How to choose eco-friendly pet bowls?

When it comes to sustainability, pet products hardly ever make the headlines. However, with an estimated 17 million dogs and cats in UK households and several million worldwide, there is good reason to consider sustainable products for our four-legged friends.

Pet care items, particularly pet feeders are available in different shapes and sizes. Most of them are made from unsustainable fibres such as plastic and synthetic materials.

Plastic products are not sustainable

There are many plastic pet accessories available on the market. They are popular due to their easy accessibility, affordability and richness of variety.

Plastic products can be found easily in the local super market or online. They are extremely cheap and come in different sizes, colours and shapes.

However, plastic is one of the most unsustainable materials on the market. A vast majority is not recycled and makes its way to landfills. At the current pace of producing non-sustainable consumer goods, by 2050, there will be an estimated 12 billion metric tons of plastic in landfills.

Types of eco-friendly pet bowls

Durable stainless-steel diners

Stainless steel is extremely strong, hygienic and easy to clean. It is the primary material used in many household items. Aesthetically, it provides a modern and attractive appearance.

Dinnerware made from stainless steel is chew-proof, lightweight and durable. Although it is not biodegradable, it will last a long time and can be recycled at end of life.

Eco-friendly bamboo pet bowls

Durable, strong and lightweight, bamboo is one of the eco-friendly options available on the market. Sustainably grown bamboo is a great alternative to plastic items. It offers the same level of rigidity as plastic whilst being eco-friendly.

Bamboo, when used in its natural form, is fully biodegradable. Pet dishes made from bamboo can be composted at home along with garden waste.

Although bamboo has many good properties, some manufacturing processes use chemicals and binders. This is something to be mindful of when buying bamboo product.

Biodegradable wheat straw feeders

Wheat straw feeders are an option that is rarely considered. They are highly sustainable as they are made from the wheat stalks discarded after the grains are harvested. These bowls are durable, sturdy and available in attractive colours.

This material is definitely the first choice in regards to zero-waste products. At end of life, wheat straw items degrade within a span of few weeks to months.

The only drawback is, they are hard to find on the market and are costlier than other options.

Unbreakable silicone dishes

Purchasing a silicone pet bowl will guarantee longevity and fewer problems with breakages, cracks or tears. They are water-repellent making cleaning an easy chore.

Regardless of the temperature, the material is unbreakable and suitable for use in microwave and dishwasher.

Silicone is made from synthetic elastomer which is carbon, hydrogen and oxygen. During the manufacturing process, usually toxic chemicals are released into the environment. Therefore, although the product is durable, it is not the best environment friendly option.

Chic ceramic pet bowls

Ceramic diners look sleek and stylish. They are often supported by frames made of bamboo or other sustainable materials. Cat and dog lovers often opt for these due to their elegance. They are also easy to clean, durable and strong.

Although ceramic is made from clay which is derived from the earth, the finished products come coated with gloss to prevent breakage or cracks. This practice is not eco-friendly and consequentially, will prolong the time the material takes to biodegrade.

Making planet-friendly and pocket-friendly choices

Choosing planet friendly products has many benefits;

Contributing to a healthy planet

Much of the planet is already covered in plastic. It is one of the main reasons for wildlife extinction, global warming and various health issues.

Making eco-friendly choices, however small, will eventually contribute to a healthier planet.

Long-term financial gain

Sustainable goods made from stainless steel and bamboo are also highly practical and durable. This will help save money in the long term!

Stainless steel and bamboo are the best options for pet products

Overal, there so many different pet bowls on the market. Some have great designs and are very durable, however non-sustainable.

Stainless steel and bamboo are the best eco-friendly, sustainable and durable choice for the animal members in the house.

At FOOGO green, we pride ourselves of helping people make sustainable choices without having to spend a fortune. That’s why we offer a wide range of planet friendly products at an affordable price.

If you have any questions about choosing pet bowls, feel free to write to us.