Don’t throw away old newspapers: 7 DIY ideas on how old paper can help clean windows, dry shoes, protect surfaces and more

Old newspapers don't have to go straight into the recycling pile. From cleaning glass to drying wet shoes, these seven simple household uses can give them a useful second life. Their absorbent paper can help with cleaning and moisture, while sheets of newspaper can also provide cushioning, surface protection and temporary storage solutions. Several household and lifestyle sources have highlighted these practical uses.

So, before you throw away old newspapers, here are 7 clever household uses worth trying.

Clean windows and mirrors without leaving lint

One of the simplest uses for old newspapers is cleaning glass.


Instead of reaching for a cloth, spray a small amount of a water-and-vinegar solution on a window or mirror and wipe it with crumpled newspaper.

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The paper can help remove fingerprints, smudges and moisture without leaving the fibres that some cloths can leave behind. Newspaper has long been suggested as a simple way to get cleaner-looking glass surfaces.

Use it for:

• Windows
• Mirrors
• Glass tabletops
• Other non-delicate glass surfaces

2. Line kitchen shelves and drawers

Old newspaper can also work as a cheap, temporary shelf liner.

Place a few sheets inside kitchen cabinets, drawers, pantry shelves or other storage areas. The paper can provide a barrier against dust, minor spills and everyday grime.

When the newspaper becomes dirty or damp, simply remove it and replace it. This can be particularly handy in areas where oil, spices or other kitchen ingredients frequently leave marks.

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3. Dry wet shoes and help them keep their shape

Caught in the rain? Don't leave your wet shoes sitting around.

Crumple some newspaper and place it inside wet shoes or boots. The paper can absorb moisture from inside while helping footwear retain its shape as it dries.

Replace the newspaper when it becomes saturated and allow the shoes to dry naturally.

This trick can be useful for:

• Wet shoes


• Boots


• Sneakers


• Handbags that have become damp

4. Use it to pack fragile household items

Moving house or storing glassware? Old newspapers can save you from buying additional packing material.

Wrap individual fragile items in several layers of newspaper and use crumpled sheets to fill empty spaces inside boxes. This prevents objects from moving around as much during transportation.

Newspaper has also been used as a low-cost alternative to bubble wrap for packing dishes and other breakable household objects.

It can be used for:

• Glasses


• Plates


• Ceramic items


• Decorative objects


• Small household appliances

5. Help fruit ripen faster

Have you bought fruit that is still too hard to eat?

Newspaper can sometimes help with the ripening process. Wrapping individual pieces of fruit in newspaper can trap some of the ethylene gas naturally released during ripening.

This method has been suggested for fruits such as mangoes, tomatoes, avocados and peaches.

However, check the fruit regularly rather than leaving it wrapped for too long, as it can quickly move from underripe to overripe.

6. Add shredded newspaper to your compost

Old newspaper can also find a second life in the garden.

Plain newspaper, torn or shredded into smaller pieces, can be added to a compost pile as a carbon-rich material. It can be mixed with food scraps and other organic material to help create a better balance in the compost.

Avoid glossy or heavily coated paper, and don't add large, compact sheets that could restrict airflow.

7. Protect floors and surfaces during messy jobs

Old newspapers can become an easy disposable protective layer when you are doing messy household work.

Spread several sheets underneath shoes while doing small painting jobs, gardening work or other tasks that could leave dirt, water or stains on the floor.

They can also be used temporarily to protect a car's floor during particularly wet or muddy weather.

Once the job is finished, simply collect the sheets and dispose of or recycle them appropriately.