10 things I stopped throwing away and started repurposing
Repurposing everyday items is one of the easiest ways to save money and cut down on waste. A lot of the things that end up in the trash still have plenty of use left in them-you just have to look at them differently.
Once you get into the habit, you start to see potential everywhere, and it feels good knowing you're stretching what you already have. These are the things I no longer toss right away because they've proven too useful in new ways.
Glass jars
Glass jars from sauces, pickles, or salsa are perfect for storage. You can clean them out and use them for pantry staples, leftovers, or even DIY projects.
They're sturdier than most plastic containers and don't stain or warp in the dishwasher. Repurposing jars saves you from buying extra storage containers while cutting down on waste.
Old towels
Instead of tossing worn-out towels, cut them into cleaning rags. They work better than paper towels for scrubbing and last through countless washes.
This swap saves money and makes cleaning less wasteful. You'll always have rags on hand for messes, spills, or garage projects without buying new supplies.
Candle jars
Once a candle burns down, you can clean out the jar and reuse it for storage or organization. They're great for holding cotton balls, hair ties, or office supplies.
The glass is usually high quality and looks nice enough to leave out on a counter or shelf. A little repurposing turns them into something both practical and decorative.
Shipping boxes
Online orders often come with boxes that can be reused for storage or shipping out items yourself. Breaking them down and saving a few keeps you prepared.
They're also handy for organizing seasonal décor or packing up donations. Reusing boxes means you're not paying for storage bins or buying packaging when you don't have to.
Plastic grocery bags
Instead of tossing them, keep a stash of plastic bags to use as trash liners, especially for small cans in bathrooms or bedrooms.
They're also useful for pet messes, wet clothes, or quick cleanups. Repurposing them stretches their life and saves you from buying extra trash bags.
Food containers with lids
Many deli meats, takeout meals, or baked goods come in reusable containers. With a good wash, they're perfect for meal prep or storing leftovers.
These containers stack easily and reduce the need to buy extra Tupperware. Plus, if one cracks down the road, you won't feel bad tossing it since you got more use out of it.
Old T-shirts
Instead of throwing out faded or stained shirts, cut them into rags or use them for craft projects. They're soft and work well for dusting or polishing.
It's a free source of cleaning cloths that saves money and keeps fabric out of the landfill. Some people even braid strips into dog toys or use them for gardening ties.
Coffee tins
Metal or plastic coffee containers are great for repurposing. They work as storage for nails, screws, or small tools in the garage, or for flour and sugar in the pantry.
They're sturdy, have lids, and are easy to label. Keeping and reusing them cuts down on the need to buy more organizers or bins.
Glass bottles
Wine or soda bottles can be rinsed and reused as décor, watering bottles for plants, or even DIY oil and vinegar containers.
They're too durable to toss without a second thought, and they bring new life to both the kitchen and garden. Repurposing bottles is a simple way to get more out of what you already paid for.
Gift bags
Gift bags are almost always in good condition after one use. Instead of buying new ones, save them and reuse for birthdays, holidays, or events.
It cuts down on waste and saves a surprising amount of money over time. A little stash of bags and tissue paper makes gift-giving easier without extra trips to the store.
*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.
Leave a Reply