The chemicals found in certain types of plastic can have a surprisingly large impact on egg quality and miscarriage risk.[1] Research suggests that common hormone-disrupting chemicals such as BPA and phthalates are particularly problematic.[2]  

To minimize exposure to BPA (and closely related chemicals), start by replacing plastic food storage containers, cups, and water bottles with glass or stainless steel.

The best brands for glass food storage containers are Pyrex and Anchor Hocking . They are hard to break, less expensive than other brands, and the lids are easy to clean. (If you need a seal that will hold firmly during travel, Ikea’s glass containers are also good, although the seals make the lids more difficult to clean.)  A stainless steel water bottle is also a good purchase.  My favorite brand is Klean Kanteen. They are easy to clean, durable, leak-proof, and the insulated versions keep drinks hot or cold for many hours.  Perhaps most importantly, they do not impart a metallic taste unlike some other brands.

For items that do not come into contact with food for long periods of time (such as cutting boards), it is fine to continue to use plastic (the preferred type of plastic is polypropylene.)

Your coffee machine is another likely source of plastic chemicals such as BPA and phthalates, given that hot liquid comes into contact with plastic internal parts.  A good solution is a glass or stainless steel french press, which will cost around $30.  I like Kitchen Supreme for glass or Secura for stainless steel.  Both of these brands are plastic-free, unlike many others that have internal plastic parts. The advantage of a stainless steel French Press, such as Secura, is that the insulated double-wall construction will keep coffee hot for much longer than glass.

Water Filters

Plastic in water filters may be less of a concern than many other items of plastic in your kitchen, but even so, there are many good options for water filters that minimize contact with plastic, as discussed in my Water Filter Buying Guide. 

 

For safer skincare, haircare, make-up, and cleaning products, see My Fertility-Friendly Product Guide

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References

[1] Lathi, R. B., Liebert, C. A., Brookfield, K. F., Taylor, J. A., Vom Saal, F. S., Fujimoto, V. Y., & Baker, V. L. (2014). Conjugated bisphenol A in maternal serum in relation to miscarriage risk. Fertility and sterility, 102(1), 123-128.

[2] Hauser, R., Gaskins, A. J., Souter, I., Smith, K. W., Dodge, L. E., Ehrlich, S., … & EARTH Study Team. (2015). Urinary phthalate metabolite concentrations and reproductive outcomes among women undergoing in vitro fertilization: results from the EARTH study. Environmental health perspectives, 124(6), 831-839.