Category Archives: Reader tips

J.O., Canterbury.

I too use the plastic bags that magazines and advertising come in for our lunches. I haven’t bought plastic bags for over 20 years! I have started to use the plastic bread bag tags, too. I freeze left overs, etc. in the bags and write the date and contents of the bag on the plastic […]

Waste Not Want Not Lauren, Whangarei.

Being the meanest woman in the world according to my two daughters aged 15 and 8, I refuse point blank to buy gladwrap or plastic bags. In fact, so mean am I that I reuse the plastic bag the TV Guide comes in for a lunch bag for sandwiches. (Oh the TV Guide subscription was […]

Canny Scot, Christchurch.

When planting my strawberries I have given them a mulch of wet shredded paper from my shredding machine. It matts together nicely keeping light out to prevent weeds and I should have nice clean strawberries to eat. Makes use of your old bank statements too. Or your advertising junk is very colourful when shredded. Will […]

Gaynor, Paraparaumu.

Wrap the tops of old panty-hose around the bristles of a soft broom and use with a little detergent if necessary to clean the car or windows. Hosing down first helps, then dry off with a clean rag. Cut sections off the legs of tights or knee highs to use over lower trouser legs to […]

Shar, Wellington.

I save my empty Maggi stock plastic containers (washed & dried) remove label & re-label-for my Spices & Herbs. One side used as a sprinkle the other side if I want to use a bit more.

O.R.

Reuse newspapers as cat litter – but be very careful which section you use. My cat gets very nervous if I include the “pets, free to a good home” section!

O.R.

Use milk cartons to freeze fish. Put the fish in a clean milk carton, add water then freeze for later use.

J.D.

Wash milk cartons. Dry and use to store food in the freezer – don’t forget the label. Also good for carrying plants.