How to Use Cloth Bags Instead of Paper & Plastic

As green living continues to grow in popularity, you may wonder what type of contribution you can make. Switching from paper and plastic to reusable cloth grocery bags is a simple change that can make a huge impact. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, more than 380 billion plastic bags are used in the U.S. every year. The fact that plastic bags are not biodegradable makes this astounding level of consumption even more devastating. Making the switch to cloth bags is fairly inexpensive and worth the effort.

Instructions

• 1

  Purchase three or more cloth bags from your local grocer. Cloth bags are typically sold for as little as $1 each.

• 2

  Place your bags in the trunk of your car or another place where they are accessible for shopping.

• 3

  Take your bags in the store with you when you go shopping. Upon checkout, hand your bags to the cashier or bagger. Inform him or her that you would like your groceries bagged in the cloth bags. If you bag your own groceries, make sure to use your cloth bags.

• 4

  Empty your bags at home and place them back in your trunk, near the door or some other accessible place.