By Caitlin Castelaz
Disposable Utensils
Many items that are billed as single-use products can, in fact, be used again and again. Such is the case with disposable utensils. When hosting a backyard bash or big get-together, encourage your guests to place their plastic forks, spoons, and knives off to the side rather than tossing them in the trash. Then, just give them a good wash in sudsy water and return them to a kitchen drawer to use for your next party. Even better, skip the plastic and buy an extra set of silverware (you can find cheap utensils at the thrift store) to have on hand whenever you’re serving a crowd.
Dryer Sheets
You like the way dryer sheets leave your laundry fluffy, soft, and clean-smelling, but don’t discard them when your permanent press cycle comes to a halt. Put those little slips to work around the house as dusting cloths. Use your spent dryer sheets to wipe down window blinds, baseboards, electronics, and sink hardware.
Cooking Water
Water is our planet’s most precious resource, so show a little respect by reusing it whenever possible. After boiling eggs or steaming vegetables, leave the leftover water in the pot to cool. When the water reaches room temperature, pour it in plant containers or garden beds to keep plants hydrated while saving on your water bill.
Mesh Produce Bags
The same mesh produce bags that hold tangerines or onions from the grocery store can be used to clean pots and pans in your sink. Ball up an empty mesh bag and secure it with a rubber band. Squirt some dish soap on your homemade scrubber, then go to town on grease and built-up food residue.
Hotel Shower Caps
It’s common practice for travelers to swipe the miniature toiletries provided in hotel bathrooms, but it’s the disposable plastic shower cap that’s the real prize. Instead of tossing it out or passing it up, put your shoes into the cap before you tuck them into your luggage. By wrapping your kicks, you’ll protect your clothes and prevent dirt and dust from rubbing off on them.
Leather Jackets
Care for your leather garments with conditioner, and you can extend their wearable life. But if, say, the elbows have worn thin and it’s finally time to say goodbye to a well-loved leather jacket, you can give the material a new purpose. Cut it into pieces to assemble a wallet, fashion belt, purse, vest, or more. You’re limited only by your imagination.
Old Towels
You may not want your house guests to see ratty old towels hanging in the bathroom, but that doesn’t mean you have to relegate them to the trash heap. Instead of tossing old towels, cut them into strips and braid them into a funky bath mat, or cut them into small rounds and sew flannel backings on them to make reusable makeup remover pads.
Lemon Peels
After they’ve served to garnish your drink, you can put lemon wedges and peels to work around the house. Rub a lemon half on a rusty metal surface, along with a sprinkle of coarse salt, to remove corrosion. Or, drop several lemon peels in a jar and cover with white vinegar and a lid to make your own grease-cutting cleanser for windows, countertops, and other surfaces.
Candle Jar
Make an old candle jar burn brightly once more. Melt down wax chips (you can purchase these at craft stores or use your own candle scraps), and pour the liquid into the jar after placing a fresh wick in the center. Allow the candle to cool to room temperature, and it will be ready to light.
Flip-Flops
A pair of tired flip-flops can be refreshed and refashioned if you’re up for replacing the straps. If not, though, you can use these budget buys in a variety of household DIYs. Cut the sole into small pieces then place them under furniture legs to keep the chairs from scratching hardwood floors, use them to stop up a mouse hole in your home’s siding, or shred them into fine pieces to use as packing material.
