Paper Jewels

So first off I should say that I never use dryer sheets. I don’t think we need them (the only thing that ever gets static-y is the few silk things we’ve got, and I’m totally willing to deal with that). I think it is a deliberate Proctor-and-Grumble-ish advertising invention to make us think we need them. And, we have birds. The fake perfume in the dryer sheets is poison to birds (and to us too, only we are bigger).

But a whole lot of people do use them, and think they need them. So I’m just asking, if you buy them, please do reuse them! Turns out there are a bunch of nifty things to do with them. These ideas aren’t original with me – I’ve gotten this handy list from Daily Green Cheapskate over on Yahoo. (Love that name, by the way.)
A few highlights from the “how to reuse dryer sheets” list:

1. Use them more than once. (Back when I did use them, years ago, this totally worked. They’re good for three-four washes at least.)

2. Anti-static dust wipes (use them to clean your monitor and TV screen – they’re great for that).

3. Pot scrubbers and sink / tub scrubs.

4. Dust-free blinds: Not only do spent dryer sheets make a handy wipe for metal and plastic blinds, but the chemicals in them help to repel dust.

5. Get your shine on: When used as a polishing rag, dryer sheets make mirrors and chrome appliances shine. They’re also great for cleaning windows and other glass.

They’re also recommended as sort-of-sachet. Put one in your glove box or underwear drawer so you can smell that creepy sweet scent for ages. (Can you tell I don’t like the smell? Yeah.)

Check out the full article here.

And for even more super useful info on how to go green easily, go to The Green Cheapskate Blog. There are TONS of good ideas there.

And it’s fun. And you’ll feel good about it 🙂