Avoid impulse buying. Not only will you end up with something you can't use and have to throw away, but it will also be very expensive. One way to avoid this is to make a shopping list of what you need, then stick to that list. Buy only what you need. Set up a countertop or wall holder for sponges, rags and cloth towels.
Examples are concentrated fruit juice, laundry detergent, fabric softener, and window cleaner.
If you must buy them, the dishes can be re-used as picnic plates, plant saucers or pet dishes. Not only is it a safe, convenient way to carry purchases, but it eliminates the need for the merchants' disposable paper or plastic bags, too. Give old issues to friends, co-workers, nursing homes, laundromats or libraries. Use an electric shaver or a quality razor with replaceable blades. Hold a yard sale or donate the items to charitable organizations.