This is something that seems obvious but sometimes we need little reminders…
When I get large envelopes in the mail I use to throw them away or put them in the recycle bin after I opened them. Now I reuse them. I usually flip them over and use the back side to put my address label and postage stamp. You can also reuse envelopes that come inside other envelopes in the mail. You know, all those preapproved credit cards offers that you should throw straight into the garbage can. I cover the preprinted addresses with address labels, or I black them out with a sharpie.
By reusing envelopes I save money and time because I don’t have to go to the store to purchase new ones. I am also reducing waste by using them a second time.
for more frugal tips check out Tipster Tuesday and Tightwad Tuesday
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I sell a lot on Ebay, so I always reuse envelopes. One of the gals at the post office commented on how she liked my idea of reusing them.
http://search.ebay.com/_W0QQsassZproverbsmama
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I use my envelopes as a grocery list. I can write my list on the backside and then tuck all of my coupons that I am going to use on the inside. It also hangs on the refrigerator nicely.
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Be sure to black out the postal bar codes that are located on the bottom front edge of used envelopes. Sometimes a very pale orange postal barcode will appear on the bottom back (and/or front) of the envelope, this must also blacked out before reusing.
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That is a great idea. I never thought to use the credit card ones. With postage going up in May, that is a great idea.
because of Jesus, Bobbie
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I just clicked on your Family of churches link and was surprised to see CJ Mahanney. We went to his church in the 80’s and then to Benny Philip’s.What an amazing time and move of the Spirit that was.
Thanks for the memory.
Because of Jesus, Bobbie
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I had never thought of reusing envelopes that way. Usually I use them as stratch paper. Thanks for sharing.
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BRAVO! Way to reduce your carbon footprint. This never occurred to me before, either. I will have to try it!
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I always forget, and rip oven those paperbackswap envelopes across the top instead of cutting them open neatly so that they can be re-used. I’ve got to remember this; large envelopes are expensive.
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Very good tip. We have been doing this for a long while. It makes a difference. I am now seeing this neat term “carbon footprint” popping up.
Blessings in Him<
-Mary/Canadagirl
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