73 things you should never throw out (and how to reuse them)

Clamshell containers are great for repurposing and for holding cookies.

When it’s time to clean out the refrigerator, be sure to save those plastic berry containers.

You can toss the mushy raspberries, but wash and dry the container – it’s perfect for spreading grass seed on your lawn!

Pipe insulation is somewhat similar to a pool noodle and it’s just as handy to have.

You can use foam pipe insulation to baby-proof your home.

Cut the tube to length and slip it onto edges and corners that could be dangerous to a small child.

The pressure of the curved foam will keep it in place for an easy-to-remove baby-proofing solution.

Or, use the adhesive strip to hold the insulation in place for a more permanent safety fix.

The next time you need to clean your window blinds, use an old sock on your hand!

Your hand makes a perfect tool for reaching all of the nooks and crannies on the blinds, and the sock picks up dust wonderfully.

Wine bottles are getting used by DIYers for all sorts of projects these days. If you’re up for cutting glass, try using empty wine bottles as planters. You’ll need to cut either the side or the top, depending on the look you’re going for.

Gutters can also be used for creative outdoor water features.

Or, like here, gutters have been mounted on a wall for a hydroponic garden.

Who says practical storage can’t be pretty?

This DIY Knife Block, made from old books, is a cinch to make.

Simply pick some unique books in your favourite color scheme and tie them together tightly with twine to create the perfect home for all your kitchen knives.

You can even create different colour schemes based on the seasons and holidays, making this a versatile hack and way to figure out what to do with old books.

If you need extra storage space reach for a curtain rod.

If you have space in an upper cabinet, try a DIY spice storage rack that uses a spring-tension curtain rod.

One of your easiest and most eco-friendly options for toy storage is already in your refrigerator.

Empty your mesh produce bags and toss in your child’s bath or beach toys.

Attach a plastic hook and hang the bag of toys on the shower wall within easy reach.

And if you need more room than what you can hold in a bag, buy a reusable mesh produce bag and still have an eco-friendly bag alternative to traditional toy storage.

Save all your glass and plastic containers for your shop.

Glass jars work well for liquids.

Clean brushes in an old tin can.

Brush on glue from small containers of all kinds.

Sour cream/cottage cheese containers work for just about everything.

Clear plastic containers are great for miscellaneous storage because you can see what’s in them.

Just label everything with a permanent marker.

These old bamboo blinds have a new life as an American flag.

Just remove the headrail of the blinds by cutting the string that holds it together and tie it off to prevent unravelling.

Then grab your patriotic paint and get started.