How to Reuse Household Objects

Shower curtains have more uses than just giving you privacy.

Reducing the amount of household waste you produce can not only save the environment, but save you money as well. You may trash broken items or those you think you don't need anymore, then go out and buy other items to replace them. Doing so creates more trash in landfills and causes you to spend money. If you reuse household items, it cuts down on your household waste and prevents you from shelling out more cash.

Things You'll Need

• Detergent bottles
• Candles
• Cardboard paper towel rolls
• Chipped mugs
• Plastic berry baskets
• Sandbox
• Dirt
• Shower curtain
• Rubber key covers

Instructions

1. Fill old detergent squeeze bottles with water. Use them to water your plants, clean your floor or fill your iron.

2. Rub an old, stubby candle on a stubborn zipper. The wax creates a smooth surface for the zipper, which often helps it to glide better.

3. Crumple your extra plastic bags into a ball, then shove them inside a cardboard paper towel holder. The holder keeps the bags in place, saving room in your drawers and cabinets and making them easier to find.

4. Place plants inside of chipped mugs. Mugs can house smaller plants and fit on your windowsill.

5. Place small, washable items, such as baby bottle nipples or caps, in a plastic berry basket. Place another berry basket on top of this one, so that their tops touch, then secure them shut with a rubber band. Place the basket on the top shelf of your dishwasher and wash the items without losing them.

6. Fill old sandboxes with dirt. Plant flowers and vegetables inside the box and you've got a raised flower bed.

7. Place old shower curtains on the floor as drop cloths the next time you paint.

8. Cover your dog's tags with old rubber key covers. The rubber will prevent the tags from hitting together and creating noise.

Tips & Warnings

• If you need to iron out a wrinkle in your clothes but don't have time to find the iron or ironing board, use your flat iron instead.

References

• Real Simple: 10 Ways to Rethink Household Items
• Purdue University: Reuse -- Household Items A to Z