Brilliant Ways to Reuse Empty Pill Bottles Instead of Throwing Them Away
Empty prescription bottles are small, sturdy, and often come with secure lids, making them useful for many household projects. Before reusing them, remove or cover any personal information on the label and wash the bottles thoroughly.
Here are some creative ideas:
1. Travel Containers
Use clean pill bottles to store:
- Small amounts of shampoo, lotion, or creams
- Cotton swabs
- Hair ties
- Small toiletries
2. Mini First-Aid Storage
They can hold items such as:
- Bandages
- Gauze pieces
- Antiseptic wipes
- Small emergency supplies
(Keep medications in their original labeled containers unless a healthcare professional advises otherwise.)
3. Small Craft Supply Organizers
Great for storing:
- Buttons
- Beads
- Sewing needles
- Small craft pieces
- Screws or nails
4. Seed Storage
Clean, dry bottles can help organize seeds for gardening. Label each bottle with the plant name and date.
5. Emergency Car Kit Items
They can store:
- Spare coins
- Safety pins
- Small flashlight batteries (if appropriate for the battery type)
- Emergency notes or contact information
6. Jewelry Storage
Use them to keep:
- Earrings together
- Rings safe while traveling
- Small jewelry pieces separated
7. DIY Organizers
Attach or arrange bottles in a drawer or craft area to create compartments for tiny items.
8. Kid-Friendly Learning Projects
With supervision, empty bottles can be used for:
- Counting activities
- Sorting games
- Simple science projects
9. Plant Propagation Containers
Some small cuttings can be started in water-filled containers, though clear glass containers are often easier to monitor.
10. Donation or Recycling
If you don’t need them, check whether your local pharmacy accepts empty bottles for recycling or reuse. Many recycling programs do not accept pill bottles in curbside bins because of their size and plastic type.
Safety note: Avoid using old prescription bottles to store food, spices, or anything meant for eating unless you are certain the material is suitable and the bottle has been thoroughly cleaned. Never reuse a bottle that still contains medication residue.
