The Last Thing You Should Do with Old Plastic Storage Containers Before You Toss Them

I have to admit: I love a good decluttering session. Throwing things out helps me relieve anxiety and makes me feel at peace with the world. That doesn’t mean, however, that I don’t try to get the very most out of something before I give it the heave-ho. And, of course, it should go without saying that I recycle anything that’s recyclable and, if it’s in pretty good shape, but not getting used, I’ll find a new home for it. (Lately, my boyfriend has inherited a chef’s knife, a cutting board, and some dish towels.)

My irreparably blackened baking sheet is an example of something I will probably never throw out. I still use it occasionally to roast veggies, but mostly I upcycle it as a tray. Just recently, I used it to transport just-from-the-oven blondies that weren’t cool enough to put in a proper bin.

Plastic storage containers are another common kitchen item you should think twice about before you toss out. Maybe you have a slightly cracked or stained container; you probably have at least one that’s missing a lid. Instead of throwing those plastic containers in the recycling bin, consider using them in other parts of the house — like the garage or the basement.

In my parents’ house, we have a part of the basement that my nephews call the “yucky basement.” It is unfinished and, well, kind of yucky. (I mean, it’s not super-yucky, just to be clear — it’s just a little dustier than the rest of the house, which is always pristine!) It’s where we keep old computer and stereo equipment that my dad can’t seem to give up, old books and toys, spare bits and bobs. It’s essentially a giant junk drawer — and, like with junk drawers, you could buy some fancy organizers. Or you could use what you have.

Old plastic containers are ideal for things like binder clips, nails and screws, wires and cords, art supplies … you get the idea, because these items don’t usually need to be stored in leak-proof, airtight containers, or even containers with lids (if you have a bottom with no top). So the next time you’re considering a Marie Kondo-inspired kitchen purge, hang onto your plastic containers.