Uses For Paper And Plastic Bags
One is no better than the other when it comes to the paper vs. plastic debate. It is becoming apparent that we need to make more of an effort to reuse these products and keep them out of the landfills.
It is a fact that a paper bag holds at least four times more groceries than its plastic rival. This is true if we don’t overload the bag. I’m sure all of us have had the occasion when the bottom breaks out or the bag rips, and we go chasing our groceries around in the parking lot. However, even most brown bags can be used more than once at the store. They are also good for book covers, storing more paper bags inside of one large one, and making your own wrapping paper or shipping paper. In your own compost pile, they do break down nicely when filled with leaves or grass clippings. I even use paper bags to cook my turkey or game hens in. No, it doesn’t taste like the bag, but that is a whole other story.
Plastic bags also can be reused several times at the grocery store. They can have many innovative uses. For example, they can be tied together and knotted to make a fairly sturdy rope. Crafty people use them to make wreaths, or to crochet rugs or bathmats. They make great packing material, or to use in stuffing pillows, shams, draft stoppers and puffy valances. Store shoes in them and hang them on a hanger according to the out fit they go with. Put them over clothes in your closet to keep the dust off. Every mom should carry some in her diaper bag for the dirty diapers, accidents and a change of clothes. They are great to have in your car for trips to the beach or wet bathing suits. Pack in your suit case for dirty clothes. Use as liter box liners. Cover a cast when you want to shower. Use for knee protectors when gardening. In the kitchen for peelings and scraps when cooking. When painting and you are interrupted, put a wet paper towel over the applicator. Then tie a plastic bag over it and store in the fridge. You’ll be ready to start where you left off with a moist roller. Lining your paint tray with a plastic bag makes clean-up a cinch.
These are just a few of many ides for uses and reuse of plastic bags. Best of all save yourself from buying trash can liners for cans you use inside your home. Take your extras to food banks and thrift shops. Most of all, remember to keep your preference of paper, plastic, cloth or some type of reusable bags in your car for your shooping trips.
Written in association with paper recycling experts