Let’s get one thing out of the way right up front: this is not about keeping clutter. I’m
not encouraging you to hang on to everything “just in case,” or to fill closets and drawers with items you’ll never use.
This is about those few things you’ve already decided to keep, for now, because they’re still usable, sentimental, or perfectly fine. They’re just sitting around without a purpose. Think of this as a collection of
fun, practical repurposing ideas that help you use what you already own, instead of letting it quietly take up space.
Do you have assorted items throughout your home that you don’t want to toss, but that also aren’t being used? You might be surprised at how easily some of these everyday things can be given a second life. Here are a few
creative ways to put them back to work.
1. Lone Socks: Who doesn’t save lone socks, thinking the missing one will turn up someday? Chances are it won’t, so let that sock earn its keep. Fill it with catnip and knot the ends for a new cat toy. Or knot or ball it up to make a dog very happy. You can also slip a sock over
your hand to dust blinds or baseboards.
2. Old (but Loved) T-Shirts: Those faded T-shirts with memories attached don’t need to hog drawer space. Start using them as rags or dusters. Cut them into squares for reusable cleaning wipes. If you love the graphics, turn them into pillows or quilts. Torn into strips, they can
even be used to make braided rugs.
3. Old Calendars with Great Pictures: Many people save calendars because they love the images. Then hide them in a drawer. Instead, put them to use. Calendar pages are great for decoupage or other paper crafts (use an acid neutralizer if needed). Laminate images to make placemats, cut
large photos into puzzles for kids, or simply frame a favorite picture and hang it on the wall.
4. Greeting Cards: It’s perfectly fine to keep truly sentimental cards, but what about the rest? Reuse greeting cards by cutting out the front images and creating brand-new cards. Add a few embellishments and you’ve got
something thoughtful and personal...without buying anything new.
5. Pantyhose: Use pantyhose in the garden to tie plants to stakes. They also make excellent soft buffing cloths for shoes or furniture. Cut off the feet, fill with cedar chips or potpourri, and tuck them into closets or drawers to keep clothes smelling
fresh.
6. Plastic Bags: Plastic bags seem to multiply overnight. In addition to using them as wastebasket liners, they can cushion breakables when packing or moving, protect shoes when walking through wet grass or the garden, or cover plants during a light frost. Cut them open and use them as temporary shelf liners.
Then recycle what you don’t need.
7. Old Jeans: If you have old jeans that are hard to part with, put the denim to work. Different shades make beautiful quilts. Cut pieces for journal covers, photo albums, or school book covers. If you’re crafty, turn them into a tote or purse. One jean leg can become a tube-shaped
rice heat pack...perfect for sore muscles or warming the bed on a chilly night.
8. Furniture in Storage: If you’ve stored furniture you don’t want to sell or give away, consider refreshing it instead. A new paint color, updated hardware, or a creative tweak can make it useful again. Decorating books or magazines are
great for sparking ideas and seeing old pieces in a new light.
9. Vintage Pieces: Vintage items don’t belong hidden away. Put them on display and to use. Old canisters, jars, and covered dishes are perfect for storing jewelry, change, or small supplies. Stacked vintage suitcases can double as side tables with storage.
Vintage trays make beautiful wall décor and add character to any room.
10. Extra Purses and Totes: Many women have purses sitting unused in the closet. If one is still in good condition, give it a job. Use a clutch to hold daily essentials you move from bag to bag. Store tax papers or important documents in a sturdy
tote. Small purses are also handy for organizing toiletries when traveling by car or train.
These are just a few examples of how items you’ve already chosen to keep can be used instead of stored. Be creative and see what other everyday things in your home might serve a new purpose. When something earns its keep, it stops feeling like
clutter and starts feeling like a smart solution.
On another note...
10
Bed & Bath Essentials You're Going to Adore
Turn your home into a retreat with my specially curated bed and bath picks. From crisp sheets and plush towels to a cozy robe and spa-inspired extras, these favorites bring hotel-style comfort right into your own space. Every item is designed to make your bedroom and bathroom feel like a
personal getaway! Click to access
