Disposables are convenient, but if you are trying to scale back and really pinch your pennies, replacing disposables with “permanents” can really help you stretch your dollar.

Here are a few ways that we replace “disposables” with more permanent items:

• Use cloth napkins instead of paper ones. My kids use one cloth napkin for several meals before it is soiled enough to have to wash.

• Replace tissues with handkerchiefs.

• Use old rags or kitchen towels instead of paper towels to do your cleaning. (Don’t forget that newspaper is wonderful for cleaning glass with!)

• Replace ziploc bags with sealable containers (preferably glass).

• Use cloth diapers instead of disposables.

• Make your own baby wipes from old t-shirts or baby washcloths.

• Try using cloth wipes instead of toilet paper.

• Use Dryer Balls instead of fabric softener sheets.

• And stop buying disposable baby products! I’m talking about tossables, like spoons, cups, bibs, placemats, etc. Just bring something washable with you, along with a plastic bag to store it in until you can wash it.

Did I miss anything? Just think of how this stuff adds up! Talk about some major savings! What are some ways that you replace disposables with permanents in your home?