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How’s this for a little challenge?
Starting today, for one month let’s see if you can get one extra use from each item that passes over your threshold. Do you think it’s possible?Getting one more use from almost everything I use, has become somewhat of a mission over the years and is the foundation of cutting waste from my life.I’ve become incredibly passionate about making sure most items are reused at least once, in one method or another, before they head to the bin or recycling and I think it’s become a natural part of my thought process. Some people think it’s crazy and a waste of time but if I’m honest I think they’re a tad selfish, meh.
Reusing basics such as carrier bags and glass jars is fantastic and a great way to do your bit for our planet but could you expand to reusing more of the waste you create?It can take a bit of extra energy and thought when you first start on the One More Use train. However after a while it becomes so much so a part of you don’t realise you’re standing in Boots figuring out the best way to reuse a lipstick tube, until your friend asks why you’ve been staring, slack jawed at the Revlon stand for 15 minutes.
How to get started:
– When you buy something after asking yourself if you really need it, follow up by asking yourself “how would I be able to reuse this?”
– Find the fun it because I promise it isn’t all dull. Create a challenge between you and your partner or even your children, to find the most interesting or useful way to reuse a jam jar or tin can, it’s amazing what kind of creativity can spring forth from a bit of competitiveness!
– If you’re struggling for ideas for reusing an odd item hit the internet and see what bloggers, pinners and other genius folk have come up with.
– Realise MOST things can be reused without hassle. For instance mascara wands have an incredible amount of uses (here), elastic bands (here), along with lids from cosmetics etc. (here) and even a chicken carcass (here). Expand your reusing spectrum past jam jars and carrier bags and reduce your impact on the planet!
– Make sure you keep the moto ONE MORE USE in your mind, you could even scrawl it on your bin or recycling bin so you’re reminded at the most useful of times.- Prepare for the odd amount of satisfaction you’ll feel once you get in the swing of it.
Are you up to the challenge?
Check out the rest of the FEB-U-WASTE-ARY series here.
TTFN,
P.S. What are your favourite things to reuse?
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When not sharing thrifty tips and the best of British sales she enjoys trash TV, mooching around charity shops and trying out every mascara on the market.
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