12 Creative Ways to Transform Trash into Treasure

Before you haul your trash and recycling to the curb, take a moment to read this piece! An old jar, can, or cardboard box can be repurposed in countless ways. With a little creativity and a good rinse, you can transform your waste into wonderful projects. Here are 12 innovative ideas that will convert your rubbish into delightful creations. (See also: 15 Ways to Recycle and Reuse Old T-Shirts)

1. Glass Jars

Your empty glass jars can become a stunning addition to your home decor. Martha Stewart recommends soaking them, allowing them to dry, and then adding dishwasher-safe enamel paint inside. Hang the jars upside down for at least two days to set before showcasing them in your space.

2. Wipes Containers

If you have a stockpile of empty wipes containers, consider repurposing them for plastic bag storage! Clean out the container, adorn it with your favorite designs, and then stuff it with your grocery or shopping bags. Place the dispenser in your vehicle, kitchen, or any spot where you tend to need bags.

3. Coffee Cans

Repurpose those old coffee cans into practical organizers for your kitchen. You can use them as-is, but why not spruce them up with some spray paint and chalkboard labels? Wash them in the dishwasher first, then fill them with newspaper to protect the interior while you paint. Allow them to cure for five days before putting them to use.

4. Milk Jugs

Transform a milk jug into a handy watering can that your plants will love. Clean out the jug and use a heated needle to create holes in the cap before filling it with water. Create larger versions for outside, smaller ones for inside plants, and even a petite one for your child to enjoy during bath time.

5. Cardboard Boxes

Check out this clever cardboard storage solution! This is perfect for frozen food boxes or pizza boxes. Ensure your boxes are spotless; then wrap them in vibrant wrapping paper. Label each one for seamless organization, and you’re good to go. They would also make a charming storage option for your favorite vinyl records!

6. Bottle Caps

This fun project turns plastic bottle caps into alphabet magnets for your fridge. Gather a set of at least 26 caps, then glue in letters cut from old magazines. Add some self-adhesive magnetic strips on the reverse, and your kids can enjoy making words.

7. Toilet Paper Rolls

Don’t throw away those toilet paper rolls; they can be made into charming little gift boxes. Simply remove any leftover paper, flatten the roll with your hand, reshape the ends into half circles, and fold the sides to secure. Decorate with ribbons, paints, or stickers according to your style.

8. Liquor Bottles

Give an empty liquor bottle a new life by turning it into something practical. For instance, a Patron bottle can be transformed into a chic soap dispenser. Drill a hole in the cork, take the top from an old soap dispenser, and push it through the hole. Fill with soap, or if corkless, simply attach the pump directly.

9. Rice Bags

If your household consumes a lot of rice, consider crafting a decorative throw pillow from a burlap rice bag. Trim off the handles, stuff the bag with cotton filling, and sew it shut. If there’s no zipper, a simple straight stitch will do just fine. (See also: 7 Basic Sewing Tricks That Will Save You Money)

10. Cereal Boxes

My daughter has a birthday piñata in mind this year. I recently discovered a mini piñata project made from cereal boxes; just use scissors and an X-acto knife to shape it. Wrap the entire piece in crepe paper, securing with glue and tape, and don’t forget to create a trapdoor for filling it with treats!

11. Wine Corks

Wine corks lend themselves to a multitude of projects, but this bath mat may be among the most functional. You’ll need a bit of patience (or a few wine-loving friends) to collect 175 corks for this. Slice each cork in half, arrange them in a rectangle, and use a piece of shelf liner as a base. Hot glue the corks to the liner for a unique bath mat.

12. Juice Cartons

Gather your spare change in these inventive juice carton purses. Open the carton, clean it thoroughly, and cut off the bottom for a more refined shape. Fold the sides like an accordion and fasten them accordingly until the purse takes form. Keep it handy in your vehicle to ensure you always have coins for the parking meter.

What creative new uses have you discovered for your old items?