Seven Uses for Plastic Newspaper Bags

It seems like such a shame to throw away those rectangular plastic bags that protect our daily newspapers. Plastic newspaper bags prevent waste by protecting newspapers, but it's really a waste to throw them away. You don't have to throw away the plastic newspaper bags that cover your daily paper. There are a number of fantastic uses for plastic newspaper bags that go way beyond keeping your newspapers dry.

Vehicle Waste

How many times have you stuffed wrappers or other waste in the door compartment of your vehicle, or tossed empty pop cans on the floor? Plastic handle bags from the store are really too large to hang in a vehicle as a trash bag, and they're usually riddled with holes. Plastic newspaper bags are sturdy, and they're just the right size to hold vehicle waste. Simply make a hole in the top of a newspaper bag, and hang it in your vehicle within easy reach.

Dog Waste

No one wants to step in dog waste, especially in a community park or other public location. You can purchase disposable dog waste containers, but why purchase disposable items such as this when you have empty plastic newspaper bags? Take along a couple of plastic newspaper bags when you walk your dog, and use the plastic bags like a glove to pick up after your dog. Once you've picked up the waste, turn the bag outside in, tie a knot, and dispose of it properly.

Cat Box Waste

It isn't necessary to clean the cat box more often than once a week - if you scoop out the waste and wet litter on a daily basis. I have a cat, and I've used plastic handle bags when freshening the box, but dirty litter has ended up on the floor on more than one occasion since they aren't very strong. Newspaper bags work great when scooping out small amounts of cat box waste, and this is one of the best uses for those who have a cat and want to save money on litter.

Craft Supply Bags

If you enjoy craft projects, don't store supplies in sandwich bags or oversized storage bags. Put your empty newspaper bags to use, and fill them with craft supplies. They're great for holding pony beads, polymer clay, faux jewels, and any other small items you use for crafting. Simply fill them with supplies, and tie the tops with twist ties. They're strong, most of the time they're clear, and best of all they're free.

Paint Roller Covers

How many times have you been in the process of painting a room and wondered what to do with the paint roller when ready for a break? Plastic newspaper bags are the perfect size for covering wet paint rollers. Store a paint roller for a short time, or twist tie the opening and store a wet roller for a day or two. When you return, the paint roller will still be wet, clean, and ready to use.

Gift Bags

Specialty gift bags aren't exactly cheap, but they aren't necessary either. If you want a unique gift bag that won't cost a penny, consider using a clear plastic newspaper bag. Trim the top of the bag with decorative-edged scissors, fill the bottom of the bag with shredded colored tissue paper and confetti, and place small gifts inside. Tie the top with a color-coordinated ribbon, and you have an attractively wrapped gift that's ready to give to a friend, co-worker, or loved one. Best of all, they'll never know you used a newspaper bag!

Ice Packs

Plastic bags filled with frozen veggies are great for soothing sore muscles, bumps, and bruises, but why waste vegetables? Plastic newspaper bags make fantastic, sturdy ice packs. Loosely fill a bag with small cubes of ice, and secure the top with a knot and a twist tie. Once the bag thaws, toss it in the trash, or refreeze it before the ice dissolves.