The Popular Phrase "Reduce, Reuse, Recycle" - How Does Implementing REUSE Help Me & My Family?

What's Up?

Implementing the 3 R's can be easy, and fun.  Plus it can save you money over time.

It doesn't have to be a hassle or another expense.  In fact it can benefit not only the environment but your family.

Let's learn some basics today about Reusing and how we can fit it into our daily lives with ease.

(Part 2 of a 3 Part Series)

What is Reuse?

Reusing is using the same product again in its original form.  For example, you reuse a container, or a pair of shoes.  Reuse differs from recycling in that no process occurs to the item to make it a new product.

Example

A plastic bottle if it is recycled is made into a new bottle, or carpet, etc..  A reused plastic bottle is just reused as a plastic bottle, and not as a new product.

Let's look at some quick ideas on how to reuse items.

Quick Hitting Savings Tips

Note this is just a short list, and by no means all inclusive.  For additional information visit the tips in each section to give more detailed savings plans, and environmental impacts.

Kitchen

• Use washable containers for storage instead of plastic bags.
• If you use plastic bags, consider washing and reusing them.  (Note if you store meat in them, they should probably be thrown away for safety purposes.)
• Use mugs or cups for drinks instead of plastic or throw away bottles.
• Bring your mug or on the go container to the store for your coffee. Most places will give you a discount if you bring your own container.
• Wash plastic silverware or plastic cups after you use them.  Most plastic silverware has several uses in them versus throwing them away after one use.
• Try cloth napkins for a while versus paper napkins.
• Use rags to clean up a mess versus paper towels.  Absorbent rags or old towels can work wonders.

Clothing

• Tailor clothes that don't fit or are slightly out of style.  Hemming a pair of pants, or changing the buttons on a coat is a lot less expensive than buying new.
• Donate clothes in good condition to a charity organization or a family in need.
• Buy quality clothing that will last, and won't need to be replaced every season.

Activities for Kids

• Reuse wrapping paper to make crafts, cover boxes, or to paste on a piece of paper as a decoration.
• Save ribbon, cool paper you get in the mail, fun shape boxes, etc. for a rainy day project that your kids can dive into an create a master piece.
• There are many resources out there that give ideas on how to take household items and make them into a craft.

Household

• If you need an appliance consider purchasing one at a garage sale, or a thrift store.  For a small price, you might find exactly what you need.  Be sure to test it though to ensure it works.
• Consider alternative uses for products.  Plastic 2 liter bottles make great watering vessels.
• Sell those things that you don't need or use.  They can be reused by someone else in their home and you make money in the process.
• Consider fixing appliances, or bikes.  It might cost less than buying a new one.

These are just a few ideas or suggestions on how to implement Reuse.

Have fun exploring the website for other ideas and tips.