Borax for Natural Cleaning

Looking for an eco-friendly, multi-purpose cleaner that’s both effective and waste-free? Borax is a natural cleaning mineral that works wonders around the home without the need for harsh chemicals. Available now at Wasteless Pantry, it’s a must-have for sustainable living!

Easy Ways to Use Borax for a Cleaner Home

🧼 All-Purpose Cleaner
Create an effective surface cleaner by mixing:

  • 2 tbsp Borax
  • 2 cups warm water
  • A splash of vinegar
    Pour into a spray bottle and use it to wipe down kitchen counters, bathroom surfaces, and more!

🛁 Bathroom Scrub
Sprinkle Borax on tiles, tubs, and sinks, then scrub with a damp sponge to easily remove soap scum, grime, and mildew.

🧺 Laundry Booster
Boost your laundry’s freshness by adding ½ cup Borax to your washing machine. It helps soften water, brighten whites, and remove stubborn odors naturally.

🍽️ Dishwasher Cleaner
Keep your dishwasher in top shape by running an empty cycle with 1/4 cup Borax to degrease, deodorize, and prevent buildup.

🐜 Natural Pest Control
Mix equal parts Borax and sugar and place it near ant trails. This simple trick naturally deters ants and keeps your home pest-free.

For meat eater ants mix borax with vegemite and place bait near ant trails in a jar lid. Replace daily until the ants are gone.

A Simple, Effective, and Waste-Free Solution

Borax is a versatile, affordable, and eco-conscious alternative to conventional cleaners. By choosing Borax at Wasteless Pantry, you’re embracing a low-waste lifestyle while keeping your home fresh and clean.

Why Buy Borax Package-Free from Wasteless Pantry?

At Wasteless Pantry, we are committed to reducing packaging waste, and buying Borax package-free is a simple yet impactful way to cut down on unnecessary plastic and single-use containers. By refilling your own container, you help minimize landfill waste, lower carbon emissions from packaging production, and support a more sustainable future. Plus, it’s a cost-effective option that allows you to buy just the amount you need—no excess, no waste!

🛒 Pick up Borax today and make the switch to natural cleaning!


Paleo Granola Parfait Recipe

Start Your Day the Paleo Way with a Delicious Granola Parfait!

Looking for a wholesome and satisfying way to kickstart your morning? Our Honey Roasted Nut Granola Parfait is the perfect blend of crunch, sweetness, and freshness! Featuring our new Granola PALEO Honey Roasted Nuts, this recipe is not only nutritious but also incredibly delicious. Whether you’re after a quick breakfast or a midday snack, this parfait will keep you energized throughout the day.

Why Choose Paleo Granola?

Our Granola PALEO Honey Roasted Nuts is packed with nutrient-dense ingredients and free from refined sugars and grains, making it an excellent option for those following a paleo lifestyle. It provides a rich source of healthy fats, proteins, and natural sweetness—without the unnecessary additives. Plus, it’s available for refill at Wasteless Pantry, so you can enjoy a zero-waste breakfast while nourishing your body.

Honey Roasted Nut Granola Parfait Recipe

Ingredients:

  • Greek yogurt or plant-based yogurt
  • Granola PALEO Honey Roasted Nuts
  • Fresh mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
  • Fresh pear and apple, chopped
  • Honey or maple syrup (optional)
  • Shredded coconut for topping

Instructions:

  1. Layer Up – Start with a generous spoonful of yogurt in your favorite glass or bowl.
  2. Get Crunchy – Add a layer of Granola PALEO Honey Roasted Nuts for that perfect crunch.
  3. Fruit Fun – Toss in a mix of berries, pear, and apple for a naturally sweet and refreshing touch.
  4. Repeat – Continue layering until your glass is beautifully filled.
  5. Final Touch – Drizzle with honey or maple syrup if you prefer extra sweetness, and sprinkle with shredded coconut for added texture.

A Breakfast That’s as Good for You as It Is for the Planet

At Wasteless Pantry, we believe in making mindful food choices that nourish both our bodies and the environment. By choosing to refill your Granola PALEO Honey Roasted Nuts at our store, you’re helping to reduce packaging waste while enjoying high-quality, sustainable ingredients.

So why not give this parfait a try? It’s simple, delicious, and the perfect way to fuel your day with wholesome goodness!

🛒 Visit Wasteless Pantry today to refill your container and start mixing!


Meet the Team: Yamuna

Meet the Team is a chance for us to introduce you to…

Hello, my name is Yamuna.

I’ve been shopping at Wasteless Pantry since it opened, and was very excited to join the team in March 2024!

When I’m not busy at the WP, I am usually playing music (piano, piano accordion and singing), dancing (mostly bal-folk dancing), gardening, cooking/baking, travelling, and spending time with family and friends. As a child, I spent a lot of time in France with my grandparents who have always been conscious of wasting as little food and other resources as possible. They taught me valuable skills such as eating as locally as possible, growing our own fruits and vegetables, making beauty and cleaning products from natural ingredients, and generally caring for our precious environment in whatever ways I can.

There are so many products from the Wasteless Pantry that as I use and love, but I think the range of DIY beauty products and teas are among my favourites.

One piece of advice for those who want to live a more waste-free lifestyle is: don’t try and do everything at once – build slowly starting with small things, whatever feels most achievable to you, whether that is investing in a reusable coffee cup or making your own bread, it’s a start and that’s what counts! Find something you get excited to do every day and keep building on that and eventually you’ll find your own version of a Wasteless lifestyle!!

We hope you enjoyed this Meet the Team post!


Gluten-Free Coffee Date and Walnut Cake recipe

Indulge in a delightful baking experience with our Gluten-Free Coffee Date and Walnut Cake recipe, featuring top-notch ingredients sourced from Western Australia and other Australian regions, available at Wasteless Pantry.

Ingredients:

  • 225g unsalted butter or dairy-free alternative
  • 225g brown sugar (sourced from Wasteless Pantry)
  • 4 tablespoons brewed Australian Skybury Coffee (available at Wasteless Pantry)
  • 225g Gluten-Free Self-Raising Flour (sourced from Wasteless Pantry)
  • 4 medium eggs
  • 150g WA Omega Walnuts (sourced from Wasteless Pantry)
  • 100g pitted dates (sourced from Wasteless Pantry)
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder (sourced from Wasteless Pantry)

Buttercream:

  • 350g icing sugar (sourced from Wasteless Pantry)
  • 200g unsalted butter or dairy-free alternative
  • 4 tablespoons brewed Australian Skybury Coffee (sourced from Wasteless Pantry)

Method:

  1. Prepare: Preheat your oven to 180°C and line a loaf tin with a silicone reusable baking mat.
  2. Mix: Cream the butter and brown sugar until smooth. Gradually mix in the flour, eggs, and baking powder. Blend in the brewed coffee.
  3. Fold: Gently fold in chopped dates and walnuts.
  4. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf tin and bake for 50 minutes. Allow to cool afterwards.
  5. Buttercream: While the cake bakes, prepare the buttercream by creaming together the icing sugar and butter, then blending in the coffee until smooth.
  6. Decorate: Once the cake has cooled, spread the buttercream over the top and garnish with additional chopped walnuts.
  7. Refrigerate the cake for 1-2 hours to set the buttercream before serving.

This cake not only tastes exquisite but also supports local Australian producers, available at your nearest Wasteless Pantry. Enjoy this cake with a cup of Skybury Coffee for a truly Australian treat!

Supporting Local and Sustainable Practices:

Choosing to buy local and package-free has significant benefits for both our community and the environment. When you purchase local products like those from Wasteless Pantry, you’re supporting Western Australian producers and reducing the carbon footprint associated with long-distance transportation. Additionally, opting for package-free goods minimizes waste, conserves resources, and reduces landfill contributions. By selecting local and package-free ingredients for recipes like our Gluten-Free Coffee, Date, and Walnut Cake, you’re making a conscious choice to promote sustainability and support the local economy. This approach not only fosters a healthier planet but also bolsters community growth and resilience.


Lemon Balm Cookies Recipe: A Refreshing Herbal Treat

Delight in the aromatic flavor of lemon balm with this simple and delicious Lemon Balm Cookies recipe. This recipe transforms dried lemon balm into a sweet treat perfect for tea time or a light dessert.

Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon dried lemon balm, finely crushed
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • Zest of one lemon (optional for extra lemony flavor)

Instructions:

  1. Preparation: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Mix Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, sugar, and honey until light and fluffy.
  3. Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually mix in the flour, dried lemon balm, salt, and lemon zest if using, until the mixture comes together into a smooth dough.
  4. Shape Cookies: Roll the dough into small balls, place them on the prepared baking sheet, and slightly flatten them with the back of a spoon or fork.
  5. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes or until the edges are just starting to turn golden.
  6. Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Storage Tips:

Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their freshness. They should last for up to a week.

Benefits of Lemon Balm:

Not only does lemon balm add a delightful flavor to these cookies, but it’s also known for its calming properties, making these cookies a perfect treat to relax with alongside your favorite cup of tea.

Sustainable Shopping at Wasteless Pantry:

When preparing to bake these delightful Lemon Balm Cookies, consider sourcing your ingredients from Wasteless Pantry, where you can purchase essentials like flour, sugar, honey and dried lemon balm in plastic-free packaging. Shopping at Wasteless Pantry not only allows you to reduce your environmental footprint but also supports sustainable practices by minimizing unnecessary packaging waste. This way, you can enjoy your baking experience knowing you are making a positive impact on the planet.

Enjoy baking these aromatic Lemon Balm Cookies, which are sure to impress with their unique flavor and herbal notes!


DIY Ant Bait Recipes

Dealing with ants can be frustrating, but resorting to harsh chemicals is unnecessary. At Wasteless Pantry, we advocate for sustainable and safe solutions to everyday problems. Here are two DIY ant bait recipes using common household ingredients that are effective and environmentally friendly.

1. Borax and Sugar Ant Bait This method uses borax, a naturally occurring mineral that disrupts the digestive system of ants, leading to their elimination. Here’s how to make it:

  • Ingredients:
    • 1 part borax
    • 1 part sugar
    • Water (just enough to form a paste)
  • Instructions:
    • Mix the borax and sugar together in a bowl.
    • Add a small amount of water to create a paste.
    • Place the paste into a small container with a lid. Puncture a few holes in the lid large enough for ants to enter.
    • Position the container near observed ant trails or entry points.
    • Allow two to three days for the mixture to affect the ant population.

2. Bicarb Soda and Sugar Mix A simpler yet effective bait can be made with bicarb soda and sugar. Bicarb soda, when ingested by ants, causes internal disruptions leading to their demise.

  • Ingredients:
    • Equal parts bicarb soda and fine sugar
  • Instructions:
    • Combine the bicarb soda and sugar thoroughly.
    • Sprinkle the mixture along ant trails, near entry points, or in areas of high ant activity.

Both these remedies are excellent for those looking to reduce their environmental impact while dealing with pests. These solutions allow you to use up excess pantry items effectively, emphasizing Wasteless Pantry’s commitment to reducing waste and promoting a healthier living environment.

Remember, consistent application and patience are key with natural remedies. Also, consider sealing entry points and keeping your space clean to prevent further infestations. By choosing these eco-friendly methods, you not only tackle your ant problem but also contribute to a sustainable planet.

Wasteless Pantry is your go-to resource for all the necessary ingredients for those looking to create these eco-friendly ant remedies at home. We offer a wide range of bulk products, including borax and bicarb soda, which you can purchase in just the right quantities to avoid excess and waste. Shopping at Wasteless Pantry not only supports your green lifestyle but also contributes to a community-focused environment that prioritizes sustainability and waste reduction. Come visit us and take a step towards a more sustainable home!


Writing Instrument Recycling

At Wasteless Pantry Mundaring, we’re committed to sustainability through our partnership with TerraCycle’s Writing Instruments Recycling Program. This initiative offers a responsible way to recycle used writing instruments, which helps reduce landfill waste significantly.

Recycling Process: The collected items are processed by TerraCycle, where plastics and metals are separated and recycled into new products. This process helps conserve resources and minimizes environmental impact.

What Can Be Recycled:

  • Pens and pen caps
  • Mechanical pencils
  • Markers and marker caps
  • Permanent markers
  • Highlighters

Exclusions: Items not accepted include glue sticks, erasers, wooden pencils, and cutting objects. Please do not include outer cardboard packaging in this collection, as it can be recycled through your local council’s recycling program.

Collection Points: You can drop off eligible items at Wasteless Pantry Mundaring or any Officeworks location. This makes it convenient to participate in the program wherever you are located.

Preparation for Recycling: There is no need to clean the packaging before recycling, but please remove as much of the remaining product as possible to ensure smooth processing.

Why Recycle Writing Instruments? Recycling writing instruments not only helps in decluttering but also contributes significantly to environmental sustainability. By participating in this program, you’re taking an active role in reducing waste and supporting the transition to a circular economy.

Visit us at Wasteless Pantry Mundaring or your nearest Officeworks to recycle your writing instruments. Together, we can make a substantial impact on preserving the environment for future generations. For more details on what can be recycled, visit TerraCycle’s Writing Instruments Recycling Program.

Enhancing Sustainability in Writing Practices:

To increase sustainability in your writing habits, consider adopting several eco-friendly practices:

  1. Choose Recycled Paper Products: Opt for recycled or FSC-certified paper to ensure your writing materials come from sustainable sources.
  2. Use Refillable Pens: Invest in pens that can be refilled rather than disposed of after use. This reduces waste and can be more cost-effective over time.
  3. Digital Documentation: Whenever possible, use digital platforms for note-taking and document creation to reduce paper use.

These simple changes can significantly impact your environmental footprint, making your writing habits more sustainable and beneficial for the planet.


Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Recipe

Here’s a delectable Chocolate Chip Banana Bread recipe, perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings while incorporating some healthier ingredients.

Ingredients:

  • ⅓ cup (75 grams) of melted coconut oil, extra-virgin olive oil, or high-quality vegetable oil
  • ½ cup (168 grams) honey or maple syrup
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 cup (225 grams) mashed ripe bananas (about 2 ½ medium bananas)
  • ¼ cup (56 grams) milk of choice or water
  • 1 teaspoon bicarb soda
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon, plus more for topping
  • 1 ¾ cups (220 grams) plain flour or wholemeal flour
  • ½ cup chocolate chips

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 165 degrees Celsius and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the oil and honey. Add eggs and beat well, then incorporate the mashed bananas and milk.
  3. Add the baking soda, vanilla, salt, and cinnamon, mixing thoroughly. Stir in the flour just until combined. Fold in the chocolate chips.
  4. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, sprinkle with additional cinnamon, and create a swirl pattern with a knife.
  5. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow cooling in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Storage Tips: Store the banana bread at room temperature for up to three days, refrigerate it for up to a week, or freeze it for up to three months for longer preservation. Consider slicing the bread before freezing for easy, single servings.

Benefits of Ingredients:

  • Bananas: High in potassium and natural sugars for energy.
  • Wholemeal Flour: Richer in nutrients and fibre than refined flours.
  • Coconut Oil: A healthier fat that adds moisture and subtle flavor.

Choosing ingredients from a package-free grocery store like Wasteless Pantry helps reduce environmental impact by minimizing packaging waste and supporting sustainable practices. Enjoy this wholesome treat that’s as good for you as it is for the planet!

For more inspiring recipes, check out our blog.


Homemade Bicarb Dough Ornaments

DIY Bicarb Dough Ornaments

Get creative this holiday season with homemade bicarb dough ornaments! This simple recipe is perfect for a fun family crafting session and produces beautiful, eco-friendly decorations.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup baking soda
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 5 oz water

Instructions:

  1. Mix Ingredients: Combine the baking soda, cornstarch, and water in a saucepan and cook over medium heat. Stir continuously until the mixture begins to thicken and forms a dough-like consistency.
  2. Cool and Shape: Remove from heat and let it cool slightly. Once manageable, knead it on a surface dusted with cornstarch. Roll out the dough and cut into desired shapes with cookie cutters.
  3. Dry: Allow the ornaments to air dry for 48 hours, turning occasionally. Ensure they dry slowly to avoid cracking.
  4. Decorate: Once fully dried, decorate with markers, paint, or natural craft materials. For a festive touch, add fabric scraps as ties to hang on the tree.

Customization Tips:

  • Add Color: Mix food coloring into the dough to create different colors.
  • Add Scent: Incorporate a few drops of essential oils or spices like cinnamon for a festive scent.

Storage and Disposal:

To ensure the longevity of your bicarb dough ornaments, store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If you used natural dyes or materials that might degrade over time, consider wrapping the ornaments in tissue paper or placing them in a box with dividers to prevent color transfer and physical damage. When it comes to disposal, since these ornaments are made from non-toxic, biodegradable materials, they can be composted at the end of their life cycle, returning their components back to the earth and minimizing waste.

Environmental Impact of DIY Ornaments: Creating your own ornaments significantly reduces waste associated with commercial holiday decorations, which often come in excessive plastic packaging. By using natural ingredients and avoiding synthetic materials, you make a positive impact on the environment.

Benefits of Shopping at Wasteless Pantry: Purchasing your DIY ornament materials from Wasteless Pantry ensures you’re using high-quality, sustainable products. The store specializes in bulk ingredients without unnecessary packaging, supporting your eco-friendly lifestyle.

Enjoy making these charming ornaments that not only beautify your home but also protect the planet!


DIY Peppermint Body Butter Recipe

Here’s a fresh take on making your own Peppermint Body Butter, a perfect blend for nourishing and revitalizing your skin. This all-natural recipe leverages the quality ingredients from Wasteless Pantry, a package-free grocery store dedicated to reducing environmental impact.

Ingredients:

  • ½ cup of cocoa butter
  • ½ cup of coconut oil
  • 20-40 drops of peppermint essential oil, based on personal preference

Instructions:

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, beat together the cocoa butter and coconut oil until well-blended.
  2. Add Fragrance: Gradually mix in the peppermint essential oil, tailoring the amount to suit your scent strength preference.
  3. Whip to Perfection: Periodically pause mixing to scrape down the sides of the bowl. Continue whipping the mixture for about 8 minutes until it becomes light and fluffy.
  4. Storage: Transfer the whipped body butter into a glass jar to maintain freshness.

Benefits of Ingredients:

  • Cocoa Butter: Moisturizes deeply and improves skin elasticity.
  • Coconut Oil: Hydrates the skin and can help soothe inflammation.
  • Peppermint Essential Oil: Provides a cooling sensation and can help invigorate the senses.

The skincare industry is notorious for its extensive use of plastic and non-recyclable materials in packaging. This practice contributes significantly to environmental pollution and landfill waste. By choosing products like DIY peppermint body butter and sourcing ingredients from Wasteless Pantry, consumers can significantly reduce their environmental footprint. Wasteless Pantry’s commitment to package-free shopping not only helps in cutting down individual waste but also promotes a broader movement towards sustainability in daily routines, making a positive impact on our planet.

Enjoy this homemade peppermint body butter, knowing you’re taking a step towards more sustainable living with every application.