Saving Money on Paper Products

by Nicole Humphrey | More from this Blogger

15 Aug 2007 11:28 AM

Paper products are expensive, face it. And we need them. Things like facial tissue, toilet paper, napkins and paper towels are a must have in many homes. At least the toilet paper is. I won't tell you to skimp on the toilet paper, because, well, we need it! However, let's talk about ways you can save on the rest.

Napkins

The easiest way to save is simply not to use them. Use fabric napkins instead. They last longer, are easily thrown in the wash and are actually more sanitary. If you are not using fabric napkins, then at least watch for sales on these items and buy in bulk.

Facial Tissue

The larger the package is that you buy, the more money you save. However, is it truly necessary to use facial tissue? Can't you use a fabric handkerchief or washcloth. Carry in your pocket and drop in the wash at the end of the day.

Paper Towels

We avoid using paper towels by always having kitchen towels nearby. For spill and easy cleanup we just grab a towel and put it down by the washing machine. If clean up is something yucky, I'm sure to use bleach in that cycle to ensure the towel is its cleanest. You can also save money if you actually purchase paper towels by buying on sale and then using only what you need for the job in hand. For instance if you coffee splashed out the side of the mug, you probably don't need an entire piece of paper towel to clean that up. Instead tear half off, and use that.

Toilet Paper

Again, I'm not going to have some great frugal method that will eliminate toilet paper from your budget, because face it, you need it. However, the best tip I have for saving money on toilet paper is to use less. Try to ration out a certain number of squares, etc. It can help a lot. Also watch for specials and sales on toilet paper and buy it in large packages to save the most.

The key to saving money, is finding a way to reuse items. You cannot reuse most paper products, so try switching to fabric and cloth that can be tossed into the wash.

Do you have any great ideas on saving money on these must have items?

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Learn more about Nicole Humphrey

Nicole Humphrey is a freelance writer, consultant for CTMH and a Sr. Blogger for families.com. She resides in St. Charles, Missouri with Mike and their five children and two furbabies.

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nitalawson (5) 15 Aug 2007 11:50 AM

Great article, I had been debating about the use of fabric napkins but I think I will add them to my list this week.

http://thefrugalmama.blogspot.com/

Nicole Humphrey (15757) 15 Aug 2007 06:33 PM

They are great! I have been using them just over a year and I can tell you that they do save a bundle! I have several different styles, so that we can wash a set or two while using a set. :D

jwillay (50) 15 Aug 2007 06:33 PM

Thanks for the reminders. I keep an old pillowcase and throw stained undershirt and towels and old sheets and then I always have a great supply of rags.

http://jillswritestuff.blogspot.com/

Nicole Humphrey (15757) 15 Aug 2007 06:34 PM

Great idea - I do that too. Everytime something rips or gets a tear or something is worn or stained, we save it for just that reason. Saves big time on paper towels and other items.

ups477 (54) 17 May 2009 10:00 AM

I know this is an older post but I just read it myself as I am new to this site... I just switched to cloth napkins and hand towels about a month ago. I made my own napkins out of old bed sheets I have not used in years. They work great and look better as napkins then they ever did as sheets LOL!!!! I consider this as a free set of napkins as I used what I had in storage, isn't that the point of trying to save money... Oh by the way, I love your posts!!!