Today’s homes are getting greener because today’s eco-smart consumers are demanding greener household products and more eco-friendly choices. Outfitting a modern apartment, home or homestead is increasingly about creating a more self-sufficient lifestyle.

This greener approach to modern living is probably impacting our kitchens more than any other room in the house. We are taking a more earth-friendly (and personal-health friendly) approach to cleaning, preparing and cooking food, serving food and practically everything we do in our kitchens.

As a result, more and more families are getting smarter about natural household products. With new eco-friendly choices for getting dishes clean, why would you keep using the petroleum-based products your mother used? And why not cook and serve your food in products that were made with sustainability in mind?

Here are three easy ways to make your kitchen a greener place for you and your loved ones.

Recycled glass tumblers made by craftsmen

Mexico has always had its share of master craftsmen, and the art of making artisanal glassware dates back to the mid-1500s in Puebla Mexico. Unique pieces of hand-blown glass are one-of-a-kind treasures that can be used and appreciated on a daily basis. Combine that artistic tradition with the modern need to recycle old soda bottles, and you’ve got the principles that make Aqua del Sol Recycled Tumbler Glasses such a great addition to any kitchen or dining table.

Using the skills and techniques passed down through the centuries, today’s skilled glass artists transform discarded glass soda bottles into beautiful drinking glasses. Because these glasses are made by hand, no two are exactly alike. Color variations are not just expected—they add to the charm of these beautiful glasses. Sturdy enough to withstand daily use by family members of all ages, the Aqua del Sol Recycled Tumbler Glasses will become a part of your daily mealtime traditions for years. Available from www.bambeco.com. Also available are tall one-pint glasses, wine glasses and a serving pitcher.  

Handmade stoneware serving bowl

A great serving bowl can be the centerpiece of any dining table. The Farmstead Stoneware Salad Serving Bowl is a handsome and functional choice that’s perfect for salads, fruit and meals of all kinds. The bowl is natural and earthy because each one is handcrafted from all-natural clay. Reclaimed water and recycled clay materials (from other handcrafted bowls) are used in the process. Each bowl is finished with a nontoxic glaze that gives the finished product a signature color pattern with color variations in each bowl. Don’t expect each bowl to look exactly the same, because the charm is in the uniqueness of each one.

Each Farmstead Stoneware Salad Serving Bowl is made in a factory in Portugal that provides jobs and stability to its local community. The bowl measures 10 inches in diameter and 4.75 inches tall. These bowls are safe for use in ovens, microwaves and dishwashers. Order from www.theultimategreenstore.com.  

An eco-friendly dishwashing liquid 

Looking for a more eco-friendly way to get the dishes clean? Planet Ultra Dishwashing Liquid is great for cutting grease on dishes and pans, but it is gentle on your skin. It contains no ammonia or other harsh ingredients and has a light coconut oil scent. Planet Ultra Dishwashing Liquid can be used on all kinds of dishes, glassware, pots and pans.

Start with half a teaspoon of detergent (about one brief squeeze) for a sink full of dishes, then add more if needed. Planet Ultra Dishwashing Liquid is safe to use on crystal and china. You can also use Planet Ultra Dishwashing Liquid as a fruit and vegetable wash to help remove waxes, dirt and pesticides. Because Planet Ultra Dishwashing Liquid is 100% biodegradable, it is safe to use outdoors and is ideal for situations like camping and boating. It was named the “standout” dishwashing liquid in Good Housekeeping’s test of “The Best Green Cleaners.”

Planet eco-friendly household cleaning products are available in many stores alongside conventional household cleaning brands. Planet products are also available online at www.amazon.com and www.walmart.com.