Today we live in a disposable society. We would rather throw something away instead of wash it by hand. A lot of this is because we sometimes fill our lives with so many things that we just don’t have the time to be earth-friendly, healthy, or even just plain economical. It is time that we stop filling our landfills with disposable products and start using less of these things. Here are some ways to replace your favorite disposable products with some better options:
1. Use rags. Save trees and use rags instead of paper towels for most cleaning jobs. Chances are you probably have some extra T-shirts in a drawer or closet somewhere than need to be put to good use. Rip them up into good-sized rags. You just need enough rags so that you don’t run out between washings. For drying hands, using dish towels instead of paper towels. Make sure you wash these frequently as well.
2. Use less paper. Try to limit the amount of paper you use by being a little more picky about what you print from your computer. Sometimes simply saving the information or document would be just as efficient. Also, always use both sides of a sheet of paper. Use the other side for printing something else, coloring for the kids, or cut sheets into four squares for notes.
3. Switch to cloth diapers. Super frugal people, and people who are really concerned about the environment, wouldn’t ever use disposable diapers. My confession—I’ve never used cloth diapers!! I have only had one child, and being a first-time mom it was just easier to buy disposable diapers. I’ve thought about trying cloth diapers with my next child. From what I’ve heard, they are easier to deal with than you might think.
4. Reuse containers. Instead of buying containers to put your leftovers in, why not just reuse containers you already have paid for? Wash out plastic containers and bottles from margarine, salad dressings, or whatever you have to use again for other things.