If there is an ideal time to find less-wasteful, safe plastic wrap alternatives, now is it. With all the plates of food, leftovers, and transporting delicious spreads to parties and picnics, we need a hygienic way to cover and contain our food instead of using cling wrap. So why not do so zero waste style? At Biome, we have all your reusable food covers, well, covered - including plastic free food storage and substitutes for plastic wrap.
Originally published in December 2023. Last updated July 2025 to include new information.
Our Top Plastic Cling Wrap Alternatives
Here's our top ideas on what to use instead of plastic cling wrap:
1. Beeswax Food Wraps, 100% Plastic Free
A popular substitute for plastic wrap, beeswax wraps can cover most things - sandwiches, veggies, bowls and plates. The beeswax preserves moisture to keep food fresh, is naturally antibacterial, and can be easily cleaned by wiping gently in cool (not warm) soapy water. To use you simply wrap items or press the wrap around a bowl using the warmth of your hands to mould and seal.
This eco friendly alternative to use instead of plastic wrap is also easily mended by melting beeswax onto worn areas. With proper care, most wraps can be reused for a year, and the ones we stock are completely compostable.
2. Vegan Wax Wraps
If you're vegan or allergic to pollen and honey, vegan reusable food wraps make great beeswax alternatives. Made with plant-based candelilla wax and soy wax, their benefits are the same as beeswax, without the antibacterial property.
However, as candelilla wax is two-times denser than beeswax, this may alter pliability and durability. But both options keep food fresh, reduce plastic waste and are zero waste.
3. Reusable Silicone Food Covers
A long lasting alternative to wax wraps, these stretchy covers are made from food-grade silicone that can be used for years. It can stretch, wrap, stick and seal to anything, and is BPA, PVC and lead free.
Although silicone is not household recyclable, there are some commercial recycling schemes that will take your silicone products.
A note on silicone: At Biome, we do not consider silicone to be plastic-free because it is made with fossil fuels and synthetic chemical additives, and we caution that its safety when heated is uncertain.
4. Silicone 'Suction' Food Covers
A great invention, these covers create airtight seals as soon as they're placed on a smooth-rimmed surface (like a glass cup or a ceramic bowl). This seal means preserved freshness, no spills or leaks, and retention of hot and cold temperatures. As seen below, they also comes in a variety of sizes. Don't take our word for it - see how airtight these covers are with our YouTube video!
5. Fabric Food Covers
These food covers by 4MyEarth are made from food-grade cotton canvas, with a biodegradable interior coating to keep food fresh. This means a low waste product (as the elastic may need to be binned). It can also be washed in the dishwasher or with clothes! Ethically made in India and PVC, BPA and Phthalate Free.
6. Glass Containers & Lids
Glass food and drink storage containers are impermeable, non porous and eliminate chemical leaching and stains. Glass is also extremely durable, so it may last longer than food covers (unless you drop it!). All our glass containers are BPA and toxin free, can be reused endlessly making them great value for money.
7. Put a Lid On It Reusable Bowl with Lid
Taking food to someone's house, a picnic or BBQ? Cover your food with the Put A Lid On It bowl with lid. Simple, stylish and made in Australia with 100% recycled food-grade plastic.
Perfect for prepping for parties, packing away leftovers or simply eating in. Plus, the lid doubles as a platter.
Find Put a Lid on It Bowls & Salad Servers here
Related reading
How Long Do Beeswax Wraps Last For?
10 Plastic Free Christmas Celebration Ideas
How Our Team Are Paying it Forward This Christmas
