Picking up an iced coffee on the way to work, school, or wherever we were going was a beloved part of many of our pre-quarantine routines. However, that habit was never good for the environment, and now it’s also potentially hazardous to our and others’ health. With that in mind, we’ve been learning how to make our own cold brew at home during quarantine.

We’ve all heard the statistics about plastic straws in the ocean, but the straws aren’t even the worst part. Most takeout iced coffee cups aren’t even recyclable, because they’re made of polypropylene, a material most recycling programs don’t accept. So basically, making iced coffee at home keeps you and others safe from COVID-19, and helps shrink your environmental footprint. 

It also couldn’t be easier. All you have to do is measure out 1 cup of coarsely ground coffee, mix it with four cups of cold water in a large jar, stir, and put it in the fridge overnight (anywhere from 12-24 hours). When you’re ready to drink, filter out the grounds using a coffee filter or a french press! 

We like these compostable coffee filters from Public Goods, or these reusable cotton ones from Thrive. The jar options are endless. We used the jar our favorite Bloody Mary mix came in, but you can use a mason jar, or any other empty glass glass container that seals shut tightly. 

Pour over ice, add your favorite milk or non-dairy substitute, and drink! If the straw is essential to your iced coffee experience, try a stainless steel version. We love these from Onyx. They curve at the right angle, and they’re dishwasher safe.

Image By David Dewitt