Replace paper towels with reusable cloths and towels

Switch from paper towels to Swedish dishcloths ($8-12 for a 10-pack), microfiber cloths ($10-15 for a pack), or cut-up old t-shirts and towels. Keep a stack accessible where your paper towel holder was. Toss used cloths in the laundry.

Why It Works

The average household uses 80+ rolls of paper towels per year ($120-200). Swedish dishcloths are compostable, absorb 20x their weight, and each replaces 17 rolls of paper towels. The switch saves money and eliminates a significant waste stream.

Tips

• Swedish dishcloths (cellulose + cotton) are the best paper towel replacement — absorbent, durable, compostable
• Keep a small basket on the counter for used cloths awaiting laundry
• Designate cloth colors by use: one color for kitchen, another for bathroom
• If going fully paper-towel-free feels extreme, keep a roll for truly gross messes only