New Uses for Everyday Household Items's featured image

There are plenty of common household items that can serve dual purposes.  Give those items a longer life – and be more environmentally friendly by cutting back on waste – by using the handy cleaning and organization tips below.

Paper towel tubes and tissue boxes – Once the paper towels or tissues have been all used up, use the empty cardboard tube or box to store plastic bags that you’re able to use on future grocery trips.  This allows you to free up more space in your drawer or cupboard that would have otherwise been bursting with bags!

Wine rack – You were given a gorgeous wine rack as a wedding gift… but you don’t drink wine.  Repurpose the rack as a magazine holder in your living room, a shoe organizer in your closet or a towel holder in the bathroom!

Muffin tins and ice cube trays – Use those old muffin tins and ice cube trays as desk organizers for those smaller items that get lost within the contents of your drawers.  They’re also great for storing your children’s craft items.

Toothpaste – You cut some garlic and onions for tonight’s dinner and the smell won’t come off your hands!  Don’t worry, just wet your hands, squeeze a dollop of toothpaste onto your palm and rub your hands together as if you’re washing them with soap.  Then rinse and smell the minty scent it leaves behind!