Bags, we use them everyday. Zip lock bags, plastic and paper bags, shopping bags, they are everywhere.
For years I never really thought about it, when given the option paper or plastic of course I chose paper, because that’s the responsible thing to do you know.
Then the trend of bring your own tote bags to the grocery store happened. I jumped right on it. I have my own collection of almost every single cloth bag Trader Joe’s has made.
Over the past couple years I started to think through this whole disposable bag issue. Sure I used them for grocery shopping but what about when I buy things at Target, the mall and anywhere else I might go? You maybe be surprised that most stores don’t have a problem letting you use your own bags. They might give you an odd look at first but they’ll go with it. It might even be a conversation starter. (Honest moment here, I’m traveling and forgot to bring a cloth shopping bag, so I had to use on of the plastic bags at the store, I’m so not perfect or anywhere near there.)
Photo Credit: Jessica Mullen
Canvas tote bags aren’t really that expensive. I believe that my bags from Trader Joe’s are only about $5 each. I have slowly collected them over time to where I am at the point now where I don’t need to use any of the free bags they provide in the store. When you use your own bags you even get cash back, even if it is only a few pennies, it adds up. Once I put my groceries away I put all my canvas bags back the trunk of my car so I don’t forget them the next time I go to the store.
What about bags for your produce and bulk items at the store? You can buy (my partner Amazon has many to choose from) or make bags to put your items in. There are different bags designed for storage and best breathability for each product you buy. I only have a few so far, I’m getting there.
Photo Credit: Rebekah W
One of the newest items I added to my collection was cloth snack bags. One of my dear friends gave me a set for my birthday (do the happy dance). You can make your own or buy them on-line (from my partner Amazon). There are many fun looking options on etsy. They are great for snacks, sandwiches or pretty much whatever else you would want to put in them with the exception of liquids.
There you have it! I hope that you will give cloth bags a try!
Stay tuned for the rest of the “So Long Disposables” Series. Last week we talked about cloth napkins and wool dryer balls (enter in the giveaway). This week we are tackling cloth diapers.
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