source: Petras Gagilas ; CC license
Current restrictions regarding household waste mean you’re always on the lookout for new ways to reduce, reuse or recycle rubbish. Don’t throw your money away by trying to squeeze as much as possible into your wheelie bin and put things such as old clothes and plastic bags to better use. Let’s give you some top tips for turning your rubbish into cash.
PLASTIC BAGS
Old plastic bread bags can be used as sandwich bags or for storing items in the freezer. Just shake out the crumbs and you’re good to go. Rather than throw empty plastic carrier bags straight in the bin save money on bin liners and use them to line your kitchen bin. They’ve even got two handles that serve as ties.
OLD CLOTHES
When you’re thinking of a new outfit try and be imaginative with what you’ve already got. A few snips here and there or the application of patches or sequins can bring new life back into tired garments. Plain and boring clothes take on a whole new look when dyed a different colour. Many universities now organise a regular clothes swap where you can exchange what you no longer wear for something different.
UNWANTED ORNAMENTS
One man’s rubbish is another man’s treasure. Something initially thought of as rubbish can be transformed into attractive decorations for your home. Use those long forgotten CD’s as a mobile or place them on the wall as an interesting feature. If you haven’t got a garden try using tired, old crockery as planters on the windowsill. Don’t spend money on arty candlesticks when glass jars can be spruced up with a lick of paint and used instead.
FOOD
You don’t need to be a Masterchef contestant to take the items sat at the back of your larder or scrapings off your plate and perform some culinary magic. You’ll find a wealth of interesting dishes you can create using leftovers, readily accessible on the internet.
FREECYCLE
If you don’t want it someone else might. Freecycle connects people in your local area who have things they no longer need. As the name implies the exchange is not made for money but when you look on the website you might find something you want yourself.
CAR BOOT SALE
Box it all up and take it along to a local car boot sale. Now a popular Sunday morning pastime car boots sales are popping up all over the country. You’re bound to find one locally nearly every weekend. You won’t make a fortune as car booters are really only looking for a bargain but you’re bound to be able to scrap up a few extra quid.
DONATE TO CHARITY
If making money is not your main aim take your unwanted items to a local charity shop. They’re becoming increasing popular on many high streets and you can take your pick of the many different charities they raise funds for.
Hopefully we’ve given you some interesting ideas for your waste items and helped you put a few extra pounds back in your wallet.
Image source: www.flickr.com
