How can I reuse or recycle plastic mailing bags?
Envelopes? Easy peasy, a million reuses. Padded envelopes have plenty of reuses too. But what about plastic mailing bags? They seem to be the default choice these days for sending out fabric or clothing because they’re stronger/less likely to tear than paper envelopes or brown paper but also lighter so cheaper to mail.
If they’re neatly opened with scissors near the original seal, they can be reused as a slightly smaller mailing bag. Or you can use them instead of bin liners in small waste bins, or cut them into strips to make plastic “yarn” for repurposing projects.
They’re usually made from polythene, the same material as most plastic carrier bags, so can be recycled in the same places as those but you know me, I prefer to reuse than just recycle.
What else can we do with them?
Use for bookcrossing – protect wild release books (with the transparent wrappers) or send books (or anything else fragile – cds, candy etc) to friends wrapped in first those, then if needed packaged in an envelope.
I use mine to sort bills in and use marker to label the outside. I put a rubber band around them and then file. (For instance: medical bills, etc in separate packages for tax time).
I you have a young child, you can use this to throw away an old diaper in the garbidge and avoid it to smell too much.
Cut them in thin stripes and use to fill Easter baskets.
Depending on size, use to line a trash can.
Craft some flowers.
Store some hygiene items in a car when on a go.