Omar Khalid
Plastic laundry baskets are a household staple, but they can be used for much more than just carrying dirty laundry. From crafting to gardening, there are many ways to repurpose these versatile containers. Whether you're looking for a fun project or simply want to make better use of the items you already have, there are plenty of creative and unique ways to put those extra laundry baskets to work.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Use as a bin for linen, dirty clothes, fabric with odors | Keep dirty laundry in one place |
| Use as a baby bed | Put a couple of small baby blankets to "soften" it a little |
| Use as a dog carrier | Twist-tie two laundry baskets together |
| Use as a cat bed | Put an old pillow or cushion at the bottom of the basket |
| Use as a recycling bin | Place 2-3 reusable grocery shopping bags in the basket to sort the items |
| Use as a portable vessel for collecting yard waste | Carry the basket to your compost heap for disposal |
| Use as a compost bin | Drill a few holes at the bottom for drainage |
| Use as a storage container for dirty gardening tools | Rinse tools inside the basket when you are done |
| Use as a cooler | Line the basket with a heavy-duty trash bag and fill with ice and beverages |
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What You'll Learn
Make a pet bed
Plastic laundry baskets are a versatile item that can be repurposed in many ways. One great way to reuse a plastic laundry basket is to make a pet bed. Here's a step-by-step guide to making a comfortable and cosy bed for your furry friend:
Step 1: Prepare the Basket
Start by deciding which side of the basket will be the entrance for your pet. If the basket has any sharp edges or points, trim and smooth them down to protect your pet and ensure their comfort. You can also duct-tape the edges for added safety and to give the basket a neat finish.
Step 2: Create a Comfortable Base
Use an old pillow, cushion, or even a rolled-up sweater to create a soft base for your pet to lounge on. If your pet tends to slobber or shed a lot, consider using a pillowcase or a spill-proof zipper case to protect the pillow from any messes.
Step 3: Add Extra Comfort and Cushioning
Cover the pillow or cushion with blankets to add extra cushioning and create a snug environment. You can also use baby blankets or soft fabrics to line the sides of the basket, making it even more comfortable for your pet to snuggle into.
Step 4: Make it Cozy
Add your pet's favourite toys or blankets to make the bed even more inviting. You can also sprinkle in some catnip if you're making a bed for your feline friend.
Step 5: Final Touches
Place the basket in a cosy corner or a spot your pet frequently enjoys lounging in. You can also add a small blanket or towel on top of the bed to make it extra inviting and provide an additional layer of warmth for your pet.
And that's it! With these simple steps, you've created a comfortable and cosy pet bed from a plastic laundry basket. Your furry friend now has a new favourite spot to relax and unwind.
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Use it as a cooler
If you're throwing a backyard party and can't find your cooler or need a larger one, a plastic laundry basket can be a perfect alternative. Here's how to use your plastic laundry basket as a cooler:
Prepare the Basket
First, line the basket with a heavy-duty trash bag. This will help to keep the ice from melting too quickly and will make it easier to clean up afterward. You can also use a large plastic bag or a thick liner if you have one that fits your basket.
Add Ice
Once the basket is lined, fill it with ice. You can use regular ice cubes or larger blocks of ice, depending on what you have available. If you're using ice cubes, you may want to consider using more crushed or smaller cubes, as they will help to cool the drinks faster and more effectively.
Place Your Beverages
After you've added the ice, it's time to place your beverages in the basket. You can arrange them neatly or just toss them in, depending on your preference and the number of drinks you have. This method works great for canned or bottled drinks, and the ice will help keep them chilled.
Post-Party Cleanup
After your party, it's essential to clean the basket properly to have it ready for regular use again. Dump out the ice and any remaining water. Rinse the basket thoroughly to remove any dirt or residue from the ice or drinks. Let the basket air dry or wipe it down with a clean cloth before storing it away.
By following these simple steps, you can easily transform your plastic laundry basket into a functional cooler for your backyard get-togethers. It's a creative and practical way to repurpose your laundry basket and ensure your drinks stay nice and chilled.
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Create a compost bin
If you're looking to create a compost bin out of a plastic laundry basket, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, ensure your basket has a lid, as this will help keep the soil moist and prevent pests from getting in. You'll also need to drill holes in the basket to allow for airflow, which is crucial for the composting process. Space the holes about one to two inches apart, drilling on all sides of the basket, including the bottom. If your holes are large, consider lining the interior of the basket with wire mesh to keep out rodents.
Once you've prepared your plastic laundry basket, find a good spot for your compost bin. It should be located on level ground in a well-drained area that's convenient to access year-round. Consider placing it near your kitchen door so you can easily compost kitchen scraps, or near your vegetable garden so you can toss in any weeds or trimmings. If you live in a cold climate, you may want to bring the compost bin indoors to a utility area during winter to prevent the compost from freezing.
When it comes to what goes into your compost bin, you can add kitchen scraps, grass clippings, and dry leaves. Chop or shred your organic materials into small pieces to help them break down quicker. Every day or so, aerate the bin by giving it a quick shake and ensure that the contents stay moist, adding water if needed. However, be careful not to over-water, as this can cause your compost to smell. The ideal compost should have a mix of materials containing carbon and nitrogen, with a recommended ratio of 30 parts carbon to 1 part nitrogen.
As your compost pile grows, you may need to add a second bin to catch any liquid that leaches out, known as "compost tea," which can be used as a fertilizer in your garden. With proper care, you should have fresh, organic compost in three to five months. Finished compost can be incorporated into garden beds or used as a top dressing for ornamental plantings or lawns. Remember to test the soil a few weeks after adding compost, as it can change pH and nutrient levels.
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Make a pendant lamp
To make a pendant lamp out of a plastic laundry basket, you will need the following:
- A plastic laundry basket
- A lighting swag kit (including a lightbulb)
- Zip ties
- A cup hook
- White corded rope, jute, or twine (optional)
- Hot glue (optional)
First, find a plastic laundry basket at your local thrift store. You can find one for as little as $5. If the basket has handles, you can disguise them based on the shape of the room. Next, purchase a lighting swag kit. You can find one at World Market for $10, or you can opt for one covered in jute or white cord for a bit more money.
Now, follow these steps:
- Use zip ties to secure the knot to the bottom of the basket. Try to attach the knot and the zip ties on the inside of the basket so they won’t be seen.
- If desired, cover the light cord in white corded rope, jute, or twine to create an interesting look. You can use hot glue at the beginning and end to secure the cord.
- Use a cup hook screwed into a stud to hang the lamp from the ceiling.
- Position the cord so that it is mostly hidden, such as by running it along a corner or behind a curtain.
To add a lightbulb, make sure to use a low-energy, low-heat bulb to avoid melting the plastic. You can use Edison bulbs, which give off a nice glow. Before inserting the socket into the basket, screw on an extra shade ring with the shoulder facing down. Then, insert the socket into the hole and thread on the second shade ring from the inside. The two rings will better sandwich and secure the thread and fiber ends. Make sure to keep the basket away from the heat of the lightbulb with zip ties.
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Use it for gardening
Plastic laundry baskets can be used for gardening in a variety of ways. Here are some ideas:
Plant Container
If your plastic laundry basket is looking a little tired, give it a new lease of life by transforming it into a planter. Drill holes in the base for drainage, then line the basket with a burlap sack. Fill it with soil and you're ready to plant flowers, strawberries, tomatoes, herbs, or even oyster mushrooms. For a stylish, nautical look, wrap the basket with jute rope, securing it with hot glue.
Insect Netting
Protect your plants from insects and birds by using a mesh pop-up laundry hamper as an insect netting tent. Place it over a plant and secure it with garden stakes. The mesh will allow airflow and moisture to reach the plant while providing shade and protection.
Colander
Use a plastic laundry basket as a colander to rinse your freshly harvested fruits and vegetables. Place a larger bucket of water near your garden and when you're ready to wash your produce, dunk the laundry basket into the water, giving it a gentle swish. The basket will catch the produce while allowing excess water to drain back into the bucket.
Compost Bin
Utilise a plastic laundry basket with a lid as a compost bin. Drill a few holes in the bottom for drainage and then layer green and brown materials in a one-to-one ratio. The holes in the basket will allow airflow to help break down the materials into compost.
Garden Tool Carrier
Use your plastic laundry basket as a carrier for your dirty gardening tools. When you're done, you can rinse them right inside the basket. The basket can also be used to store your tools when not in use.
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