It’s easy to overlook the little things—containers, scraps, worn-out supplies—and assume they belong in the trash. But many of these items still have plenty of use left, and reusing them can cut back on spending while helping you stay organized.
🧃 15 Everyday Items You Can Stop Throwing Away
This list is part of the Clever Ways to Reuse What You Already Have. If you’re looking for a printable version, the 25 Things to Reuse Before Tossing cheat sheet is free and easy to keep on hand.
Simple Reuse Ideas That Save Money and Reduce Waste
🧂 1. Glass spice jars
Perfect for DIY cleaners, seasoning blends, or organizing beads and pins. Get repurposing ideas: How to Reuse Glass Spice Jars. Add matching shaker tops for a polished finish.
🧴 2. Candle jars
Store cotton balls, office supplies, or bath salts. Pair with minimalist labels for a boutique look. Get more ideas: What to Do with Empty Candle Jars.
🧺 3. Worn towels and socks
Cut into cleaning cloths or make reusable mop pads. See more ideas: T-Shirts, Towels & Socks: Don’t Toss These Yet.
🧴 4. Vinegar
Not something to toss—but too often overlooked. Use it instead of dryer sheets to soften and freshen laundry. Find more: Use This Instead of Dryer Sheets.
🧃 5. Empty pill bottles
Store safety pins, earbuds, travel-size lotion, or even a mini sewing kit. Clean, label, and reuse. More uses: 35 Ingenious Ways to Repurpose and Upcycle Pill and Vitamin Bottles
📦 6. Paper towel tubes
Great for organizing cords, protecting rolled papers, or crafting with kids.
💧 7. Water bottles
Cut into scoops for pet food or garden soil. Use as craft bases or sprinkle-top containers. Want more?: 31 DIY Water Bottle Uses and Craft Ideas You’re Going To Love
📚 8. Old books
Fold into decor, hollow for storage, or use pages in crafts. Try pairing with a glue gun and mod podge. Want more?: DIY Projects With Recycled Books You Have To See
🧯 9. Pool noodles
Draft stoppers, chair leg bumpers, or DIY décor. More ideas: Dollar Tree Pool Noodle Crafts.
🧹 10. Dryer lint
Yes, really. Use as a fire starter in a toilet paper tube for backyard fires or camping.
🖍 11. Broken crayons
Melt into multicolor art shapes using a silicone mold. Fun for kids and easy to gift.
🎁 12. Bread tags
Label cords or hang tags on bins and jars. Just write with a permanent marker.
📌 13. Rubber bands
Wrap around jars for grip, or use to bundle pens, cords, or utensils.
🪴 14. Plant containers
Reuse nursery pots for starts or seedlings. Label them with painter’s tape or chalk markers. More out of the box, fun ideas?: Unconventional Planters: A Creative Twist for Growing Your Vegetables
🧽 15. Soap slivers
Combine scraps in a mesh soap saver pouch for handwashing rags or as a guest bathroom stash.
Looking for a routine to help rotate these reuse ideas into your cleaning schedule? The 28 Day Cleaning Plan makes it easy to tackle zone cleaning with what you already have—no extra supplies required.
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