We all have random stuff lying around the house that never gets used — old jeans, casserole dish lids, or that colander you haven’t touched in years. Instead of letting these things take up space, why not put them to good use? Discover 15 creative and practical ways to repurpose common household items into something new and useful.And the best part? You don’t need to buy anything new!
1. Turn Casserole Dish Lids into Bird Feeders
Got extra casserole dish lids stashed away? Instead of letting them gather dust in the kitchen, turn them into charming bird feeders for your garden! Just attach a small chain or some string to the lid’s handle, fill the inside with birdseed, and hang it outside. It’s a super easy way to invite some cute feathered visitors to your yard. You can even paint the lids to give them a colorful, personalized touch.
2. Make a Succulent Planter with a Colander
That old colander sitting in your cupboard? There’s more use in it than you might realize! Colanders are perfect for plants like succulents because they come with built-in drainage. Just add a layer of rocks or coconut fiber at the bottom to help with the soil, fill it with your favorite succulents, and you’ve got yourself a quirky, budget-friendly planter. You can place it on your countertop or hang it up for some instant green vibes!
3. Turn a Plastic Watering Can into a Door Hanger
If you’ve got a cheap plastic watering can that’s been forgotten in the garage, you can easily upcycle it into a cute door hanger. Fill it with artificial flowers or dried greenery, tie a ribbon around the handle, and hang it on your front door or porch. This simple trick adds a pop of color and charm to your home’s entryway, giving you a fresh, welcoming look without spending a dime.
4. Use Old Bandanas as Bowl Covers
Everyone has at least one or two old bandanas lying around. Why not turn them into reusable bowl covers? They’re perfect for keeping food covered during picnics or backyard barbecues. Simply cut the bandana to fit the size of your bowl, sew in a piece of elastic around the edges, and you’ve got a stylish, eco-friendly alternative to plastic wrap. Plus, they’re easy to wash and reuse!
5. Convert an Old Ladder into a Rustic Bookshelf
If you have an old wooden ladder that’s seen better days, don’t throw it away! You can easily turn it into a rustic bookshelf or storage display. Just prop the ladder against a wall, and use each rung as a shelf for books, plants, or decorative items. It adds a vintage, farmhouse vibe to any room and is a great way to repurpose something that would otherwise go to waste.
6. Transform an Oatmeal Container into Chic Storage
Don’t toss that empty oatmeal container just yet! With a little creativity, you can turn it into stylish storage for accessories, crafting supplies, or even kitchen utensils. Cover the container with wrapping paper, fabric, or contact paper to give it a chic look, and voila — you’ve got a custom organizer that’s both functional and fabulous. Try different sizes to create a whole collection of matching storage pieces.
7. Turn Picture Frames into an Herb Drying Rack
Do you have extra picture frames you’re not using? Instead of letting them collect dust, transform them into a DIY herb drying rack. Simply remove the glass, stretch some mesh or screen material across the frame, and secure it in place. Hang the frame on the wall or keep it flat, and use it to dry herbs from your garden. It’s a practical and pretty way to preserve your fresh herbs for cooking.
8. Create a Lamp Out of a Tea Set
Have an old tea set that’s too cute to throw away but no longer in use? Turn it into a one-of-a-kind lamp! Stack the cups and saucers, drill a hole through the center, and thread a lamp kit through to make a unique, whimsical lamp for your bedside or living room. If you don’t have a tea set at home, you can easily find affordable ones at thrift stores. This charming DIY project is sure to be a conversation starter.
9. Upcycle Worn-Out Jeans into a Hanging Organizer
Don’t let those worn-out jeans sit in your closet any longer. Instead, give them a second life by turning them into a hanging organizer for your closet or bedroom. Cut the pockets out of the jeans and sew them onto a piece of fabric or canvas. Hang it on a wall or behind a door, and use the pockets to store small items like keys, sunglasses, or mail. It’s an easy way to stay organized while giving your old jeans a practical new purpose.
10. Make Concrete Garden Orbs with Glass Containers
Have you ever wanted to try making concrete decor? Here’s a fun and easy way to do it using old glass containers. Simply fill the containers with concrete mix, let them harden, and then break the glass to reveal sleek, modern orbs that are perfect for decorating your garden or outdoor space. You can experiment with different sizes and shapes, using containers like jars, bowls, or even wine glasses as molds.
11. Give Glass Vases a Gold Leaf Makeover
If you’ve got a few plain glass vases tucked away in storage, it’s time to bring them out and give them a glamorous upgrade. You can easily transform them into statement pieces by applying gold leaf or gold paint to the exterior. This simple DIY project adds a touch of elegance to your home and makes those everyday vases look like expensive decor items. Fill them with fresh flowers or use them as centerpieces for a chic, polished look.
12. Turn a Broken Chair into a Towel Rack
Got an old chair with a broken leg? Instead of throwing it out, turn it into a towel rack for your bathroom or pool area. Remove the seat and use the chair back to hang towels. It’s an unexpected but practical use for a piece of furniture that might otherwise be trash. Paint it to match your decor, and it will add a charming, rustic touch to your space.
13. Repurpose Old Tires into Planters
If you’ve got a few old tires lying around, don’t just toss them out! You can easily turn them into unique planters for your garden. Stack the tires, paint them in bright colors, and fill them with soil and plants. This fun, eco-friendly idea is perfect for adding a splash of color to your backyard or patio. Plus, it’s a great way to recycle something that’s difficult to dispose of!
14. Turn a Wine Rack into a Towel Holder
If you have an unused wine rack, repurpose it as a towel holder for your bathroom. Simply roll up your towels and place them where the wine bottles would go. It’s a chic, space-saving solution that adds a stylish touch to your bathroom.You can also hang it on the wall to give it a more refined appearance.
15. Use an Old Window Frame as a Photo Display
If you have an old window frame sitting around, don’t let it go to waste! Turn it into a unique photo display by removing the glass and adding wires or string across the frame. Use small clothespins to hang your favorite photos, postcards, or artwork. This rustic, vintage-style display is perfect for adding character to any room and gives new life to an old window.
Final Thoughts
Upcycling is all about making the most out of what you already have, and it’s a fun way to get creative around the house. Before you toss out those random items collecting dust, try one of these DIY ideas. You’ll not only reduce waste but also create something that adds value to your home. And who knows? You might find yourself seeing clutter in a whole new light!