PP from households is actually recycled. Refuse single-use food containers whenever possible, and reuse them if you have it.
Characteristics: Cheap, rigid, insulates very well. One of the most dangerous plastics to human health.
Commonly used for: Plastic utensils, cups, plates, Styrofoam, packaging materials
Recyclable: No. Styrofoam is lightweight and bulky (made of 95% air) with low market value, so recycling it is not efficient.
Things to note: Styrofoam contains styrene, a synthetic chemical that has been linked to cancer and other health risks. When burned, it releases styrene gas and a slew of other toxic chemical compounds. Avoid using polystyrene products whenever possible.
Characteristics: Includes all other plastics that do not fit into the first 6 categories, such as PLA, PC.
Commonly used for: Baby milk bottles, reusable bottles, CDs, biodegradable packaging
Recyclable: No
Things to note: Addictives are usually found in biodegradable plastic, making it unsuitable for recycling. If mixed with regular plastics, they become contaminated and cannot be recycled anymore.
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Are biodegradable plastic bags better for Singapore?
The answer is no. As biodegradable plastic bags are currently not recyclable, they ultimately end up in the same place as other waste – the incinerator. They are not as durable as traditional plastic, require more resources (and money) to produce, thereby incurring a large carbon footprint.
Hence, there is no advantage of using biodegradable plastic bags, as compared to traditional plastic bags. It is still better to use your own reusable bags.
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Recycling Rules in Singapore:
To ensure the successful recycling of plastics in Singapore, it is essential to follow these key recycling guidelines:
Recycling plastics is a collective effort that requires active participation from individuals, businesses, and the community as a whole. By understanding the different types of recyclable plastics and following the recycling guidelines established by Singapore's regulations, we can significantly reduce plastic waste and move towards a more sustainable future.
Let's work together to protect our environment and create a cleaner, greener Singapore.
Sources:
https://www.nea.gov.sg/media/news/news/index/60-per-cent-of-singaporean-households-recycle-regularly
https://www.todayonline.com/big-read/big-read-short-singapores-household-recycling-blues
https://recyclopedia.sg
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From polluting our oceans to contributing to climate change, the harmful effects of plastic are evident and affecting us in many different ways.
"We are the first generation to feel the effect of climate change and the last generation who can do something about it." - Barack Obama.
There are simple plastic swaps we can implement to reduce our plastic consumption in our lives, starting right from our homes. We are going to share with you ten practical alternatives to plastic products that can make a significant difference in reducing plastic waste.
Although resealable plastic bags are technically reusable and recyclable, they can only be reused a few times (depending on usage and care), and are unlikely to be recycled due to food contamination. Some plastic bags can also leach toxic chemicals into your food, causing health issues.
Go for more durable and safer food storage options instead, like the reusable Mojo Silicone Bags. They are leak-proof, microwave, freezer and dishwasher safe, and perfect for sous vide cooking – a great choice for storing and freezing poultry, soups, and other food items fresh without the negative environmental impact.
Bonus: Mojo Silicone Bag is is made of LFGB-certified silicone, a more premium and higher quality silicone with increased durability and less odour.
Say goodbye to disposable plastic cling wrap and switch to Silicone Stretch Lids. These stretchable and reusable covers can be used to seal bowls, plates, containers, and even half-cut onions and watermelons, keeping your food fresh without the need for single-use plastic wrap.
Bonus: These silicone stretch lids come in a set of 6 different sizes, covering all your needs (pun intended).
Synthetic loofahs are made of plastics. And every singe time you use them, they shed microplastics, contributing to water pollution and they can harbour harmful and unhygienic mould and bacteria. Opt for Oasis Ramie Bath Pouf made from natural plant fibers. They provide gentle exfoliation and are biodegradable, reducing plastic waste in your bathroom.
Bonus: Made of plant-derived ramie fibres, it is naturally resistant to mould, bacteria and stains.
Many of the plastic bottles that contain liquid soap are made from high-density Polyethylene (HDPE, Plastic #2) which are easily recycled – just make sure that they are clean.
Or, you can simply eliminate this plastic in your bathroom just by choosing bar soaps like Gentle Mood. These handmade soaps are 100% natural and packaged in plastic-free packaging, better for you and the environment.
Bonus: Gentle Mood soaps are made with plant-derived oils and pure essential oils for a sensory shower experience!
We know microfiber cloth and its widespread use for cleaning, but do you know that it is actually made of plastic? Every time you wash these synthetic fabrics, millions of microplastics are shed and they end up in our waterways, polluting it and harming the marine life.
Consider using the natural and effective alternative - Uncommon Sponge Cloth, a super absorbent cloth made from natural plant resources. It can soak up 15x its weight in water, and is great for cleaning all kinds of surfaces without leaving stains or streaks.
Bonus: Made of cellulose and cotton, this sponge cloth is fast-drying and odour-resistant, hence reducing bacteria growth.
Now that we have to pay for disposable plastic bags in most supermarkets in Singapore, are you struggling to find alternatives for your litter bins?
It's actually not that difficult. First, reuse, recycle or compost whatever you can to reduce your trash. To line your bins, reuse whatever bags/boxes you have - be it poly bags from parcels, packaging bags from your toilet paper, rice etc, or you can even repurpose newspaper as a makeshift liner. For dry trash, you can even opt for no bag at all and directly empty the rubbish into a larger waste container during disposal.
Ditch the single-use plastic food containers where possible and opt for reusable containers like Lejos Silicone Collapsible Lunch Box instead. If you know you're going to takeaway a meal or buy a snack, bring along these reusable food containers with you. These silicone lunch boxes are heat-resistant, spill-proof and microwave-safe, making them an excellent alternative for storing food without resorting to plastic.
Bonus: Lejos lunch boxes are collapsible, so they don't take up much space in your bag when not in use.
Do you know that 500 million straws are used in the United States every day, and as many as 8.3 billion plastic straws pollute world's beaches? For something that is only used for an average of just 20 minutes, it takes 200 years to decompose. Ask yourself - are plastic straws really necessary?
Replace them with reusable alternatives like stainless steel, bamboo, or glass straws. Carry your own straw when dining out to avoid using plastic ones, or better yet - go strawless.
With Oliver Park reusable bags, there's really no excuse to forget to bring your reusable bag. It's as light as an egg, folds to a compact size that fits most pockets, yet it's big and strong enough to hold 20kg of load.
We recommend keeping a few of these foldable bags in your car, bag or office to avoid using single-use plastic bags in stores.
Bonus: These Oliver Park bags come in 40 different fashion-forward colours and designs, it's definitely going to amp up your overall look.
When shopping, opt for products with packaging that is minimal, recyclable or contains recycled content. Some products come with unnecessary packaging for aesthetic and advertising purposes, and they are usually thrown away immediately after purchase.
We also recommend going for loose fruits and vegetables without packaging, grocery shopping at bulk food stores, and opting for refillable items like cleaning supplies or personal care products – just ensure that you don’t use single-use plastic pouches to hold these items.
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Reducing plastic use at home is an essential step towards a more sustainable future. By implementing these 10 simple changes, we can significantly reduce our plastic footprint and contribute to a healthier environment.
Let's embrace sustainable alternatives where they can be responsibly disposed of, raise awareness, and inspire others to join us on this journey of creating a sustainable home and a cleaner planet for generations to come.
Have more plastic swaps in mind? Leave us a comment below.
Sources:
https://wwf.org.au/blogs/the-lifecycle-of-plastics/
https://www.nationalgeographic.com/environment/article/news-plastic-drinking-straw-history-ban
https://www.pexels.com/photo/gray-fish-in-a-plastic-glove-on-gray-sand-4813971/
That's why we're going to share with you the secret to storing fruits and vegetables to make them fresher for longer, without investing in expensive vacuum containers, or wasting tons of single-use paper towels every week.
]]>It always pains me when I have to discard fresh (or unfresh) produce from the fridge because they have gone bad before we can finish them. And it's even more upsetting with the rising food prices and increasing food waste problem.
That's why we're completely blown away when we discovered the secret to storing fruits and vegetables to make them fresher for longer, without investing in expensive vacuum containers, or wasting tons of single-use paper towels every week. And we can't wait to share it with you!
If you have been using disposable paper towels, or worse, newspapers to wrap your fresh produce, STOP! According to the Food, Safety and Standard Authority of India (FSSAI), "Wrapping food in newspapers is an unhealthy practice and the consumption of such food is injurious to health, even if the food has been cooked hygienically."
"Printing inks may also contain harmful colours, pigments, binders, additives, and preservatives. Besides chemical contaminants, presence of pathogenic micro organisms in used newspapers also poses potential risk to human health," the advisory said. Food contaminated with ink? No, thank you.
Yes, paper towels do a good job in absorbing moisture from the produce, but they are single use. Do we need to say more?
Here's why you need at least a roll of the Uncommon Reusable Bamboo Kitchen Towel in your home. Not only does it completely replace disposable paper towel's functions, it does an even better job than paper towels. They are stronger (do not tear easily), softer (you can even use it on your skin), more absorbent and of course, reusable (up to 100 times).
Read on to find out how you can use Uncommon Reusable Bamboo Kitchen Towels to keep the various common produce fresh for as long as possible. Tried and tested!
You can also watch our video here.
Note: We like to refrigerate our produce unwashed to reduce the risk of excess moisture, which will lead to spoilage.
Photo credits: @anythingjamie
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We have grown more conscious about what we put in and on our bodies. From the food that we eat to the products that we put on our skin, we want to ensure these items are as healthy and toxic-free as possible. And it doesn't just end there. Most of us are also getting more concern about creating as little impact on the environment as possible.
But we get it - some habits are just hard to change. We learn from watching our moms take off makeup, our friends applying toner using traditional cotton pads. We have been doing that for decades. But it's time to start asking questions.
Is the cotton pad really the best for my skin? For the environment? For my bank account? Is it acceptable to use something for a minute only to know that it will last for hundreds or thousands of years in a landfill? Keep reading to find out.
To start, let’s take a look at cotton - both from an environmental and facial cleaning product point of view.
How is cotton made? According to The World Counts, the use of child labour and slavery is common in the industry, and the cultivation of cotton uses high amounts of pesticides. These pesticides end up in our water, soil and in cotton itself. In addition to this, cotton production is responsible for 220 million tons of CO2 emissions annually, the leading greenhouse gas contributing to climate change. Producing cotton also uses A LOT of water (more than 20,000 litres) just to produce one kilogram of cotton.
So what happens after you have used that cotton pad to apply your toner or remove makeup? Conventional cotton pads cannot be recycled and are non-biodegradable. This is because they have been bleached and contain many different materials which can’t be separated or broken down together. After that minute of single use, they end up in the landfill. If you use 2 pads a day, that's 730 pieces a year.
Cotton is not the best material for cleaning. It is good for absorbing, which means that cotton absorbs your skincare products. Yes, this means that less liquid touches your skin, and you have to spend more of your hard-earned cash on products.
What about makeup remover wipes?
When you use facial wipes, you are basically rubbing alcohol and other chemicals on your face. I don’t know about you, but that doesn’t sound good to me.
If you use facial wipes, you will know that in order for it to work, it needs to be wet. It takes a lot of ingredients to make sure that the fibres are soaked (and remain soaked). This is usually the case of quantity over quality, which you don’t want when considering your precious skin. The wipes also contain water. Water needs to be preserved with preservatives in order to ensure longevity. Some preservatives are good, but some are toxic. But we all know the story, the good ones are more expensive, so the cheap and nasty ones are usually used.
These wipes are often harsh on the skin, leading to dryness, irritation, and redness. This sort of constant irritation can be potentially harmful for your skin in the long term.
These wipes are single-use products and cannot be recycled. Some claim that they are biodegradable or compostable, but this is usually in back-yard or industrial compost systems which most of the world doesn’t have access to. The wipes also contain plastic fibres which when broken down become microfibres which can harm animals and ultimately our food chain.
The bottom line is that they are not good for the skin, and should not be the solution for your regular cleansing.
Enter the sustainable alternative: Oasis Reusable Facial Rounds.
BYKURAHOME is the first brand to develop three different types of reusable facial rounds, each specially crafted for different beauty purposes. Best thing is, the facial round is suitable for use on all skin types, including sensitive skin. Each Oasis facial round is estimated to last 500 to 1,000 times, depending on use.
It is recommended to wash your facial rounds before using them.
Yes you can do so, but we would still recommend using the various Oasis Reusable Facial Rounds for their intended purposes as our research has shown that the differentiated materials achieve the best intended result.
After using the facial round to remove makeup, you can immediately give it a quick wash with soap and water to remove most of the makeup. Then, wring it dry to reduce the water in the facial round, and leave it in a well-ventilated area until you do your laundry to prevent mould buildup.
Place your soiled pads in our cotton mesh laundry bag and wash them in the washing machine on a gentle wash and air-dry facial rounds. Do not use fabric softener or bleach when washing your facial rounds.
For lightly soiled facial rounds (for example Oasis Reusable Skincare Facial Rounds used for putting on toner or Oasis Reusable Cleansing Facial Rounds to wash your face daily), you may choose to wash it with soap and water immediately after use and air-dry.
For heavily soiled facial rounds, you can give it a quick rinse with soap and water immediately after use, then wash together with your delicates in the washing machine during laundry day.
It is not recommended to use fabric softener, stain remover or bleach to wash your facial rounds as the chemicals will damage the fabric and affect its absorbency.
Although you may put the facial rounds in the dryer, it is recommended to air-dry your facial rounds as this will help retain their shape better. Putting facial rounds in the dryer may cause shrinkage and wearing of fabric.
Each facial round can be used up to 500 times. At the end of its life, you can recycle your facial rounds at the nearest textile recycling centre.
]]>"We are the first generation to feel the effect of climate change and the last generation who can do something about it." — Barack Obama
Mother Earth is calling for help. Now, what are you doing to combat climate change?
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Since 1970, people all over the world come together to celebrate Earth Day on 22 April. This month, BYKURAHOME will be sharing 30 simple acts of green.
You may already be practising some - great. If not, some are really easy and will only take you a second, like turning off the lights as you walk out of the room. We invite you to try these tips out and make a positive, lasting impact.
Conserve energy and save on your utility bills when you line dry your clothes! And there's nothing quite like the smell of freshly-washed, sun-dried laundry. Plus, the UV light from the sun actually helps to kill bacteria on your clothes!
While a plastic grocery bag has an average 'working life' of just 12 minutes, it takes up to 1,000 years for it to break down. And here's the thing: approximately 5 trillion plastic bags are used globally each year! You can save up to 307 bags just by switching to a reusable bag
Tissue paper cannot be recycled because they are usually soiled after use. Because we go through so many disposable tissues throughout the day, it would definitely be better on both the planet and your wallet if we switch to cloth napkins!
Yes, we know how useful single-use plastic bags can be, but the downsides outweigh the pros! Because these plastic bags are usually thin and often stained with food, they are not ideal for recycling. Most end up in landfills, taking thousands of years to break down.
Mojo Silicone Bags make a great sustainable alternative for your food storage needs. Made of 100% food-grade platinum silicone, this highly versatile reusable food bag can be used for storage, freezing and even cooking (sous vide).
If your destination is not too far, why not consider taking a walk instead? Not only does it help reduce your carbon footprint, it also reduces air and noise pollution. Walking has also been proven to boost our mood and improve our health!
Do you know that 96% of your typical household cleaners are made up of water, and a large part of what you pay goes to the transportation of the plastic bottle and liquid?
We recently discovered SimplyGood, an eco-friendly home care brand that offers safe and natural cleaning tablets that are 300x lighter and 200x smaller. Imagine all the carbon footprint you’ll be saving!
Saving the Earth cannot get simpler than this. This one small change can amount to big savings (both money and energy) over time.
Do you know growing microgreens are more sustainable than vegetables grown to maturity as the latter often use pesticides and chemicals, and are transported for hundreds of miles to market?
If you’re worried about time or space constraints, or your lack of green fingers, fret not. Super Farmers' microgreens can be easily grown in tiny spaces with little light, and are ready for harvesting in just 10 days. No pesticides or chemicals are needed as they use good-grade compost mix and viable seeds from local farms. Their microgreens are also super nutritious, containing up to 42 times more nutrients than their fully-grown versions!
Instead of washing small loads of clothes, wash laundry on full load to save water. Also, use cold water as often as possible to conserve energy.
Is your wardrobe brimming with clothes, yet you feel like you have nothing to wear?
Solution: Create a wardrobe filled with lasting essentials where you can mix and match around easily. Opt for conscious clothing brands like Esse, which merges timeless designs with a traceable supply chain that champions environmental and social responsibility.
The process of sending paper statements require printing, fulfillment, and postage for every single recipient, only to be read for a matter of seconds before being discarded. You can transition to paperless statements and help reduce the usage of paper.
Do you know that the carbon footprint of bottled liquid soaps is 25 percent higher than bar soaps per wash? We also tend to use more liquid soap each time when we shower as compared to a soap bar.
We love that OASIS: Beauty Kitchen cooks up quality soap and shampoo bars fresh every week, using real ingredients that offer a multitude of benefits. Plus, their bars come with zero fillers and chemicals!
According to Harvard University, we use 20 gallons of water for an average 8-min shower? Try cutting your shower time to just 5 min and you'll be saving almost half the water. Not only that, you'll also be saving the electricity used to heat up those water!
An average person goes through more than 11,000 disposable menstrual products in a lifetime. That’s a lot of waste in the landfill, and a lot of money!
The Period Co., a local eco-friendly business, aims to help women have happier, healthier and greener periods by offering a range of reusable menstrual products that are better for the planet, they’re also great for your body and wallet! We love the Saalt Menstrual Cup that they are carrying! Do you know menstrual cups can hold more blood than other methods, and you can save up to 95% as compared to pads in a decade?
Technological advancements and government regulations have resulted in smarter and more energy-efficient home appliances.
In Singapore, Mandatory Energy Labelling Scheme (MELS) was introduced in 2008 to help consumers understand and compare appliances' energy consumption. The more efficient an appliance, the more ticks there are on its label.
Imported produce results in higher carbon footprint. Colossal amounts of energy are required to fuel ships and planes, which also leave behind them a trail of greenhouse gases as they traverse the globe.
The solution? Go local. Examples of food farmed locally include fish, eggs, and vegetables. When shopping for local produce, be sure to keep a lookout for products with the SG Fresh Produce Logo conferred by the Singapore Food Authority.
Kühlbarra's barramundi is farmed locally in the southern waters of Singapore. With their farm just 45 minutes away from shore, their fish are all processed, packed and delivered fresh to our doorsteps within hours. Hooray to fresher seafood with a lower carbon footprint!
Fact: 1.2 million plastic bottles are used every minute, and about 91% of them are not being recycled. This is killing our oceans, and piling up on our land. If that's not enough to get you to use a reusable water bottle, get this.
A recent study shows that more than 90% of the bottled water brands in the research conducted contained traces of microplastics.
Going to the toilet? Opt for bamboo toilet paper instead! As the world’s fastest growing plant, bamboo is highly renewable and sustainable. Bamboo toilet tissue is also 100% biodegradable, and it decomposes much faster than any other types of toilet tissue.
We recommend Cloversoft's Unbleached Bamboo Toilet Tissues, which is unbleached, non-toxic and anti-bacterial - safe for even infants and those with sensitive skin!
Don't let your (food and garden) waste go to waste! By composting, not only do you reduce your carbon footprint, you are literally turning trash into rich, nutrient-rich soil for your plants. Here's a good guide to start composting at home.
Do you know that only 9% of all the plastic produced get recycled? Today, we produce about 300 million tonnes of plastic waste a year - almost equivalent to the weight of the entire human population! If this continues, there'd be more plastic than fish in our oceans by 2050. There are so many things we can do to mitigate plastic pollution - starting from something as simple as bringing your own food containers.
Lejos Silicone Collapsible Lunch Box makes packing and carrying lunches and snacks on-the-go light, easy and convenient. Unlike traditional food containers which take up plenty of space in your cabinets, this reusable lunch box collapses to just 3cm for compact storage. Simply slip one inside your bag and you're good to go!
Rainwater is essentially... free. Why not collect the rainwater that falls on your property and use them for gardening, toilet flushing, or even car washing? A little goes a long way, and you'll be saving a lot on the bills!
Beauty is more than skin deep, especially when it comes to food. Do you know that a whopping 20% of perfectly edible fresh produce is being discarded just because they are in excess or simply, ugly?
Thankfully, UglyFood has been helping to eliminate food waste since it was founded in 2017, by selling excess or ugly produce, and sustainably sourced goods. You can help too, by not judging food by its appearance!
According to the UN Climate Change Report, an astonishing 23% of the greenhouse gas emissions come from animal agriculture. This is estimated to be more than all of the world's transportation systems added together.
If going vegan is too much for you, try going meatless at least once a week. Not only is it better for the planet, a plant-based diet is also better for your health.
If would think baking paper is just... paper, therefore it is recyclable right? The answer is no. They are usually treated with acid during production and coasted with a layer of silicone to make it heat-resistant. Add stains from your baking and roasting to the equation, this makes baking paper unsuitable for recycling, composting and reusing.
Make the switch to silicone baking mat instead. Not only are they reusable, its nonstick surface makes it easy to wash too. The Paco Silicone Baking Mat can also double up as kneading mat and placemat!
When shopping for products, make a conscious effort to choose those with less or no packaging, or recycled and sustainable packaging. By doing so, you're encouraging more companies to go green!
Singapore's recycling rate has hit a 10-year low at 13% in 2020 despite generating more household waste. More can be done in a few simple steps.
The first step to reducing household waste would be to minimize what you have to dispose in the first place. Switch out disposables for reusables. Upcycle and repurpose whatever you can. Have a recycling bin next to your trash bin to keep it visible and accessible. Make sure the items are clean and not contaminated with food or liquids. Not sure what can be recycled? Check out this website here.
Do you know that by unplugging unused appliances,, you can save 5% to 10% of your electricity bill? Even when you switch off appliances, they are still on standby and drawing electricity. Key culprits include computers, televisions etc. While there are some appliances like refrigerators that cannot be turned off, remember to opt for energy-efficient versions!
The next time you are looking for an activity to do with your partner, family or friends, how about considering a community cleanup? This is a good chance for you to get outdoors, spend quality time with your loved ones, and care for your environment! Here are the different cleanups you can sign up for in Singapore.
There are so many benefits when it comes to shopping at bulk stores. Not only are you saving money by paying only for what you need, you're also reducing food waste and packaging waste. Remember to make a checklist of what you are getting before making your trip, and bring along the bags and containers you need!
Lastly, inspire others by your actions!
Feeling inspired? Pick one act of green to do a day, and when you're ready, try another. And don't just stop there. Sustainability is a journey, not a goal. But we promise you, by the end of the month, you'll feel good about yourself, and you'll be making a difference.
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1. Reduce Use of Disposables
Many disposables are involved in picnics because boy, do we love convenience (use and throw). But, they don't have to be. Here are a few areas where you can reduce the use of disposables:
2. Go for Local Produce
When items are shipped through sea or air travel, the environmental impacts of consuming them would be taken up a notch. This happens because of the colossal amounts of energy required to fuel ships and planes, which also leave behind them a trail of greenhouse gases as they traverse the globe. The solution? Go local. Local produce is free from these environmental detriments pegged with imported goods.
In our island nation Singapore where virtually everything seems imported, it may seem like quality local produce is few and far between. That is far from the truth- local produce is available in many wet markets and supermarkets islandwide, and most of them are of high quality due to their freshness. Examples of food farmed locally include fish, eggs, and vegetables.
When shopping for local produce, be sure to keep a lookout for products with the SG Fresh Produce Logo conferred by the Singapore Food Authority.
(Source: Singapore Food Authority)
3. Buy Only What You Need
When preparing for picnics at the last minute, the temptation to just snag food off the shelves is real. This often leads to food wastage as pre-packaged food may not reflect the portion sizes needed for your family.
To work around this problem, some pre-planning for the picnic becomes crucial. We suggest drafting up a list of what you need and how much of it you need before you hit the stores, so that you avoid buying more than what your family can finish.
A great place to shop would be bulk stores, where you can buy just the right amount you require. Some of our go-tos include Scoop Wholefoods and The Source Bulk Foods.
Have the rest of the family join you in this process - they know their favourite food and appetites the best!
Do you have any other tips on how to make your picnics more sustainable? Do let us know in the comments.
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In your Pantry
It’s that time of the year- time to declutter. Let’s have a look at our pantry.
After one round of Marie Kondo-ing your pantry and discarding all the unnecessary things, it’s time to think of storing what’s left.
See those plastic containers? You probably took them home when ordering takeaway from your hawker. Not only do they take up precious space in your pantry (that can be used to store more snacks), but they are also not environmentally friendly- we need not elucidate the harms of single-use plastics on the environment.
Want to make the switch to a more environmentally friendly alternative that takes up far less space? Our Lejos Silicone Collapsible Lunch Box 2.0 can come in handy. It can collapse to a mere 3cm in thickness, freeing up the space for other important things in your home.
Another tip: stock-take so that you know what to purchase and what not to. At some point, we’re all guilty of picking up something at the store, only to realize once we hit home that the exact same thing is sitting peacefully in our cupboard. By purchasing less, stock-taking helps us reduce the waste we generate.
To make the stock-taking process easier, we recommend using our Mojo Silicone Bags. Not only do they double up as a sustainable alternative to storage bags, they come in a variety of sizes for you to classify and store different things. The transparency of these bags makes it easier to see from a glance what items you have and what you don’t, so that you only buy what you need at the store.
Need some tips in organizing your items in our Mojo Silicone Bags? Check out this post for more.
When Cleaning
You want to make your house spick and span in time for the festivities. You want to rid yourself of all its imperfections and stains.
But store-bought cleaners are often not only bad for the environment, but also your health. Not only do they come in plastic packaging, their production processes often pollute the environment with toxic chemicals. Moreover, volatile organic compounds in these products can compromise the air quality in your house.
How should we get around store-bought cleaners then? We suggest using natural cleaners easily available in your kitchen.
When Finishing Up
You’re done with cleaning and stock-taking. Have some non-perishable food and old clothes in good condition? Let’s do some good this Chinese New Year, and give them a new lease of life- it’s the season of new beginnings, after all.
As many families like yours and mine rev up our efforts in spring cleaning, donation drives have also been popping up around the island. Do consider contributing to these donation drives by donating your items! You’ll be making a difference to the recipients of your donation and starting the year on a good note.
Another place you can donate your old clothing to is thrift stores. Pre-loved pieces in good condition can be picked up by another person who opts for thrift shopping, so they won’t have to buy new pieces. Now people can get “new” clothes for their Chinese New Year OOTD without putting a strain on the environment!
Do you have any other tips or areas for spring cleaning that you want to share with us? Let us in the comments below.
]]>Christmas. When this word pops up, our minds are immediately flooded with images of gifts, freshly baked pastries, and opulent decorations. Indeed, many things are associated with the season of gifting.
But not all of them are sustainable. Many activities we do on Christmas generate tons of waste, many of which are non-biodegradable. Our gifts, snacks, and decor can accumulate carbon footprint as many raw materials are flown in from distant corners of the world.
We know that being sustainable during Christmas is not easy. You already have a lot on your plate, trying to juggle the gifting and decorating along with the already draining vicissitudes of everyday life. That’s why we are here to share our tips on some manageable ways you can be more sustainable this Christmas.
1. Sustainable Decor
With the festivities in full swing, you are probably in the midst of adorning your home with Christmas decor. You’re also probably eyeing new mistletoes, stars, fairy lights, and Christmas balls. But these items are often laced with plastics that take hundreds of millions of years to decompose, and they occupy copious amounts of space in our landfills. Purchasing them yearly creates demand for plastics, which produces even more plastics that will line our landfills.
A way to reduce plastic generation this Christmas is to simply reuse your decor from last year. If you have already thrown them away during your spring cleaning, just tell yourself to reuse them from this year on! Another good practice is to choose the ones made with environmentally friendly materials.
Alternatively, if you wish to have some fun with the little ones this Christmas, you can reuse materials and create some easy-to-make Christmas decor together!
My personal favourite is Christmas origami. Have magazines lying around your house? Shiny, sturdy and colourful, magazine pages are great materials for this sustainable Christmas decor. While there are many types of Christmas origami available, I chose this easy-to-make Christmas star because it only requires paper (and string, if you want to string many of them together).
(Source: Homemade Gifts Made Easy)
You can find videos on how to make these Christmas stars here.
2. Use Reusables in your Baking
Christmas is the season of baking. Just think about all the gingerbread men, cookies, brownies and cupcakes you’ll be baking and eating! But baking is not always the best for the environment: the disposable baking paper you use is often lined with plastic, and the containers you use to store your bakes are often disposable too.
Need a hand in reducing plastic waste this Christmas season? Our products are here to help.
3. Sustainable Gifting
We want to present the best gifts to our loved ones. This Christmas, why not give Mother Nature a gift by gifting sustainably?
Our first tip: going local. In our small island country Singapore, many of our gifts hail from far-flung places around the globe. The trajectory of travel for imported goods, especially for perishable goods which have to go through air travel, can generate lots of carbon footprint. Shopping locally not only supports our Small and Medium Enterprises during this trying time, but can also drastically reduce the effect of your gifting choices on climate change.
A second way to make gifting more sustainable is to reduce disposable packaging. We get it- some wrapping papers and gift bags we see in the shopping malls are really cute and aesthetic. But many of them contain plastics too: see the sheen on its surface? That’s plastic.
Want to make a switch to more sustainable forms of gift packaging this Christmas? Check out our Oliver Park EDC Classic. This reusable bag is not just good enough to be a gift itself; it can also be used as a gift packaging to house your presents!
We would love to hear about your sustainability tips for Christmas. Let us know in the comments below!
]]>Wonderland Botanicals is unlike your typical floral studios. Stemming from their love of the natural world and belief that flowers should be enjoyed in our living spaces every day, they go beyond the usual occasion bouquets to focus on making flowers a part of people’s lifestyles and homes.
"We make flowers for the home accessible for all by offering a wide range of floral styles, sizes and price points to choose from, " says Melissa Wang, Creative & Production Head. "Our floral arrangements are interior-inspired, textural and honours what nature intended – we look at the natural movement, colours and shapes of the flowers and blend these organically with different interior styles and the most common spaces of a home."
This Christmas, Melissa shares with us more about why more people are opting for their floral subscription, and how you can recharge and transform your space instantly this festive season with flowers.
Flowers used to be a luxury item meant for special occasions only. How do you think this has changed?
The pandemic has caused us to forge a closer connection to our homes as we place a greater focus on building a multi-purpose home. More home-based jobs call for rooms that prioritize quietness and privacy while dealing with space constraints, and flowers have become increasingly important in cultivating moments of joy in nature-positive havens.
At its best, flowers can transform the experience of a space and we believe they have their greatest impact in our homes. The rise in demand of our floral subscription products suggests that our customers agree with this.
Who are Wonderland Botanicals’ customers?
Given the versatility and assorted curation of our floral styles, we do see customers of a variety of backgrounds and personality types - from the bold and stylish to the contemporary minimalist, from the home and decor tastemaker to the DIY enthusiast. There are, however, a few things in common among all our customers - they take great pride in their homes, have a keen sense of style and believe in living thoughtfully through the simple joys of life.
Flowers not only brighten up your room, it is said to lift your mood and spirits too. What roles do you think flowers play in the new normal?
There is a reason why floral bouquets are popular gifts for people feeling under the weather – flowers are natural mood boosters. With the new normal, people are spending a lot more time at home, and having that little touch of nature in our living spaces can really make all the difference.
Flowers can instantly transform a room without taking up much space. In our view, fresh flowers are ideal, because it gives a place some life amongst all the furniture and inanimate objects – it’s like having part of a garden within your home. The different scents, colours, shapes and forms of the different types of flowers, or combinations of these in floral arrangements, can influence the mood of your home in different ways.
Flowers in muted tones, or cool blues and calming greens can bring about much-needed calmness and serenity when you’re looking to rest and recharge after a busy day, or provide some tabletop respite for tired eyes when you’ve been staring at a screen all day long. For those looking for an energy or creative boost, bolder, jewel-toned flowers can be just that.
It is also a thoughtful way to send some much-needed positivity to a loved one, and a timely reminder to stop and smell the flowers.
Floral arrangement can be a form of therapeutic activity, and it seems to be getting more popular during these unprecedented times. Where’s a good place to get a bundle of pre-matched flowers for easy and fuss-free self-arrangement at home?
DIY enthusiasts or those wanting a little floral therapy can purchase Wonderland Botanicals’ Market Bundle Flowers, an assemble-at-home kit of curated, fresh flowers, in their favoured choice of colourway. The flowers will be conditioned, bundled unarranged and delivered to your doorstep so you can enjoy the process of putting together a vase arrangement for your home.
With our Market Bundle flowers, you can let your creativity flow. For inspiration on how to work with your flowers, take a look at our how-to guide here.
For those who prefer a personal touch and would like to create their own floral arrangement this Christmas, can you give some advice on how to build a well-balanced, festive arrangement?
We believe in honouring what nature intended so our arrangements are largely asymmetrical and looser in form. Excluding shades of green, we use no more than four main colours to build an elegant and harmonious arrangement. Allow the natural movement of each stalk to guide its form and create a well-balanced arrangement by choosing a hero bloom before incorporating a combination of both structured foliage with more organic ones. For example, a large bloom such as the Amaryllis will create a simple and visually impactful arrangement when paired with the coin-shaped, ornament-like leaves of the “dancing” eucalyptus populus, which adds a gentle contrast to the stiffness of the nobilis fir.
The Amaryllis flowers are traditionally popular during Christmas due to their striking blooms that brighten up a winter landscape. With their large, trumpet-like petals that bloom in monochromatic tones of red, or shades of white brushed with deep crimson streaks and edges resembling the hues of a candy cane, the Amaryllis makes for an elegant and show-stopping centrepiece during the festive season -- an ode to the season of rejoicing and the star of our Flower for the Holidays collection this year.
If they’d like to learn more about floral arrangement techniques, can you recommend a place?
Wonderland Botanicals, of course! We have recently moved into a new floral studio, and this means that we now have the opportunity to host floral workshops. This December, we will be hosting a series of Christmas workshops where participants can learn the art of creating a festive vase centrepiece, tablescape or wreath with seasonal foliage and Christmas ornaments.
Although they are all sold out, interested customers can definitely look forward to more in the coming year!
Lastly, can you share with us some tips on how to keep your flowers looking fresh for longer?
Change the water and trim a little of the stems daily to keep flowers blooming for longer. Remove wilted flowers from the vase to prevent water contamination, as this can clog up healthy stems and affect the water intake of your flowers. Fill vases with fresh, room temperature water, and avoid heat, direct sunlight and ripening fruits. And for coloured blooms, avoid spraying water directly on the petals as this may cause the colours to fade. Learn more about flower care here!
This Christmas, we speak to Jason Lee, founder of local artisanal perfume label Scent By SIX, to find out more about their revolutionary new fragrance that has been proven to enhance moods and make one feel happier, and how their scents can make the perfect finishing touch to any festive home.
What sets SIX apart from the other fragrance houses?
SIX is not selling fragrances. We sell stories and experiences that evoke your memories and emotions. No different from a painter or song writer, scent is a tool for us to tell a story. More importantly, we aim to use scents to soothe, to heal and to delight our mental wellness.
Why do you think more people are choosing niche, artisanal brands like SIX over commercialized fragrances?
People are more well-exposed, well-travelled and “in-the-know” now. They seek resonating brands that tell a compelling story and appeal to their higher level of well-being. Niche brands are also more transparent in areas of sustainability and social responsibility and consumers appreciate that.
Home fragrances like candles and diffusers used to be a status symbol that adorns coffee tables in homes. How do you think that has changed?
These categories have certainly gone mainstream with the rise of mass market MNC candle companies. However, customers are also asking for the real deal now, like our industrial grade nebulizers made for homes and cars. Customers place trust in us because our specialization lies customizing scents for top hotels and airlines. And now, we offer affordable products suitable for homes and offices.
Fragrances have been proven to help enhance moods. How do you think SIX’s scents have helped improve mental well-being in these trying times?
We used to perceive that fragrances help to enhance moods. Now, we are here to ascertain this fact.
We now employ patented fragrance intelligence in our ingredients. They have been tested and proven by top universities to be able to influence one’s mood (for eg make you happier, focus better, enhance your sleep quality etc).
We have just launched Hikaru, a scent co-developed with youths from Singapore Association of Mental Health. Boosted with fragrance intelligence to make one feel happier, Hikaru aims to raise awareness about mental health and pay tribute to the caregivers.
What scent and type of home fragrance would you recommend someone who’s never tried SIX before?
I would strongly recommend the Mini Nebulizer. It is very versatile, easy to charge and effective. Its mini size allows you to place it anywhere and everywhere in the house, and it also fits into most cup holders in cars too!
Scent wise, definitely 27°F Biei. It is our best seller and it permeates all around our shop in Bugis Junction. Many people got a whiff of the scent when passing by and went straight into the shop to get it! #truestory
What does happiness smell like to you?
Actually, there’s a perfect scent in our collection that depicts happiness, and that's Hikaru!
Hikaru is centered upon the exquisite Japanese Yuzu, which smells nothing like any other citrus fruits. It oozes energizing positivity, while subconsciously enveloping you into a cocoon of comfort. To me, this is happiness. It is about being contented, enjoying the moment, and self-love!
How can SIX be part of people’s Christmas celebration this year?
This Christmas will definitely be a “quieter” one, with less parties and gatherings for our health and safety. However, Christmas is more than just celebrations and parties. It’s a great time to reflect on this year’s happenings and never forget to love, show compassion and forgiveness to others. We hope that our home scenting machines like the Mini Nebulizers will help create that warm and festive ambience in the comfort of your home!
As it’s the season of gifting, we’ve also lined up some Christmas promotions and gifting bundles, available online and at our outlets! For those looking for more bespoke gifts, we will also be conducting workshops where you can customize your own scent!
Lastly, can you share some tips on making fragrances last longer?
Instead of using EDT, try applying pure aroma oil / fragrance oil on pulse points. Do not rub the application points aggressively as it may damage and disintegrate the olfactive structures.
Many of us love wooden wares and how they instantly add a gorgeous touch of rusticity to the table, but immediately shy away when they know about the maintenance required. I mean, isn't skin maintenance enough work already?
It's our job to let you know that caring for your wooden pieces is actually really simple, and you can probably do it with the things you already have in your pantry.
Meals look beautiful in them and guests love eating food off of them. They're safe around kids, and the good quality ones are made to last for years with proper care. Trust us, the pros really outweigh the little bit of maintenance effort.
So, let's get started on
Other tips!
Have more tips to share? Comment below and let us and the KURAHOME community know!
]]>1. Oven Baking
This needs no further explanation - everything that you are whipping up, be it roasted vegetables, cookies, macarons or granola, the paco Silicone Mat can be placed over your baking tray and slide into the oven. It's easy to wash and reusable so you will never have to face the situation where you ran out of baking paper!
2. Table Placemat
The chic design of paco Silicone Mat makes it perfect as a placemat and instantly glams up your dining table. Parents with young children will also love this - it helps contain the mess and makes cleaning up easier. Plus, it's foldable so simply roll it up to fit into any bag to bring it on-the-go when dining out at the restaurants.
3. Rolling Mat
The paco Silicone Mat comes in super handy as rolling mat, which I personally use it for this purpose very often. From kneading doughs for pizzas and milk buns, to making pastries like quiche and egg tart shells, the 40 x 30cm dimension fits ideally. Beyond the uses for dough rolling, this functional item is also good as a mat to make sushi and gimbap.
4. Countertop
Available in neutral colour choices of grey and mauve, the paco Silicone Mat is ideal as an anti-slip mat for water jars on your kitchen countertop, or even just to protect your table where you place your keys.
]]>With the increased public awareness of climate change, moving towards sustainability is at the forefront of many of our minds. Despite that, we also cannot deny the inertia that's present, the discipline needed to break old habits and adopt more sustainable practices.
“We don’t need a handful of people doing zero waste perfectly.
We need millions of people doing it imperfectly.” Anne Marie Bonneau, Zero Waste Chef.
We just have to bear in mind that "every little bit counts". We looked back at how we kickstarted our eco journey, and came up with these 3 simple and manageable areas to start with.
1. Start from your kitchen
Open up your cabinets or drawers. Do you see cling wraps or resealable plastic bags? No, you are not going to dump it. Just tell yourself that this is going to be the last box and switch to reusable alternatives once you've emptied them. Swap to our customers' favourite products that are also reviewed as 'money-saving'!
2. When you head out for grocery run
Truth is, it does take a period of time to develop the habit of BYO (bring your own) shopping bags, and there will be times when your memory slips. It's OK.
But here's our personal hack to ensure you don't forget your reusable shopping bag - always keep them in the car, or if you don't drive, keep them in your bag. You can also place them near your house entrance and simply grab them as you go.
Check out our range of Provision Mesh Produce Bags and Provision Mesh Tote Bags, which are fashionable add-ons for your next grocery run.
3. When you dabao food, or pack snacks on-the-go
Make an effort to SAY NO to single-use packaging when you order your food next time, and BYO. Trust me, the hawker will thank you too.
Be it bringing the containers from your previous takeaway, or using reusable ones like our Lejos Silicone Collapsible Lunch Box, remember small moves like this can make a difference.
When packing breakfast or snacks for on-the-go, skip the single-use plastic bag and opt for reusable options like our self-seal Mojo Snack Pouch.
We would love to know about the other sustainable practices you have adopted! Share with us in the comments below.
]]>Jamie first started her Instagram account in August 2019 to document the meals that she cooked for her cheeky toddler, J. She has since gained a rapid following due to her easy, delicious recipes coupled with beautiful styling shots that make us all drool in envy (and hunger).
On this special occasion that's close to our hearts, we had an intimate chat with her to discover the moments she'd experienced as a mother, as well as to pay a tribute to her mum, who sadly passed away 4 days after J was born.
]]>Jamie first started her Instagram account in August 2019 to document the meals that she cooked for her cheeky toddler, J. She has since gained a rapid following due to her easy, delicious recipes coupled with beautiful styling shots that make us all drool in envy (and hunger).
On this special occasion that's close to our hearts, we had an intimate chat with her to discover the moments she'd experienced as a mother, as well as to pay a tribute to her mum, who sadly passed away 4 days after J was born.
Firstly, how did you feel when you first found out you are going to be a mother?
I found out I was pregnant when I was overseas for work. I was pacing up and down in my hotel room alone, not knowing how to react. I was excited yet really scared at the same time.
What was your first ‘Mum’ moment like? How did you feel when you first held your son, J in your arms?
I told my gynae and husband to take him away from my arms as I was exhausted after being in labour for 17 hours. I was really afraid I would drop him. But I remembered he opened one eye to look at me and I thought to myself “so cute”.
What surprised you most about being a mother? What do you love most about it?
I never knew I could love someone else so much, someone I barely met. Though there’s a lot of love and frustrations at the same time, seeing him sleep in my arms gives me a great sense of comfort.
What's the hardest thing about being a mum?
The hardest thing is letting go, knowing that I cannot always be there to help him and he has to learn how to figure things out.
How do you balance between taking care of yourself and motherhood?
The first year with my son was challenging because of his allergies and eczema. Now that things are better, I have finally gone back to my skincare routine. That’s an improvement!
What was the transition like when you went from being someone’s child to someone’s parent? How long did it take you to really get used to the idea?
It was fast. After we got discharged from the hospital, I got into a protective mode and I’m not sure if that’s a good or bad thing, haha!
How has your mum influenced you in your cooking and food styling?
Growing up, my mum had always made everything look pretty, be it the house or table setting, everything was presentable. Back then, there was no social media. It was something she took pride in. That has definitely influenced me in some ways. I like to present the food nicely to the person I am serving.
My mum’s cooking style is very simple. She doesn’t do anything too complex. Her dishes are all very simple and modern but tasty. One of my favourite comfort food from mum is just a sunny side up egg on a buttered bread. She also bakes more than she cooks because she enjoys hosting afternoon tea with her sisters and friends.
What’s one lesson you learnt from your mum that you would pass on to J?
There’s one thing I really love about my mum - she’s always very neutral. No matter what negative stories we share with her, she will always bring us down to earth and stay neutral. She will never add fire to the fuel and always make me think twice about a situation. I hope I can be a great confidant to J in future too.
You’d mentioned before that your mum passed away 4 days after you gave birth to J. What is the one thing you would like to tell her about her grandson?
“Mummy, look at J, everyone says he looks like his father. But if you look carefully, he looks like me right?”
What’s the one thing you would like to do with your mum again?
My mum used up her last bits of energy to visit me in the hospital after I gave birth to J. I was too overwhelmed with emotions that I did not say or do anything. I would love to give her a long and tight hug and hold her small dedicate hands, telling her how much I love her.
Do you have any advice for new mums/mums-to-be?
I know everything seems scary and exhausting. You don’t have to do everything alone to prove to anyone that you’re a capable mother, you already are. Do seek help from your loved ones / lactation consultant if there’s a need.
What’s the one KURAHOME product you would recommend to mothers out there, and why?
I would definitely recommend the Silicone Bags. They help keep my vegetables and fruits fresh, organize my freezer and fridge space and I'm able to do meal preparations with them. In short, they keep me sane, haha!
This mother’s day, I want…
to spend quality time with my family. As long as we’re together, healthy and safe, I am happy.
Leave a comment for Jamie here, or say hello to her on Instagram!
]]>Here are some other unique ways we love using them for, as well as many other creative uses we learnt from our customers!
(Tip: Always try to opt for a bag that is of similar colour as the food for easy cleaning. For instance, red bag for tomato-based sauce, which is always in abundance in our freezer for quick pasta meals.)
Though we should all be staying home right now, keep in mind these other ideas when it’s eventually safe to head out again!
We will love to hear any other creative uses of your Silicone Bag. Leave us a comment below or simply tag us on Instagram @bykurahome.
Thankfully, the Mojo Silicone Bags are way easier to clean in comparison. Here are some personal tips on how to care for your eco-friendly silicone bags!
Wash before first use
As with all new items that will come into contact with food, you need to wash the silicone bag with soap and warm water, then rinse and dry.
When drying, simply air dry your silicone bags upside down over a dish drying rack, or even your mugs! To avoid unsightly water stains, you can also towel dry it first.
Keep items in Mojo Silicone Bags in Ash to reduce potential stains
Store homemade tomato pasta sauce, chilli sauce, or any food that stains easier? No problem. Opt for the darker Mojo Silicone Bag to reduce obvious stains.
Remove odour and stains the natural way
So, your Mojo Silicone Bag is smelling like its previous pungent-smelling tenant (durian, anyone?) and you want to get rid of that odour. Here are some simple ways to remove lingering smells and unsightly stains from your silicone bags:
Cleaning oily silicone bags
Fact: Hot water cuts grease. So, the next time you're faced with oily silicone bag, just soak it with hot water. Once the grease has melted away, washing will be a breeze again.
These cleaning hacks apply to other BYKURAHOME's silicone products too! If you have more tips to add to the list, leave a comment below!]]>It’s widely known that nuts and seeds are incredibly good for you. In fact, they are the ultimate health food. They are also a good source of heart-healthy fats, fiber, protein, and other beneficial nutrients. Those on keotgenic diet tend to pack lots of nuts and seeds into their diets as they stimulate your body to burn excess fat.
Here are a couple of tips on buying, storing, and eating nuts and seeds.
]]>I admit that I have a snacking habit. I know, that doesn’t sound like a good habit. But when it is snacking on nuts and seeds, hey, that doesn’t seem so bad now right?
It’s widely known that nuts and seeds are incredibly good for you. In fact, they are the ultimate health food. They are also a good source of heart-healthy fats, fiber, protein, and other beneficial nutrients. Those on keotgenic diet tend to pack lots of nuts and seeds into their diets as they stimulate your body to burn excess fat.
We keep a stash of different nuts and seeds at home not only because they are great health snacks, their uses are endless too! Throw a bunch into your granola for the extra flavour, add them atop your salad for the crunch, and you can even churn those roasted almonds into rich and creamy homemade almond butter. And I'm definitely not complaining when I see my 18 month old toddler choosing nuts and seeds over commercialized baby puffs!
Here are a couple of tips on buying, storing, and eating nuts and seeds.
You can gain so many benefits from this tip! Not only are you reducing packaging waste, you also cut down on the carbon footprint by minimising the number of trips you make. And of course, buying in bulk means you save some extra bucks.
Always look for a store that has high traffic. This would mean that the stocks there are newer and fresher. If you are from Singapore, we recommend heading to Albert Centre Wholesale Market.
As nuts contain a high amount of oil, they can become rancid very quickly. Heat, light and moisture accelerate spoilage. You can store them at room temperature for up to a month, in the fridge for up to six months, or in the freezer for about a year. Basically, the darker and drier the storage space, the better.
Nuts like almonds and walnuts have a tendency to absorb odours from the surrounding. I’m sure you don’t want to eat nuts that smell like onion or durian, so keep them away from strong-smelling food.
We recommend storing your nuts and seeds in airtight Silicone Food Storage Bag and labelling with dates of purchase so you know which ones to use first.
If you find your nuts and seeds tasting stale after some time, you can bake them at 180C for 10 minutes and they will taste great again.
Nuts are a handy snack to stash in your bag in case hunger hits. Use the Beeswax Wrap as a snack pouch for your nuts and seeds on-the-go!
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