What To Use Instead Of Plastic Wrap For Dough? 11 Dough-Covering Solutions
Plastic wrap has been a kitchen staple for years. It’s great for covering dough while it proofs or rests. But as more people look for eco-friendly alternatives, the question arises—what else can you use? If you want to cut down on waste, avoid plastic, or just ran out of cling film, there are many eco-friendly options. These substitutes will keep your dough from drying out.
But which alternatives actually work best? Can a damp towel really replace plastic wrap? What about beeswax wraps or silicone lids?
If you’ve ever struggled with dough drying out or forming an unwanted crust, you’re in the right place. Let’s explore the best plastic-free options and find the perfect solution for your baking needs.
By the end of this article, you’ll find a list of dependable, reusable, and eco-friendly options to plastic wrap. These will keep your dough fresh and ready to rise. You’ll cut kitchen waste and boost your baking skills with smarter, eco-friendly methods. Let’s get started!
Top 11 Plastic Wrap Substitutes For Covering Dough
1. Glass Jars
Glass jars are a great choice over plastic wrap for dough. They are reusable and won’t leak chemicals into your food. Glass is also non-porous, so it won’t absorb the dough’s moisture and become soggy.
To use a glass jar, roll out the dough on a floured surface, place it in the jar and seal the lid. The dough can be refrigerated for a week or frozen for three months.
When you’re ready to use it, take the dough out of the jar, shape it into whatever you like, and bake as usual. Glass jars are an easy and eco-friendly way to store dough without using plastic.
| Check out: Do Jars Have To Be Fully Submerged When Canning? |
2. Tin Foil
Tin foil is one of the most popular substitutes for plastic wrap when it comes to dough. Tin foil is less expensive than most plastic wrap brands and is also widely available.
Tin foil is also easy to use and clean up after use. Tin foil can be used to cover dough rising or dough that has been rolled out and is ready to be cut into shapes.
Tin foil can also store the dough in the refrigerator or freezer. Tin foil can be reused multiple times before it needs to be replaced.
3. Damp Kitchen Towel Or Tea Towel
Damp kitchen towels or tea towels are great for covering the dough. They’re absorbent, so they keep the dough from drying out. Plus, they’re reusable, so you won’t feel guilty tossing them after one use.
You can find tea towels made from sustainable materials like bamboo or hemp. So next time you cover the dough, reach for a towel instead of plastic wrap.
4. Reusable Zipper bags
Reusable zipper bags are one option that can be used repeatedly, which is great for the environment. They’re also perfect for storing dough since they seal in moisture and keep the dough from drying out.
5. Parchment Or Wax Cloth
Parchment paper or wax cloth can be used in place of plastic wrap when working with dough. Parchment paper is a non-stick surface that is also heat-resistant, making it ideal for rolling out dough.
Wax cloth is similarly non-stick and can be reused multiple times. It is also moisture-resistant so that it can cover the rising dough.
Using parchment paper or wax cloth, lightly flour the surface to prevent the dough from sticking. These alternatives to plastic wrap are available at most kitchen supply stores.
6. Fabric Bowl Covers
Fabric bowl covers are an excellent alternative to plastic wrap when it comes to dough. They are easy to use and can be washed and reused repeatedly.
Fabric bowl covers are also gentle on the dough, which helps to prevent it from sticking or tearing.
In addition, fabric bowl covers come in various sizes and colors, so you can find one that fits your needs. Best of all, fabric bowl covers are an environmentally friendly option that helps to reduce waste.
7. Silicone Zipper Bags
Silicone zipper bags are a great alternative to plastic wrap for dough. Unlike plastic wraps, they are reusable and can be easily washed in the dishwasher. Silicone bags are also airtight, which helps to keep the dough from drying out.
And, because they are made of silicone, they won’t stick to the dough as plastic wrap can. Silicone zipper bags offer a safe and eco-friendly way to store dough.
8. Bread bags
They’re made from sturdy, food-safe materials and can be reused multiple times. Bread bags come in various sizes, so you can find one that’s just the right size for your dough.
Plus, they’re easy to clean – pop them in the dishwasher when you’re done using them. Bread bags are an eco-friendly and economical way to keep your dough fresh.
9. Oil Cloth
Oil cloth is a cotton fabric treated with an oil or wax finish. This treatment makes the fabric water-resistant and durable. Using an oil cloth to wrap the dough, generously flour the surface to prevent sticking.
10. Shower Caps
Shower caps are flexible, durable materials that can easily be stretched over a bowl or baking dish. Plus, they’re reusable so that you can save money in the long run.
Shower caps keep the dough from drying out, so your baked goods will always be fresh and delicious.
11. Bento Boxes
Bento boxes [1] have become a popular replacement for plastic wrap, and a good reason. Bento boxes are reusable, airtight, and leak-proof, making them ideal for storing dough.
They come in various sizes to fit any need, and many Bento boxes even have built-in dividers to separate different types of dough. Plus, Bento boxes are dishwasher-safe, so they’re easy to care for.
The Environmental Impact of Plastic Wrap
Plastic wrap may seem harmless, but its impact on the environment is anything but. It’s made from petroleum materials, adding to plastic pollution. It takes hundreds of years to break down. When thrown away, it usually goes to landfills or oceans. This harms wildlife and releases harmful microplastics into the environment. Since plastic wrap is rarely recycled due to food contamination, most of it becomes waste after a single use.
Switching to sustainable baking practices is a simple yet effective way to reduce this impact. Bakers can cut down on plastic waste. They can use reusable items like beeswax wraps, silicone lids, or damp cloths. These eco-friendly options not only help the planet but also keep dough fresh without the need for disposable materials.
Here’s a quick comparison of plastic wrap and sustainable alternatives:
| Material | Environmental Impact | Reusability | Effectiveness for Dough |
| Plastic Wrap | High waste, non-biodegradable | Single-use | Seals well but creates waste |
| Beeswax Wrap | Biodegradable, natural | Reusable | Keeps dough fresh, flexible |
| Silicone Lid | Long-lasting, zero waste | Reusable | Creates an airtight seal |
| Damp Cloth | Compostable, minimal waste | Wash and reuse | Prevents drying out, breathable |
Making small changes in the kitchen can lead to a big difference. By rethinking how we cover and store dough, we can protect the environment while embracing more mindful and sustainable baking habits.
| Relevant: How To Make Store-Bought Cookie Dough Better |
FAQs on What To Use Instead Of Plastic Wrap For Dough
How do you cover the dough with plastic wrap?
Place the dough on a cutting board and then wrap it in plastic. Press the plastic wrap against the dough with your hands. Make sure there are no air bubbles trapped between the dough and the wrap.
Then use a sharp knife to cut off any excess plastic wrap. Finally, give the dough a quick massage to ensure it is well-covered.
How do you freeze dough without plastic wrap?
Place the dough in a container with a tight-fitting lid. Freeze the dough for several hours or overnight. Remove the dough from the freezer and place it in a plastic bag. Seal the bag, and then return it to the freezer. The dough will stay fresh for one or two months.
Why should we wrap dough?
When you wrap a piece of dough, it creates a barrier between the dough and the air. This barrier prevents the dough from drying out, and it helps the dough to rise evenly.
What can you use instead of cling film in the microwave?
You can use wax paper or a paper towel in the microwave.
Can you proof the dough uncovered?
Yes, you can proof dough uncovered. Proofing your dough in an uncovered bowl will allow it to rise more quickly and evenly.
However, if you live in a very humid environment, you may need to cover your dough while it’s proofing to prevent it from becoming too wet.
Key Takeaways
With all these options, there’s no need to continue using plastic wrap when making dough.
Each option has benefits that make it a great alternative to plastic wrap.
Next time you need to cover your dough as it rises, try one of these options. You’ll help save the planet!
Reference:
- https://www.thespruceeats.com/best-bento-boxes-4160950
