If you have paper towels on your kitchen counter, how many do you go through a day? It’s too easy to grab one, barely use it, and toss it in the garbage bin. It seems harmless since it’s not made of plastic, but what is the real impact of this convenience and are there any sustainable paper towels on the market?
Paper towels have a negative impact on the environment due to deforestation, energy and water consumption, waste generation, chemicals and pollution, and their carbon footprint. The production of paper towels requires cutting down trees and uses significant amounts of energy and water. Being single-use products, they contribute to waste generation and landfill pollution. The manufacturing process involves chemicals that can harm waterways, and their disposal contributes to pollution. Additionally, the entire life cycle of paper towels, including production and disposal, contributes to carbon emissions and climate change.
Not so harmless after all… Fortunately, there are great sustainable paper towel alternatives that are easy to use and budget-friendly if you consider cost per use.
Here are 5 sustainable paper towels that we recommend.
This paper towel alternative set includes 12 absorbent cotton flannel towels rolled onto a reusable cardboard paper towel roll. They can be washed before use and easily stacked and rolled back onto the roll. They fit on any paper towel holder and can be treated like traditional paper towels, but with the added benefit of being washable and reusable. Simply toss them into the washing machine and dryer after use. Washing them before use enhances absorbency, and although there may be some shrinkage, they maintain their functionality.
This set of washable, eco-friendly paper towels is made from 100% cotton flannel. Each set includes 25 pieces with 5 different fruit-themed patterns, measuring 10×10 inches. These reusable towels easily stick together and can be rolled up on the included cardboard roll, which fits most tissue holders. By using these paperless towels, you can save money and reduce waste, as one towel can replace thousands of disposable paper towels. They are highly absorbent and their absorbency increases after a few washes. Suitable for various purposes, they can be used in kitchens and bathrooms.
These eco-friendly Swedish Dish Towels measure 8″x7″ and are made of cotton. These versatile cleaning cloths provide easy and effective cleaning for various surfaces. They are strong enough to scrub yet gentle enough to wipe without scratching. Use them for dishes, bathroom cleaning, or tackling spills. These towels are washable and reusable for up to 50 washes, replacing the need for multiple rolls of paper towels. Highly absorbent, they can soak up to 20 times their weight, making them ideal for any mess. They are safe to use on multiple surfaces and are great for scrubbing, drying dishes, sinks, tubs, and more. Made from 30% cotton and 70% cellulose, these towels are 100% biodegradable, vegan, and chemical-free. They compost in just 6-8 weeks, including the eco-friendly and recyclable packaging. FEBU offers a satisfaction guarantee, by offering a refund if they do not meet your cleaning needs.
Each set includes 20 washable and reusable sheets that can be hand-washed in cold water. These bamboo towels can be reused from 80 to 100 times, providing the equivalent of 3 to 6 months of single-use kitchen rolls. They are versatile and suitable for various situations, including spills, dusting, cleaning, and even as napkins. Made of 100% organic and biodegradable bamboo, these lint-free towels are of high quality and free from synthetic materials. They are highly absorbent and remain strong and sturdy even when wet. With each wash, they become softer and more absorbent. Bamboo is an eco-friendly choice as it is a fast-growing plant that does not require pesticides, chemical fertilizers, or irrigation.
This microfiber cloth is a versatile cleaning tool designed to provide effective and efficient cleaning. With its ultra-fine fibers, it is highly absorbent and can easily capture dirt, dust, and other particles. The cloth is reusable and can be washed and reused multiple times, making it a sustainable option. It is gentle on surfaces and does not leave scratches or streaks. Suitable for various cleaning tasks, this microfiber cloth is ideal for use in the kitchen, bathroom, or any other area of the house. Its durability ensures long-lasting performance, and it offers excellent value for money.
Final Thoughts
Making a difference in your daily habits is hard, and if you have been using paper towels for years it can be intimidating to make the switch to a paper towel alternative. All of the brands we presented offer a money-back guarantee, so it’s worth trying one or two options out just to see how fits into your routine. Even a small change can have a signification impact on your carbon footprint compounded over time.