Cloth Napkins Versus Paper Napkins
Which is the Most Eco-Friendly Product for Your Lifestyle?
Sep 20, 2009
Everyone has heard about the importance recycling and wasting as little energy and landfill space as possible. However, busy schedules and tight budgets can lower one’s priorities in making eco-friendly choices. One simple and cheap option for recycling is using cloth napkins. At first glance, cloth napkins seem far better than paper. After all, paper production causes deforestation which leads to higher levels of greenhouse gases. However, some question whether cloth napkins actually waste more energy and produce larger amounts of greenhouse gases in their production and maintenance than paper napkins.
Greenhouse Gasses and Water Usage
In the production of paper napkins versus cloth napkins, paper definitely wins in terms of water use and greenhouse gases produced. According to Greenhouse Gas and Sustainability Engineer Pablo Paster, in his article "Are Paper Napkins More Environmentally Friendly?" for Treehugger.com, cotton requires much more water and chemicals, like chlorine, in its production. Organic cotton, although it still produces harmful gases and uses water, is a much better choice in reducing chemicals and greenhouse gases. Linen, a safer and environmentally friendlier option, uses less water, produces fewer greenhouse gases and uses fewer chemicals in its processing.
Of course, the paper napkin is only used once, if that, before it is thrown out. Cloth napkins can be washed dozens of times before they begin to show wear. This brings up another question of whether the water and energy usage from washing cloth napkins negates the benefits of long-term use.
The Washing Machine Versus the Landfill
Paster explains that if the cotton or linen napkins are washed in an irresponsible manner, i.e. the only items in a full load or washed excessively, then, yes, they would be less eco-friendly than paper napkins. However, if washed only when needed and in a responsible manner, cotton or linen napkins are going to be much better for the environment.
Tossing out a napkin doesn’t seem all that harmful but consider that when paper breaks down it releases methane gas. Methane is a greenhouse gas and, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, can remain in the atmosphere for up to fifteen years. Most paper napkins are also bleached which means chlorine gas seepage as well. Considering the millions of paper napkins that wind up at the landfill every day, these gases contribute to decreasing air quality and declining environmental health.
Making Cloth Napkins
You can certainly buy cloth napkins at any kitchen store. However, making cloth napkins, whether you use cotton or linen, is very easy and inexpensive. You can buy organic cotton or linen fabric, buy pre-cut fabric remnants or use old sheets. Simply choose a size and cut the cloth with pinking shears to prevent fraying. Wash them only when necessary and, if possible, use biodegradable detergent.
If you choose to use paper napkins, there are eco-friendly products to choose from. Most stores carry at least one brand that makes recycled paper products. If you have several options, the most eco-friendly products are those that are unbleached and have the highest amount of post consumer recycled content.
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