8 Everyday Items Designers Say You Should Never Throw Away
Some everyday items are more useful than they seem. Designers love repurposing these household staples to create functional or stylish solutions. From glass jars to old towels, these items are worth saving for DIY projects or clever storage ideas. Here are some of the most useful everyday items you should never throw away and why.
Glass Jars
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Save glass jars from pasta sauce, pickles, or jam and use them for storage or decor. Fill them with spices, pantry goods, or craft supplies, or turn them into chic flower vases or candle holders. With a quick clean and a label, glass jars become versatile containers that keep your home stylish and organized.
Cardboard Boxes
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Use sturdy cardboard boxes to organize closets, drawers, or storage spaces. Wrap them in fabric or decorative paper to create custom bins for toys, books, or seasonal items. These items are loved because they’re lightweight, inexpensive, and easy to transform into functional, attractive storage solutions that blend seamlessly with your decor.
Old Towels
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Turn old towels into reusable cleaning rags, pet bedding, or mop pads. Cut them into smaller pieces for polishing furniture or drying your car after a wash. Since towels are durable, absorbent, and eco-friendly, they’re used for reducing the need for single-use paper towels and other disposable cleaning supplies.
Mason Jars
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Utilize mason jars as drinking glasses, organizers for office supplies, or candle holders. Plant herbs or succulents inside to create a mini garden. Their sturdy design makes them perfect for meal prep or storing leftovers. Mason jars are loved their versatility and timeless look, which fits effortlessly into almost any home style.
Plastic Containers
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Save plastic containers like yogurt tubs or takeout boxes for organizing small items or meal prepping. Use them to store craft supplies, screws, or cables neatly. You can also decorate or paint larger ones to serve as planters or tool holders. It is suggested to use durable plastics to reduce waste and keep things organized.
Tin Cans
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Wash and reuse tin cans as storage containers for pencils, utensils, or craft supplies. Wrap them in twine, fabric, or paint to match your decor. Tin cans can also double as planters for herbs, small flowers, or succulents. Their simple shape makes them an ideal base for creative DIY projects.
Fabric Scraps
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Save fabric scraps from old clothes or projects and sew them into reusable napkins, pillow covers, or tote bags. According to designers, fabric scraps can be used for patchwork quilts, repairing upholstery, or creating custom coasters. Even the smallest pieces can add unique accents to your home decor or be repurposed for practical uses.
Shoe Boxes
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Convert shoe boxes into stylish storage by covering them with paper, fabric, or wallpaper. Use them to store accessories, keepsakes, or cables. Their sturdy design also makes them great for organizing under-the-bed spaces or office shelves. Shoe boxes are affordable and easy to reuse for almost any storage need.
Broken Jewelry
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There’s a way to use broken jewelry by removing beads, charms, or chains for new projects. Use the pieces to create custom keychains, embellish picture frames, or repair other accessories. We love reusing jewelry to add a touch of elegance to home decor, like creating custom curtain ties or adding sparkle to DIY crafts.
Candle Jars
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Clean out used candle jars and use them as organizers for small items like cotton balls, Q-tips, or buttons. Turn them into mini planters for succulents or tea light holders for a cozy vibe. Candle jars are often reused because their sturdy, stylish designs make them perfect for both practical and decorative purposes.
Egg Cartons
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Repurpose egg cartons for organizing small items like screws, beads, or sewing supplies. Use them to start seedlings for your garden, providing an eco-friendly alternative to store-bought planters. We love their versatility for crafts, like creating DIY jewelry holders or using them as molds for candles or decorative trays.
Food Containers
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Save glass or plastic food containers for organizing leftovers, crafts, or small office supplies. Use them to store beads, buttons, or screws in the garage. Clean containers work perfectly for meal prep or keeping your pantry neat. It is recommended to reuse them to cut down on waste and keep everything organized.
Old Books
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Stack old books to create side table accents or use them as decor for a shelf. Hollow them out to make hidden storage compartments, or turn pages into framed wall art. Old books can be recycled into furniture like stools, adding vintage charm to homes while giving unused books a second purpose.
Wooden Pallets
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Turn wooden pallets into furniture like coffee tables, wall-mounted shelves, or headboards. Sand and paint them to create garden planters or outdoor seating. Wooden pallets are amazing for their rustic charm and versatility, making them a favorite material for budget-friendly, eco-conscious DIY projects that add character to any space.
Broken Picture Frames
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Use broken picture frames for creative wall art or decorative trays. Use the glass as a dry-erase board for to-do lists or notes. We can use broken picture frames to create custom jewelry displays or embellish mirrors. These frames can still add style and function to your home with minimal effort.