Don’t throw out old colanders. Here are 10 brilliant ways to re-use them | July 18, 2025

In a world increasingly focused on sustainability and reducing waste, upcycling has emerged as a creative and eco-friendly solution. Old colanders, often relegated to the back of kitchen cabinets or destined for the trash, can be transformed into functional and decorative items with a little imagination. This article explores ten innovative ways to breathe new life into these perforated kitchen tools, turning them into charming additions to your home and garden. By repurposing colanders, not only do you reduce waste, but you also add a unique touch to your decor, showcasing your creativity and commitment to sustainability.
1. Hanging Planters: Bringing Greenery into Your Space
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Colanders, with their built-in drainage holes, make perfect hanging planters for your home or garden. Simply line the inside with a layer of moss or a coffee filter to prevent soil from falling through, fill with potting soil, and add your favorite plants. Hang the colander using sturdy chains or ropes, and you’ve got a unique planter that allows excess water to drain easily, preventing root rot. This is an excellent way to display trailing plants like ivy or petunias, adding a touch of greenery to your porch or balcony.
2. Fruit and Vegetable Baskets: A Rustic Kitchen Addition

Transform an old colander into a rustic fruit and vegetable basket that adds charm to your kitchen. The colander’s perforations allow air circulation, keeping produce fresh longer. Simply clean the colander thoroughly and place it on your countertop or hang it from a hook for easy access. This not only keeps your fruits and vegetables organized but also adds a vintage touch to your kitchen decor. You can even paint the colander in a color that complements your kitchen’s theme for a more personalized look.
3. Outdoor Lanterns: Creating Ambiance with Light

Create enchanting outdoor lanterns by repurposing old colanders. Start by spray painting the colander in a color that matches your outdoor decor. Once dry, insert a battery-operated LED candle or a string of fairy lights inside. The perforations in the colander will cast beautiful patterns of light, creating a warm and inviting ambiance on your patio or garden. Hang the lanterns from tree branches or place them on tables to illuminate your outdoor gatherings with a touch of whimsy.
4. Bird Feeders: Attracting Feathered Friends to Your Garden

Invite birds into your garden by converting a colander into a bird feeder. Attach a chain or rope to the handles of the colander and hang it from a tree branch. Fill the colander with birdseed, and watch as birds flock to your garden for a meal. The holes in the colander allow rainwater to drain, keeping the birdseed dry and fresh. This simple project not only provides nourishment for birds but also brings the joy of birdwatching to your outdoor space.
5. Decorative Wall Art: Transforming Colanders into Unique Pieces
Turn old colanders into eye-catching wall art by arranging them in a creative display. Paint each colander in vibrant colors or patterns that complement your interior decor. Arrange them in a cluster on a wall, using nails or adhesive hooks to secure them in place. The varying sizes and designs of the colanders will add texture and interest to your wall, making it a focal point in any room. This artistic approach to upcycling allows you to express your personal style while repurposing items that might otherwise go to waste.
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