If the thought of not using any paper in the kitchen is daunting to you, with a little organisation and preparation you’ll see that it’s really easy to achieve. Plus, it’s so much better for the environment. Almost up to one-third of a household’s waste comes from paper – yikes! Here’s how to go paperless.
Replace Paper Towels with Cloths
How often do you strip a new piece of paper towelling without even realising you’re using it yet again? The problem with paper towels is that you can’t re-use them, so they end up in the bin really quickly, and then find their way to the rubbish dump. By making the choice to use cloths instead of paper towels, you can clean just as efficiently while preventing deforestation and water wastage. To produce just one ton of paper towels, approximately 17 trees need to be cut down and 20,000 gallons of water are used.
Categorise Your Cloths!
One of the reasons why paper towels are so appealing is that they’re always at hand. But you can make your cloths just as handy by ensuring that you make them visible and within reach. Categorise different colors of cloths for different things – such as: one for mopping up table spills, another for the floor, a third for drying hands, and so on. If they’re available, you’ll use them. Store them all over the kitchen, such as in drawers or baskets, so that you won’t have to hunt for them.
To produce just one ton of paper towels, approximately 17 trees need to be cut down and 20,000 gallons of water are used
Avoid Paper Plates
When you’re planning a party at home, your kneejerk reaction is probably to stock up on paper plates, but don’t! Sure, they make your clean-up easier but they are bad for the environment. Rather make use of the dishes you already own – and you don’t need complete sets to impress your guests. It’s trendy to mix ’n match different colours and patterns for a dash of style.
Use Cloth Napkins
Don’t you hate throwing out those pretty paper napkins that had a lifespan of an hour before being used, crinkled and thrown out? Opt for cloth napkins instead. These also come in gorgeous colours and patterns, and you don’t need to stock up on too many because they’re not necessary for daily use. Have them handy for your next special get-together or holiday meal and add a lovely touch to the festivities.
