5 Reuses For: Milk Cartons

My family is big on reusing, but when we recently skipped putting out the recycling because no one wanted to brave the snowstorm going on outside, I realized we go through a fair amount of milk cartons and we don't really look for ways to reuse them.

We dutifully toss milk cartons in the blue bin so they can be recycled, but reusing should always come before recycling. So I sat down to brainstorm. If you're looking for a green way to reuse your milk cartons, these five reuses are a great start.

1. Bird Feeder

Making a bird feeder from a milk carton is oh-so-simple. Just cut a window near the top, poke a stick through the carton (go clear through both sides for stability) under the window, and fill with seeds. Hang the feeder from a tree and you'll attract all sorts of beautiful winter birds.

2. Soup Storage

If you're making a big batch of soup to stick in the freezer, store portions in milk cartons. After cooking your batch of soup, let it cool. Open the tops of the thoroughly washed milk cartons and pour in the soup. Use a permanent marker to record the type of soup and the date it was made, clip or staple the top shut, and pop them in the freezer!

3. "Watering Can" for Houseplants

Fill with water and use the spout to easily water your plants. It's really that simple.

4. Kitchen Sink Caddy

Cut out one of the long side panels, and glue the opened spout back together. Set it by the sink or in the under-sink cabinet to hold dish soap, a sponge, a scrubber and another other small items you use while doing the dishes.

5. Seed Starters

Cut one side panel off a quart-size milk carton -- just like that you have a container for starting your fruits, vegetables and other plants. Poke a few holes in the bottom for drainage, add quality soil, plant the seeds, and wait for your plants sprout.

When your reused milk cartons have seen better days, simply remove any clips, staples or glued sections, and then recycle it or shred it and toss in your composter.