Key Points
- Plastic planters are durable, waterproof, and versatile, making them ideal for creative reuse around the home.
- They help reduce plastic waste while offering practical storage and organization solutions.
- Their lightweight, rust-resistant design works well in damp or outdoor spaces.
Think plastic planters can only be used for plants? Think again. Old plastic planters can easily be reused for various purposes around the home and garden because they are durable, waterproof, and versatile.
“Not only are they easy to clean and lightweight to move around, but they’re a creative solution to limiting your plastic use. That mix of durability and low-maintenance makes them perfect for countless creative uses,” explains cleaning pro Karina Toner.
Below, she shares the many ways that plastic planters can be reused and repurposed for your home and garden needs.
Meet the Expert
Karina Toner is the operations manager of home cleaning service Spekless.
Herb Garden Organizer
Reusing old plastic planters as a herb garden organizer may seem obvious, but it’s still a very effective repurposing.
“Plastic planters are lightweight and easy to move, which is ideal for herbs that need sun adjustments,” explains Toner.
She suggests cleaning the planter, adding drainage holes if needed, filling it with potting mix, and then planting your desired herbs. Several of these can be grouped together near a window in your kitchen, or even outdoors.
Laundry Room Supply Holder
Plastic planters are great organizers for the laundry room because “spills and moisture are just part of the package,” says Toner.
Large to medium planters can be used to hold items like detergent bottles, dryer sheets, and stain removers.
“Plastic resists moisture and wipes clean easily, making it perfect for damp laundry spaces,” Toner adds.
Ice-Melt or Rock Salt Bin
Because plastic planters don’t rust or corrode like metal, they make a great and practical way to store ice melt during the winter.
Simply place the planter near your door, fill it with your rock salt or ice melt, and leave a small shovel or scoop inside to easily scatter its contents outside when frost and snow come through.
Garden Tool Caddy
Smaller plastic planters can be reused to keep your garden tools in one single and easy-to-reach place. They can be left near your garden bed or shed so you have easy access to any pruners, trowels, or hand rakes.
“Plastic will not rust and can handle dirt, water, and outdoor exposure without breaking down,” Toner says.
Office Supply Holder
If you have trouble keeping your home desk clean and organized, a plastic planter may just be the solution for you. Small planters made from thicker plastics can be used to hold items like pens, sticky notes, and scissors.
“This is a simple way to corral everyday desk clutter without buying a dedicated organizer, and something I personally use at home too,” explains Toner, adding that thicker plastic will be better at handling constant rearranging.
Garage Hardware Sorter
Looking for no-fuss storage for any loose nails and screws? Consider a plastic planter. The plastic is durable enough to handle sharp hardware while providing just the right amount of organization.
Toner suggests labeling each planter by size or project, and keeping them neatly organized on a shelf or workbench.
Sink Caddy
One of the most practical everyday uses for a plastic planter is a sink caddy for sponges and brushes. Sinks are a home feature that gets used everyday, and small plastic planters can be used to make the chore of washing dishes just a little more organized.
“Many plastic planters already have drainage holes, which helps with airflow and prevents moisture buildup,” Toner says. “Plastic can handle constant moisture without getting grimy or moldy.”
Read the original article on The Spruce