15 Ingenious Ways to Reuse Old Empty Bottles

You know those empty bottles you have lying around? Instead of tossing them out, why not put them to good use? Repurposing bottles is not only eco-friendly but also super fun and creative. From practical household items to cool DIY projects, there are so many ways to give those old bottles a new life. Check out these 20 ingenious ways to reuse your old empty bottles and start crafting today!

Bird Feeder

Transform an old plastic bottle into a bird feeder. Clean the bottle thoroughly and make a few small holes around the middle for the birds to access the seeds. Attach a perch below each hole using wooden sticks. Fill the bottle with birdseed and hang it in your garden using strong twine or wire. This simple project will attract a variety of birds to your backyard. You can even paint the bottle to blend with the garden environment.

Terrarium

Create a miniature garden using a glass or plastic bottle. Start by cutting the bottle in half and filling the bottom with small pebbles for drainage. Add a layer of activated charcoal to keep the water fresh, then top it with potting soil. Plant small ferns, succulents, or mosses in the soil and water lightly. Close the top half to maintain humidity and place it in indirect sunlight. This terrarium will serve as a beautiful, low-maintenance addition to your home decor.

Egg Yolk Separator

Use a plastic bottle to separate egg yolks from whites. Crack an egg into a bowl, then squeeze the bottle slightly and place the mouth over the yolk. Release the pressure to suck the yolk into the bottle. Gently squeeze the yolk out into a separate bowl. This hack is quick, mess-free, and ensures perfect separation every time. It’s especially useful for recipes requiring precise egg yolk measurements.

Piggy Bank

Convert a large bottle into a piggy bank for saving coins. Wash the bottle and cut a coin slot in the side. Decorate the bottle with paint, stickers, or other craft materials to make it fun and personalized. Use the piggy bank to teach children about saving money or to collect spare change for a special purchase. You can even label it for specific savings goals.

Watering Container

Old bottles can be used to make self-watering containers for plants. Poke small holes in the bottle cap and fill the bottle with water. Place the bottle upside down in the soil near the plant. The water will slowly drip out, providing a consistent moisture supply to the roots, which is especially useful for potted plants. This method helps conserve water by reducing evaporation.

Hanging Basket

Transform plastic bottles into hanging planters for your garden. Cut the bottle in half and drill drainage holes in the bottom. Fill the bottom half with soil and plant flowers or herbs. Use a strong rope or wire to hang the planter from a hook or balcony rail. This is a great way to add greenery to small spaces. You can customize them with vibrant colors to enhance your outdoor decor.

Pencil Case

Make a durable pencil case using a large plastic bottle. Cut the bottle to the desired length, keeping the bottom and top parts intact. Attach a zipper to the cut edges using a hot glue gun. Decorate the outside with paint, stickers, or fabric. This pencil case is perfect for keeping your stationery organized. It’s a unique and creative solution for school supplies.

Soap Dispenser

Convert a glass bottle into a stylish soap dispenser. Clean the bottle thoroughly and attach a soap pump to the top. Fill the bottle with liquid soap, lotion, or shampoo. This DIY project adds a touch of elegance to your bathroom or kitchen and reduces plastic waste. You can also use decorative bottles to match your decor theme.

Garden Sprinkler

Turn an old plastic bottle into a garden sprinkler. Poke small holes all over the bottle using a heated needle or a sharp tool. Attach the bottle to a garden hose using duct tape or a hose adapter. When you turn on the water, it will spray out evenly from the holes, providing a gentle shower for your plants. This DIY sprinkler is ideal for evenly watering a large area.

Vase

Transform a glass bottle into a decorative vase. Clean the bottle thoroughly and remove any labels. Paint the outside with glass paint or wrap it with decorative paper or fabric. Fill the bottle with water and add fresh flowers. This simple project adds a personal touch to your home decor. It’s an easy and elegant way to recycle glass bottles.

Candle Holder

Use old glass bottles as candle holders. Cut the bottle to the desired height using a glass cutter. Smooth the edges with sandpaper to avoid sharp edges. Place a tea light or a small pillar candle inside the bottle. This creates a charming, rustic look for your home or garden. They can be used for special occasions or as everyday decor.

Plant Watering Globes

Create self-watering globes for your plants using glass bottles. Fill the bottle with water and quickly invert it into the soil next to your plant. The water will slowly seep out, keeping the soil consistently moist. This is particularly useful for houseplants when you’re away for a few days. It ensures your plants remain hydrated without overwatering.

Bird Bath

Make a small bird bath using a large plastic bottle. Cut the bottle in half and use the bottom part. Fill it with water and place it in your garden. Add some stones or marbles to the bottom for weight and decoration. This simple bird bath will attract birds, providing them with a place to drink and bathe. It’s a lovely addition to any garden or yard.

Decorative Lights

Create unique outdoor lights using glass bottles. Insert a string of fairy lights into each bottle, leaving the plug outside. Arrange the bottles around your garden or patio and plug in the lights. This project adds a magical ambiance to your outdoor space. They are perfect for evening gatherings and parties.

Dog Toy

Repurpose plastic bottles as dog toys. Clean the bottle and remove the label. Place some treats inside and close the cap. Your dog will enjoy the challenge of trying to get the treats out, providing mental stimulation and exercise. Always supervise your pet to ensure they don’t chew off small pieces. It’s a fun and interactive way to keep your dog entertained.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout

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