10 Upcycled Uses for Old Things

updated Jul 16, 2020
We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.

As many of us try to curb overspending in the current economic climate, reusing old items can be a great money-saver. Instead of buying a new set of canisters from the Container Store, why not use mason jars instead? It’s not only cheaper, it’s also greener. Below, we list a few ideas for reusing old things. You can find these items in thrift stores, or you might even find some of them lying around your home just waiting to be repurposed…

These porcelain glove molds ($28 from Blue Bell Bazaar) can be used to hold necklaces and bracelets.

Vintage containers (including kitchen canisters, covered dishes, and jars) can be used to organize small items.

Stacked vintage suitcases can be used as side tables and storage pieces. Click here for a few other uses.

Vintage trays make great wall decor or they work as catch-all organizers in a bathroom, bedroom, or entryway.

Vintage linen tea towels make great hand towels in the bathroom. These are $16/set at P.O.S.H.

Etsy seller FODH made wine glass charms ($25/set) out of vintage typewriter keys, but you could also use old beads, machine parts, or anything small that can be threaded with a wire.

These vintage water faucet knobs ($6 from SushiPotParts) make great decorative hooks.

Basic glass and ceramic items like bottles, jars, and even coffee or teacups can be upcycled into lighting.

1 / 22
(Image credit: Apartment Therapy)

Keep a set of vintage cocktail glasses on hand to use as bud vases. This set of 8 is $48 from High Street Market.

Other ideas for upcycling? Let us know in the comments below.