5 Reuses for Unwanted Plastic Carryout Bags

It often happens when you're least expecting it—you've paid for your handful of items at the deli or the supermarket checkout line, you're already opening up your tote bag to make room for the toothbrush or sandwich or whatever, then, before you can manage an objection, the items are tossed into a plastic and you're on your way out the door. Now, you could remove the items from the bag, turn around and give it back, but sometimes the hustle or the potential awkwardness of the situation can get the better of you. I should know. This just happened to me about 15 minutes ago.

But if you do end up with the dastardly bags, as I did, fear not—there are ways we can redeem our awkward social conduct!

Here are 5 fine ways to reuse those plastic bags:

1.Keep them on hand to act as travel toiletry bags. Not exactly glamorous, I know, but they'll get the job of keeping your toothpaste, toothbrush, and deodorant together in the same space done just fine.

2.Clean up your pet's droppings with them. This is one of those instances when you really wish for a greener option—but nobody wants to keep any poop-stained item around long enough to rewash. If you need a way to reuse it, bring your takeout bag when you walk your dog.

3.Toss fruit or snacks in them when you go for a hike. They do have little handles going for them—you can easily tie the bags onto your belt or a backpack strap for a makeshift hiking pouch.

4.Create an ornamental 'takeout bag ball' by crumpling them up into little wads and putting them inside one another, so they're like those little porcelain Russian dolls that have a smaller doll inside, or those weird rubber band balls people keep on their desks. Admittedly, this one may not catch on but you should try it anyway.

5.Use the crumpled up bags, instead of buying eco-unfriendly, virgin styrofoam stuffing, as padding when shipping a box. Then, encourage your package's recipient to do the same.