We all need to conserve. Hundreds of thousands of rubber stamps are being made annually; and without thinking twice people rush to purchase an entirely new device. This could be attributed to a consumer lack of knowledge, which you will hopefully overcome after this article. We should think more environmentally - especially when our actions are mirrored on a global scale. Thinking green with rubber stamps may be a small step but it is most certainly in the right direction.



You can save money and conserve with self-inking or pre-inked stamps instead of the traditional hand stamp model. Contrary to a popular belief, self-inking and pre-inked stamps are extremely easy to refill and doing it is not a messy procedure. It's as basic as removing and replacing an ink cartridge or as simple as applying a few drops of new ink to the self-inking pad. The best part is that by refilling your self-inking stamps they become as good as new and they leave behind no excess trash. Even better still: it doesn't hurt that it's easy on your wallet.

One reason many people throw away their old inked stamps is because the information on the stamp is no longer accurate, (address change, etc.). If at all possible you should re-ink the stamp and give it to someone else if applicable, (not your old bank deposit stamp). Even if there is no hope for the old device it is recommended to properly dispose of your rubber stamps.

Self-inking and pre-inked stamps are made primarily of plastic and rubber. Plastic is not a very good waste product unless properly recycled. Rubber comes naturally from a select number of plants in the Amazon through their latex producing sap. The "rubber tree's" scientific name is Hevea brasiliensis. Rubber can also be synthesized, which is most likely the origin of the rubber in your stamps. Everything about rubber stamps leaves some mark on the planet in one shape or another and reusing them to their full potential is the way to go.

Ideal self-inking stamps are optimal for the most commercially available green-friendly stamping. Their ink is water based in contrast to the oil based inks available for most pre-inking stamps. There are other differences that make self-inking more valuable in the end but I digress. For a complete lowdown of general stamp ink and pad ingredients and the process used to make them visit: http://chestofbooks.com/reference/Henley-s-20th-Century-Formulas-Recipes-Processes-Vol2/Inks-For-Stamp-Pads.html

When you throw away a self-inking stamp you are only wasting a reusable product. Many manufacturers offer a guarantee of quality with purchase, so even if the stamp does somehow malfunction it usually isn't a problem to have replaced. With rubber stamps you should always check to make sure your stamp is covered by a guarantee just in case the unthinkable happens. Many online stamp companies do offer such a guarantee.

Overall, rubber stamps are a commodity that many do not think twice about tossing. Once you've re-inked your stamp it is refueled for the onslaught of impressions you will be using it for. Save green in your pocket and in nature. That sounds fair enough, right?