15 Ways to Upcycle Your Old Reusable Water Bottles

In a world where waste reduction is becoming more and more important, upcycling offers a distinctive and ecologically friendly alternative to tossing away unnecessary objects. One such item that may be used in a variety of ways is your old reusable water bottles.

Upcycling not only reduces trash but also gives you the chance to create one-of-a-kind items for your home, garden, or personal use.

Here are 15 quick DIY projects that you can complete with old reusable water bottles to make something new and useful.

• Bird feeders

Give your old reusable water bottles a new lease on life by turning them into a bird feeder.

Cut openings in the sides of the bottle and attach a wooden spoon or dowel as a perch for birds. Fill the bottle with birdseed and hang it outside in your garden or yard.

• Piggy banks

Encourage kids to save money by transforming their old reusable water bottles into colorful piggy banks.

To create this upcycled bank, cut a coin slot in the bottle’s side and decorate the exterior with paint, stickers, or other embellishments. Place the piggy bank in a visible location to remind children to save their spare change.

• Water sprinklers

Transform your old reusable water bottles into a DIY water sprinkler for your lawn or garden.

Poke holes in the sides of the bottle and attach it to a garden hose. As water flows through the hose, it will spray out of the holes in the bottle, creating a simple yet effective sprinkler system.

• Sensory bottles

Sensory bottles provide a calming and engaging experience for young children, promoting focus and concentration.

To create a sensory bottle, fill an old water bottle with water, glitter, beads, or other small objects. Secure the cap tightly and let the children shake and explore the bottle.

The swirling colors and movement will capture their attention and provide a soothing visual experience.

Sensory bottles can be tailored to a child’s interests or specific sensory needs, making them a versatile and customizable upcycling project.

• LED lamps

Light up your space with a unique and customizable lamp made from old reusable water bottles.

To create this upcycled lamp, remove the bottom of the bottle and insert a string of LED lights or a small lamp kit. Decorate the exterior of the bottle with paint, fabric, or other materials to match your décor.

• Terrariums

Create a miniature, enclosed garden by turning your old reusable water bottles into a terrarium.

Cut the top of the bottle, fill the bottom with soil, and add small plants or moss. Replace the top of the bottle, creating a sealed environment for your tiny garden.

• Yarn organizers

Keep your knitting or crochet projects tangle-free by repurposing old reusable water bottles into a yarn organizer.

To create this handy tool, cut a hole in the bottle’s cap and thread your yarn through it. Place the yarn inside the bottle and close the cap, allowing the yarn to feed through the hole as you work.

• Paint palettes

Artists can upcycle old reusable water bottles into a convenient paint palette by cutting off the bottom and using it as a receptacle for various paint colors.

The curved surface of the bottle bottom is perfect for mixing colors, and the lightweight plastic material makes it easy to clean and reuse.

• Outdoor torches

Add a touch of ambiance to your outdoor space by converting old reusable water bottles into outdoor torches.

To make this upcycled torch, fill the bottom of the bottle with sand or pebbles for stability, then insert a wick and fuel source, such as citronella oil or lamp oil. Secure the wick and light it to create a warm and inviting atmosphere for your patio or garden.

• Toy rockets from old reusable water bottles

Introduce children to the exciting world of science and physics by creating toy rockets from old water bottles.

Attach fins and a nose cone to the bottle, then use a bike pump or other air source to create pressure inside the bottle.

When released, the rocket will soar into the air, demonstrating the principles of propulsion and aerodynamics.

• Dog treat dispensers

Keep your furry friends entertained by repurposing a water bottle into a dog treat dispenser.

To create this interactive toy, cut small holes in the sides of the bottle and fill it with your dog’s favorite treats.

As your pet rolls, nudges, or bites the bottle, the treats will gradually fall out, providing mental stimulation and a rewarding challenge.

• Wind spirals from old reusable water bottles

Add visual interest and movement to your garden or patio with upcycled wind spirals made from water bottles.

To create these mesmerizing decorations, cut the bottle into a continuous spiral, then paint or decorate it as desired. Hang the spirals outdoors, where they will twist and spin in the breeze, creating an eye-catching display.

• Plant watering system

Create a slow-release watering system for your plants by upcycling your old reusable water bottles.

Poke small holes in the cap and sides of the bottle, then bury it next to your plant with the cap end exposed. Fill the bottle with water, and it will gradually release moisture into the soil, keeping your plants hydrated without overwatering.

This DIY watering system is perfect for busy gardeners or those who travel frequently.

• Pencil cases from old reusable water bottles

Help your child stay organized by turning old reusable water bottles into unique pencil cases.

Cut the top and bottom of the bottle, then attach a zipper around the circumference to create a reusable container for pens, pencils, and other school supplies.

This upcycled pencil case not only reduces waste but also encourages children to take responsibility for their belongings and helps them develop organizational skills.

• Floating pool toys

Create fun and colorful floating pool toys by repurposing old reusable water bottles. Decorate the bottles with waterproof markers or paint, then fill them with air and secure the caps tightly.

These lightweight, buoyant toys are perfect for pool parties and water play, providing hours of entertainment for children and adults alike.