The Smartest Way to Use All Those Plastic Spoons You Get When You Order Takeout
After a few nights of takeout here and there, it sure is easy to amass a whole drawer filled with all sorts of plastic utensils. And while many restaurants now allow you to opt out of having utensils thrown in with your order, somehow even if you say no, a lot of extra plastic still makes its way into our homes.
But don’t be so quick to fling those utensils into the trash! As all of our faithful readers know, here at Kitchn we love repurposing. So instead of throwing out your collection of takeout spoons, consider this very cute and super-seasonal idea. We’ll even give you a hint: Think spring! Ready to find out what it is?
Turn extra plastic spoons into garden markers.
Grab your watering can and garden gloves because, yes, it’s time to start planting your own little windowsill garden. You can easily grow your own mint, basil, and cilantro from seeds right at home. Where does the spoon come in? So you won’t get confused as your greenery grows, turn your plastic spoon into a convenient garden marker. Just grab a label maker or write in pretty lettering with a permanent marker right onto the spoon. Not only will the plastic spoons be useful to keep track of what’s growing, but they’re also kinda cute! Plus, it’s pretty easy to poke the handle right into the dirt — no hand spade required!
You can extend this fun idea to any outdoor veggie garden you are cultivating — especially if you are planting lots of seeds. For instance, if you’re growing different varieties of cherry tomatoes — say, Sungold or Green Envy — use your spoon markers to be super specific. Simply create rows with plastic spoons identifying what’s what. You’ll feel good knowing you repurposed your old plastic utensils, and even better cooking with fresh herbs and gorgeous veggies you grew all by yourself!
How do you use plastic spoons from takeout? Tell us your ideas in the comments below.