Looking at silicone is like looking at plastic’s close relative. A lot of eco-friendly online shops claim that silicone is a better replacement for plastic. This is because silicone is not plastic at all but can do the same job and even more. 

However, some also claim that silicone is a product of sand. Also, they claim that it does not belong to the plastic family but belongs to the rubber clan. Here are a few reasons that make silicone better and different from plastic:

Unlike Plastic, Silicone Is Capable of Withstanding Both High and Low Temperatures 

Silicone bakeware is a big thing now. Not just because there is a wide array of silicone spatula colours that you can choose from. The silicone bakeware can also go from the stove to the refrigerator. These items are even microwave- and dishwasher-safe! Unlike their plastic counterparts, they are agreeable on nonstick surfaces and can deal with the high heat of a stovetop.

Unlike Plastic, Silicone Does Not Contain BPA

The famous toxic chemical in plastic is bisphenol-A. This chemical can cause reproductive, immunity, and neurological problems. On the other hand, silicone does not contain BPA and not even BPS (bisphenol S). Another reason why Silicone bakeware is considered safe. Health Canada stated, “There are no known health hazards associated with the use of silicone cookware. Silicone rubber does not react with food or beverages, or produce any hazardous fumes.”

Baby companies are selling 100 per cent silicone-made teethers. Food and health administrations approved this product. Also, these are actually preferred by professionals. Babies can safely put it into their mouths without exposing themselves to toxins.

Unlike Plastic, Silicone Is More Durable

Unlike plastic, materials made out of silicone can last longer. A spatula made out of plastic is only in good shape for a short time. Even shorter if you use it often, especially in high temperatures. The edges will easily melt, and you can then find scratches on its body. Silicone teethers also last long. 

Silicone is different from plastic in many notable ways. However, they are similar in a lot of ways too. Both are flexible, malleable, and water-resistant. But silicone is not plastic. So is silicone is better than plastic? Yes, of course. But there are also downsides to using silicone. 

Silicone is not biodegradable like plastic. It can be recycled but needs to be sent to a specialized recycling company in order to be properly recycled. This takes too much time and effort for most people. That is why they throw away silicone, making it a big waste problem. 

Silicone is only truly better than plastic if we use it better than how we use plastic. To help to save the earth, we not only need eco-friendly materials, but we also have to be more eco-friendly ourselves.