Stop! Don’t throw that plastic bag into the garbage. You see them everywhere. They impact the environment and endanger wildlife. Protect the earth, our home, and the life on it.
You probably thought of clever ways to reuse bags. How many of these tips have you tried?
Garbage
Use for stinky, or dirt spreading, garbage. Immediately put soiled disposable diapers, used wipes in one, and tie the ends. When you toss it in the garbage it will not smell. Double bag used vacuum cleaner bags right away. Tie the ends securely. Used cleaner bags pose a risk of spreading an unbelievable amount of dirt if they break.
Crafts
Cut bags into strips. Use the strips to weave or crochet wreaths, purses, rugs or even sun hats. Craft projects, skillfully done, sell for big bucks at craft shows. Use different colors to make beautiful patterns.
Keep the kids busy with a pile of bags, and dreams of cash, on a boring snow day or rainy afternoon.
Garden
Make a lightweight watering can. Snip off a corner of a bag and fill with water. Pinch the cut end until you are ready to water.
Wrap a bag around each knee when kneeling in the garden. Make a scarecrow. Stuff old clothes with bags and arrange to look like a person. Loose ends flapping in the wind add to the scare factor.
A bag over shoes when in the garden keeps mud out of the house.
Toys
Make a parachute that keeps children busy for hours. Cut off the handles. Make four holes evenly spaced. Tie a long string in each hole. Tie on a nut or small action figure and let the fun begin.
Outings and Walks
Slip a few into each suitcase or tote bag for wet towels and swim suits, muddy shoes, or dirty clothes. Keep wet washcloths for dirty faces and a spray cleaner and rags for emergency cleaning.
When walking, give each child a bag for found treasures. It crumples into a pocket until needed. When a child adds rocks, leaves, or shells, it is easy to carry.
Mailing
Scrunch the bags into empty spaces. Use for cushioning and dividing mailed items. They are lightweight and not as messy as packing peanuts.
The Best Part
Wash and recycle. Some community recyclers now accept them. Some big box stores, such as Wal-Mart, collect clean used bags in huge bins near the entrance of the store. Call first to see if your store offers this service.
Many non-profit thrift stores also accept bags for purchases. When customers bring them home, they find new ways to use them.
Yes, it is possible to reuse bags in environmentally friendly ways!