Breakroom FAQ

If you ever had a burst of energy after a cup of joe, you likely asked, “How much caffeine in a cup of coffee?” Caffeine levels vary between different brands, brew types, and preparation methods. Most types of ground coffee have between 95 and 165 milligrams of caffeine in each 8-ounce serving. Different roasts have varying caffeine levels. Light roasts have a slightly higher amount of caffeine than medium and dark roasts. Even decaffeinated brews have some caffeine. An 8-ounce cup of decaf has between 2 and 5 milligrams. Typically, instant coffee has lower caffeine levels than conventionally brewed blends. In an 8-ounce cup, there's an average of 63 milligrams of caffeine.

Prepackaged coffee pods, including K-Cups^®, are similar to standard ground beans in their caffeine content. Most pods have between 100 and 140 milligrams. However, there are some extra-strength blends and breakfast blends that have significantly more caffeine. On average, these varieties have 30 percent more caffeine than standard blends.

With the popularity of coffee across the globe, and substantial improvements in the quality of decaffeinated coffee, many individuals opt for decaf choices because they're avoiding or cutting back caffeine. The immediate question that arises is, how much caffeine is in decaf coffee? There are several coffee facts worth considering, but one that often gets overlooked is that decaf coffee still contains some caffeine. According to USDA regulations, decaf coffee shouldn't exceed 0.10 percent caffeine in each package. A 12-ounce cup of decaf holds 5.4 milligrams of caffeine. Compared to regular coffee at 180 milligrams of caffeine, that's a significant reduction.

Whether French press coffee, a classic espresso, or an iced coffee, multiple decaf options can satisfy coffee fans who prioritize an aromatic flavor. Solvent, Swiss water, and carbon dioxide processes are the most common ways of extracting caffeine from coffee. The amount of caffeine in decaf varies from one brand to the next, but it's minuscule to where it doesn't affect bodily processes at all. Depending on the beans and processing, the decaf coffee flavor can be milder than regular caffeinated coffee, so you can add milk or sweeteners to spice it up. Regardless, the selection of robust decaffeinated coffees is varied, and there's one that's sure to please any caffeine-reducing coffee drinker.

Consumers curious or concerned about their daily intake of caffeine may wonder, does tea have more caffeine than coffee? There's a prevalent notion that coffee contains more of this natural stimulant in comparison to tea. However, tea leaves actually hold a larger quantity of caffeine than the beans of the coffee plant. It's only after brewing that a cup of coffee yields a higher caffeine content than a cup of tea. In general, more caffeine is extracted from coffee beans during preparation, which results in a more concentrated beverage. In terms of coffee's two main variants, robusta beans offer twice as much caffeine load as arabica plants.

Normally, a cup of coffee has around 95 to 200 milligrams of caffeine. By convention, steeped tea contains only half as much caffeine as brewed coffee. However, caffeine levels depend on the variety of tea you're drinking. All tea leaves come from the camellia plant, but they go through different harvest times, along with mechanical and chemical processing. These factors significantly impact the caffeine levels among different types of tea. A standard cup of black tea provides between 14 and 70 milligrams, while a cup of green tea has around 24 to 45 milligrams of caffeine. White tea contains the least amount of caffeine, with only 6 to 60 milligrams per cup.

The caffeine in coffee is a natural chemical stimulant that's not always appropriate, like right before bedtime. For coffee lovers, decaf is a way to drink one of the world's most popular beverages without caffeine's power surge. However, it's important to note decaf may still contain the USDA threshold level of 3 percent natural caffeine, considered minimal.

The decaffeination process always starts with whole green coffee beans rather than ground coffee. That way the beans keep the other non-caffeine molecules that define the coffee bean flavor and aroma profile when roasted. Manufacturers use one of four decaffeination processes.

The first two are solvent-based decaffeination, using water and chemicals to soak away caffeine, either directly or indirectly. The solvents used are methylene chloride or ethyl acetate, in amounts far below FDA safe consumption thresholds. Direct solvent decaffeination requires soaking the beans in chemically infused water and then draining off the caffeine-saturated solvent. Indirect solvent decaffeination involves soaking the beans in near-boiling water to remove all caffeine, flavor and aroma molecules. Operators transfer the water to another vat and add the solvent. The solvent bonds to the caffeine molecules, forming particles that the operator skims from the solution to remove caffeine. The beans go back into the water extract to re-absorb the flavor and aroma molecules.

The third procedure is the Swiss Water Process (SWP). SWP involves soaking the beans in hot water to remove all molecules. Operators then strain the water through an activated carbon filter to extract only the caffeine. Operators wash a new batch of green beans with the water extract. The extract re-infuses the new beans with the flavor and aroma molecules from the first batch.

The last process is the supercritical carbon dioxide method. Operators place moistened green beans in a tightly sealed extraction vat, then pump in liquid carbon dioxide at 1,000 pounds per square inch. The carbon dioxide bonds selectively with the caffeine molecules. Operators then release the caffeinated liquid carbon dioxide into a separate evaporation chamber, leaving behind only caffeine.

One of these four processes yields your decaffeinated brew. Whether you prefer whole bean, ground, or K-Cups^®, you can have a cup of coffee without the buzz.

The amount of caffeine in coffee ice cream depends on the brand, but most of them include at least small amounts of the revitalizing component. With that in mind, coffee lovers can indulge in a late-night snack, but they shouldn't consume too much or it may affect their restful sleep. An 8-ounce cup of coffee has an intake of 95 milligrams of caffeine, and the usual amount for coffee ice creams is around 20 milligrams. This equals to a few sips of coffee, so it's not going to keep you up at night. A number of other snacks besides ice cream contain caffeine to accommodate fans of this traditional brew, and it's an ideal fuel for tackling work.

The caffeine content of some ice cream options equals only a fourth of a cup of coffee, while other may be equivalent to two cups of coffee, which is substantial. Some coffee ice creams contain only 8 milligrams of caffeine, which is identical to decaf coffee for reference. Consider getting a supply of coffee ice cream at work or home as a fun alternative to soda, juice, or energy drinks.

Whether you're a lover of simple instant coffee or an experienced barista, the way to make coffee depends not only on your taste but also on environmental concerns and the weather. Where a steaming cup of black Fair Trade coffee first thing on a winter morning is satisfying, a milky decaffeinated iced coffee on a balmy summer evening is equally as good.

For a simple, delicious hot cup of instant coffee, put a teaspoon of the freeze-dried or powdered beans into a favorite mug and pour filtered, freshly boiled (but not boiling) water to the three-quarter level in the mug, leave it black or add a small amount of milk, cream, and/or sugar to taste.

With a coffee maker or French press, the choices are vast and lead to tasty options. Follow the manufacturer's instructions to either insert a pod or filter and ground beans to enjoy different blends, roasts, and flavors.

For iced coffee, brew a cup as usual, and pour into a blender. Add around a quarter to a half cup of cold milk, a handful of crushed ice, and blend for 10 to 12 seconds until it becomes thick and frothy. Add syrups to taste.

Iced coffee serves as a refreshing alternative to regular coffee. When wondering how to make iced coffee, instant coffee packets are convenient and simple, because they only require water and ice for full effect. Milk and sweeteners are excellent additions to iced coffee, creating a full flavor. It's best to add coffee powder and sugar to hot water before adding ice, allowing the ingredients to dissolve completely. However, to get a quick pick-me-up in the morning or during work, you can also choose different methods of preparation.

Brewing a pot of coffee takes more time, but it's a process that delivers an aromatic flavor, which satisfies coffee enthusiasts. Using a strong brew of coffee is preferable, as ice waters the drink down after melting. Let the coffee cool for a while after adding ice as the final part of the recipe, before enjoying it on a break. The cold-brew process involves refrigerating coffee with water for about five hours, producing a full flavor. You can also freeze brewed coffee in ice cube trays and simply place a few in a glass with some milk or creamer. By searching through various coffee supplies, users can find several flavored coffees and creamers for a slightly different taste.

On hot days, many avid coffee drinkers turn to cold brew options instead of standard hot coffee. If you're wondering how to make cold brew coffee, you'll be happy to know that it's simple and can be adjusted to fit your specific preferences.

It's possible to make a single cup of cold brew at a time, but many prefer to make an entire pitcher at once, and drink it all week long. It all starts with high-quality whole bean coffee. The cold brew method works with beans of all origins, roast levels, and flavor notes. Grind the beans using the coarse or French press setting. Those who do not have a coffee bean grinder at home or at the office can do this step at the grocery store while buying whole beans.

To prepare the cold brew, combine 1 cup of water with 1 ounce of coarsely ground beans. Prepare the mixture in a glass cup for a single serving or in a pitcher to make multiple servings. Steep the mixture for 8 to 24 hours, depending on the brew strength you prefer. Strain the brew with a coffee filter to save the brew concentrate. To serve, dilute each cup of cold brew with 1 cup of cold water, and serve over ice. Creamer and flavored syrups add a sweet note to the mix.

With a French press, it's easy to produce a rich, smooth cup of coffee that wakes you up in the morning or pushes you through a busy afternoon. Those who are accustomed to automatic drip machines often wonder how to make French press coffee. It starts with the right tools: a coffee grinder, a French press, and whole coffee beans.

Prepare whole beans by putting them through a coffee grinder on a medium-grind setting. Beans that are ground too fine leave sediment in the brew, while beans that are too coarsely ground often clog the filter. Ensure that the beans have a consistent grind for a smooth cup of coffee. Most coffee shops maintain a ratio of 2 tablespoons of coffee (before grinding) to 8 ounces of water. After adding the ground coffee to the bottom of the French press, add hot water just below boiling point. Many individuals start with a four-minute brew time, but you can adjust to suit your preferences after learning the technique. After the steep time is done, put the cover on the French press and push down with consistent pressure. This separates the beans from the brewed coffee. Those who want flavored coffee can finish with some milk or creamer.

There are a number of different ways to make coffee without a coffee maker. The coffee bag method incorporates the same system as tea bags, allowing coffee to infuse the boiling water while brewing a fresh pot. Individuals can use heavy-duty pots over fire to heat this revitalizing brew. It's known as the cowboy method, as it's been an ongoing tradition for many years.

The faux French press brewing style requires a cooking bowl, a spoon, and coffee. Some skill is necessary to master this technique because you need to press coffee grounds to the bottom after brewing a new batch. That ensures that ground coffee won't rise while pouring it into a mug. If a strainer is available, that can work as another method, enabling you to sift the coffee through the strainer to catch ground coffee bits left behind.

You can also use a clean handkerchief or piece of linen, cheesecloth, or cotton and a mason jar or mug. Place the fabric securely over the top of the mug and make an indentation large enough to hold some coffee grounds. Then slowly pour hot water over the grounds and let them soak through. The fabric acts as a filter.

Instant coffee is another alternative when a coffee maker isn't available. Heat some water, pour it into a mug and stir in a tablespoon of instant coffee.

For many years, there have been misconceptions that coffee causes stunted growth and heart disease. There are also worries about caffeine addiction, as well as increased cases of heartburn and stomach ulcers. But misconceptions and worries aside, is coffee bad for you?

Most of the early studies about the effects of coffee didn't account for some high-risk lifestyle factors, such as physical inactivity, alcohol drinking, and smoking, especially in individuals who drank large amounts of coffee. This led to a false correlation between coffee and poor health. With more accurate assessments over the years, it's understood that if heavy coffee drinkers also have unhealthy lifestyles, then coffee isn't entirely to blame for their health complications.

Recent studies reveal that coffee drinkers aren't at any higher risk of health problems than non-coffee drinkers. In fact, coffee is rich in a range of nutrients naturally found in coffee beans, including vitamin B2, vitamin B5, vitamin B3, vitamin B1, potassium, magnesium, manganese, folate, and phosphorus. In addition, ground coffee is a good source of antioxidants, which may help to lower the risks of heart problems and infections. Coffee is linked to protecting against type 2 diabetes, Parkinson's disease, and liver disease. The caffeine in the coffee is also a good stimulant that enhances your brain's function and boosts metabolism in the body.

The answer to how many calories in a cup of coffee may surprise you. By itself, a cup of black coffee contains virtually zero calories. While the exact caloric content varies from source to source, available data reveal there are not many calories to count. According to Mayo Clinic, there's less than 5 calories in a classic cup of brewed coffee. Other sources cite between 2 to 12 calories per cup. Various preparations of coffee also determine the total number of calories. Both black iced coffee and an Americano contain 5 calories. Each shot of espresso and a cup of toddy coffee provide around 3 calories.

Although the caloric count for some coffee beverages seem negligible, it increases to over a hundred once extras are added. An 8-ounce cup of coffee mixed with creamers or sugars and sweeteners has around 50 to 125 calories. Modern variations of coffee drinks also deliver high calorie counts per serving. A latte with regular milk has roughly around 120 calories, while a cup of cappuccino contains 110 calories. Topped with chocolate syrup, a cup of mocha coffee has over 160 calories. Browse Quill's broad selection of coffee supplies to come up with unique coffee blends and mixers that contain your ideal number of calories.

The resounding answer for lovers of coffee is yes. Coffee gets you started on your day, perks you up throughout it, and gives you the burst of energy you need for all-nighters at work or school. However, is black coffee good for you regarding your health? The resounding answer is another yes. The key is moderation. Most experts agree that the many health benefits of coffee come from limiting your intake to two to three cups a day.

The health benefits from consuming plain caffeinated coffee are impressive. They include physiological improvements in organ function, the prevention of systemic disease, enhanced psychological well-being, and intellectual focus. Most experts agree that the antioxidants in coffee beans are the main reason, since antioxidants inhibit the formation of free radicals that may damage cells. In fact, a cup of black coffee contains more antioxidants than equivalent servings of grape juice, blueberries, or raspberries.

It doesn't matter whether you consume ground or whole bean coffee, black coffee is good for you. Here's what it may do:

• Reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease by inhibiting arterial calcification
• Lead to lower rates of colon, breast, and rectal cancer by strengthening DNA strands
• Help delay or prevent Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease by inhibiting brain-plaque buildup
• Improve liver functioning by increasing an organ's enzyme levels
• Help prevent type 2 diabetes by processing glucose more effectively
• Lower the risk of multiple sclerosis by reducing neural inflammation

You can add weight management, mood enhancement, pain relief, and enhanced physical performance to that mix, and you'll see why black coffee intake is so beneficial.

While milk and creamer may enhance your coffee's flavor, experts say that all the cited benefits are attributed just to the black coffee.

If you want to know is coffee acidic, the answer is yes. However, the acidity of coffee comes with some confusion, because the pH level of coffee is 5, which is less acidic than soda or beer. Acidity takes a large role in the flavor of coffee due to certain acids that elevate sweet and sour aromas. Bright coffee, for example, has good acidity, which refers to the way it looks and tastes. Some acids in coffee dissolve during the roasting process, so it's necessary to find the ideal balance, leaving beneficial acids in the mix.

Chlorogenic acids are common in arabica beans, and they form quinic acids as they degrade while roasting. With a high amount of quinic acidity in coffee, the taste has some astringency to it. Chlorogenic acids are antioxidants, which are necessary for the proper functioning of the immune system. By using creamers, users can counter coffee types high in acidity. It's also important to drink fresh coffee instead of heating old batches, as chemical processes inside the coffee can turn acids sour.

General opinion used to state that coffee consumption leads to dehydration. However, modern science has made it clear that it's a myth. People once had this conviction because drinking coffee may lead to a more frequent number of visits to the bathroom. Any increase in fluid logically results in excessive urination, but the body can still absorb all the necessary minerals and liquids from coffee. Caffeine is a mild diuretic which means it speeds up some bodily processes for better functionality and mental clarity during work. Fortunately, the immune system balances liquid input and output, which should be an encouragement for enthusiasts of coffee pods, instant coffee, and other brew packages.

Many individuals experience headaches after drinking too much coffee, which probably has more to do with caffeine sensitivity than with dehydration. The dehydration aspect doesn't hold up after all the studies, which makes this brew ideal for a fresh pick-me-up in the morning. With proper coffee supplies, companies and families can start every day full of energy and ready to tackle the day.

Coffee beverages can form stains on different surfaces and materials. They can leave unsightly marks if spilled on sofas and couches, clothing, or carpets. Coffee that's left to sit for long periods of time may also stain drinkware, including cups, mugs, and carafes. Since coffee serves as a stimulant, it may be difficult to give up if you rely on a fresh brew to start the day. However, most dentists recommend cutting back on excessive consumption to help reduce tooth discoloration. For those wondering why does coffee stain, the answer lies in its composition.

Coffee beans come from either the arabica or robusta family of coffee plants. During the roasting process, natural aromatic oils are extracted from the carbohydrates and fats found in coffee beans. These absorbent oils adhere to surfaces, and porous materials quickly soak up the oils upon exposure. The oils deposited in the pores produce visible ring-like patterns, which are typical of coffee stains.

Coffee plants also contain naturally occurring organic substances called tannins. Drinking too much coffee leads to a buildup of tannin compounds in the ridges and cracks of tooth enamel, which can further result in an unwanted yellowish tinge. Consider sipping with a straw to minimize direct contact with the teeth. Also, drink plenty of water, and brush your teeth shortly after finishing a cup. This helps flush out residual liquids and prevents stain-causing pigments from accumulating. To maintain good oral hygiene, explore Quill's wide selection of dental care supplies.

Since workplace coffee is common for companies and organizations across the globe, it helps to know a few tricks about how to remove coffee stains. Laundry detergent, natural soaps, and stain removers are convenient for that task, but there are alternatives. Using cold water, individuals can get coffee stains out of clothes, rugs, and table covers, but it's essential to apply it from the back. That ensures that coffee particles won't get stuck in the fabric. White vinegar helps as well, and it's suitable for hard stains, allowing the acid to dissolve it for a clean look.

When there's nothing else at hand, toothpaste and shaving cream can also do the trick on certain fabrics and dense materials by exfoliating. Older methods include egg yolk, which helps with the removal of nasty coffee stains by applying it for a minute, and then rinsing with water. With so many known coffee facts, users can find an ideal method for cleaning coffee stains.

Accidents happen, and it's essential to know how to get coffee stains out of carpet. For the most effective results, it's important to act quickly once you spill the coffee. To remove fresh stains, gently press a dishcloth or some paper towels onto the affected area. Start from the edges of the stain and then move inward. Repeat this process several times to absorb as much of the liquid as possible. This prevents the stain from spreading further. Also, try not to rub or scrub the blemished spot to avoid embedding the stain deeper into the carpet fibers.

After you've soaked up all excess moisture, prepare a cleaning solution. Mix two cups of warm water, one tablespoon of white vinegar, and one tablespoon of liquid dish soap. Next, dip a clean white cloth into the mixture. Dab the area with the wet cloth, while alternately blotting with a dry towel until the stain lifts. Lastly, sponge the area with cold water, then let the carpet air dry completely. Homemade carpet cleaning solutions may prove insufficient for the successful removal of old and stubborn coffee discolorations. Consider Quill's selection of carpet cleaners to tackle difficult coffee stains.

Whether you drink coffee to warm up, get the creative juices flowing, or for a quick pick me up, it's likely that, at some point, you'll spill some on your clothing. Now the question is, how to get coffee stains out of clothes? Ideally, you have some stain removing products at home and work. Keeping some stain-removing wipes or pens tucked in your bag means you're always prepared for the occasional spill. Use stain removing pens to dab at coffee stains that form after little drops of coffee splatter or dribble onto clothes. For stains that cover a larger part of the cloth, use stain remover wipes. They can lift tough coffee, ink, and ketchup stains. For times when stain removers aren't available, there are other ways to deal with the spills.

For small stains, gently blot the area with absorbent cloths or dry paper towels. In case the stain has spread, place an absorbent piece of cloth or paper towel beneath it. Dip your finger in water, then into dishwashing liquid, and lightly dab the stain. After that, blot gently with a damp paper towel, and let the cloth dry. If the fabric is dry clean only, blot the stain with dry towels or cloth.

You can also use white vinegar to remove coffee stains. Pour a drop on the stain, and then lightly blot with a dry towel. Keep in mind that, if you're at work or away from home, the smell of vinegar will linger until you get a change of clothes.

Regular coffee drinkers may notice some discoloration in their favorite coffee cup or mug. Fortunately, there are several cleaning methods that illustrate how to remove coffee stains from cups. They require only a few common household items to keep coffee mugs spotless.

One cleaning technique involves baking soda. Start by sprinkling baking soda into the cup and then mix with warm water to create a light paste. Next, use a sponge to scrub the mixture against stained portions of the mug. Finally, discard the paste and rinse with water to remove any residue. The abrasive nature of baking soda, combined with the scrubbing action, help eliminate dark coffee marks.

Another simple trick for removing coffee stains uses white vinegar. First, fill your coffee cup about half full with boiling water. Then, top it off with white vinegar, and let the mixture sit for roughly 10 minutes. Afterwards, empty the mug, then scrub the inside with a coarse sponge until the stain comes out. Lastly, wash and rinse your cup with clean, running water. The acidity of white vinegar makes it a potent stain remover.

Salt also serves as an effective scouring agent with its abrasive quality. To get rid of coffee stains, pour a teaspoon or two of salt into the cup, and then add some crushed ice. After covering the rim with cellophane or plastic wrap, shake it around vigorously. Finish by rinsing the mug with clean water. The sharp edges of the grain salts help scrape away the stains, and the ice agitates the salt for a more thorough scrub.

Nobody knows who invented coffee but there are several stories about its origin, and it all began in the coffee forests of Ethiopia, back in the 15th century. One story includes Kaldi, a goatherd from the 9th century who noticed that his goats became energetic after eating the berries. He then tried some himself and found he had as much energy as his goats. However, the act of chewing coffee beans as a stimulant was around long before Kaldi's discovery.

Sheikh Omar is another popular candidate who might have invented coffee back in the 15th century in Yemen because he had a habit of eating tree berries. Since they were bitter, he tried roasting and boiling them to improve the flavor, so by accident, he might've brewed the first cup of coffee. Supposedly, the drink brought him back his strength after experiencing sickness in the desert.

However, it's said that coffee didn't appear outside of Africa or Arabia until the 1600s when Baba Budan smuggled some into India. A few years later Pieter van der Broeck smuggled some into Amsterdam where the Dutch and neighboring colonies began trading it across Europe. British colonies eventually brought coffee to America when they docked in New York.

With time, the selection of ground coffee products has brought about instant coffee packets, caffeinated, and decaffeinated options. Browse K-Cups^® and other coffee brands with several flavoring choices and roast levels, which offer a traditional and aromatic flavor.

Mud, java, go juice, morning jolt, and cuppa are some of coffee's aliases. However, one of the most popular nicknames doesn't have as direct an association with coffee as some others. So why is coffee called joe?

There are four plausible versions of the origin. None is fully verifiable, and the most pedestrian explanation might be the closest to the truth.

Legend provides the most entertaining version. In 1914, the Secretary of the Navy was Josephus Daniels, an outspoken Prohibitionist. He extended his moralism to the U.S. Navy, banning alcohol consumption aboard any naval vessel. The strongest drink allowed on ship became coffee. Someone on board, either a disgruntled sailor or officer, made Josephus the disparaging eponym for a cup of coffee, eventually shortened to joe.

A more likely explanation comes from Joe Martinson, the founder of the Martinson^® coffee company, who got his start by selling whole bean coffee from his mother's kitchen in the late 1890s. His neighbors called his brewed product a cup of joe, and the Martinson company insists on the accuracy of the account.

Some etymologists argue that joe is a slurred version of the word jamoke, which is a mix of the words java and mocha. Java is an Indonesian island known for its high-quality coffee. Mocha, in Yemen, was once a historic trading port for coffee. Say jamoke quickly and you get joe, according to word experts.

Last version, joe as coffee is from the common name Joe; an everyday product named for an everyday man.

Regardless of what coffee maker you use to brew your cup of joe, there's a story to tell along with it.

It's a beverage enjoyed around the world, but where did coffee originate? The plant traces its roots back to the highlands of Ethiopia, formerly Abyssinia. The term derives from Kaffa, the southwestern province where coffee shrubs grew wild in the forests. One popular legend recounts how a 9th-century goatherd named Kaldi first discovered the stimulating properties of coffee. He noticed his flock prance and frolic around excitedly after the goats munched on some bright red berries. He chewed on a few berries himself and soon experienced their invigorating effect.

Kaldi presented his discovery to the monks of a local monastery, but the abbot threw the berries into the fire, proclaiming they were the devil's work. However, the inviting aroma of roasting coffee beans made the monks scramble to retrieve the scorched berries. They then crushed the beans to douse the embers. The grains were later infused in hot water, and the fragrant concoction kept the monks alert through their long, nightly devotions. From Ethiopia, the cultivation and consumption of coffee as a beverage soon spread towards different parts of the world.

Other known stories also attribute coffee's discovery to a Yemenite Sufi mystic and to a doctor-priest from Mocha, Yemen. Still, it's generally believed that Ethiopia is the ancestral home of the coffee plant. Today, the country remains one of the world's leading producers of coffee, with consumers stocking up homes and offices with their favorite flavors and variants. Browse Quill for a wide selection of coffee supplies for all your coffee drinking needs.

What started as an awareness for the plight of coffee growers in Milan in 2005 by National Coffee Association (NCA), National Coffee Day has grown to an international celebration around the world with dedicated websites and events ranging from countdown calendars to photo competitions and large coffee chains giving away hundreds of cups on one day of the year. So, when is National Coffee Day?

The United States celebrates National Coffee Day on September 29. However, because countries were celebrating on different days throughout the year, the International Coffee Organization (ICO) decided in 2015 to make the first day of October International Coffee Day. The ICO reported 80 events in 39 countries and another 28 online in 2018.

Whether you have a favorite mug, a new coffee maker, or a specialty blend of beans, join coffee lovers around the U.S. and the world on September 29 and then two days later on October 1 to celebrate this dark brew.

The expiration period of coffee products depends on several variables, including the best-before date on a specific package, brand selection, and the storage location. Whole bean coffee offers a storage time of six to nine months in normal conditions or up to three years in the freezer section. Instant coffee takes things to a whole new level because there is no expiration date for frozen coffee packets. Fresh and sealed ground coffee beans last from three to five months at room temperature in the pantry. You can extend that period to two years by storing coffee in the freezer.

Once you open a pack of K-Cups^® or another brand of coffee pods, they should go into the coffee machine within three to eight months, provided the pods are still sealed, to get the best flavor. With whole bean coffee, open packets keep for up to six months on the shelf, or two years in the frozen form. Instant coffee, similar to fresh packages, lasts anywhere between two and 20 years when sealed securely at room temperature and indefinitely in the refrigerator. The coffee flavor slowly turns sour with time, so it's always best to consider brewing it sooner rather than later.

If you're in the habit of brewing coffee each morning at home or in the office, you need to know how to clean out a coffee maker—and we're not just talking about the carafe that holds your java. Other parts of your coffee brewing system are susceptible to mold and yeast unless they're cleaned properly.

Before you clean a drip coffee maker, you should unplug your machine and wash any removable parts with dish soap at least a couple times a week. (Some sources suggest you follow this protocol every time you use your machine.) Whether you have a Bunn, Ninja, Mr. Coffee, or any other drip-style coffee maker, your machine's instruction manual will indicate if the parts are dishwasher safe, so check this first. You might also want to keep the reservoir lid open when not in use to reduce moisture (and, therefore, germ and mold buildup). You can use a damp cloth to wipe down the outside of your coffee maker, but avoid submerging the base in water. Harsh detergents and abrasive scrubbers should also be avoided.

If you know how to clean your coffee machine and are doing so frequently but your carafe has ceased to sparkle, fill it with warm, soapy water and a bit of rice and swirl it, then use a scrubby sponge to get rid of any persistent gunk.

To clean your coffee maker with vinegar, follow these steps. While you won't be hands on the entire time, you may need to allow about 90 minutes for the process.

1. Empty the carafe and reservoir.
2. Fill the carafe with equal parts water and white vinegar, then pour the mixture into the reservoir.
3. If your machine has a “Clean” button, it may flash at you when your machine is in need of a deep cleaning. (Check your coffee maker's instruction manual for details on what various lights mean.) If it has this, press it now and skip to step five.
4. If your machine does not have a “Clean” button or specific cleaning function, just run a brew cycle—but stop it at the halfway point, then let the water/vinegar solution sit for up to an hour. If your machine hasn't been cleaned in months or has visible residue, leave it for the full hour. If you clean it regularly, you may be able to reduce or even skip the waiting period.
5. Finish the brew cycle. If your coffee maker has a Clean button, it should do this automatically, notifying you when it's complete.
6. Pour out the solution and rinse the carafe.
7. Run a brew cycle three times with water only to fully eliminate any residual vinegar smell or taste.

Not sure how much vinegar to use to clean your coffee maker? It depends on the size of your coffee machine. You want a half water, half vinegar mixture. (You can adjust the ratio to something like ⅔ water and ⅓ vinegar if you'd like to use less vinegar.) For a 10-cup coffee maker, for instance, use 5 cups of vinegar and 5 cups of water.

Wondering how to clean a coffee maker without vinegar? You can try the soapy water and rice trick mentioned above on your carafe, or you might want to clean your coffee maker with baking soda using the following steps.

1. Empty your coffee maker.
2. Fill the carafe with warm water and ¼ cup of baking soda. Stir until it dissolves, then pour the mixture into the reservoir.
3. Run a full brew cycle.
4. Pour out the solution and rinse the carafe.
5. Run two brew cycles of plain water.

The minerals in hard water can build up in many parts of your kitchen including the dishwasher, sink nozzle, and coffee maker. In the case of the latter, it's important to know how to descale (aka decalcify), a coffee maker so the buildup doesn't affect the flavor of your morning joe. Some machines have a light that will turn on when your machine needs descaling. If you don't have a light, a chalky, white residue or a slight change of flavor will clue you in. Many machines can use a good descaling every month or two, although the frequency may differ based on the hardness of your water and how often you use your coffee maker.

If you need to descale a coffee maker, just follow the same steps listed above as you would to clean your coffee machine with vinegar. In this case, you'll almost certainly want to let the solution sit for a full hour to really do the job.

Learning how to clean a Keurig^® coffee machine is easy. Unplug it, then take it apart. Yes, you will find there are a few more parts than a traditional drip coffee maker, but it's quite manageable. Here's what you need to know.

• Remove the K-Cup^® pod holder by pulling the top of the holder with one hand and pushing upward on the bottom of the assembly from underneath with the other hand, taking care to avoid the sharp needles that pierce the pods.
• Gently pull the funnel—it should come away from the pod holder easily.
• Lift the water reservoir and its lid away from the side of the machine.
• Lift the drip tray out of the base.

Then run the K-Cup^® pod holder, funnel, drip plate, and drip tray through the dishwasher. Do not put the water reservoir, lid, or machine base into the dishwasher at any time. Those parts should be hand washed with warm water and a soft cloth or sponge. (Do not use any detergent.) Gently wipe down the outside of the machine with a damp cloth.

If the exit needle of the K-Cup^® pod holder (found on the top and bottom) is filled with coffee grinds, you can carefully clear any clogs with a straightened-out paper clip.

Then, reassemble the machine—and brew yourself a congratulatory cup!

That calcification that happens on drip machines can be an issue for your Keurig^®, too, but the process to descale, or decalcify, a Keurig^® is just a bit different.

To descale a Keurig^®, pour either white vinegar or a mixture of half vinegar-half water into the water reservoir and place a mug in its usual place to catch the solution as it comes out. Without putting in a K-Cup^® pod, hit “Brew” and let the vinegar run through a brew cycle. You can run it through a second time, or you can unplug the machine when it's part way through the brew cycle to let it sit and soak for 30 minutes or so. Afterward, run a brew cycle of plain water to rinse out any residual vinegar. You can also use a descaling solution.

There's a time and place for a hot beverage, but on a truly toasty morning, you may want to know how to make iced coffee with a Keurig. Happily, the only additional item you need in order to make yourself a nice, cool cup of coffee is ice. Fill your mug with a bunch of ice—don't skimp! Then brew a 6- or 8-ounce coffee using your Keurig coffee maker and favorite K-Cup pod, and pour it over the ice. Add milk and sweetener to taste and enjoy!

If the idea of ice melting into your coffee lessens your buzz, consider making some coffee ice cubes that won't dilute your drink. All you have to do is freeze cooled coffee in an ice cube tray.

Deciding on the best Keurig coffee maker can be a challenge because there are many different models with a wide variety of features. The Keurig coffee maker that best suits the needs of someone who brews a single, travel-sized mug each morning before leaving for work likely differs from the one that's most appropriate for someone who needs to brew several different cups of coffee in quick succession for themselves and their coworkers.

No matter what your purpose for investing in a Keurig, there are a few models that stand out.
These include:

• Keurig K575 Single Serve Programmable K-Cup Coffee Maker
  With two filters, a touchscreen control panel, and an 80-ounce water reservoir (which can brew up to 10 cups of coffee), this is one of Keurig's most popular options.
• Keurig K1500 Bundle K-Cup Coffee Maker with Variety Pack of 192 K-Cup Pods
  Large enough to accommodate a travel mug, this model brews four cup sizes and has a 96-ounce water reservoir along with an option to customize the strength of your brew.
• Keurig B145 OfficePRO Brewing System
  This option goes beyond coffee, brewing drinks like tea and cocoa. It features a 48-ounce water reservoir and can make three cup sizes.

Need to know how to use a Keurig coffee maker? Whether you want to know how to use a model that has a carafe option or how to use a Keurig single cup coffee maker, it's a simple process. Without further ado, here's how to make coffee in a Keurig.

Step 1: Make sure the machine is plugged in.

Step 2: Fill the reservoir with water if it's not already full. Some models have reservoirs you can remove from the machine to fill directly, while others are attached to the machine.

Step 3: Press the power button. Your machine will begin to heat the water right away, but it may take up to four minutes (you may hear some gurgling). Place your mug on the drip tray plate.

Step 4: Lift the handle.

Step 5: Pop in your K-Cup pod.

Step 6: Close the handle.

Step 7: Select your brew size (and strength, if applicable), and get ready to enjoy a fresh cup of coffee.

This answer varies slightly depending on the type of coffee in question. In general, lighter roasts have around 9 to 9.5 grams of coffee, medium roasts have roughly 10 to 11 grams, and dark and bold roasts may be closer to 11 to 12 grams; a couple brands boast as much as 14 grams. So, if you want to know how many ounces of coffee are in a K-Cup, we need to do a little math.

9 grams (light roasts) = .32 ounces

10 grams (medium roasts) = .35 ounces

11 grams (dark roasts) = .39 ounces

14 grams (the boldest on the market) = .49 ounces

If you want to know how to use your K-Cup universal reusable coffee filter, first determine which version you have—the 1.0/Classic Series or the 2.0/Plus Series. The Plus Series Brewer Adapter is not compatible with Classic Series brewers, so if your machine is part of the Classic Series, remove the Plus Series Brewer Adapter before use.

Fill your reusable filter with medium to coarsely ground coffee (if it's too fine, it may get stuck in the screen). Don't pack in the grounds or overfill, as this can cause issues with your machine's performance. From there, use your machine as you normally would with a standard K-Cup.

If you need more specific information on how to use (or remove) the Plus Series adapter or would like a visual of the adapter with the various parts clearly labeled, Keurig's support page has loads of helpful details.

Whether you're trying to be more eco-friendly, would like to save some money, or simply prefer a specific type of java you can't buy in a K-Cup, you'll be happy to know you can use ground coffee in your Keurig with the help of a reusable filter, such as the My K-Cup Universal Reusable Coffee Filter.

Fill your reusable filter to one of the two fill lines—there should be an option for a regular mug or travel mug. You'll want to stick with a coarser grind rather than something like a fine espresso grind as the fine grounds can get stuck in the screen. Be careful not to overfill the filter or compress the grounds. Then, just pop in your reusable K-Cup and use your brewer like usual.

If you're looking for a livelier brew, you should first ensure you're using a bold roast. Light or breakfast roasts will produce a weaker cup than a dark or bold roast, so select your K-Cup accordingly. You may also consider getting a My K-Cup Reusable Filter so you can use as strong a roast as you like without being limited to pre-packed pods. Another way to make Keurig coffee stronger is to select the smallest cup size; after all, if you use one pod of coffee with more water, you're essentially watering down your brew. If that doesn't quite cut it, though, you can try doubling up with two pods in your machine in order to produce the strongest Keurig K-Cup coffee. You may still want to use the lower ounce setting to get the most strength from your efforts.

If you're trying to be thrifty or reduce waste, you'll likely find yourself wondering how many times you can use a Keurig coffee pod or how many cups of coffee one K-Cup can make. Unfortunately, these coffee pods are only designed to be used one time.

We have some good news: You can always purchase a reusable filter to use in place of the disposable K-Cups. Alternatively, Keurig Recycling has rolled out a recyclable pod which is currently available in Canada and will soon be the norm in the U.S.

Just as it's tricky to state which Keurig brewer is the best, it's also hard to declare the best K-Cup coffee or the best decaf coffee for Keurig because it really depends on personal preference. There are, however, a few that remain popular with many coffee drinkers. These include:

• Donut Shop Regular Coffee
• Cinnabon Classic Cinnamon Roll
• Green Mountain Breakfast Blend
• Peet's Major Dickason's Blend
• Caribou Blend Decaf Coffee

If you're looking for the K-Cup coffee with the most caffeine, you'll need to venture outside these more recognizable coffee brands and seek out these wicked strong options:

• Death Wish Coffee
• Wild Jo Extra Strong Organic K-Cups
• REVV AFTERBURNER
• Good Times Coffee Company's Napalm K-Cups Extra Bold
• Coffee People K-Cup Coffee Turbo Caffeine

If you're wondering where to buy brown paper towel rolls, you're in luck. Many home and office supply stores carry brown paper towel rolls, and you can also buy them online at Quill.com.

There are many brands of paper towels, most of which claim to be strong and absorbent. Many of them are both of those qualities to some degree. However, when Business Insider recently tested two-ply, select-a-size towels from four major brands (Bounty, Marcal, Sparkle, and Brawny), they found that Bounty was both the most absorbent and the strongest option. This lines up well with the 2013 results from Consumer Reports, which showed three Bounty paper towel products (DuraTowel, Extra Soft, and Giant) blowing away the competition in both absorbency and strength as well as scrubbing ability. The Consumer Reports results found that in the case of most paper towels, a buyer gets what he or she pays for. So when shopping for paper towels, make sure to give some thought about what's more important to you—price or strength and absorbency.

If you find yourself under caffeinated and without any coffee filters, a paper towel can be an acceptable substitute. It's not a swap you want to make regularly. (Paper towels are more likely to fall apart than coffee filters and the quality of your coffee may suffer.) But in a pinch, it'll work well enough as long as you know how to make a coffee filter out of paper towel. The process is simple: Fold a couple paper towels until they're the size of a coffee filter, then tuck them into the filter basket as you would an actual filter, then add your grounds and brew a fresh pot.

Most commercial paper towel dispensers, including von Drehle, Wausau, enMotion, Hillyard, Kimberly Clark, Georgia Pacific, Tork, and San Jamar dispensers, require a key or screwdriver to be opened. The lock is generally located on the top or side of the dispenser. Once you trip the lock by either turning the key or pressing down, the dispenser should swing open, allowing you to load a new roll or easily straighten out a jam. Every brand—and every model—may differ slightly, so when in doubt refer to your specific dispenser's instruction manual or visit the brand's website to find a support page for your model.

Say you have an empty paper towel dispenser, a fresh roll to load, and the dispenser key is nowhere to be found. That's okay! You're not the first person trying to figure out how to open a paper towel dispenser without a key and fortunately, you're not out of luck. If you know in advance that you lost the key, you can likely purchase the type of key you need for your brand of dispenser through the dispenser company. If the situation is more urgent, you may be able to open the dispenser with something like a flathead screwdriver or a paper clip.

Unfortunately, paper towels cannot be recycled for two reasons. For one thing, the majority of paper towels are made with recycled paper, which is great in terms of reducing waste during production. But by the time the paper towel is manufactured (which happens after the paper has been recycled numerous times), the papermaking fiber has been shortened so much that it can no longer be recycled. (Fun fact: Shortened papermaking fiber is also why shredded paper doesn't recycle well.) The other reason is contamination. A used paper towel with any amount of grease isn't just unable to be recycled itself, but if it's tossed in with recyclable paper, it can ruin the entire batch. Composting may be an alternative so long as you check with your local composting facility for specific restrictions. A few tossed into your home compost bin would probably be just fine, but you'll want to use a commercial or professional composting facility for large amounts of paper towels.

The question, “How long is a toilet paper roll?” seems like it should have a simple answer, but in truth, it's anything but. One reason is that there are various sizes of toilet paper rolls (like double or mega), so one can't just assume that a roll is a roll. You can still determine the number of sheets in a roll for specific brands with a little research. Quill.com clearly lists how many sheets come in each roll for many brands on our website, and you'll find there's quite a wide range (from around 164 sheets per roll to 500!).

However, that's not the end of the story. A single-ply roll has more sheets, but would need roughly double the number of a two-ply roll to provide the same bath tissue experience, so you can't calculate value by number of sheets alone. Adding to the struggle is the fact that the standard size of a single sheet is changing. While it once was 4.5 inches square, some companies have shortened the length to 4 by 4.5 inches, which means that the same number of sheets no longer provides the same amount of toilet paper.

Considering how often we reach for a square or two, it's funny to think we might not know exactly what toilet paper is made out of. But, unsurprisingly, the answer is right in the name. Toilet paper is made of a type of paper that's generally sourced from the pulp of virgin trees. You can also find toilet paper made of recycled paper, hemp, and even bamboo, although these are less common.

Technically all toilet paper is biodegradable, so if you're wondering where to buy biodegradable toilet paper, you don't necessarily need to go beyond your usual shopping center. However, some types of toilet paper break down more quickly than others. If you're looking for the best toilet paper to take camping, you'll want an option that'll dissolve quickly in your septic system or sewer line. If you simply want to make the best choice for the environment, you might want to seek out toilet paper made from alternative materials such as bamboo, cotton, and African hibiscus. That being said, a few mainstream brands offer options that break down quickly. (Cottonelle Ultra ComfortCare is a top pick.)

Wondering how to dissolve toilet paper in a sewer line because your toilet is clogged? Try using a plunger to see if you can get water moving past the clog. If you don't have luck with the plunger, try a closet auger (a long piece of wire with a barbed end) to help you move and break up the clog.

Determining what's the best toilet paper really depends on what's most important to you. Are you really asking, “What is the best toilet paper for the money?” or perhaps, “What is the softest toilet paper?” If you look at a variety of reviews, you'll likely find a plethora of opinions as to who makes the best toilet paper, so it's wise to read beyond the list to make sure you understand why a certain type of toilet paper is touted as a top pick.

Still, some tend to be favorites across the board. These include:

• Quilted Northern Ultra Plush
• Charmin Ultra Soft
• Charmin Ultra Strong
• Cottonelle Ultra CleanCare
• Cottonelle Ultra ComfortCare

When it comes to picking the best toilet paper for the money, make sure to consider that you may need to use fewer squares of a stronger, thicker toilet paper than you would with a weaker single ply.

Figuring out how much toilet paper costs has a lot to do with how much you buy. You have loads of options because you can purchase small quantities of toilet paper — like a four pack for somewhere around $4 at a big box store — or, if you need to purchase large quantities (say, for an office restroom), you may want to buy in bulk.

You can find all kinds of toilet paper, including sustainable options, top reviewed brands, and bargain rolls, at Quill.com in quantities as large as 96 rolls per carton. Some of the most well-known brands tend to come in slightly smaller quantities (for example, you can purchase Cottonelle in a 60-roll carton or Quilted Northern in a 48-roll carton). If you're minding a budget, make sure to read up on how many rolls are in a carton and what size the rolls are when calculating which brand to buy in bulk.

Just like your microwave, paper plates are incredibly convenient. It's only natural to wonder if you can put paper plates in the microwave. The short answer is yes, most plain white paper plates are microwavable, although it's always a good idea to check the packaging to make sure the plate is labeled microwave safe. Paper plates coated with wax or plastics are not considered microwave safe. If your paper plates have been dyed or bleached, or have images printed on them, it's best to keep them out of the microwave, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. It's also wise to only reheat food on paper plates for a minute or two rather than use paper plates to fully cook food in the microwave. With longer cooking times, more juices from the food can saturate the plate and make it too hot to handle (or can even burn the plate).

No. Paper plates are not safe to use in the oven or toaster oven. It's an understandable question given the fact that parchment paper can go in the oven. Although parchment paper is in fact paper, it's designed to be heat resistant in a way that paper plates are not.

The answer to whether you can recycle paper plates is tricky, because even if the paper plate itself is technically recyclable, it becomes non-recyclable if there's anything on it such as grease from food or paint from an art project. So paper plates should not be added to recycling; adding your used paper plate (or used paper towel or napkin, for that matter) can actually ruin an entire batch of recycling. The exception to this is if you have access to an established recycling program that accepts food-contaminated paper waste; many centers do not have this capability. You can find contact information for nearby recycling centers here.

Composting is a different story. Non-treated paper products (such as plain white paper plates) can generally be torn into smaller pieces and tossed into your compost pile or sent to a commercial composting site, especially if the packaging specifies that the plates are biodegradable. That's true even if they have food waste on them.

The short answer to how many paper plates are used every year is: a lot. An estimated 224.29 million Americans used disposable cups and plates in 2018. If you're interested in more eco-friendly options (but still don't want to do the dishes), consider shopping for paper plates made of recycled paper (since they generally cannot be recycled after use) or seeking biodegradable paper plates that you can compost.

The Chinet brand is made by Huhtamaki, Inc., which is headquartered in De Soto, Kan. Chinet products have been made in manufacturing facilities all over the United States for more than 90 years.

Paper plates are relatively cost effective. For instance, a pack of 100 Quill Brand 9-inch White Paper Plates costs $4. Prices vary based on the size, brand, and type of paper plate as well as the number of plates within the package.

Deciding where to buy paper plates and cups is easy since they're available at just about every supermarket or convenience store in America. You can also find a great selection online at Quill, which is a particularly good option if you'd like to buy paper plates in bulk.

The straw controversy may make a person ask, “Why are straws bad?” as they sip a favorite beverage. Most people don't think about the health and environmental risks associated with using straws.

People drink from straws every day, and most don't think about how it may affect their health. When using straws:

• More air enters the digestive system, causing gas and bloating
• The sugary and acidic beverages on teeth increase the risk of tooth decay and staining
• The potential for wrinkles, or “pucker lines,” around the mouth increases

Every day, Americans alone use upward of 500 million plastic straws that end up in landfills and oceans. Plastic straws aren't biodegradable — naturally broken down and recycled — and never fully degrade, which means to break down into smaller particles, which seem to disappear but never do. Plastic straws:

• Are not recyclable
• Take up to 200 years to degrade and will always remain on Earth
• End up in waterways and oceans
• Cause damage or death to marine animals that eat the degraded plastic particles

These are a few of the reasons why many places have banned the use of plastic straws and encourage the use of plastic alternatives. Each day, more people to choose compostable paper or stainless steel reusable straws over plastic.

Plastics has transformed manufacturing and our consumer way of life since the 1950s, many times for the better. However, it has also produced millions of tons of throw-away products that do not break down organically in any one person's lifetime, or sometimes in several lifetimes combined. Why did California ban straws? It didn't. It banned plastic straws.

Plastic straws are among several polymer products defined as single-use, disposable items. Other disposables include plastic bags, food wraps, lids, take-out containers, to-go cups, and utensils.

It's important to remember that the culprit is not just single-use plastic straws. It's the mindset of a disposable society. According to UN Environment, of the 400 million tons of plastic produced annually, 35 percent are single-use items, the largest share of any plastic application. Of all plastic ever produced, only 9 percent has been recycled. A full 79 percent sits in landfills or, through the neglect of consumers, or the inefficiency of some waste-management resources, litters the environment.

The oceans, both their shores and their depths, are a good example of the consequences of single-use plastics. You can find viral videos of turtles, porpoises, whales, or seagulls and their tragic encounters with throwaway plastics. UN Environment also estimates that the plastics that make their way into the world's marine ecosystem have a substantial economic consequence for tourism and fishing industries each year to the tune of $13 billion.

In 2016, California banned most stores from offering single-use plastic bags. In 2010, according to the LA Times, 7 percent of the state's annual coastal clean-up consisted of plastic bags. In 2017, a year after the ban, plastic bags accounted for about 3 percent. This was one motivation for the 2019 state ban on plastic straws. The ban, however, may be more of a warning than an indictment of single-use items like disposable utensils.

The law applies only to full-service restaurants, not fast-food or take out eateries. It doesn't ban plastic straws outright. It bars these restaurants from offering them automatically with beverages. If customers request a straw, they can have it. This is a realistic reaction to an existing reality. Plastic disposables are an economically necessary convenience for food and beverage offered as take-out, at company picnics, or in the office breakroom.

While sipping a beverage, one may ponder, "When were straws invented?", not realizing how long straws have been in use. The first known straw dates back more than 5,000 years. Archaeologists found a gold tube inlaid with precious gems in the ruins of Sumerian cities and tombs. The Sumerians used straws for drinking beer prepared by a fermentation process that leaves the drinkable portion on top of a solid byproduct. Each person had their own straw to drink from the keg.

Fast forward a few centuries to the 1800s when people made straws from ryegrass. These straws left a gritty residue in the glass and would turn to mush after extended use. In the 1880s, frustrated with the residue in his drink, Marvin Stone created the paper straw when he wrapped strips of paper around a pencil and glued them together. Stone's device didn't alter the drink's taste and lasted longer than the ryegrass straw. His paraffin-coated manila version of the straw improved durability.

In 1936, Joseph B. Friedman became inspired as he watched his daughter struggle to drink a milkshake through a straight straw. With two simple items, a screw and a string of dental floss, Friedman invented a flexible straw. The Flex-Straw, initially used in hospitals because they were flexible enough for immobile patients, sanitary, and disposable, was not available for home use until the 1950s. Eventually, some companies opted to manufacture straws with plastic because it was cheaper than paper.

An Ohio glassblower aided in the creation of Krazy Straws^® around the 1940s when children found a balled-up tube of glass and drank from it. Children now enjoy drinks as they watch beverages flow through loops as they sip. Fun-Time International chose to make these with plastic instead of glass to prevent accidents.

It's estimated that America uses 500 million straws every day, and a 2017 study by market research group Freedonia Group says 390 million of those are plastic straws. These numbers result from a young boy who called a few straw manufacturers to find out how many straws are used each day back in 2011, and it is just a rough estimate. Other researchers have come up with competing estimates about how many straws are used each day. Give or take a few hundred million straws, all estimates are staggering and alarming when considering the ecological concerns facing the planet.

Finding an estimate for global use is more challenging. According to some estimates, plastic straws rank sixth among the most commonly found trash during sea cleanups. What is obvious is that people are using too many plastic straws that cause damage to the environment and harm wildlife. Some straws get stuck up the nostrils of turtles, and others contribute to the formation of floating garbage islands. They take about 200 years to degrade, with a liberal definition of the word degrade. The remedy would be to use reusable metal straws. Another alternative is to rethink the meaning of disposable cutlery, plates, and containers.

Plastic materials in the sea are still an occurrence, so the question of how do straws end up in the ocean is worth considering. The main reasons are straws that tourists leave on beaches during the summer seasons, and straws falling from boats. Plastic has a very long degradation process, which means it lasts a long time. Someone has to remove the straws from the ocean to keep it clean. Because of that, straws stack up in the sea over a long period if not regularly removed.

Because of their lightweight characteristic, plastic plates and straws require little wind to end up in the sea, making it another contributing factor to the issue. Local waterways can carry straws into the ocean as well, especially from landfills full of non-degradable plastic material. Certain animals, such as turtles and birds, carry straws, paper cups, and other trash into the water, which adds to the overall number.

There are plastic, metal, paper, and bamboo straws. So the question are straws recyclable has both yes and no answers, depending on the material. Plastic straws are not recyclable, despite having recyclable materials. Their small size makes it uneconomical for recycling companies.

The workaround is to go for reusable plastic straws that are detergent safe. Metal straws are recyclable and reusable. These straws are long lasting, and easy to clean for multiple uses. Bamboo straws are another option that are eco-friendly when they come from sustainable sources. They are usable with both hot and cold beverages. Some are reusable, and can last for a long time. Once they become unusable, disposing of them is environment-friendly because they are biodegradable.

Paper straws are another alternative. However, most can only withstand single use. Paper is a biodegradable material, so using these straws can help minimize pollution. Some eco-friendly options use paper that comes from renewable forests.

The answer to how paper straws are made depends on the brand and the materials they use during production. Unlike plastic straws made from molds, paper straws are spiral wound for uniformity and durability. Paper straws have undergone spiral-winding since their invention, but to ensure high-quality and meet manufacturing requirements, manufacturers now use machines. Much like paper cups, these straws usually feature some type of FDA-approved edible wax for added durability and rigidity.

Most paper straws are made from responsibly sourced wood pulp or craft paper. These are both renewable resources that are compostable. Using responsibly sourced materials is an important part of sustainability, as most recycling facilities don't accept paper straws. Paper straws may also have intricate designs, combine two different colors of paper, or be the natural color of the material used to make them. A choice of plain, patterned, or otherwise colorful finish makes them practical for break rooms or party supplies.

In short, a slew of companies make paper straws. The in-depth answer to who makes paper straws includes companies like Creative Converting, Amscan, Jam Paper^®, and Eco-Products^®. The straws come in many designs and are just as popular as paper cups. For instance, the NFL^® makes paper straws with popular football team logos on them that make excellent game day party supplies for die-hard fans. Berkley, another manufacturer of paper straws, makes both square and round paper straws.

The standard size of a paper straw is 7.75 x .25 inches, but they are also available in smaller and larger sizes. For instance, longer and wider 9 x 3.5 inch paper straws are ideal for thicker products, like malts or shakes. To help the product compete with plastic straws, paper straws are spiral-wound by a machine, and coated with a thin layer of edible wax to keep them rigid, and to help them stand up to liquid saturation. Look for other paper or plastic breakroom and party supplies, like cutlery, plates, or cup, for disposable options that make cleaning up easy.

Straws come in plastic, bamboo, metal, and silicone options. Still, there's the question, “are silicone straws safe?”

Silicone straws are safe, and children enjoy them because they are chewy and feel soft. Their material has a rubbery feel. Silicone straws are chemically stable, so they do not leach chemicals into drinks. These straws have become more common because they are resistant to corrosion and are easy to clean. Some can retain their structure even if you use them with hot drinks. They are reusable and must meet United States Food and Drug Administration standards to be in the market. Also, they are free of harmful substances such as lead, Bisphenol A, and phosphates.

Their consistent wall thickness and robust formulation ensure they perform reliably like bamboo, metal, or plastic straws. Another unique feature of silicone straws is their capability to bend without deforming. So when taking the next soda, juice, or energy drink, consider using silicone straws. They are a healthy and environmentally friendly option.

Depending on the paper, it's easy to learn how to make a paper cup that can hold water, office essentials, and candy. Start by folding a square piece of paper diagonally to create a triangle shape. Next, fold one corner to the center of the other end. Choose one of the identical corners, not the one that has 90 degrees. One should repeat the process with the remaining matching corner, so both sides now overlap each other. Finally, fold both flaps on the top down to produce an opening. Finish the paper cup by tucking every flap for a visually appealing look, and you can use it as a beverage container, a pen holder, and more.

There are a few common techniques of making paper cups from scratch, and it's best to use scissors to customize them for specific uses. Using glue and having a solid design makes paper cups reusable, so you'll also save on paper in the long-term.

Some disposable cups can hold hot drinks. But, can you microwave paper cups? The precise answer is yes, you can. The more practical answer is that it is not a good idea to use paper cups to heat drinks in a microwave for several reasons.

First, while some paper cups feature designs that hold hot contents, they may not withstand the heat of a microwave oven. A second and more important reason has to do with the cup linings. Paper cups usually feature linings that prevent them from soaking to maintain structural integrity. While these linings do not release chemicals into hot beverages, exposure to heat in microwaves can cause the linings to release harmful substances into the drink.

Finally, it is hard to handle hot paper cups heated in microwaves because it can weaken the cup, providing you with a potentially unstable container. Additionally, the heat of the beverage may penetrate the cup and burn your hand. When you need to warm drinks, transfer them to containers that are safe to use in microwaves. These include glass cups and other containers the manufacturer has marked as microwave safe.

Paper cups aren't just for drinking. They are useful for several crafts, games, and other hobbies. Knowing what can you make with paper cups is simply a matter of creativity. Are you short on small boxes for party favors? Use paper cups with pretty designs to create gift boxes, then add some eyelets and a little ribbon. Also, take two paper cups and attach a string between them at the bottom through a small hole. Now you're ready to play telephone with your kids on a rainy day, although with the prevalence of mobile phones, they might think the string odd. Two disposable hot or cold cups can also become a makeshift speaker for your cellphone with a little tape and ingenuity.

You can also use paper cups with lids to keep snacks secure and avoid messes when driving. Aside from preventing messes, disposable cups and plates add fun to arts and crafts time. For instance, make a mask or create festive holiday decorations with preschool and elementary students. Buy in bulk to use in the classroom, or order in standard count for crafts, games, and beverages at home.

Disposable cups for serving liquids, whether it's coffee from your favorite barista, or a soda or beer at the company picnic, boil down to a few choices; plastic, foam polystyrene (called Styrofoam™), and coated paper. Given all the environmental issues associated with the inappropriate or inefficient disposal of plastics and polystyrene, paper cups are perhaps the most civic-minded option. However, are paper cups safe to drink from?The answer to that question is an equivocal, it depends.

It starts with what a manufacturer uses to produce the paper cup. Pouring boiling water into a paper cup wouldn't make the cup safe to hold, let alone put to your lips. It would scald your hand first and then turn into mush.

Paper-cup manufacturers use wood pulp from natural materials, such as trees, to produce the paper material for cups. To protect the paper material from the liquid and give it insulation against hot drinks, they have to seal it. They may apply a wax coating first, and they also use plastics to provide a seal over the wax.

Today, the issue with plastic products, including many plastic cups, is whether the material contains bisphenol-A, a polymer resin linked to diabetes and liver and heart disease. The plastics industry is moving away from including BPA in any food-grade product. In fact, most paper cups have polyethylene (LDPE or HDPE) plastic coatings that do not contain BPA at all.

The nature of disposable utensils, drinking cups, tableware, and food containers is such that there's no avoiding plastic material for consumption. The plastics industry realizes this and gears its R&D toward the safest consumption possible with its products.

The answer to how much do paper cups cost depends on the quality and brand you choose. Factors like size, thickness, and durability impact cost. A pack of 50 standard 12 ounce paper cups average around $5. Extremely durable, multi-use paper cups can cost upward of $8 per pack. For example, insulated disposable hot and cold cups made of paper that include a plastic lid come in at just under $8 for a package of 50. Paper cups in larger sizes, such as 16 or 20 ounces, use more material to create, and will generally cost more per pack. The same goes for cups that use higher-quality materials.

In general, disposable cups and plates are more cost effective when you buy them in bulk, or purchase multiple orders. When ordering in bulk, costs per item can be as low as $0.15 or less per item. It also allows distributors to combine orders to potentially lower their shipping costs.

Styrofoam™ is plastic, and most plastics cannot withstand extreme heat. However, can you microwave Styrofoam cups?

It depends on the type of Styrofoam. While the heat from the microwave is unlikely to melt most Styrofoam cups, the contents of the cup can heat them and cause them to leach chemicals into the drink.

However, this depends on the manufacturer. This information is usually on the label. If the cup is safe to use in microwaves, the manufacturer may show if it is safe for warming on the microwave once, twice, or multiple times. Only microwave Styrofoam cups where the manufacturer shows that they are safe to microwave. Such options can withstand heat from the microwave and hot contents without melting or leaching chemicals into beverages such as cocoa, tea, or coffee.

Also, avoid putting the same Styrofoam cup in the microwave several times because it becomes weak. So, the best and healthiest option is to transfer the contents of the Styrofoam cup into microwavable dish, such as a ceramic cup or bowl.

If you're trying to determine how many ounces does a styrofoam cup hold, that depends on who made the cup, and what it's intended for. Standard hot cups made of styrofoam (technically polystyrene) hold up to 8 oz, and are the kind you usually see put out at small cafes and family parties for coffee. Office break rooms may carry other available sizes, including 10 oz, 12 oz, or 16 oz styrofoam cups. There are also 20 oz options for extra thirsty users.

Styrofoam cups have evolved past the standard white you're used to seeing. Most styrofoam dinnerware comes in several colors and interesting designs, so disposable cups and plates don't need to be boring anymore. Since they're available in standard 25 packs or bulk options, you won't need to worry about running out at your next party. In fact, some manufacturers offer styrofoam cups in packs 1000 or more. Styrofoam cups of any size are useful at home or at work for coffee, water, and snacks. Many are available with matching lids that offer solid surfaces for no-spill purposes, or center holes for a straws.

Some Styrofoam™ cups end up in landfills. But, are Styrofoam cups recyclable? The short answer is yes.

An initial challenge to their recyclability is the demand for the recycled plastic is low. That is why many recycling companies do not accept the cups. A second factor is that while the technology to recycle disposable cups exists, sorting and separating the cups from other materials is necessary. Consumers tend to treat plastic and styrofoam equally, so the sorting doesn't happen on their end. The recycling companies have to do it at an additional cost to them, increasing labor and reducing profit. Also, factors such as contamination make it even harder to recycle. The most common type of contamination is the food scraps or drink residue that remain in the cup.

Another challenge with recycling Styrofoam cups stems from their design. Styrofoam has pockets of air that help insulate drinks. As a result, recycling companies end up with bulk quantities of plastic that are light. With most recyclables being sold by weight, the resulting product gives little financial return, and has little demand, which makes them of little value to the processor.

Thankfully, researchers are coming up with quicker and more efficient ways to recycle hot cups. Check online or with local recycling companies to find out if they recycle Styrofoam cups.

Styrofoam™ is a popular choice in disposable containers for hot beverages. The most interesting aspect of Styrofoam cups is that they're not actually Styrofoam, they're foam polystyrene. Asking when was the Styrofoam cup invented is a good question for clarifying the difference.

Styrofoam is a building-insulation product of Dow Chemical. In 1839, a German scientist, Eduard Simon, distilled a resin from the storax tree, calling the resin “styrol.” In the late 1930s, another German scientist, Herman Staudinger, discovered that styrol was a poly-molecular chain, and IG Farben, the German industrial-chemical giant, patented a polystyrol version as polystyrene, the base material of today's foam cups.

In its unaltered state, the product is called expanded polystyrene. In 1941, Dow remanufactured expanded polystyrene into an extruded form, which it trademarked as Styrofoam. While both products have strong insulative and moisture-resistant properties, polystyrene is more lightweight and flexible. In fact, it's one material in many of today's plastic cups.

In 1947, another Dow chemist developed “foam” polystyrene, the airier, spongier version we call Styrofoam. The first documented mention of foam polystyrene cups was in a 1957 patent filed under the aegis of the Waxed Paper Co. They called it a receptacle of foamed polystyrene that would compete with the paper cup. In 1960, the Dart Manufacturing Company began mass-producing the foam container and had such success that, under its new name of DART^® Container Co., the hot cups in foam polystyrene became identified with its brand. Consumers aren't likely to call foam polystyrene cups anything but Styrofoam, which is as synonymous with to-go coffee cups as Kleenex^® is with tissue.

Packaging solutions are an essential component of many industries. That's why it's worth knowing where to buy moving boxes in a quick and cost-effective way. Durable shipping boxes ensure that packages stay in good shape during the move. A few brand options for moving boxes include Quill, Duck^®, and Box Partners. Recyclable carton boxes are convenient for environmentally friendly institutions and stores. Most brands offer convenient online ordering of shipping, packing and mailing supplies. Some delivery companies offer moving boxes with discount prices as well. Quill moving boxes offer a uniform look and durable, double-bottom options that can hold heavy items.

Whether in-store or online, the demand for corrugated boxes and pads is high. Choose durable cardboard boxes from various brands at Quill, including heavy-duty fiberboard boxes with closures. Durable construction makes these moving boxes fit for reuse. Packing tape, scissors, and protective bubble wraps for professional deliveries are also available.

When it's time to move, it's essential to know where to get cheap moving boxes. The easiest way to obtain free moving boxes is to head to various local stores and ask if you can take a few empty boxes off their hands. Grocery stores, large pharmacy chains, and sporting good shops frequently have large, barely used, cardboard boxes they're willing to give away. Another option is to head to local storage facilities. Many of these companies sell gently used boxes at deep discounts. Craigslist and Freecycle are also fantastic options when it comes to getting hold of moving boxes for free or close to nothing. Lots of people have perfectly good moving boxes they're willing to give away if you're willing to pick them up.

Moving boxes are just one of the many products you'll need to organize a successful move. Make sure to have permanent markers on hand so you can clearly note what's inside each box. Markers frequently get misplaced during the packing process, so having a pack of markers saves time and frustration. Don't forget about packing tape. You'll need it to seal open boxes and reinforce the seams of used boxes.

There's no easy answer to the question of how many boxes do I need to move. The answer depends on the size of your home and how many possessions you have. Larger homes, logically, require more packing materials. You'll need more boxes if you're one of those people who tends not to throw anything out. People who've lived in one place for years often have more items they need to pack than those who have only lived somewhere for one or two years.

As a general rule, count on using ten small, eight medium, and five large boxes for every room in your house. Most people need around four wardrobe boxes for clothing. These large boxes are indispensable when it comes to packing and transporting bulky items, such as long winter coats. Consider investing in picture boxes if you have framed art or mirrors that need protection. Pack heavy items, such as plates, pots, and pans in small boxes to ensure they're not too heavy to carry. Use packing tape to reinforce moving boxes filled with heavy loads. Make sure to have a variety of packing accessories on hand, including packing peanuts and bubble rolls before you get started. Having the right packing products will help you get through the packing process quickly and efficiently.

Chances are you've packed boxes for moves before. Still, refresher tips are helpful if you're fairly new to the process. Knowing how to pack boxes for moving is essential for getting possessions from one place to another safely and efficiently.

Make sure you have the proper moving supplies. Boxes are the basic way to start, but you'll also need bubble wrap or packing paper to protect items, and paper or Styrofoam peanuts to fill in voids around them for added interior cushioning. Depending on the box, you'll need packing tape with cutting dispensers or scissors for cutting strips to size. You should also have permanent markers for labeling contents.

Hundreds of moving and shipping boxes are available. Two standard types are corrugated boxes with sealing flaps and bankers boxes with lids. However, many specialty boxes are available for items like clothing, mirrors, and artwork as well .

Pack items by room or area location, and label their origin and destination. It will save you time when unpacking. Pack items by shape, size, and composition. Don't pack fragile crystal with your waffle iron. Use small boxes for heavy items like books. You want individual boxes to weigh about 30 pounds.

To pack, seal the outside bottom of the box with three strips of tape, and line the interior with cushioning. Wrap as many items individually as possible, not just for cushioning but also for protection against moisture. Place heavier items toward the lower part of the box. Fill in dead space as you go, without cramming in cushioning and void fill. Save a few inches at the top of the box for more cushioning.

Seal the box with packing tape. Then label the contents, origin, and destination.

To protect items from damage when moving, it's important to know how to tape moving boxes. The first place to tape is usually the bottom of the box when it is empty. It doesn't hurt to apply a strip of tape to the inside bottom seam for added strength, particularly if the intended packed contents have weight, like books or small appliances. On the outside, apply tape from one side of the box to cover the length of the flap seam. Ensure the tape goes at least two inches past each end to create a secure seal. Press the tape on the box to ensure it sticks firmly.

The next step is to add to the structural strength of the bottom to reduce strain on the strip that holds the flaps together. Apply two to three strips of tape across the bottom at equal intervals. If items in the box are small, tape along the width to provide a seal that keeps objects from falling through. Finally, pack the boxes and fill any empty spaces with paper. Seal along the line of the outside top flap seam like you did the bottom. Make sure the flaps meet evenly to seal the seam. You can add a strip or two across the top as well to reinforce the closure.

There's no simple or consistent answer when trying to determine what size is a standard envelope. There are plenty of choices of envelopes, and they come in a variety of shapes and sizes. You can find items with different features, such as clasp closures and windows. Most businesses use No. 10 envelopes for written correspondence on regular 8 x 10 paper, paired with printed labels. These traditional envelopes are 4⅛ by 9½ inches, and are, for the most part, considered standard or regular envelopes because their use is shared by businesses and personal letter writers. What is standard for businesses is another matter.

Remittance envelopes often feature windows so clients don't have to write addresses on the outside of envelopes to make payments. Double windowed options have space for return addresses printed on invoices to show through. These selections come in several sizes, including 5¾ x 8 inches and 8½ x 10½ inches. Square envelopes work well with uniquely shaped invitations. Choose from square selections as small as 3¼ x 3¼ inches and as large as 10 x 10 inches. You can close clasp envelopes without sealing them, making them easy to reuse. These handy options come in several sizes, including 2½ x 4¼ inch and 10 x 15 inch choices.

A10 envelopes have a universal size, no matter where they are purchased. To answer the question, "what size is an A10 envelope," an A10 envelope is 4⅛ inches high by 9½ inches long and is designed to hold a standard sheet of paper. A standard sheet of paper is 8½ x 11 inches and is generally folded into three equal sections before being placed inside an A10 envelope.

These envelopes are commonly used in offices, as they are ideal for sending checks and business letters. The contents inside an envelope should be stored safely and securely to reduce the risk of damage. A10 envelopes and letter-sized envelopes are the most popular envelope types among Americans, and they're commonly confused for one another. Letter-sized envelopes are longer than A10 envelopes and can fit unfolded standard sheets of paper inside. A10 envelopes have a smaller, more compact storage space and resemble a rectangle. These envelopes are most commonly purchased in white, but there are other colors of business envelopes to choose from. Quill has a variety of A10 envelopes in varying package sizes, so you can purchase a few or buy in bulk depending on your personal or business needs.

The A envelope naming system is prevalent, so you might wonder what size is an A2 envelope? Basically, the dimensions are 4.375" bx 5.75". They can fit flat inserts measuring up to 4.25" x 5.5" whether straight or folded. These envelopes are suitable for various types of stationery including, invitations, greeting cards, thank you cards, letters, and announcements, and they come in different options. Some use recycled paper, while others come in colorful designs to create an impression. A2 paper also comes in diverse thicknesses and finishes.

If mailing invitations or other communications in bulk, there are printers that can print on A2 and other envelope sizes to make work easier. The envelopes come in various pack sizes for both home and business uses. You can also find A2 envelopes with flat or v-flap closures. Flat flap options have a stylish symmetrical look, and are suitable for invitations, thank you notes, and cards. V-flap envelopes keep the traditional look, and are suitable for sending letters, notices, and announcements.

When choosing A2 envelopes, also consider how they seal. Some have gummed closures that seal after moistening. Others are not gummed, so users need to apply adhesive when sealing. With a wide variety of colors and paper styles available, there is an A2 envelope for any occasion.

In case you're wondering what size is an A7 envelope, you needn't look any further. The official dimensions of A7 envelopes are 5.25 x 7.25 inches. Mailing envelopes with these particular dimensions are fitting for thank you cards, greeting cards, and various work or private announcements. It's easy to fit a paper with plenty of details inside an A7 envelope for convenience. Individuals can choose from different envelope colors to promote an appropriate tone. With straight and side seams, these envelopes are easy to seal, so they'll remain secure during delivery.

A7 envelopes are convenient for quick high-volume mail transports, and they typically have a 24-pound weight rating. The size makes these envelopes printer-ready, so employees don't have to waste time writing addresses and other information by hand. With many other mailing supplies available, A7 envelopes still serve as the standard option for sentimental notes and appreciative messages.

Many industries rely on having a good, constant supply of envelopes, so it's good to know what size a business envelope is. The answer is tricky because there are several standardized sizes available. A #10 is the most common envelope size when discussing business envelopes, and it has dimensions of 4⅛" x 9½" or 3⅞" x 8⅝". General business envelope size ranges between 3½" x 6" and 5" x 11½". These envelope proportions can contain a folded piece of paper with various billing details, reports, or business announcements. Folding an 8-1/5" x 11" paper makes it easy to fit into a #10 business envelope size.

When considering business envelopes and related mailing supplies, consider the envelope dimensions before sending. Business envelopes have a specific size to fit transactional or direct mailing needs in versatile workplaces. A pack of 500 business envelopes weighs 24 pounds, which makes high-volume deliveries simple and efficient.

If shipping in bulk, knowing how to print shipping labels can enable you to work faster. One option is to print using inkjet or laser printers, especially when printing low volumes. E-commerce businesses and other enterprises that do a lot of shipping can use thermal label printers. These do not require ink and can print weather-resistant labels of different sizes. When using thermal printers, check their compatibility with different shipping labels. Some thermal printers also work with specific computer operating systems, while others are compatible with a wide variety of computers.

Choose labels according to the size, quantity, and type of items or shipping boxes. Large and waterproof labels with robust adhesive are suitable for shipping large items, such as furniture. They allow large prints for easy readability to make handling easy. Smaller labels are for shipping items such as mobile phones, watches, and jewelry. Some labels come with adhesive backing for quick application. Others have no adhesive backing so you need to have glue or tape for attaching them to packages. After choosing the printer and labels, the next step is to buy the shipping labels from a shipping company, then edit, download, and print.

There's lots of good information about how to ship a box, but the most important factor is using the proper packaging materials. Choose a box that you can completely close flat when you're done packing. The flaps should close without strain. When selecting a shipping box, make sure to consider what you plan to enclose. If you're sending something fragile or breakable, save room for cushioning materials such as packing peanuts and bubble wrap. These items help fill voids and protect contents from impacts. Use packing tape to seal the box and reinforce box edges, if necessary.

Write the address on the outside of the box with a permanent marker, making sure to provide the nine digit zip code (ZIP+4) if you're sending your package somewhere in the United States. For boxes headed to destinations outside of the U.S., it's best to check with the recipient to ensure you have the correct addressing format. Determine how you'd like to send your package. You have several options, including the United States Postal Service, DHL, UPS, and FedEx. Take your box to your nearest post office or shipping company service point. The price you'll pay for shipping will depend on your package's weight, the destination, the cost of insuring the contents, and how fast you want it to arrive.

With the different designations of package-shipping services and boxes that the U.S. Postal Service offers customers, the federal government delivery giant seems to have all bases covered. Services include First-Class Package Service-Retail™, Priority Mail^®, Priority Mail Express^®, and Retail Ground^® offering different mailing rates, delivery times, and package-size options. With this official line-up, however, it's natural to ask can I use any box to ship USPS, even my own?

Yes, you can, subject to weight and size restrictions and some commonsense packaging. In fact, USPS lets you use boxes that they or other delivery services have shipped previously, as long as you obliterate all pre-existing address and barcode information on the package using black permanent markers.

The USPS does place a weight threshold of 70 pounds on mailed boxes, so you can't mail just anything. The boxes also have a length and girth threshold of not more 108 inches on standard, First Class, Priority, and Priority Express mail, including a 130-inch length and girth threshold with Retail Ground. You have to choose shipping boxes that fit those specs.

The commonsense packaging is actually some Post Office recommendations. Don't use boxes that are damp, have tears or holes in them, or are splitting at the seams from their contents. The USPS clerks may or may not accept them for mailing. Don't take the chance of having them rejected before they're mailed or having them inadvertently damaged en route. The USPS suggests the smart choice is to purchase brand-new shipping boxes or mailing tubes from a trustworthy retailer or just to opt for the boxes and tubes available from USPS. In fact, many Priority Mail Express and Priority Mail boxes are available for free when you mail with these services.

There's no simple way to answer the question, "How much does it cost to ship a box." The answer depends on several variables, including the size of what you're sending and its weight. Other factors include the shipping box's destination, the carrier you select, and how quickly you choose to send it. Most carriers factor package weight into cost determination. Heavier boxes tend to cost more to ship. Shippers charge more for packages headed to overseas destinations than for items headed to destinations in the continental United States. Sending boxes to places like Canada and Mexico is typically cheaper than shipping packages to Europe, Asia, and Africa. It frequently costs less to send things via the United States Postal Service than private companies, such as FedEx, DHL, or UPS. The speed of delivery also plays a role in shipping costs. Overnight and priority two-day delivery services usually cost much more than regular options. If you're a frequent shipper, it pays to invest in items, such as postal scales and meters. Having shipping boxes and packing supplies on hand will increase your overall efficiency.

Shipping companies consider the weight and size of packages when calculating their charges. You need to know how to measure a box for shipping to calculate payments. Shipping companies need the outer dimensions of shipping boxes so they can plan transportation. The dimensions are length, width, and height. To measure the length of the box, use measuring and layout tools like a tape measure or ruler to measure the longest side. The next step is to measure the width, which is the shortest side of the box. Finally, measure the height or depth of the box.

When choosing boxes, ensure the inner dimensions are large enough to fit the item. Also, opt for boxes that leave minimal space so that the item fits snugly. If there is empty space, use cushioning and void fill to help protect the items and box from damage during shipping. The gross shipping weight of the package includes the heaviness of the box, packing tape, void fills, and contents.

Determining how to address an envelope to a family member requires you to consider a few things, including whether the family has children living at home and if all adult parties have the same last name. If both parents share the last name and the family has children in the home, it's acceptable to address the envelope to "The Family Jones," or whatever the family's last name is. For married couples with children at home and different last names, "The Family Jones and Smith," is an acceptable form of address.

There's no need to use honorifics, such as Doctor, Captain, or Honorable when addressing packages and envelopes to families. For families without children living at home, it's best to address the parties as Mr. and Mrs. David Jones, or some variation on that theme. To send something to a married couple with different last names, Mr. David Jones and Ms. Charlotte Waithe is the appropriate way to go. When in doubt, make sure to ask how people would prefer for you to refer to their family. Don't forget to use a pen to write the family's house number, street name, city, and zip code on the front of the envelope.

Proper mailing etiquette means knowing how to address an envelope with "attn." Attn is an abbreviation for attention, and it's a vital piece of information to add on mailing supplies, such as business envelopes and mailers. The attn line should be above the delivery address on standard or specialty envelopes, and it represents the area where you add the recipient's name. "Attn" is usually followed by a colon and then the addressee's name.

As an alternative, some individuals write out "Attention" as the full word. The company name of the recipient goes beneath the attn line on the envelopes, but it's not a necessary detail to include. Still, adding as much information as possible increases the chances of successful delivery. Add a street address below the corporation name, including directional signs and units, such as suite numbers. Including the city, state, and postal code ensures that the first part of the delivery process goes smoothly so the envelope can arrive in due time.

Figuring out how to address wedding invitations can be one of the most difficult pre-wedding tasks. Most wedding invitations feature an inner and an outer envelope. Address the outer envelope using formal titles. The inner envelope requires less structure. You can adjust your level of formality to reflect how well you know the addressee.

Married couples' names should always be on the same line, and unmarried yet partnered individuals' names should appear on different lines. When addressing invitations to unmarried couples, the name of the person you're best acquainted with goes first. The same rules apply when it comes to same-sex couples.

Don't forget to take into consideration whether or not someone uses their professional title socially. If they do, use the proper honorific on the invitation. Mrs. is the traditional way to address a married woman. Miss technically refers to an unmarried woman of any age. Some women, both married and unmarried, prefer people to refer to them as Ms., a courtesy title unrelated to marital status. When in doubt, it's always best to ask how an invitee wishes you to address them.

For an added level of formality, use calligraphy or fountain pens to handwrite your invitations. Have your envelopes, invitations and RSVP cards custom print for a coordinated, elegant product that sets a lovely tone for your wedding.

When dealing with proper mailing etiquette, it's important to know how to address an envelope to a married couple. The first part is knowing if a couple uses the same last name or different names for accuracy. One way to address a married couple on the envelope is the traditional approach, which includes Mr. and Mrs., and the husband's name. Another way is to write titles and the surname while leaving first names out. This is convenient when addressing many envelopes before big events at work or home.

If applicable, the official title of a person goes before the name. Title examples are reverend (Rev.), doctor (Dr.) and lieutenant (Lt.). In case one of the surnames is hyphenated, write the title and name of each person accordingly. This keeps mailing supplies, such as greeting cards or announcements, professional and clear. Using precise titles and names on envelopes or mailers also shows respect toward the couple.

What's the best way to get correspondence to a person who is not one of the "owners" of the address where your correspondent resides, works, or travels? You add a C/O line, meaning "in care of" the specific location of your correspondent. However, how to address an envelope in care of differs depending on where you're sending it.

If your correspondent is staying with friends or family and you don't put their name on the envelope, the postal service may assume the addressee is incorrect and hold that letter at the Post Office for pick-up by an official resident. For personal correspondence, like letters and invitations, address the envelope to the correspondent on the first line, and C/O the official resident's first and last name on the second. Complete the rest of the address information, including return address, as you normally would. Sending C/O on standard and specialty envelopes to persons staying temporarily at a hotel is the same as for residential correspondence. Put the person's full name on the first line, and then C/O the hotel on the second.

If your correspondent is working temporarily at a company, it's important you provide as much identifying information as possible on the business envelope. Place the correspondent's full name on the first line. Then, fill in the person's title, department, or division (for example, Accounting Department or Manufacturing Division). Then C/O the company on the third line and fill in the rest of the address. Remember, address the correspondence to the exact location where the person works. Many companies have branches located in the vicinity of their main headquarters.

Following these instructions will get your correspondence to the right person at the right location, and make sure your communication isn't diverted or delayed along the way.