5 Home Materials To Reuse and Recycle

November 4th, 2015

When you do something that reduces your carbon footprint like reusing materials around the house, you know that you are on the right track environmentally speaking. Think about it, there are plenty of uses for things lying about at home like the ones in the list below.

Organic Farming

Seeds from vegetables like eggplants, tomatoes, bell peppers, and beyond need not be thrown out.  Instead, plant them and viola! You have yourself freshly, home grown produce. Composting is icky, especially if you do not have the outdoor space. Instead, plant the seeds and watch life unfold as you create your own veggie block or fruit corner.

Grit and Grime Done Away

Used up toothbrushes do not always need to be thrown away; they are ideal to clean bathroom tiles and faucets as well as other small, hard to reach spaces. Why invest in something fancy when you have the solution in the bathroom?

Paper Waste

Paper is invariably the first item to be thrown away. Instead, recycle an old calendar to make envelopes. Use the back of a printed sheet as a message pad. Make a collage of your family photos with old cards and hang them up on the wall. Paper, especially decorative patterns, can always be repurposed.

Create Magic with Duds

Throwing out old clothes is quite a normal thing, especially when fashions change or the clothes have exhausted their ‘use by date’ policy! Instead of throwing them out, cut reasonable sized bits and mop the floor. Cut them into strips and use them as a window or surface duster. If the tee shirt shows promise, cut out the workable part and make a new cushion cover.

In the same way that old clothing can be crafted into a new object or use, it can also be given to Good Will or thrift shops. Not only will it serve a better purpose here than in the trash, but it could help someone in need.

Plastic Bags 

Reusing plastic bags around the house is easy. Try storing frozen meat, poultry and produce in plastic bags in the freezer. Use old grocery bags to clean up after your pets or as small, trashcan liners.

If you can reuse something, go for it! All it takes is a little bit of creativity and a willingness to recycle your belongings. Although it’s quick and easy to pull out your credit card and invest in something new, taking a bit of time and thought will go a long way in helping you to save money as well as savor materials.