Standardize plastic containers!

[Marthe48]

I just did my annual sorting of plasticware. I can't believe the variation in shapes, just enough so you can't switch out a lid. And we all know how the lids and bottoms go their own ways, so the cupboard is full of things that don't match. I keep the lids in a basket in the cupboard. This year, I'm recycling anything that doesn't have a matching bottom.

I don't like to toss any of the lids or containers, especially if they are sturdy. Luckily, I don't buy much prepared food, so I don't have the excessive pile some people get. I was so low on plasticware last year, I bought a few, in case I wanted to share food. This year, I have just what I need. But maybe someday, the lids and bottoms will be interchangeable and my stash will take up less room.

[patphil]

1. The lids and bottoms aren't always made of the same material, further complicating recycling efforts.

Some labeling is not friendly to the recycling process. I can't get them off, and some are not made of recyclable materials, or they're classification is unknown.

[Marthe48]

2. I forgot about that part

I read up on it awhile back. Makes it harder to recycle, too.

[The Polack MSgt]

3. If you have a restaurant supply store near you

They will have containers that are standard sizes - the pint and quart tub lids are interchangeable too.
They don't cost much more than the cheap ones at the supermarket and the last longer

[Marthe48]

4. Good idea

Thanks!

I usually reuse the ones that come into the house, try to send them back where they came from, don't usually run short.

[No Vested Interest]

5. I have bought a few containers made of thick glass, with soft plastic lids.

Microwaveable, dishwasher safe, etc. Thus not so many needed and likely easier to clean, store, etc.
Recommend.

[Marthe48]

6. I have those

and for my leftovers at home, I use those. I should say, I have Pyrex bowls, and use either wrap or a dish to cover it.

So many good ideas and alternatives.

[slightlv]

7. The cabinet containing my plasticware is a hazard,

in and of itself! I got through lots of "lost" time, sorting everything... throwing out what isn't complete, throwing away errant lids or bottoms, nesting so it all fits neatly in the cabinet. And NO ONE follows up when they clean and put anything away. It drives me nuts! Once I threw out everything I had, and bought a collection of plasticware that all fit neatly in a small "tub"... but NO ONE puts anything back into the tub, let alone tries to nest anything.

I think "nesting" appliances, dishes, plasticware, etc., is beyond the ken of my poor husband at this point. But I do remember being amazed at how neat and orderly his tools were for years. What's the difference between men's tools and women's tools that men can't nest a group of bowls so they fit inside each other?!

And my grandkids! Ah! It's beyond their understanding, too. I've tried to explain how if they would nest things instead of just throwing it all helter skelter into the cabinet, it wouldn't all come falling down on grandma's head when she opens the cabinet! But nothing ever changes... (sigh)

The cabinet has been awaiting my touch for days now. I admit, I'm just not up to the task. I tried to get a complete bowl with lid the other night and nearly fell completely off the chair I climbed to get to it. I need a complete revamp of the kitchen, with new cabinets, etc., and that's never going to happen because medical takes all the SS money! But, I did dream about perfectly nested bowls one night last week. Old age -- when dreams are better than real life living! (LOL)

[Marthe48]

8. I'm lucky

I don't have 'help' in the kitchen. lol My kitchen was always tidier than my husband's tool storage.

My hazard cupboard is under the counter. I have an original mid-century kitchen. The main workspace is L shaped in the corner and goes back from the cupboard door at least 4 feet, with 2 levels. If things get hectic, I put the things helter-skelter in there. I tidied it today. As I sorted the plastic, I couldn't help noticing the many shapes of the square and rectangular items offer. All in the name of design and copyright I'm sure!

I'll be grateful I can sit on a chair, and not stand on one to reach the job area.

[Trueblue Texan]

9. I avoid plastic when I can, but...

...if I get stuck with some I can't use to send leftovers home with a guest, I use them to start seeds, contain gardening supplies, or as organizers around the house. It is too frustrating to try to match them up with other plastics.