Creative Ways to Recycle Baby Wipes Packaging
When most people use up all the baby wipes in a package, they toss the package in the trash. Some wonder if the packaging is biodegradable, but that is never the case, even if the wipes are biodegradable, because biodegradable packaging would break down too quickly when exposed to the moisture of the wipes. However, there are still ways to make eco-conscious decisions about your wipes packaging. One option is to recycle the packaging at a facility that accepts “flexible packaging.” Another option is to reuse the packaging around your home. Here are a few ideas on how to do that.
On-the-go dirty diaper storage.
A great way to reuse wipes packaging is to store them in your diaper bag or car. Then, when you’re out and about with baby, you can store their dirty diapers in the empty packaging until you find a trash can.
Small toy storage.
Items like Legos, little cars and figurines, and other such tiny toys often get lost in toy boxes and other large bins. One method for keeping them sorted is to store them in empty wipes packaging.
Art supply storage.
Just like those tiny toys, smaller art supplies like crayons, stickers, and glue sticks can get lost in large containers. Wipes packaging is the perfect compact storage solution.
Chalk holder.
If the cardboard container your child’s chalk came in was promptly destroyed, swap it for wipes packaging. The sturdiness of the bag almost guarantees it will outlast the life of the chalk.
Play dough preserver.
As you’ve likely discovered, play dough hardens if it’s not stored in a sealed container. Wipes packaging that still has a secure lid is an ideal place to keep this dough and preserve its softness.
Storage for small kitchen supplies.
If you find that bag clips, those tiny condiment packages, and other little items seem to disappear in your kitchen cabinets, store them in wipes packaging.
Band-aid holder.
Prevent loose Band-Aids from spreading throughout your bathroom by sticking them in a wipes container. It’s also wise to keep a supply in the car.
Container for hair accessories.
Much like the Band-Aids, hair ties, ribbons, and other hair accessories can get lost in the shuffle of your bathroom drawers. Ensure you can always find them by sorting them into wipes packaging.
Loose change collector.
Is there a heaping pile of change on your bedroom dresser, kitchen counter, or table near your front door? If so, consolidate the metallic mess in wipes packaging stored near the common places you, or others in your house, dump their change.
Bag for your child’s random items.
If you have a child that likes to pass you rocks, twigs, shells, leaves, and other nature-made items for safekeeping when you’re on a walk or at the park, you’ve probably found that it’s a hassle to store these items in your hand or pocket. An easy solution is wipes packaging. As recommended above, keep this packaging in your diaper bag or car so it’s easily accessible when your child starts passing you their treasures.
Sick bag.
An unfortunate reality of parenthood is that sometimes kids get sick in the car. If this ever happens to you, you’ll be exceptionally grateful to have a stockpile of bags to quickly pass your child if they utter the dreaded words “I think I’m going to be sick.” Wipes packaging is an ideal option for this situation.
As you can see, there are numerous ways to reuse wipes packaging. And in addition to being convenient, these reuse options can also save you money, as they eliminate the need to purchase small storage containers. But one of our favorite reasons for reusing wipes packaging is that it supports the health of the environment by reducing the amount of waste that ends up in the landfill. So, the effort to reuse this packaging is a big win for all involved.