Climate change and environmental degradation have become global concerns over the past few decades. According to some reports, Americans use up to 35 billion plastic bottles each year, with 1.35 billion tossed out into landfills. Taking the initiative from an individual level reduces your environmental footprint and can lead to tremendous positive results in the long run. In this article, we explore eight clever ways to recycle plastics. Check out additional waste management tips from Dumposaurus Dumpsters & Rolloff Rental.
Create Watering Cans And Sprinklers
Recycled watering cans and sprinklers are among the easiest DIYs you can do with detergent and soda bottles, respectively. For watering cans, take a large gallon of an empty detergent container and poke as many holes as you need on the top. When in use, fill the can with water and tilt it downwards to allow water to flow through the holes and onto your plants.
For sprinklers, take a large soda bottle and place it horizontally on the ground. Poke medium-sized holes on the sides. Fasten your hose to the entry point of the bottle and turn on the water. When the bottle is full, water will gush out upwards with pressure from the holes you made.
Make Portable Sewless Stationery Holders
You can make convenient functional pen holders using water and soda bottles. Take two bottles and cut out the upper part since you will only need the bottom part for this project. Use some hot glue to attach a zipper to each end, allowing you to close and open the case. Alternatively, you can leave the pen pouch open and seal the cut parts by attaching fabric or rubber using a hot glue gun to prevent injuries.
Reuse Plastic Bottles As Storage For Snacks And Kitchen Spices.
Coffee creamers and other products come in heavy plastic bottles, making them convenient for reusing over a long period. Take some alcohol or nail polish remover and rub it on any labels or stickers on the bottle. Peel out the sticker after 15 minutes and use a sponge filled with alcohol to remove any adhesive on the bottle. Wash the bottle with warm water and transfer your contents, like snacks, salt, and sugar, into it when it dries.
Make A Pot For Your Plants
Growing a few plants and herbs is an excellent addition to your kitchen. Take a plastic bottle of your preferred size and cut out the top part. Put soil into the bottom part and plant your seeds and other plants. For greater aesthetic appeal, you can paint the outer parts of the bottle with your preferred paints and colors to create fun drawing designs.
Make A Piggy Bank
Piggy banks are excellent for teaching your kids money-saving tips or for simply putting away all those coins you do not intend to use at the moment. The design does not always have to be a pig; you can create any clever design with a small opening that makes the coins hard to access. Painting is a clever little hack that can make the piggy bank more aesthetically pleasing, or you may leave the bottle transparent to track the progress of your savings. Whichever you prefer, plastic bottles are an excellent, inexpensive choice for a piggy bank.
Turn Plastic Detergent Bottles into Scoop Buckets
The next time you use the last of your laundry detergent, remember to stash away the bottle for when you need it at the beach. These bottles can make excellent beach buckets for kids to play with when scooping sand or water. Before heading to the beach, take the bottle, cut off the bottom half, and leave the handle and opening intact. Let your child scoop while holding the handle and use either the bottom or the top parts to empty the container. They will need to repeatedly open and close the lid to drain through the top part, which can be extra fun.
Upscale A Used Plastic Bottle Into A Trash Can
Take a huge 20-liter water bottle and cut the upper part. Seal the cut parts by attaching rubber, plastic, or fabric with hot glue for safe use. You can then use it as a trash can, especially for outdoor spaces. A coat of fun paint and designs can turn it into a cheerful DIY project.
Turn Soda Bottles Into Party Decor
You can turn soda bottles into fun little baskets for treats during kids’ parties in your house. Take the bottles and cut out the upper parts, leaving them open. Paint them to your desired colors and store treats in there for each child that comes over to your party.
There are many ways to recycle different plastic bottles without much work. You not only reduce environmental degradation but end up saving a few bucks and inspiring others to do the same.
