If you’re looking for a really easy way to be more earth friendly all while saving yourself money then make the switch to cloth where you’re currently using paper or other single use products.
Reusable products like cloth napkins, rags, handkerchiefs, baby wipes and more can help you cut waaaaay down on the amount of paper products you buy thereby saving you money.
Yes, you’ll likely have an extra laundry load to do, but, especially if you line dry your cloth items, laundering them is less harmful than cutting down the trees and all the bleaching etc that goes on to make today’s single use paper products.
As far as bags. If you’re not carrying canvas bags at least to the grocery store yet, then you need to get on board! These need washed far less and have a great effect on the amount of those horrid plastic bags used. Plus, most places give you at least $.5 back fro each reusable bag you bring.
Making the switch to cloth isn’t a big deal. You may shell out a bit of money for some cloth napkins. But, all you really need is two – three sets. One maybe two for family (which you can even color code so it makes reusing them for several meals easy) depending on how many you have in the house, and one for guests. That’s it! Or, better yet, make your own napkins with this awesome tutorial I found!
As far as rags. Raid your t-shirt drawer and cut up the most worn for rags. Or, ask your local thrift store for their stained clothes they can’t sell. You’ll quickly find you have more rag material than you need.
The switch from tissues to handkerchiefs can be a bit interesting. But, they’re softer on the nose and more attractive. Just have a few for each person so if a cold strikes people aren’t mixing hankies.
Reusable cloth menstrual pads are a great idea too. You can use the Keeper or Diva Cup too, made out of natural rubber – my reusable Aunt Flo catcher of choice – but cloth pads would definitely be more comfortable, better than all that bleached cotton on your delicate bits, and they’re always there. So you never have to run out to the store at a moments notice.
While our family hasn’t done this last one yet, I have heard of many doing it with much success. Cloth toilet paper. Or better yet, wiping with a peri bottle (how its done in many other countries….hence the bide) . Many people from other cultures think that spreading everything all over with paper is just nasty, and they use water to feel fresh down there. Cut up old sheets make for great cloth TP though too if you feel better that way. Then, just place in a separate covered receptacle and wash as needed.
With these tips, you’ll have no trouble moving away from single use paper products and on to reusable cloth where ever possible. You’ll quickly find that not having to buy all those paper products is saving you time, money, and space in your trash!