On the edge of the sink, the dishwashing liquid bottle seems ordinary. Once empty, it most often ends up in the trash, even though France already generates more than 309 million tonnes of waste each year, according to the Ministry for Ecological Transition. This thick plastic, with an integrated handle, is nevertheless a real hidden resource. When used well, it can become a useful and decorative accessory for the home.
Many households now buy large jugs to save a few euros and avoid trips to the store. Once empty, these bottles seem practical, but many throw them away for fear of pouring another liquid into them, especially if it is drinkable, and of keeping soap residues. Rather than sending them directly to the yellow bin, some design sites propose to repurpose them. Two simple ideas allow you to transform them into truly practical objects.
Reusing a dishwashing liquid bottle: preparation and safety
Before reusing a bottle of dishwashing liquid, the first rule remains: never use it to store water or a beverage. It is here solely to create storage or decorative objects. To work comfortably, plan a few basic tools that are easy to find in the house drawers.
- Craft knife or scissors
- Silicone glue
- Fabric scraps and cardboard
- Cord or decorative rope
Start by thoroughly rinsing the bottle several times to remove any product residue, then let it dry with the opening left ajar. By removing the labels, you make it easier for fabric and cord to adhere and you improve the overall look. Once the bottle is completely dry, you can mark with a marker the cut line that will serve as the base for your two projects. A simple snip with scissors is then enough to move on to the craft.
Idea 1: a multi-use basket with your empty bottle
To create a multi-use basket, simply cut the bottle roughly mid-height and keep the lower portion, which serves as the frame. The next step is to line the interior with a coordinating fabric: glue it to the edge with silicone so it stays in place and wrinkle-free. A cardboard disk covered with the same fabric sits at the bottom of the container. This lining hides the plastic and gives a neater appearance.
The real charm comes from the exterior. By wrapping a cord around the bottle, from the bottom to the top, you hide the original material and bring a warm texture. With the same cord, a pair of handles on opposite sides makes the basket easy to carry. This basket finds its place in the bathroom near the sink or in the entryway to gather small items.
Idea 2: transform the bottle into an artisanal flower pot
The second idea involves turning the upper part of the bottle into a flower pot. We cut right at the point where the shape changes, then reshape this sort of large cup. A strip of natural fiber fabric covers the entire surface to give it a soft and warm look, very easy to pair with plants and wooden furniture. It is then possible to experiment with different cords to create a kind of decorative net around the pot, which enhances its artisanal feel.
Before planting anything, a few holes at the bottom of the container remain essential to ensure drainage and prevent water from stagnating. The pot then houses a small green plant suitable for its size and can be placed on a shelf, a console, or a simple windowsill. By aligning several customized bottles, you can compose a small green corner. These two repurposings give a new life to dishwashing product containers and turn a bulky waste into discreet daily accessories.
Sources
- Marmiton
“This dishwashing liquid is highly recommended by 60 million consumers”
