After the reading is done, your newspaper still has a lot of life left in it, so don’t be hasty about throwing it away. Old newspapers have a number of practical and innovative household uses that not only save you time but also help your wallet and the planet. Ahead, we’re sharing all of the creative ways to use this biodegradable paper, from wrapping Christmas presents to boosting the health of your garden.
Pet Cage and Litter Box Liners
According to Laurie Hise, founder of Passionate Penny Pincher, old newspapers are great liners for pet cages, such as those for birds and hamsters, cat litter boxes, and puppy crates. “They are really absorbent, help with smell, and are very easy to replace,” she says.
Window Cleaning
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Newspapers are excellent for cleaning windows, mirrors, and glass tables. Douglas Conner, owner of Universal Windows Direct of New Jersey, recommends using folded pieces of newspaper and wiping the glass with a vinegar and water solution for a streak-free finish. The texture of the paper will prevent any leftover shine or lint residue on your glass surfaces.
Packing Material
Using old newspapers to protect your packages is an incredibly reliable way to keep fragile items safe. “Wrap them snugly around things,” says professional cleaner Elizabeth Shields. “Layer it and you’ll create little pockets of air that cushion the item and absorb shock.”
Compost
Consider adding old newspaper to your compost bin as carbon-rich material. “Compost needs a mix of greens and browns,” explains Shields. “Greens are fruit peels or vegetable scraps. Browns are dry materials, like paper and leaves.” Shields recommends shredding or tearing the newspaper before adding it to your compost pile to help it break down faster.
Never add glossy pages to your compost, as they are not biodegradable.
Papier-Mâché Crafts
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Papier-mâché is an ancient craft that is still going strong today, and an old newspaper is a creative addition to any project. When practicing papier-mâché, strips of newspaper are dipped in glue or flour paste to make molds, sculptures, or decorations, explains Conner. “This is a low-cost craft material that promotes recycling as well as creativity,” he says.
Surface Protector for Home Painting Projects
Another fantastic way to recycle newspaper is when painting, according to Lastree Lemene, founder and professional organizer at Ready Set Declutter. “Lay several sheets out if you’re painting walls and want to protect your floors when tackling home projects,” she says. Another option is to use it as a table cover instead of disposable plastic drop cloths.
Gift Wrapping
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Instead of using regular wrapping paper, which can be expensive and is often not recyclable, Conner suggests using newspaper for a quaint appearance. Decorating with twine or ribbons and adding a handmade tag will offer an elevated touch, making your gift unique and waste-saving at the same time, he notes.
Wiping Down Tools
Over time, household tools become greasy and oily, which can cause corrosion that damages your tools in storage. However, old newspaper is the perfect material for absorbing this oil. “Use it like a rag to wipe down blades, screwdrivers, or bike chains before storing them,” says Shields. “If you’re doing a full garage clean, line the shelves or drawers with newspaper to catch accidental drips.”
Ripen Your Produce
Sometimes you need an avocado or a banana to ripen before it’s ready. An old newspaper can help with this, notes Hise. Wrapping fruits and vegetables that produce ethylene gas in old newspaper will trap the gas and speed up the ripening process.
Dry Damp Items
For any wet items that are not safe to put in the dryer, such as shoes or an umbrella, Shields recommends spreading several layers of newspaper sheets on a flat surface and laying the damp items on top. Just make sure the surface isn’t porous, so the newspaper doesn’t bleed.
Store Garden Pots Over Winter
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Old newspaper is also a gardener’s secret weapon. When storing pots for winter, layers of newspaper can cushion fragile containers, absorb moisture, and prevent cracking in the cold. Simply wrap terracotta and ceramic pots in newspaper before stacking them to protect against breakage.
Boot Shapers
Try stuffing boots with newspaper to help them stay looking brand new. “Roll or crumple the paper and tuck it inside so that it props up the boot,” says Shields. Doing so will elongate the original shape and condition of your cherished boots so they don’t wrinkle or crease.
Odor Absorber
Old newspapers act as an odor-absorbent for pungent smells. Conner recommends stuffing it in shoes to dry out moisture and reduce odors overnight. Another option is to combine the old newspapers with your favorite herbs for freshness and tuck them into areas where you need some scented help, says Hise.
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