Question from Mary
I would like to order checks that are odorless, or at least, nontoxic. Suggestions please.
Debra’s Answer
I’ve listed the major suppliers of checks made from recycled paper using soy-based inks on the Checks page of Debra’s List.
Soy-based ink is much less toxic that standard ink made from petroleum.
Readers, what are your favorite places to buy checks?
I finally decided to take a chance and order the checks from the company that Wells Fargo used on the original order, which is Harland. They came today, and I suppose if I really sniff I can detect a trace of odor but they are so much better than what I ordered from Checks Unlimited., and anyway, I don’t write many checks using that account. (I threw the vinyl checkbook cover in the trash.) Also, I prefer to not use products that use recycled paper because of the possibility of bisphenyl A being in recycled paper. Yes, I’d like to do what is best for the planet, but I’ll have to step aside and let healthier people take action.
I just wanted to add that the Harland checks I wrote about above were packed inside a small plastic bag inside a larger plastic bag, and the outer bag had a fairly strong unpleasant odor. I didn’t personally open the small inner bag, so I can’t speak about it, but at least the checks themselves are fairly scent-free.