How to Use Recycled Materials

Earth Day reminds all of us of the value of recycling and reusing materials to preserve the environment--but what about the rest of the year? Learning how to use recycled materials in the home not only saves the environment, but can help others and can save you money.

Instructions

• 1

  Purchase items made from recycled materials for home renovation and remodeling projects. Donate items from your project to thrift stores, list them online for sale or donation on the web or post them in the local classified ads. This allows items in good condition to be reused and repurposed.

• 2

  Purchase or locate items from thrift stores. These items may not be new, but you can recycle them by refinishing and repurposing the item. DIY projects involving reworking secondhand items can save the environment and save you money. Recycled materials can be used in the home through recovered, refinished or repurposed furniture. Outdoors, these materials can be used in the garden to create decorations, pots, planters, small ponds and bird baths.

• 3

  Glass and plastic food jars can be cleaned and reused to store food, office supplies, craft items and more. Before repurposing containers, clean thoroughly with soap and hot water. Allow to dry completely before using. These items are also great items to have on hand for crafting projects for your personal or children's projects.

• 4

  Use recycled brick to create edging for pathways or gardens. Check renovation sites and websites such as Craigslist and Freecycle for ads giving away discarded or unused brick.

• 5

  Use old clothing and sheets for craft projects. These items can be turned into pillow covers, purses, headbands and more. Or they can be used for children's crafting projects and ideas--saving you money and a trip to the craft store.

• 6

  Donate or sell used electronics. There are a number of sites on the Internet where you can donate computers, cell phones and other electrical items for free or cash. Many of these sites will take items in working or non-working condition and properly recycle them if they can not be donated, repaired or refurbished.