Much like the famed mason jar, silicone is everywhere in zero- and low-waste. Since it is Plastic-Free July, I have seen more and more people discussing silicone as if it were the “end all, be all”…but is it? Silicone is an elastomer derived from silica, which is a polymer with elastic properties (Gent, 2020). Medical-grade silicone is clinically tested for its compatibility with living tissue (Biodermis, 2018). Silicone is more durable than plastic, and when it breaks down it hasn’t shown to break down into microplastics.

I have silicone bags, straws, and menstrual cups. Out of those, my favorite thing, which is also what I use the most and get the most value from, is the menstrual cup. Period cups have made my life 100% easier, one week out of every month. Honestly, I was very opposed until I tried them. The whole concept was simply gross. It took a few brands, but I finally found one that worked the best for my body. Not only does this save money, but it also saves me time and pain from the reactions I have to conventional period products. If you are interested in trying them, know that it might take some time to find your perfect fit. Be patient.

While the bags and straws are great for some, the straws are definitely not for me. I am not a fan of their texture, even though their ability to bend and flex makes them great for travel. Also, if you like to bite straws*, then they are definitely safer than any other plastic alternative. *Please note that I’m not talking about those who may have a disability. Some people can only use plastic straws, and there is nothing wrong with that.

The silicone bags are fine for when we travel, but there are much cheaper alternatives. I’ve also found that the outside can get sticky, and no amount of washing changes that– This has happened with one of the Stasher bags I have. The plus to them is that they are, more often than not, dishwasher-safe. You can always wash out Ziploc bags, unless there has been raw meat in them, or food has become rotten and moldy. Use your best judgement.

As with many “sustainable” and plastic-free options, silicone is not as eco-friendly when there are so many manufacturers producing the same products. For instance, one company making silicone straws, and private-labeling, is one thing. When there are 10+ manufacturers, more are pulling the resources. It is the same with stainless steel, gems, glass, etc. Silicone products can also be incredibly pricey, so I try to get them on sale or at places like HomeGoods. That being said, I’m not sure that HomeGoods is open now…anyway, try not to pay full-price. If you decide to purchase silicone products, make sure to do your research. The process itself takes several resources, and cheaply made silicone could contain chemicals that may be harmful.

Silicone can be a great alternative for some, but it’s not for everyone. Some people swear by it while others hate it. They also tend to stain, and will discolor over time, regardless of what anyone says. The bags can also hold in food smells. I recommend hand washing first, and then putting them in the dishwasher, just in case. If you are interested in silicone period products, you should boil them for sanitary purposes. Don’t let the plastic-free, low-waste/zero-waste community make you feel like you need to spend money. I’m sure I sound like a broken record, but use what you have first.

Peace & Love, always!

References & Further Reading

Biodermis. (2018). What is medical grade silicone used for?. Retrieved from https://www.biodermis.com/what-is-medical-grade-silicone-used-for-s/225.htm

Earth Hero. (2018). Silicone: The plastic alternative. Retrieved from https://earthhero.com/silicone-the-plastic-alternative/

Gent, A. (2020). Elastomer. Retrieved from https://www.britannica.com/science/elastomer/Chemical-interlinking-from-elastomers-to-rubbery-solids