Reuse It or We Lose It! How to Reuse Common Items

Often in the media, we hear about recycling and how important it is for the environment. But reusing items is important too. By reusing something, we can cut down on the items piling up in landfills.

We can also reduce the resources we consume and even save money. Reusing household items is a great way to help the planet and yourself. It just takes some extra creativity on your part.

Not sure what common household items you can reuse? Here are 10 ideas to get you started:

1. Glass jars

Reuse glass jars to store leftover food, homemade sauces, dried food, or as a centerpiece by placing sand or rocks and a tea light inside it. 

2. Clothes

You can always repurpose old jeans into shorts, use them to make an elbow patch on a sweater, or turn a long sleeve into a tank top by making some simple cuts, which is a popular trend. You can also use these items to create cleaning rags, washcloths, or get more creative by turning them into bath mats. 

3. Newspapers and magazines

Newspapers and magazine pages are great material for cleaning windows as they don’t leave streaks on the windows. They can also be used to clean up spills and messes as they absorb liquid very well. Also, you can use the paper to fuel fires. 

4. Plastic bottles

A great way to reuse plastic water bottles and soda bottles is to cut them and hang them outside as bird feeders. You can also paint them and make them pretty to use as a piggy bank for loose change (even more savings!). 

5. Egg cartons

An easy way to reuse egg cartons is similar to the method for seeds. Egg cartons are great as a seed-starting tray. Fill each cup with potting soil, poke holes for drainage, and plant your seeds. Transplant them to larger containers once they’ve sprouted and enjoy the fruits of your labour (literally)! You can also reuse egg containers to organize items such as light bulbs, Christmas ornaments, or earrings.

6. Seeds

Collecting fruit and vegetable seeds is a great way to get your garden started in the spring. Let the seeds dry in an open and shaded location, preferably in a cool place away from light like a basement or closet. You can store them for years and plant them right in your backyard. Don’t forget to label the seeds!

7. Wine corks

These are very versatile when it comes to ways to reuse them. A simple Google search can give you many creative ideas for using wine corks around your house. They make great decorative pieces. Some ideas include using them as coasters, as a jewelry holder, or a drawer knob on your dresser (for a champagne cork). Another great way to reuse wine corks outdoors is as a fire starter. Fill a glass jar (preferable also reused) with wine corks and rubbing alcohol, then let them soak. Place the corks into the fireplace to get your fire started quickly.

8. Coffee grounds

Use them for growing plants, as pest repellants, and as cleaning scrubs. You can even rub them on your skin to exfoliate it! 

9. Tea bags

Reusing tea bags doesn’t just mean making a second cup of tea. Did you know tea bags are great for your skin? Use tea bags to reduce dark eye circles, hydrate dry skin, soothe a sunburn, moisturize your chapped lips, or just throw them in your bath tub for a relaxing soak.

10. Dryer sheets

They reduce static, making them a great dusting tool. They are especially good for electronic devices because you don’t need to spray any liquid before using dryer sheets.

Reusing Items For a Sustainable Future

Many of the above household items are versatile. Almost everyone has these items sitting in their house somewhere, so reuse these items instead of throwing them away. 

We can reduce the amount of waste we generate just by changing our habits at home. Less waste means fewer items to recycle.

At Green Schools Green Future, our curriculum prioritizes reducing, reusing, and recycling items to help the environment. We will teach children about the importance of reducing waste with hands-on activities.