This was something that put more money in our pockets instantly! We stopped using napkins and paper towels. We were spending at least $5.00 a week just to wipe our mouths and clean our house. Every week, my cart would be loaded with another round of paper products. Every week, I kept thinking "there has got be a better way!" And there is!
For napkins at mealtime, we use cotton cloths that I crochet. You can whip up at least two from a $1.47 ball of cotton yarn at your local chain store. I use my kids' favorite colors so they can use them for an entire day and not get them mixed up before throwing in the wash. Or, simply use a value pack of inexpensive washcloths that can be purchased for a mere $4.00 at Walmart!
As far as paper towel substitutes, I simply cut up our old t-shirts, sweat-pants, etc. They work like a charm for windows, mirrors and bathrooms. Saves the environment, space in my shopping cart, and money in my wallet. I can't believe I didn't do this years ago! :)
This page contains the following solutions.
Using cloth instead of paper towels and napkins reduces the amount of paper that goes into the garbage and saves you money. If you buy dark colored cloth, they will handle stains better and look good longer.
When I was trying to strain my brain to see what more I could do to try and help the earth, I looked around for what we used a lot of and just threw away.
You can buy inexpensive bandannas to use as colorful napkins. This is a page about using bandannas for cloth napkins.
