Five Items You Can Reuse—Instead of Tossing Out

We live in a disposable society.

So many things serve one purpose and when it’s done, it’s garbage (or possibly recycled). Yet, there are many items that can be reused for other purposes. Read on for some inspiration!

Plastic Shopping Bags: So many other uses beyond just bringing home a few boxes of food! Line a small garbage can with one. Use it for cat litter disposal. Put your shoes in one when you’re traveling to keep your clothes clean. Put your shampoo, body wash, or lotion in one when you’re traveling so it doesn’t spill out. Use it for dirty clothes when you’re traveling. Use one to take your lunch to work/school. Add a few to a box you have a bunch of things you need to ship, especially if you have something breakable. 

Glass Jars: Store liquid leftovers (or homemade sauces). Cover with tissue paper or newspaper and use as a vase or pencil holder. Use one as a glass. 

Plastic Containers (ex: yogurt containers): Food storage. (Note: Plastic should not be microwaved, but these are great for storing salads and other cold foods!)  Paintbrush water cup. Seed starter pot (put holes in for drainage). 

Plastic Zipper Bags: Food storage—wash after you use it, turn it inside-out, and let it air dry. Craft storage. Pack lotions, shampoos, and body wash inside to keep them from spilling all over your clothes.

Bubble Mailers: Assuming it’s in good condition, reuse one you received in the mail to send a package out. Gently peel the label off or print a new label and tape over the old one. Also, great for home organization for toys or craft supplies. Label them with a permanent marker.

Of course, the best solution is not to get these things in the first place, but sometimes, that’s easier said than done. Recycling is also a great option, where it’s available. (For example, New Orleans doesn’t recycle Number 5 Plastics, like the plastic yogurt containers). That’s where the “second R” of “Reduce, REUSE, Recycle” comes into play. 

What are some creative ways you’ve reused an item? Let us know! And for our blog post next Monday (Jan. 30), check back in to read about Spouses Day.

Thanks for reading!

💜

Laura