Get More for Your Money by Repurposing Items for Your Kitchen

Reusing everyday items can lead to a good deal of savings over time. Here, our experts discuss ways to repurpose common objects that are both useful in the kitchen and budget-friendly.

For instance, when you buy a bunch of oranges, think twice before tossing those mesh produce bags. With three of them you can make a handy and effective scrub sponge for free. First, cut off the tags and labels. Then, take a bag and tie a knot on one end. Next, stuff it with two more bags, and then knot the other end. You'll have a great scrubber in seconds.

Fruit flies are a nuisance, but a 2-liter soda bottle can help you get rid of them fast. Take an empty bottle and cut it in half. Fill the bottom half with sugar water and place on the counter. Then, take the top half and invert it before setting it into the bottom piece. Flies will go in, but they'll never come out.

Ketchup bottles are also handy in the kitchen. When the condiment is gone, rinse out the bottle and fill it with pancake batter to make a no-mess dispenser that will allow you to make breakfast with ease.

Do you have the need to separate egg yolks from their whites? You'll never break a yolk again using this water bottle method. Simply crack an egg into a dish and have an empty water bottle handy. Turn the bottle upside down and gently squeeze before placing the mouth over the yolk. When you're ready, release your grip from the bottle to create suction. The yolk will easily get sucked into the bottle. Just lightly squeeze again to place the yolk into another bowl without it breaking.

These are just a few great ways to reuse common items that you might otherwise throw away. Get more use out of your goods and you'll be smiling all the way to the bank.