Empty toilet paper rolls can be reused in many practical ways before being recycled. Here are 10 simple ideas:
- Cord organizer
- Wrap charging cables or extension cords and slide them into a roll to keep them from tangling.
- Seed starters
- Fill the rolls with potting soil and start seedlings indoors. They can be planted into the ground with the biodegradable cardboard in many cases.
- Gift wrap organizer
- Slip a roll over the end of wrapping paper to keep it from unrolling.
- Desk organizer
- Stand several rolls upright in a box or container to hold pens, pencils, markers, or paintbrushes.
- Bird feeder craft
- Spread peanut butter (or a suitable alternative if needed), roll in birdseed, and hang it outside. Avoid this if peanut allergies are a concern or if it’s not appropriate for local wildlife.
- Fire starters
- Fill rolls with dry lint or shredded paper for use as fire starters where it’s safe and appropriate.
- Napkin rings
- Cut and decorate sections of the roll for reusable party napkin rings.
- Kids’ craft projects
- Use them to make binoculars, animals, stamps, or marble runs.
- Drawer dividers
- Cut the rolls to size and use them to separate small items like socks, cables, or office supplies.
- Protect knife blades or delicate tools
- Split the roll lengthwise and wrap it around a blade or tool for storage. Make sure it’s secured so it can’t slip off unexpectedly.
Keep in mind:
- Recycle rolls that are wet, moldy, or heavily soiled instead of reusing them.
- If the roll has been stored in an unsanitary environment, avoid using it for crafts involving young children or for anything that will come into contact with food.
These ideas can extend the life of the cardboard before it eventually goes into the recycling bin.
