Plastic Container Reuse

Sometimes, we find that after awhile, our really nice plastic containers aren't all that nice anymore. So, by habit, we just toss them out.

Instead of tossing them out, grab the lid that goes to the container and figure out what items can be placed in there that are not food products. A plastic container is no longer good for food storage once it's got any type of stains, soap build up or 'etching' on it (which is caused from putting them in the dishwashers too much).

These plastic containers can also come in very handy when you're travelling, hiking, or camping. One of the best features of these containers is that you can write directly on them with Sharpie pens and once the ink dries, it won't come off. If you're using a container that's Rubbermaid, sticker labels can be placed on the sides and/or top of the container for you to mark the container's contents. (Rubbermaid, Tupperware and other such high grade plastic containers have a type of protective film on them that does not like Sharpie marker ink at times LOL).

Here are some benefits to having extra non-food plastic containers around the house:

1. They stack nicely together and the lids hold together nicely with the help of a simple rubber band.
2. They can be disinfected over and over without losing their shape or form.
3. They're light weight and can be stacked in larger stacks without you having to worry about them sagging any of your shelves.
4. Most of them are small enough to keep quite a few on hand without taking up a lot of storage space in your closets and cabinets.
5. They can be washed are reused over and over again for a very long time before it's necessary to throw them away.

Also, keep in mind that although many of those containers are partially made with recycled plastic materials, plastic (in and of itself) is NOT bio-degradable.

So the less plastic you throw away, the better it is for the environment around you :)