Paper towels are a convenient choice for everyday cleaning tasks, but their environmental impact can’t be ignored. If you’re searching for ways to minimize paper waste and embrace a more sustainable approach to cleaning, we’ve got you covered.
Discover eco-friendly alternatives and practical tips to reduce your reliance on traditional paper towels, ensuring a greener and cleaner home.
Explore these residential cleaning solutions today!
Eco-match: Paper towels vs. cloths
The first alternative to paper towels that comes to mind is washcloths. A reusable solution might be what you’re looking for, but how do they stack up against each other? Here we list some advantages and disadvantages:
Paper Towels
Pros:
- They work better to dry your hands: Whenever you wash your hands, any leftover germs stay in the towel when thrown away.
- They can be composted (under one condition): You can repurpose paper to make your compost; however, it depends on what you clean. As long as you didn’t use harsh chemicals or wiped greasy and oily food, you’re good to go!
Cons:
- They’re non-recyclable: Because of the processes and chemicals used to ensure absorption and strength, their final stop is usually the landfill.
- It’s an ongoing expense: No matter how accessible paper towels are, they’re recurring in your shopping list.
Washcloths
Pros:
- They have several uses before washing: Washcloths won’t give in at the first spill, and they’ll endure many tasks before they need to be cleaned.
- They’re a one-time investment: If you find a good quality cloth, you’ll have it for a long time. Organic cotton or microfiber are excellent materials.
Cons:
- You’ll risk cross-contamination if mishandled: If you cleaned a spill and tried to dry your hands with them or clean a surface, you’ll be carrying germs. Assign different cloths for each thing.
- They gather bacteria during the day: Damp fabrics will attract germs, easily carrying over to your skin with chances of causing infection. Remember to take the rag to the laundry basket and replace it with a clean one at the end of the day.
Which ones are eco-friendlier? Washcloths. If used right, they’ll save you money and reduce the amount of waste at home.
Do you still need paper? Go with greener alternatives!
Some tasks are still better with one-use towels, which is why you can’t get rid of paper.
However, there are alternatives to regular paper towels that won’t do as much damage.
Non-chlorine white paper: They’re created from recycled materials from the start, and they have been sun-bleached, avoiding the use of chlorine bleach. But when disposed of, they go through the same fate as regular white paper towels.
Brown Paper: Unbleached paper towels are another great alternative. Kraft paper that’s been already recycled. It’s eco-friendly enough to compost easily.
If you’re just getting started on giving your house a greener spin, there are plenty of things you can do for a healthier home. For more tips and cleaning services, 4 Senses House Cleaning makes your home safe, clean, and healthy. Get a free quote now!
