Things I No Longer Buy: Goodbye Toilet Paper!
Welcome back to our series, “Things I No Longer Buy,” where we jump into the exciting world of alternatives that can make life easier, more affordable, and—let’s be honest—a bit more hilarious. Today, we’re diving into a household staple that can really flush your wallet: toilet paper. That’s right, folks! We’re waving a big “see ya later” to the rolls of single-ply and investing in something far more innovative and eco-friendly.
The Price of Convenience
Let’s crunch some numbers: Did you know the average person spends around $11,000 on toilet paper in their lifetime? Yes, you read that right—$11,000! That’s a staggering amount to shell out for something we use every day. And here’s a serious fact from National Geographic: EVERY DAY, an estimated 27,000 trees are cut down just to produce toilet paper.¹ That adds up to a jaw-dropping 9.8 million trees lost annually for our basic bathroom needs. As we continue to deplete our planet’s precious forestry resources, it’s time to ask ourselves— is there a more sustainable way?
And let’s not forget the “bragging rights” that came from early toilet paper brands claiming their paper was “splinter-free.” Because nothing says luxury like worrying about potential paper cuts in delicate areas! In the name of comfort, savings, and a bit more wiggle room in the budget, let’s part ways with the paper.
A Historical Perspective
Now, let’s take a stroll down memory lane. Before mass-produced toilet paper graced our lives, people were quite resourceful. Some used soft leaves (who knew nature had the original “premium” toilet paper?), while others preferred sponges dipped in vinegar—a classic move for killing bacteria while staying clean. And let’s not forget that many folks simply rinsed off after business was done!
During my journey of cloth diapering my baby, I had an epiphany: If I could wash those cute little cotton puffs, why couldn’t I apply the same logic to my bathroom habits? Thus began my adventure into the wonderful world of washable wipes.
Enter the Washable Wipe Revolution
Are you ready to embrace a life where toilet paper is a thing of the past? Let’s talk washable wipes! They are eco-friendly, easy to make, and they’ll leave you feeling fresh and clean.
Here’s How to Make Your Own Washable Wipes:
1. Gather Your Tools: You’ll need about 40 squares of jersey knit fabric, cut to 5 x 5 inches. The beauty of jersey knit is that it doesn’t fray when washed, so you won’t have to worry about pesky edges!
2. Prepare the Dirty Bucket: Grab one non-see-through bucket (because we don’t want our dirty wipes on display, thank you very much) and cut an X in the lid. This nifty modification lets you toss in used wipes without lifting the lid. Fill the bucket halfway with water and add a tablespoon of vinegar to prevent any bacteria growth, keeping your stash fresh.
3. Create Your Clean Wipes: In a separate bowl, mix one cup of warm water, half a teaspoon of Castile soap, and half a teaspoon of coconut oil. Toss those lovely fabric squares in and give them a good massage. Get them fully saturated, then wring out the excess water and place them lovingly into your “CLEAN” bucket.
Now you’re ready to grab a clean wipe whenever you need it and toss it into the “DIRTY” bucket when you’re done!
Washing Your Wipes: A Breeze!
When it’s time to do laundry, simply dump the contents of the dirty bucket straight into the washing machine. Run a rinse cycle and add a tablespoon of bleach if you like, or a few drops of tea tree oil for a lovely scent. Then, wash again on a normal cycle. No need to dry—just re-soak in your water/soap/oil solution and put them back into your clean bucket. Easy-peasy!
The Bidet Bonus
For an added touch of cleanliness, consider a bidet add-on for your toilet. They’re super easy to install and usually cost around $30. A quick rinse before using your cloth wipes will leave you feeling extra fresh—no paper cuts or worries in sight!
Portable Wipe Wonderland
For the adventurers among us, I can’t recommend The Happy Bottom Kit enough. This lightweight, portable kit is perfect for camping trips or hikes. Pair it with a small backpack shovel, and you’ve got everything you need for those not-so-glamorous outdoor bathroom breaks.
The Ultimate Bathroom Experience
Once you make the switch to washable wipes, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them. The soothing sensation of warm water or soft cloths infused with soap and oil is life-changing. No more fears of your fingers breaking through the paper! It’s like giving your backside a mini spa treatment with every visit to the restroom. Once you try it, toilet paper will feel like a relic of the past!
Join the Movement!
As we embark on this journey toward preparedness and self-sufficiency, it’s time to shed the old ways and embrace practical, Earth-friendly alternatives. Are you ready to make the switch? If you, too, are tired of wasting money on toilet paper, give washable wipes a go. You’ll not only save a few bucks, but you’ll also reduce waste and contribute to a healthier planet!
Join me as we take another step in our quest of “Things I No Longer Buy.” Next time you’re on a roll—pun intended—think about all the ways you can make your life simpler, more sustainable, and a lot more fun. See you in the next blog!
You can find our video on this topic in the “Beauty” section of our “Value” page.
¹ National Geographic: “Toilet Paper Waste.”
