I Quit Using Paper Napkins 4 Years Ago, Thanks to This Clever Find (I’m Saving So Much Money!)

I’m always on the lookout for ways to reduce waste in my apartment. I never buy single-use plastic bottles, I bring a tote bag everywhere I go, and four years ago I ditched my paper napkins for a simpler, reusable option: cloth. Napkins used to be a staple on my grocery list, but since investing in a few sets of linen and cotton napkins, I haven’t missed the paper ones at all.

Aside from not piling up in the garbage bin after every meal, my collection of cloth napkins also takes up less storage space than the napkins I used to buy. I would stash a Costco-sized plastic rectangle of Vanity Fare napkins Tetris-style in my pantry (or, honestly, an unused corner of my bedroom closet), which was quite the eyesore. Now, I have a compact storage bin that holds my entire supply. 

Cloth napkins are also just more fun. They feel fancier than a cheap square of starchy paper, and they add a pop of color to my table — even when it’s just dinner for one in front of a movie. Sure, they add a little to my laundry pile, but with a back stock of more than 10 napkins for the two people who live here, we rarely run out. And they don’t take any special laundering instructions.

That said, cloth napkins will inevitably get stained — they’re not immune to turmeric smears or oil droplets. You can try any of these brilliant stain-removal tricks, or you can just make the more unsightly napkins your new go-to cleaning rags for all over the home. It keeps them out of the landfill, and ensures I always have a supply of towels to clean with.

And you don’t have to invest a ton of money for pretty, high-quality napkins that fold neatly and look great on every table. It’s especially fun to curate your collection — I started with an inexpensive bulk set of neutral cotton napkins from Amazon. When I wanted to add a little more color to my table, I fell in love with these whimsical splatter-painted napkins from Crow Canyon. I also love the set of indigo-dyed cotton napkins I received as a gift, and have my eye on a set of classic striped napkins from Solino Home that remind me of a French bistro. If you’re balling on a budget, check out your local Dollar Tree or discount store for their options.

If you like to entertain, or just treat yourself during a weeknight dinner, your napkin collection offers a natural foundation for planning a tablescape. And for the finishing touch, add a funky napkin ring! If you’re setting out to produce less waste in 2025, this is the perfect place to start (and check out this brilliant paper towel alternative while you’re at it).