Don’t Throw Out Old Colanders: 10 Brilliant Ways to Reuse Them
We all have that old colander hiding in the back of the kitchen cabinet — dented, scratched, or no longer used for pasta. Before you toss it out, pause! Old colanders are surprisingly versatile and can be repurposed in ways that go far beyond straining spaghetti. With a little creativity, you can turn them into practical, decorative, and even eco-friendly tools around your home.
Here are 10 brilliant ways to reuse your old colanders — some of them might just surprise you!
1. Herb and Vegetable Wash Station
Instead of straining your veggies in a regular bowl, use an old colander to wash and drain fruits, vegetables, or herbs. The holes allow water to drain quickly while keeping everything contained. Bonus: it makes prep easier and keeps your sink tidy.
2. Fruit Basket
Turn your colander into a stylish, rustic fruit basket. Place it on the counter, and let the air circulate through the holes to keep fruits fresh longer. You can even paint or decorate it for a farmhouse-chic look.
3. Hanging Planter
Colanders make perfect hanging planters! Just add some soil and plants, punch a few extra drainage holes if needed, and hang it with chains or rope. The built-in holes ensure excellent drainage, making it ideal for herbs, succulents, or flowers.
4. Steaming Basket
Even if your colander is retired, it can still be used for steaming. Place it over a pot of boiling water, add vegetables, and cover with a lid — instant healthy, steamed goodness!
5. Beach Toy Organizer
Use a colander to store sand toys. The holes allow sand to fall out, keeping toys clean and dry after a trip to the beach.
6. DIY Lamp or Light Fixture
Feeling crafty? Turn a metal colander into a unique pendant light. The holes create a beautiful pattern when light shines through. Just drill a hole for the wiring, insert a bulb, and hang it — instant conversation piece.
7. Kitchen Utensil Holder
Keep your utensils organized by repurposing a colander as a holder. It’s perfect for spatulas, whisks, and ladles. The holes keep them upright and ventilated.
8. Craft Storage
Colanders are great for holding craft supplies like yarn, ribbons, paintbrushes, or beads. The perforated sides make it easy to see what’s inside, and the sturdy structure keeps supplies tidy.
9. Outdoor Bird Feeder
Make your backyard more lively by turning a colander into a bird feeder. Hang it in a tree, fill it with seeds, and let birds perch on the edges. The holes allow water to drain, keeping seeds dry.
10. Shower Caddy
An old colander can be hung in the shower to store soaps, shampoos, and sponges. The holes provide excellent drainage, preventing mildew and keeping your shower organized.
Bonus Tip: Decorate Your Colander
Whether you’re using it indoors or outdoors, a little paint, stencils, or even twine can give your colander a new life as a chic decor piece. Metal or plastic, a colander doesn’t have to look like a kitchen tool to be useful!
Final Thoughts
Old colanders don’t belong in the trash — they’re versatile, practical, and fun to repurpose. From planters and light fixtures to craft organizers and kitchen tools, there are countless ways to give them a second life.
So the next time you spot a forgotten colander in your kitchen, think twice before tossing it. With a bit of creativity, you can turn it into something brilliant and functional! 🌿✨
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