Did you know that the U.S. spends nearly as much on paper towels as every other country combined? If you're looking to reduce waste and make your home more eco-friendly – which, since you’re here, you probably are! – switching to reusable paper towels is a simple yet effective step.
By switching to reusable paper towels, you can help reduce paper waste and save money. If every family used just one less roll of paper towels each year, it could save 500,000 trees and millions of dollars in landfill costs. And by washing and reusing your reusable paper towels, you can save on up to 17 rolls of paper towels!
Let’s take a look at how to properly wash and reuse your reusable paper towels, along with some helpful care tips, cost savings, and disposal advice, so you can enjoy a more sustainable home.
Click here to skip to the step-by-step guide to washing your paper towels!
Why Choose Reusable Paper Towels
Traditional disposable paper towels contribute significantly to landfill waste and environmental degradation. On average, over 13 billion pounds of paper towels are thrown away in the U.S. each year. These towels are often bleached and treated with chemicals that don’t break down easily, leading to an increase in landfill volume.
So, what’s the alternative? Reusable paper towels made from sustainable materials, like cotton, are here to save the day.
When it comes to sustainability, choosing the best reusable paper towels is an easy yet impactful choice. They are made from biodegradable natural fibers, and far more durable than their single-use counterparts. Reusable towels can be washed and reused hundreds of times, reducing your overall waste production.
At EarthHero, we feature a wide range of paper towel alternatives that are perfect for households looking to reduce waste while maintaining a clean and eco-friendly environment.
Product Spotlight: Best Reusable Paper Towels
One of the best options to make the switch is ZWS Essentials GOTS-certified organic cotton reusable paper towels.
Made from high-quality, 1-ply organic cotton, they are perfect for everything from cleaning spills and wiping counters to drying your hands. They naturally cling together, making it easy to re-roll them onto a cardboard paper towel tube, so they feel just like traditional paper towels.
Here’s what makes these towels stand out:
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Durable and Absorbent: They become more absorbent with each wash, and they hold liquid impressively well, with no smears, pilling, or lint left behind.
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Easy to Care For: Simply wash them with your regular laundry and reuse them for years, saving you money and reducing waste.
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Eco-Friendly and Cost-Effective: By making the switch, you’re saving trees, water, and money that would otherwise be spent on disposable paper towels.
You can shop them here!
How To Wash Reusable Paper Towels: A Step-By-Step Guide
Taking care of your reusable paper towels properly can extend their lifespan, ensuring that they stay effective for a long time.
Here’s a simple guide on how to wash reusable paper towels to keep them in tip-top shape:
Pre-Rinse (Optional)
Before tossing your reusable paper towels into the wash, you can rinse them under cold water to remove excess food or liquid. This helps prevent staining and reduces the load on your washing machine.
Choose a Gentle Detergent
Opt for a mild, eco-friendly detergent. Harsh chemicals and synthetic fragrances can break down the fibers over time and compromise their effectiveness. You can also choose detergents that are free from bleach and other chemicals, which helps preserve both the fabric and the environment.
You can read our guide to eco-friendly laundry detergents here!
Washing Instructions
Most reusable paper towels can be machine-washed in warm or cold water. Wash them on a gentle cycle to prevent wear and tear. Avoid using hot water, as this may shrink or degrade the material. If your towels are heavily soiled, you can run them through a second rinse cycle.
Drying
After washing, hang your reusable paper towels to air dry or toss them in the dryer on a low-heat setting. Air drying is gentler on the fabric, but the dryer is convenient if you’re in a rush.
Preventing Wear and Tear
To keep your towels in the best condition possible, avoid using fabric softeners or dryer sheets, as these can affect absorbency. Additionally, wash them with like fabrics to prevent snagging and other damage. Over time, you may notice your towels becoming softer, which is a good sign!
By following these steps, you’ll get the most out of your reusable cloth paper towels, ensuring they stay fresh and effective for years to come.
Do Reusable Paper Towels Save You Money?
While the initial investment might be higher than a pack of disposable towels, by washing and reusing your reusable paper towels, the long-term savings are substantial.
Consider this:
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A roll of paper towels costs anywhere from $1 to $2, and depending on usage, you may go through 2-4 rolls a month.
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On the other hand, a set of reusable cloth paper towels may cost anywhere from $10 to $30 for a multi-pack. These towels can be reused hundreds of times, making the per-use cost significantly lower.
If you switch to reusable paper towels, you can save hundreds of dollars per year. Plus, you won’t have to worry about the environmental cost of paper production, which includes deforestation and significant energy consumption.
Tips for Proper Disposal at End of Life
Eventually, a wash won’t cut it any more and even the best reusable paper towels will wear out. But don’t worry – they can still be disposed of responsibly!
You might be wondering: are paper towels biodegradable? Unfortunately, most conventional paper towels are not as eco-friendly as they seem. Many brands are treated with bleach, dyes, and other chemicals that slow down or even prevent biodegradation.
Reusable paper towels, however, are made from natural fibers which are biodegradable and break down much more easily in the environment. Here’s how to properly dispose of them:
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Repurpose: Before throwing them away, consider repurposing your old towels. You can use them as cleaning rags, dishcloths, or even for DIY projects.
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Composting: If your reusable paper towels are made from natural fibers, such as cotton or bamboo, you can compost them once they’ve reached the end of their life. Just make sure they’ve been thoroughly cleaned before composting. You can check out our useful guide to composting here.
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Recycling: If composting isn’t an option, check with your local recycling facility to see if they accept natural fabrics. Many can be recycled into new products, such as insulation or stuffing for furniture.
A Family-Friendly, Sustainable Solution
At EarthHero, we believe in offering products that benefit not only your family but the planet as well.
By making the switch to reusable paper towels washable, you're saving trees, water, and investing in a low-waste home. With proper care, these towels will become more absorbent and durable with every wash, making them a long-term, eco-friendly solution that also saves you money.
The beauty of reusable paper towels lies in their longevity. By following the simple washing tips shared in this guide, you’ll keep your towels in top condition for years to come. Regular washing and proper drying help maintain their effectiveness, while also reducing your household’s overall waste.
So, whether you’re cleaning up a spill or drying your hands, you can feel good knowing your reusable paper towels are working hard for both your home and the planet. Make the switch today, and enjoy the satisfaction of a cleaner, greener kitchen.
Looking for more ways to make your kitchen more sustainable? Check out our favorite sustainable kitchen products.
