For many, traditional paper towels are household essentials, with Americans at the forefront of global consumption of these single-use items. While undeniably convenient and hygienic, paper towels come with their own set of issues, including escalating costs. Even if you opt for brands that offer the best value, it’s hard to overlook their environmental impact. Their production contributes to increased greenhouse gases, and the Piedmont Environmental Alliance estimates that 3,000 tons of these products end up in landfills daily. Given these concerns, you might have contemplated the growing trend of reusable versions. Reusable paper towels offer several advantages, but it’s essential to weigh some considerations before fully transitioning from disposable options.
As the name indicates, reusable paper towels are designed for repeated use; you use them as you would regular paper towels, then wash and reuse them. These versions are not only as versatile as their disposable counterparts but also offer significant benefits in terms of reduced waste and long-term savings. Additionally, they come in various colors and prints, adding a decorative touch to your home. This feature alone might make them more attractive than the plain roll currently on your kitchen counter. These towels are becoming increasingly accessible online and at home kitchen stores. Moreover, there’s even a popular find at Costco that shoppers are turning to in order to cut down on paper towel usage.
Important considerations before buying reusable paper towels
Before committing to reusable paper towels, be aware that they may have a higher initial cost. You’ll also need a storage solution for dry towels and a place to hang wet ones for drying. One significant downside for busy households is the added task of washing reusable towels, which requires more time and effort than simply discarding single-use ones. You can clean them by washing with household towels in a washing machine, handwashing, or placing them on the top rack of your dishwasher. It’s recommended to clean reusable paper towels every few days to eliminate germs, or after each use when dealing with food-related spills and similar messes. Lastly, consider the material — for optimal sustainability, choose those made with a cotton-bamboo blend.
If you’re hesitant to fully abandon disposable towels, start by incorporating a few reusable ones and gradually reduce your use of traditional towels. Alternatively, explore ways to cut down on overall consumption. For example, try using one paper towel instead of multiple by folding it to increase its thickness for cleaning messes, and shake your hands thoroughly before drying them with a single towel. Another option is to make your own reusable paper towels to save money and further reduce consumption.
