How to Use Plastic Newspaper Bags

Don't just recycle the paper!

Many people subscribe to a local newspaper. There is nothing quite like sipping a cup of coffee while catching up on the news, or chuckling over the Sunday funnies. The sales ads and grocery coupons definitely add value as well. As more of us look for ways to save money and go green, we find ways to reuse and recycle our papers. However, have you considered those plastic sleeves that contain your newspaper? You might be surprised at the many potential uses they possess.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Plastic newspaper bags
• Rubber bands

1. Cover your umbrella with a newspaper bag before tucking it in your purse or glove compartment after using it. If desired, you can tie it closed or shut it with a rubber band to keep water from leaking out. Keep an extra bag handy in your car or purse just for this purpose.

2. Bring several newspaper sleeves to the beach. When your clan changes back into their street clothes, give them each a bag for their wet bathing suits.

3. Wrap a sleeve over your hand like a glove when walking your dog. Scoop up your pooches mess, turn it inside out and toss it in the trash. They work well for dirty diapers, too, so stash some in the baby's bag.

4. Tuck shoes inside newspaper sleeves before packing them in your suitcase. They also work well to contain beauty items such as shampoo or makeup that could leak inside your luggage. Tie or rubber band them closed.

5. Slide a bag over each of your child's feet after putting on socks on a rainy or mucky day. The bags will provide an extra layer of dryness and protection between their socks and boots.

Tips & Warnings

• Contact your paper carrier or local newspaper office and ask whether your carrier can reuse the bags if you save them for him or her. Many carriers have to purchase these supplies out of their own pockets, and would sincerely appreciate your gesture.

• Do not use the paper bags to store or prepare food, as they may not be sanitary.

Resources

• Make a Rug from Plastic Bags