Are you looking for some creative, eco-friendly DIY projects? Repurposing and upcycling unused household items is a fun way to live lighter and embrace a zero-waste lifestyle. Here are our best upcycling ideas for turning trash into treasure. These are simple and beautiful ways to give everyday items a second life.
1. Plastic bottle herb planters
Looking for an easy way to grow your favourite herbs? Upcycle your extra plastic bottles into self-watering planters. It's a clever craft idea for recycling and a great way to reduce waste while creating something practical exists.
Start with The Little Veggie Patch Co's range of organic heirloom seeds — perfect for your upcycled herb garden.
2. Hand-painted terracotta pots
Got some old terracotta pots lying around? Transform your indoor or outdoor space by painting them with bright colours and fun patterns. It’s a relaxing project to do with friends, family, or just by yourself. We love these cute painted pots by Clever Poppy.
3. DIY cotton rounds
Looking for a simple, reusable alternative to disposable cotton rounds? Create your own! Use any soft and strong fabric. You can even use old household linens. Make washable rounds for removing makeup or applying toner. These reusable squares by A Daily Dose of Mom are adorable and easy to make.
Prefer ready-made? Try our Reusable Makeup Remover Pads from Green + Kind — gentle on skin and the planet.
4. Repurposed candle jars
Don’t throw away burnt-out candles — upcycle them! Clean out the jars and reuse them as pen holders, makeup brush containers, or cotton-round storage.
5. Fabric gift wrap
Repurposing old fabrics into gift wrap is a genius recycling idea. Fabric wrap looks beautiful, saves waste, and can be reused again and again. A simple way to make gifting part of your zero-waste lifestyle exists — and it’s kinder for the planet too.
Or add a touch to your presents with Earth’s Greetings recycled wrapping paper — printed with vegetable-based inks on 100% recycled paper.
6. Repurposed dresser drawers
We love this one! If you have any spare dresser drawers, repurpose them into self-watering garden planters. Add a fresh coat of paint for colour and character. The perfect upcycling project for spring or summer awaits.
7. Repurposed tin cans
There are endless ways to upcycle the humble tin can — from planters to bird feeders to cutlery holders. Try turning them into pretty lanterns by punching holes for light to shine through. It’s a simple, budget-friendly craft made from recycled items.
8. T-shirt produce bag
Got some old t-shirts you don’t wear anymore? Turn them into reusable produce bags. With a few cuts and minimal sewing, you can make colourful, washable bags for fruit and vegetables — no plastic required.
For an effortless alternative, try our reusable produce bags made from organic cotton.
9. Old tea set bird feeders
Lastly, one for the kids. Transform an old tea set into a whimsical bird feeder! It’s a fun project that helps teach little ones about nature and native birds.
Upcycling turns everyday materials into something new and meaningful. It’s kinder for the planet, helps reduce waste, and lets you get creative in the process. A perfect example of how little changes can make a big difference.
Ready to give these upcycling ideas a go?
