By: Pam Melton

Whether you believe in global warming or not, there’s no harm in being better stewards of our earth.  A simple thing that we can do, that ultimately saves a little money too, is to get extra use out of items before they are jettisoned into the great garbage heap.  Don’t get me wrong. I still throw things away, but by re-using plastic or other types of containers for those disposable items, I’m reducing my contribution to the landfill.  It’s not much, but every little bit helps.  Here are a few simple ideas that I put to work around my house.  I’m sure that all of you have some clever uses for stuff that most people discard – share them with all of the Hands On Women who stop by the site.

Disposable facial cleansing cloth containers - there are great for dispensing cotton balls and Q-Tips® 

Disposable wipe containers - easy to open home for crayons, markers, chalk and small items that come with playsets and whatnot.











Paper towel and toilet paper cores - I can't remember where I saw this one, but it was on a website.  If anyone recognizes the tip, let us know the website so we can give them proper credit.  I find this one particularly handy.  I use the few plastic grocery bags I end up with as liners for my small garbage cans.  These cores are great for neatly storing them where I need  them.





Styrofoam meat trays - a lot of you probably know this one.  It's an oldie but a goodie.  These trays are great for drywall mud and latex paint for smaller projects.

Dishwashing liquid bottles - fill them with bleach for those times when you have a defined area that needs to be treated.

Cool/Odd-Shaped liquor bottles - I use these for mouthwash, olive and other oils , in general, liquids that I purchase in larger containers than are practical for everyday use.  Just stick a pour spout (available at most grocery stores for less than $5) in it and go crazy.
 
I’m sure you Hands On Women out there are full of ideas to give some consumable a new life.  Send them in and watch the list grow.