Think the Internet killed the newspaper? Not quite. Each year, over 24 billion newspapers are printed. Newspaper can be recycled, but that may not always be a good idea because in some cases, it could have a higher carbon footprint than new paper. What can all that leftover newspaper be used for other than to line the bottom of a bird’s cage? Here are a few suggestions.
One that I found fascinating was that you can crumple up newspaper, splash a bit of white vinegar on it and clean windows without streaking. I definitely need to try that one. I was just complaining the other day about my Jeep windows always being streaky.
If you have a fireplace, consider tightly rolling your newspaper and using it as a starter for your fire.
If you are making a flowerbed, you can put the newspaper down before you fill the bed with dirt to prevent weeds from popping up.
You can use newspaper to wrap presents. Add some cute bow and it will look adorable, especially if you use the colorful Sunday comics.
If you ship a lot (this means you Ebay sellers!), use newspaper instead of bubble wrap. It’s cheaper, works just as well, and is green.
Newspaper in the bottom of your fridge veggie drawer can help keep it clean and also absorb odors. If you have fruit in the kitchen that needs a little help ripening, wrap it is newspaper to help hurry along the process.
Along the no-streak thread, you can use newspaper to scrub and shine a stainless steel sink.
If you have a worm bin, the wiggly critters will love torn up newspaper.
Teach your kids how to make something with papier mache. It is a way to have a fun family time and get rid of newspaper at the same time.
Call your local animal shelter to see if they need any newspaper. If so, you can donate your paper to them.