5 Ways to Repurpose Old Clothes That You Probably Never Considered

The Spruce / Julieanne Browning

As we continue to declutter our closets, wardrobes, and dressers in favor of swapping out our winter wear, you’ve likely come across your fair share of garments you no longer need.

While donating, regifting, or handing down old clothes is one great way to reduce clutter, sometimes, that’s not possible. From holes to stains to unfortunate laundry accidents that lead to misshapen items rendered unwearable, there are plenty of reasons some garments need to be retired for good.

Even if you have a good reason for wanting to toss an item of clothing, it can still feel extremely wasteful—so why not reuse it around your home and garden?

We turned to the experts to find out their top tips for repurposing old clothes and other home textiles.

Use Natural Fabrics in The Garden

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According to Jenny Davis of Forest Garden, garments made of cotton, wool, and linen are great to reuse and recycle in your own garden.

Consider old sheets and blankets for frost protection for young seedlings, old t-shirts or leggings to create climbing vine supports, or use anything as stuffing for your autumnal scarecrows.

“Natural fiber clothing like cotton or linen can also be torn up and added to your compost bin, or lay down old sheets or cloth under mulch to suppress weed growth,” Davis says.

Turn Old Tights Into Deodorizers

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Unless they’re unworn, old tights and stockings definitely fall under the do-not-donate category. But before you throw them away, household expert Emily Norris says you actually don’t have to toss them out for good.

“Make natural deodorizers for your laundry basket, kids’ shoes, or smelly sports shoes by using the foot of an old pair of tights,” she says.

Do this by cutting off the foot and filling it with baking soda and ten or so drops of essential oils. Seal it closed with a quick stitch or a rubber band, and voila! This, says Norris, will absorb the odors and emit a much more pleasant scent.

Braid Your Old T-Shirt Scraps

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This one is a great project for kids, says Siobhan Alvarez-Borland, DIY expert and lifestyle blogger. If you have any old t-shirts, you can turn the scraps into cute braids that make great home decor pieces. All you need is an old T-shirt, scissors, and a ruler.

• Lay the T-shirt flat and cut it horizontally into strips, about one to two inches wide, says Alvarez-Borland.
• Stretch each strip gently to create rounded edges, making braiding easier.
• Once you have your strips, braid three together and secure the end with a small piece of fabric or a hair tie.
• You can hang, wrap, or pin your creation for a soft splash of color in an unexpected place. If you’re especially crafty—or you have enough old t-shirts—you might even be able to create a full, braided rug.

“You can get creative with different colors and patterns to match your style,” Alvarez-Borland says.

Make a Reusable Shopping Bag

@Anikona_ via Twenty20 / Getty Images Shopping for groceries with reusable bags is an excellent way to reduce plastic waste

While turning old t-shirts into reusable cleaning rags is a much-loved option, Alvarez-Borland says there’s something else you can do with your unwanted tees. You can turn them into grocery or produce bags! Just note that this one does require some light sewing.

“Simply cut off the sleeves and neckline, then stitch the bottom hem closed to create a seamless bag shape,” she says. “Add handles made from extra fabric or sturdy ribbon, and you have a whole new piece.”

Frame Old Garments As Art

Megan Lovoi for Meg Lonergan Interiors

Sometimes we hold onto things to avoid excess waste, but other times, there’s a sentimental reason to keep an old item of clothing. When that happens, stylist Sophie Strauss says she loves turning it into beautiful wall art.

From silk scarves to sports jerseys, this is a perfect way to inject some personality, style, and nostalgia into a space.

“My husband has a very special t-shirt he wore a ton as a kid, so I got it framed and now it hangs in our room—it’s so special and looks really great,” she says.

Read the original article on The Spruce.