Alexei Volkov
Plastic waste is a pressing global issue, with Americans discarding 28 billion plastic bottles and jars annually. One way to combat this is to repurpose plastic containers, giving them a new lease of life. This can be a fun, cost-effective, and eco-friendly activity, with numerous ways to transform plastic jar handles into something useful. Whether it's storage, decorations, or something more creative, there are plenty of options to keep those jar handles out of the trash and put them to good use.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Decorations, storage, etc. |
| Examples | Storing buttons, nuts and bolts, bathroom supplies, food leftovers, bagels and donuts, gift cards, pens, pencils, paperclips, etc. |
| Preparation | Remove labels, use rubbing alcohol to clean off glue or adhesive |
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What You'll Learn
Storage for buttons, nuts and bolts, and other small items
Plastic jars with handles are convenient for transportation and handling. They can be used for storage and can be easily repurposed.
If you enjoy sewing, you can use plastic jars with handles to store your button collection. This will allow you to see all your buttons in one place and keep them contained. You can also use these jars to store nuts, bolts, screws, and nails. This will help you keep them from cluttering up your house and allow for easy access.
You can also use plastic jars with handles to store plastic bags, leftovers, and dry food. To repurpose the jars for food storage, make sure they are clean and dry. You can also use plastic jars with handles to create a piggy bank, a soap dispenser, or a basket for school supplies or knick-knacks.
For a decorative addition to your home, fill plastic jars with knick-knacks, potpourri, or color-coordinated items. You can also use them to build a terrarium for your favorite plants and designs.
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Containers for leftovers
Plastic containers can be reused in a variety of ways to store leftovers. Before reusing, it is important to thoroughly clean the containers and peel off any labels, especially if they previously held food, cleaning supplies, or other chemicals.
One idea is to use plastic containers to store and organise food in your pantry or fridge. For example, you could use plastic containers to store dry goods, such as rice, pasta, or cereal. You could also use them to store leftovers in the fridge, helping to keep your food fresh and reducing waste. Square or rectangular containers can save space and allow for efficient stacking.
You can also use plastic containers for freezing food. For example, small plastic containers are perfect for freezing individual portions of meals, such as soups or curries. Larger containers can be useful for freezing bulk ingredients, such as cooked beans.
In addition to food storage, plastic containers can be repurposed for various other household uses. For example, you could use them to organise and store small items such as craft supplies, screws, or bolts. Plastic containers with lids can also be used as a soap dish, coaster, or jewellery holder.
It is important to note that not all plastic containers are suitable for reuse, especially those that are damaged or structurally unsound, as they may leach chemicals. Always use containers that are in good condition and avoid reheating food in certain types of plastic containers.
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Terrarium for plants
Plastic jars can be repurposed in a variety of ways, including as planters for your home or office. Terrariums, for instance, are a great way to reuse plastic jars. They are small, indoor, enclosed gardens that create a moist habitat different from your home environment. Here is a step-by-step guide to making a terrarium for plants using a repurposed plastic jar:
Choosing a Jar
Select a large, clear plastic jar with a lid. The bigger the jar, the better. Examples include a pretzel jar or an oversized pickle jar (2 quarts or bigger). If you are using a metal or plastic lid, you will need to make some holes in it. You can either use a cordless drill or hammer a nail to create the holes.
Preparing the Jar
Clean out any food residue, remove labels, and wash the jar thoroughly with soap and water. If there is any glue or adhesive remaining, use a small amount of rubbing alcohol to clean it off.
Layering the Base
Start by adding a layer of small pebbles or rocks to the bottom of your jar. This layer should be about one to two inches deep. On top of the pebbles, place a layer of pantyhose, moss, or other thin fabric. This layer acts as a barrier to keep the soil from filling the voids between the rocks.
Adding Soil and Plants
Shovel in a mixture of potting soil and compost. Dig a hole and plant your chosen terrarium resident. It is recommended to choose a plant that likes moisture and won't outgrow the enclosed habitat quickly. Plants such as the prayer plant, ripple peperomia, nerve plant, wandering jew, and various kinds of ferns are suitable for terrariums. You may need to trim the plant to fit it into the jar, as access will be limited once it is inside. Use a narrow trowel or a long-handled spoon to help with planting.
Final Steps
Give your jar a quick spritz of water, about 1-2 squirts. If you think you've added too much moisture, you can leave the lid off for a day or so. Clean off any dirt or residue from the outside of the jar, and your terrarium is complete!
Terrariums require minimal care and upkeep since the moisture remains within the habitat. They are a fun and educational project that adds variety and beauty to your plant collection.
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Buckets and bins for cleaning
Plastic containers can be used in a variety of ways for cleaning and organising. Large plastic containers with handles can be used as makeshift buckets and bins for cleaning. Fill one with warm, soapy water and carry it around by the handle while cleaning. You can also use old plastic bottles to tidy up and organise your garage.
For cleaning and storing food, it is important to ensure that the containers are food-safe. Look out for the food safety symbol on the container. To clean a plastic bucket for storing food, it is recommended to use hot water and baking soda to remove any previous smells. You can also wash the bucket with soap or dishwasher soap. If you want to disinfect it, you can use alcohol. However, avoid using bleach as the smell may linger.
For buckets with broken handles, you can replace the old tubing with sturdy PVC pipe. This will make carrying heavy buckets more comfortable and enjoyable. To remove the old handle, grab the wire at the first bend with a pair of pliers and give it a twist to slide the end out of the hole. Use a hammer, snips, or a hammer and chisel to remove any remaining plastic. To attach the new handle, simply reverse the process.
Plastic containers can also be used to organise and store various items. They can be used to store art and craft supplies, such as crayons, markers, ribbons, and strings. You can also use them to organise your pantry by keeping spice jars, snacks, and dry goods like rice, pasta, and beans in separate containers. This helps to save space and makes it easier to find what you need. Additionally, plastic containers are great for storing makeup, keeping it neat and tidy, and preventing products from leaving traces on your drawers or bags.
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Gift card storage
Plastic jar handles can be repurposed in a variety of ways to create useful storage solutions, including for gift cards. Here are some creative and instructive ways to repurpose plastic jar handles for gift card storage:
Plastic Jar Handle Gift Card Organiser:
- Clean and dry the plastic jar handle thoroughly.
- Use a butter knife and warm water to remove any labels or adhesive residue.
- Paint the jar handle with a colour of your choice. You can use acrylic or spray paint. Apply two coats for acrylic paint and two coats for spray paint, allowing sufficient drying time between coats.
- Once dry, decorate the jar handle with stickers, ribbons, or other craft supplies to personalise it.
- Place your gift cards inside the jar handle. You can also add tissue paper or shredded paper at the bottom for a cushioned effect.
- Seal the jar handle with a lid, if available, or simply close the handle.
Plastic Jar Handle Gift Card Holder:
- Follow the cleaning and decoration steps from the previous idea.
- Instead of storing multiple gift cards, this idea focuses on carrying a single gift card safely.
- Attach a key ring or lanyard to the plastic jar handle. You can usually find a small hole at the end of the handle, perfect for attaching accessories.
- Place a single gift card inside the jar handle, ensuring it fits snugly.
- You can now carry your gift card conveniently by attaching it to your keys, bag, or lanyard, making it easily accessible when needed.
Plastic Jar Handle Desk Organiser:
- In addition to gift cards, you can use the plastic jar handle to store other small items like paper clips, staples, and rubber bands.
- Clean and decorate the jar handle as instructed in the previous ideas.
- Place the jar handle on your desk with the opening facing upwards.
- Fill the jar handle with the small desk items you wish to organise.
- The handle now serves as a unique and decorative desk organiser, keeping your essential items easily accessible.
Plastic Jar Handle Storage Shelf:
- For this idea, you will need multiple plastic jar handles and a flat piece of wood or cardboard for the base.
- Clean and decorate the jar handles as desired.
- Attach the jar handles to the base, ensuring they are securely fastened. You can use glue, strong adhesive tape, or nails, depending on the material of your choice.
- Display the shelf on your wall or place it on a table.
- Place your gift cards inside the jar handles, utilising the handles as individual compartments for different types of gift cards.
These ideas promote sustainability by extending the lifespan of plastic jar handles and providing creative storage solutions for gift cards. With a bit of creativity and effort, you can transform plastic jar handles into functional and aesthetically pleasing organisers.
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Frequently asked questions
Plastic jar handles can be used as makeshift buckets and bins. They can also be used to store small items such as buttons, nuts and bolts, or even gift cards.
Yes, plastic jars can be used for food storage. Make sure the jars are clean and thoroughly washed before use. You can store dry foods such as cereals, or use them for leftovers instead of plastic containers.
Clean out your plastic jar and find plans to build a terrarium for your favourite plants.
Yes, plastic jars can be used to store bathroom supplies such as cotton swabs or bobby pins. You can also use a plastic bathroom makeup storage caddy to organise your desk by storing pens, pencils, paperclips, and other desktop essentials.
Yes, you can use plastic jar handles as a modern magazine holder or a ribbon dispenser, especially in craft or sewing rooms.
