Something that I’ve been musing about lately is the use of paper plates. Are they just frivolous or can they be considered frugal? I think that, as with many things, it depends on your situation. I think they do merit a little thought. You can buy paper plates at any dollar store relatively cheap.

I’m a home owner. I’m responsible for all of my utilities. When I think of the money that goes towards the gas, electric, and water bills to wash a bunch of plates that only held a sandwich and maybe a handful of chips, I really start to wonder if I wouldn’t be better off using a paper plate. If you live in an apartment where one or two of these utilities are included, your situation is probably different.

I don’t have a dishwasher. And it may be a tired, old, worn out expression … but time IS money. The time that I invest in washing breakfast or lunch dishes is worth more to me than the penny I would spend per paper plate. But again, this scenario may not be true if you have a dishwasher, or a child old enough to wash dishes.

I wouldn’t promote using paper plates for main dishes like pork chops, chicken breast, etc as they don’t stand up to the wear and tear of anything that requires cutting. However, I think they could be considered for the informal meals of everyday life. What are your thoughts?