10 Clever Ways to Reuse Empty Spice Jars (No Crafting Required)

If there’s one thing that piles up quickly in a frugal kitchen, it’s empty spice jars. They’re sturdy, compact, and too good to toss—but once the oregano runs out, what’s next?

Instead of sending them to the recycling bin, put those little jars to work. Reusing spice jars is a small habit that fits right into Clever Ways to Reuse What You Already Have and turns clutter into functional, money-saving tools.

Glass spice jars repurposed for storage—labeled and unlabeled—lined up in a drawer with paper clips, bath salts, cotton swabs, and folded towels. Bright, natural light with a clean, realistic home setting.

10 Clever Ways to Reuse Empty Spice Jars (No Crafting Required)

Before diving into reuse ideas, start with a quick clean. Soak the jars in warm, soapy water for 10–15 minutes. Most labels will peel off easily. Any stubborn glue can usually be rubbed away with a little oil or a baking soda paste. Rinse thoroughly and let them dry completely—especially the inside of the lid.

🧂 10 Practical Ways to Reuse Spice Jars

1. DIY spice blends
Make custom mixes for taco seasoning, garlic salt, or cinnamon sugar. Store them in matching jars for a cleaner cabinet. These glass shaker jars work well if you’re starting from scratch.

2. Small batch cleaning powders
Mix baking soda with lemon or tea tree essential oil for a natural sink scrub. These jars are the perfect size to keep one under the kitchen sink or in the bathroom. For more quick cleaner recipes, check the Top DIY Cleaning Recipes with Essential Oils.

3. Toothpick or floss pick container
Great for drawers, glove boxes, or even travel bags. A simple way to keep things neat and accessible.

4. Pantry organization
Use them for cornstarch, spice rubs, or even sprinkles. Add a handwritten label or create a uniform look with label tips below.

5. Mini gift jars
Fill with homemade bath salts, sugar scrub, or layered cocoa mix. Tie on a ribbon and tag for a no-stress, low-cost gift.

Flat lay of repurposed glass spice jars filled with cotton swabs, pink Himalayan salt, dried herbs, and bath salts on a light surface. One jar is empty and open, suggesting reuse ideas.

6. Matchstick storage
Glue a match striker to the bottom and fill with matches. Tuck one near candles or in a camping kit.

7. Travel-size dry goods
Perfect for keeping small amounts of salt, sugar, or coffee in a travel or camping setup.

8. Craft and hardware supplies
Buttons, beads, paper clips, nails—anything that needs a container. The clear sides make it easy to see what’s inside.

9. Sprinkle-top air fresheners
Add baking soda and essential oil, then poke holes in the lid. Use one in closets, bathrooms, or inside shoes.

10. Seed sorting
Store garden seeds or leftovers from opened packets. A small jar keeps them dry and labeled until the next planting season.

🏷️ Keep It Looking Clean

Want reused jars to look purposeful—not like leftovers? Keep labeling simple. Use clean fonts, neutral backgrounds, and consistent sizing. For ready-made options, the Clean Living Starter Pack includes printable tools to help you get organized with minimal effort.

This is one of those swaps that seems small, but adds up quickly. A drawer full of mismatched bags and clutter can turn into a clean shelf with matching jars—without spending a dime.

For more easy ideas that turn “trash” into tools, head back to What to Do with Empty Candle Jars or grab your 25 Things to Reuse Before Tossing printable cheat sheet while you’re here.