Stop throwing out old plastic water bottles. Here’s 10 brilliant hacks to use them around the house
Holly Owens
Contributing Writer
Print this recipe
Every year, millions of plastic water bottles are discarded, contributing to the growing problem of plastic pollution. These bottles take hundreds of years to decompose, and during this time, they can leach harmful chemicals into the soil and waterways, affecting wildlife and ecosystems. Recycling rates are still not high enough to counteract the sheer volume of plastic waste produced. By finding creative ways to repurpose these bottles, we can reduce waste, save money, and even create useful items for our homes.
Hack 1: Create a Self-Watering Plant System
Transform an old plastic water bottle into a self-watering system for your plants. Cut the bottle in half, fill the bottom half with water, and place the top half upside down inside it. Insert a piece of fabric or a cotton string through the bottle neck, allowing it to soak up water from the bottom half and deliver it to the soil. This simple system ensures your plants receive a steady supply of moisture, even when you’re away.
Hack 2: Build a Bird Feeder for Your Garden
Attract birds to your garden by converting a plastic bottle into a bird feeder. Poke small holes around the bottle and insert wooden spoons or dowels through them to create perches. Fill the bottle with birdseed and hang it from a tree branch. The seeds will slowly dispense through the holes, providing a continuous food source for your feathered friends.
Hack 3: Design a Handy Storage Container for Small Items
Keep your home organized by using plastic bottles as storage containers. Cut the top off a bottle and use the bottom part to store small items like buttons, screws, or craft supplies. You can even decorate the outside with paint or fabric to match your home decor. These containers are stackable and can be easily labeled for quick identification.
Hack 4: Craft a Homemade Funnel for Kitchen Use
Need a funnel but don’t have one on hand? Cut the top off a plastic bottle and use it as a makeshift funnel for transferring liquids or dry goods. The narrow neck of the bottle makes it perfect for pouring into smaller containers without spilling. This hack is especially useful for cooking, baking, or filling spice jars.
Hack 5: Construct a Simple Drip Irrigation System
Water your garden efficiently by creating a drip irrigation system from plastic bottles. Poke small holes in the sides of a bottle, bury it near the roots of your plants, and fill it with water. The water will slowly seep out, providing a consistent moisture level to the soil. This method conserves water and ensures your plants are hydrated without overwatering.
Hack 6: Make a DIY Phone Amplifier for Better Sound
Enhance the sound of your smartphone with a simple DIY amplifier. Cut a slit in the side of a plastic bottle, just large enough to fit your phone. The bottle will amplify the sound by directing it outward, making it ideal for listening to music or podcasts without external speakers.
Hack 7: Assemble a Portable Mini Greenhouse
