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20 (Re)Uses for Paper Bags
by Broadway Industries | Posted in: Bags
‘Tis the season to get in the (eco-friendly) spirit
The shift to paper bags continues as single-use plastic bags are regulated or phased out in many regions. Not only are paper bags more sustainable and recyclable (check out our Re-Use-A-Bag™ brand) but there are plenty of other ways to reuse, upcycle and put paper bags to use.
If your business is among the many dispensing paper bags, the holidays are an excellent time to give customers some creative tips for the abundance of paper bags they will accumulate this shopping season.
This list applies to all types of paper bags: carryout, pinch bottom, twist handle and flat bottom bags, including those made from kraft and white paper.
Remember, the key is to be creative and think “outside the bag!”
10 creative uses for paper bags during the holidays.
- (Re)Gift Bags: Transform them into stunning gift bags with drawings, paintings, stickers, ribbons or bows.
- Gift Wrapping: Cut them into flat sheets for an eco-friendly gift wrap. Add a personalized message, drawing or stenciling to customize the gift.
- Gift Tags: Cut into any shape, punch a hole and add string or ribbon to attach to gifts.
- Ornaments: Get crafty and decorate your tree with paper ornaments or garland.
- Luminaries: Cut shapes or just leave them intact and add a flameless candle.
- Centerpiece holder: Use as rustic holders for flowers, greenery or ornaments.
- Holiday Craft Projects: Make collages, paper mâché crafts or even homemade cards.
- Donate: Give them to local charities that may collect and distribute donations.
- Fire starter: Crumple them up and use them as kindling for a cozy fireplace or campfire.
- Holiday Banners: Cut and string banners with festive messages.
10 more great uses for bags – all year long!
- Lunch Bags: Use them to pack your lunch and recycle them when you’re done.
- Patterns: Cut them open to create knitting, crocheting or sewing patterns/templates.
- Book Covers: Use cut-open sheets to cover textbooks or notebooks.
- Drawer Liners: DIY paper liners help keep surfaces clean from dust, spills and everyday grit.
- Composting: Add them to your compost pile if (be sure they are labeled biodegradable).
- Craft Table Protection: Keep paint, glitter and hot glue off your table with cut-open bags.
- Pet bedding: Shred and use in cages for small animals such as hamsters or guinea pigs.
- Seedling Pots: Fill with dirt and seeds and set them inside a waterproof tray.
- Leftovers: Use them as carryout bags after parties and gatherings.
- Refrigerator Odor: Take a paper bag(s), crumple and place in empty drawers or on shelves and let it sit for two days. The paper will absorb smells. For faster absorption add some charcoal to the bag.
Before recycling, always ensure the bags contain no plastic or coating. Most bags will be labeled – you can check the bottom to verify if they are recyclable or compostable.
For companies in food service, grocery or retail & delivery looking for high-quality, sustainable paper bag options, Broadway Industries offers the eco-friendly Re-Use-A-Bag brand. These bags are 100% recyclable and 100% reusable, and the kraft option is made from a minimum of 40% post-consumer recycled material, making it an incredibly sustainable choice for your business.
Choosing bags for your business can be challenging. With so many styles, sizes, basis weights and other options, how do you choose the “right” paper bag? Check out our Paper Bag Guide for a comprehensive overview that can help you through the process.
We offer a full line of eco-friendly products and use recycled content in our products.
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