10 Creative Ways To Repurpose Storage Totes For A New Uses

Storage totes can be extremely useful for organizing things around your home, while also keeping things protected from dust and other elements. Having something like a DIY supersized rolling tote storage unit can be a creative way to keep these bins and your garage organized. However, if you are working on some spring cleaning, getting your taxes organized, or recently inherited some items from a family member, you may find yourself with a few extra storage totes on your hands. Rather than leaving these totes in a pile in the garage or basement, waiting for the day they will be used again, try repurposing them into something useful, like a compost or washing bin.

Before looking at these ideas, remember that not all storage totes are the same. They come in various sizes, shapes, and colors. Also, while some totes have snap on lids, others have latching handles. All of these things can impact a DIY's outcome, so keeping the style of tote you have in mind before trying to repurpose can hopefully prevent disappointment down the road. Also, make sure that your tote is properly cleaned and dry before repurposing. Not only do you not want dust and debris in your home, these particles can sometimes prevent glues or other adhesives from working as well. Once you take stock of what bins you have available, you will be ready to get started.

There are many smart ways to use storage bins in your home, and one way is by creating your own compost bin. To create your own compost bin, you want to start by drilling a few holes on all sides of the tote to allow for air flow. Then, place it in a more concealed spot. Now, add brown leaves, ripped cardboard, or newspaper to the bottom of your bin until it's about a quarter of the way full, top with soil until about half full, and add your food scraps. Make sure you read up on proper composting practices before beginning this project.

If you love sweet potatoes, then your old storage tote is sure to come in handy. After sprouting the potatoes in a smaller container, you can use a large storage tote to provide a deep space for your sweet potatoes to grow. Rather than shopping for a space for them to grow, you can easily reuse a container you already have. Before beginning this project, take some time to learn how you can regrow sweet potatoes from the grocery store.

Create an adorable toy chest that matches your child's room on a budget using an old storage tote. Cover the outside of the tote with glue and a fabric of your choice. You could also try using some peel-and-stick wall paper instead, especially if the bin you choose does not have a lot of ridges. Once the glue is dry, then you can add some feet to the bottom of the bin, some kid safe embellishments, or even a cute label to the front. With this project, toys can be organized and in reach.

Sensory bins can be a great way to help kids learn and they can be easy to create with a leftover storage tote. For this activity bin, a tote that is on the shallower side is usually best to allow kids to easily reach the items. Fill the tote with a taste-safe materials, like rice. Then, add some small toys, utensils, or learning tools to the bin and let the kids explore. Switch out the items in the bin every so often to keep it fun and exciting!

There are over 30 plants you can grow in an indoor hydroponic garden, and many of them are edible. You can even create your own hydroponic garden at home on a budget. Along with a tote with a lid and some net pots, you will also need a water pump to prevent the water from growing still. After drilling a few holes in the lid to accommodate the plants and the water pump, you will be on your way to starting your own hydroponic garden. 

Need to clean your clothes in a pinch? A storage bin can do just the trick. Add some warm water to the bin, a little detergent, and your clothes. Swirl the water and clothes, and let them sit for a few minutes. Then, dump the water and rinse the clothing in cool water until the all the soap is gone. Finally, hang the clothes to dry. A storage bin could also work well if you have some clothing that needs to be soaked and pretreated.

Apartments and dorms come with limited space, and while there are many clever multi-purpose furniture pieces for small homes, not all of them are affordable. Luckily, you can create your own multi-purpose table with a tote box. Simply grab a large, tall storage container with a lid that fits in your space. Then, drape a piece of leftover cloth to the bin. You can cut and sew the edges of the fabric to make neat corners or leave it as is. Now, you have a table and a place to hide clutter.

Give your cat space to do their business in peace, and keep litter off the floor with this DIY. Simply cut a hole on the side of the container to allow your cat to crawl in and out of the space. Sand down the area you cut to make sure that there are no rough edges. Then, decorate the outside of the box with fabric, peel-and-stick wallpaper, stickers, or spray paint to match your home's decor. When you need to clean the litter, simply remove the lid.

Make your own miniature greenhouse with just a clear storage container. Place your plants on the lid of the box, and then place the bin over the plants to cover them. In order to create some ventilation, you can drill holes into the bottom of the bin. Or, if you want to keep your little greenhouse intact and control the amount of ventilation on any given day, try using a small object – - like a brick or rock – - to prop top of it open. Need to move your plants? Snap the bottom on and carry them.

Are you a crafter who needs to keep all of their yarn in one place? This two-in-one storage tote yarn bin may help. Drill four holes (or more) into the lid of a storage bin. Then, thread your yarn through the lid and place it inside. Not only will this help keep your yarn from getting tangled while you are working with it, but it can also help you if you are constantly switching colors on a crocheting or knitting project. And, when you are done, simply add your hook or needles to the bin.