Don’t Junk Those Cheap Rubbermaid Containers From Walmart: 10 Brilliant Ways to Reuse Them

 

# Don’t Junk Those Cheap Rubbermaid Containers From Walmart: 10 Brilliant Ways to Reuse Them

If you’re like many people, you probably have a drawer or cupboard full of **cheap Rubbermaid containers from Walmart** that once held leftovers, snacks, or bulk foods. Over time, some may become scratched, slightly stained, or warped—and many people instinctively toss them.

But before you consider throwing them out, pause! These affordable plastic containers are **extremely versatile**. With a bit of creativity, you can **reuse them in dozens of practical, fun, and money-saving ways** around your home, garden, office, and beyond.

In this blog post, we’ll explore **10 brilliant ways to reuse cheap Rubbermaid containers** so you can declutter responsibly, save money, and even boost your creativity.

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## 1. Organize Your Pantry Like a Pro

Pantry organization is often challenging—spices, snacks, grains, and snacks can easily become a chaotic mess. Cheap Rubbermaid containers are perfect for creating a **clean, uniform storage system**.

### How to Do It:

* Transfer dry goods like rice, pasta, cereal, and lentils into containers of consistent size.

* Label each container with **masking tape or a label maker** for easy identification.

* Stack containers for a neat, space-saving solution.

**Bonus Tip:** Clear containers allow you to **see how much is left**, preventing overbuying and food waste.

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## 2. DIY Drawer Dividers

Ever open a junk drawer and wish for some semblance of order? Rubbermaid containers can be transformed into **custom drawer dividers**.

### Steps:

* Measure the width of your drawer.

* Use several small containers to separate utensils, office supplies, or craft tools.

* Arrange containers side by side or cut them to fit snugly.

This simple trick instantly **reduces clutter** and makes it easier to find what you need.

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## 3. Seed Starters for Gardening

If you have a green thumb, Rubbermaid containers are perfect for **starting seeds indoors** before transplanting them to your garden.

### Instructions:

* Fill the container with **potting soil**.

* Plant seeds according to the package instructions.

* Cover with a clear lid or plastic wrap to retain moisture.

* Once seedlings sprout and grow strong, transplant to the garden.

**Tip:** Punch a few small holes in the bottom for drainage if you plan to let the container sit outdoors.

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## 4. Homemade Lunch Boxes and Snack Packs

These containers are ideal for **packing lunches** or **portioning snacks** for kids and adults alike.

### Benefits:

* Affordable and reusable alternative to single-use bags.

* Easy to **microwave** (check labels for safety).

* Perfect for portion control—great if you’re watching your diet.

**Pro Hack:** Use smaller containers for **nuts, fruit slices, or trail mix**, and larger ones for sandwiches or salads.

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## 5. Organize Your Car or Trunk

Rubbermaid containers are **durable and portable**, making them perfect for car organization.

### How to Use Them:

* Store emergency supplies like a first aid kit, flashlight, jumper cables, or water bottles.

* Keep reusable grocery bags, snacks, or kid’s toys organized in the trunk.

* Prevent liquids from spilling onto upholstery.

This is especially useful for **road trips or daily commutes**, keeping everything secure and in one place.

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## 6. Arts and Crafts Storage

If you or your kids enjoy crafting, Rubbermaid containers are a lifesaver for **organizing supplies** like beads, yarn, paints, brushes, or stickers.

### Tips:

* Use **smaller containers for tiny items** like buttons or sequins.

* Stack multiple containers for **efficient shelf storage**.

* Transparent containers make it easy to **find what you need quickly**.

**Bonus:** Use old container lids as **mixing palettes** for paints or glue.

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## 7. DIY Refrigerator Storage Solution

Fridge organization is a common struggle, but Rubbermaid containers can help.

### Ideas:

* Keep prepped ingredients like chopped vegetables, fruits, or herbs neatly stored.

* Store leftover sauces or soups to prevent spills.

* Use containers for **cheese slices or deli meats**, keeping them fresh longer.

**Pro Tip:** Invest in multiple small containers for portioning meal prep ingredients—this makes cooking faster and reduces food waste.

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## 8. Protect and Store Seasonal Items

When it comes to seasonal decorations, holiday ornaments, or small tools, Rubbermaid containers are perfect for keeping things **safe and organized**.

### How to Use:

* Wrap fragile items in tissue paper or bubble wrap before storing in containers.

* Label the containers by season or holiday.

* Stack them in closets, attics, or garages for **easy retrieval next year**.

This method protects your items from dust, moisture, and accidental breakage.

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## 9. Pet Food Storage

Rubbermaid containers are **airtight and durable**, making them ideal for storing pet food or treats.

### Advantages:

* Keeps kibble or treats **fresh longer**.

* Reduces the risk of pests like ants or rodents.

* Easy to scoop out daily portions.

**Pro Tip:** Smaller containers can be used to **pack pet snacks for travel**.

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## 10. Make Your Own Mini Toolbox

Even a single small container can become a **compact toolbox** for home repairs or quick fixes.

### How to Set It Up:

* Store nails, screws, nuts, bolts, or small tools in separate containers.

* Use larger containers for hammers, screwdrivers, or pliers.

* Keep it under your sink, in the garage, or in a closet for **easy access**.

This is an **affordable alternative to a dedicated toolbox**, especially if you only need it for light tasks.

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## Bonus Hacks: Going Beyond the Obvious

If you thought that was all, here are **extra creative ways** to reuse Rubbermaid containers:

1. **Ice cube trays:** Fill small containers with water, juice, or broth.

2. **DIY fridge crisper:** Store herbs, lettuce, or berries in containers lined with paper towels.

3. **Mini terrariums:** Add soil, moss, and tiny plants for decorative indoor gardening.

4. **Kids’ toy organization:** Perfect for Legos, action figures, or tiny doll accessories.

5. **Travel kit:** Store toiletries, cosmetics, or travel snacks for easy packing.

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## Eco-Friendly Benefits

Reusing cheap Rubbermaid containers is not just practical—it’s **environmentally friendly**.

* **Reduces plastic waste:** Instead of tossing containers, give them a second life.

* **Saves money:** No need to buy specialized storage solutions.

* **Encourages creativity:** Finding new uses for simple items can inspire innovative problem-solving.

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## Cleaning and Maintaining Rubbermaid Containers

To get the most out of your reused containers, proper care is key:

1. **Wash thoroughly** with hot, soapy water before repurposing.

2. **Avoid harsh stains:** Use baking soda and vinegar to remove lingering odors.

3. **Check lids:** Replace warped or cracked lids to maintain airtight storage.

4. **Avoid overheating:** Some cheap containers may warp in the microwave—check labels for safety.

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## Safety Considerations

While Rubbermaid containers are versatile, consider these safety points:

* **Not all are microwave-safe:** Only use containers labeled as microwave safe.

* **Avoid storing acidic foods long-term:** Tomatoes or citrus can discolor or degrade some plastics.

* **Inspect for cracks:** Damaged containers can harbor bacteria.

* **Avoid freezing liquids in very small containers**—they may crack.

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## Making Organization Fun

Turning Rubbermaid containers into reusable storage solutions can actually be **fun and satisfying**.

* Color-code your containers for **different rooms or tasks**.

* Label with chalk markers for **easily changeable organization**.

* Stack creatively to **maximize vertical space**.

Even cheap containers from Walmart can transform your home from chaotic to organized with a little imagination.

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## Conclusion

Before you toss those scratched, stained, or mismatched Rubbermaid containers, remember that **cheap doesn’t mean useless**. From pantry organization to craft storage, seed starting, pet food management, and DIY mini toolboxes, these containers have **countless practical applications**.

By thinking outside the box (pun intended), you can:

* Save money

* Reduce plastic waste

* Create a more organized, functional home

* Spark creativity in unexpected ways

So, the next time you reach for a container destined for the trash, pause. With a little ingenuity, that humble Rubbermaid container could **become one of your most useful household tools**.

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### Quick Recap: 10 Brilliant Ways to Reuse Rubbermaid Containers

1. Pantry organization

2. DIY drawer dividers

3. Seed starters for gardening

4. Homemade lunch boxes and snack packs

5. Organize your car or trunk

6. Arts and crafts storage

7. Fridge organization

8. Seasonal decoration storage

9. Pet food storage

10. Mini toolbox

**Bonus hacks:** Ice cube trays, DIY fridge crispers, mini terrariums, kids’ toy organization, travel kits