Did you know that when factories make bed sheets (yes, including those who claim that they are eco-friendly) it requires the Earth’s resources? So what happens when you don’t use them anymore? Throwing old bed sheets doesn’t appealing, right? And so, it’s a good idea to learn what to do with old bed sheets so they won’t end up in a landfill.
Upcycling is the best option that we have, and who would have thought that old bed sheets have so many uses! It will help save the earth, help you save money, and be able to upcycle your bed sheet.
If this sounds nice, then here are 16 ideas for you to try out.
Cover up your plants
Recycle old bed sheets and use them to cover your plants. Breathable fabrics like cotton and bamboo are great for covering up your delicate plants when a cold snap comes through.
Your setup doesn’t need to be elaborate. Just use some stakes to hold the sheets up over your plants.
What to do with old bed sheets: make dog toys
If a dog is determined, it can destroy just about any toy, that’s for sure. How about braided strips of sheets?
This can make a sturdy and free toy for your pup and as a bonus, you know it can go through the wash!
It’s a self-explanatory project, but if you’d like some specific instructions, you can find them here.
Reusable shopping bags
Here’s what to do with old sheets — just turn them into reusable shopping bags! Brilliant, isn’t it?
We might be discouraged from shopping with them during the pandemic, but it never hurts to tuck one into your glove compartment just in case. Here’s a how-to video on making your own reusable tote.
Crib mobile
Take care of the Earth for the sake of the next generation.
Turn old bed sheets into something useful and you can find a tutorial for this crib mobile project using colorful sheets here. Buying new baby trinkets is pretty wasteful when you think about how little they care.
Placemats
Placemats can be pricey and this project will save you money AND a trip to the crowded aisles of the department stores. It’s one of the most practical uses for old sheets, too.
From kids’ birthday parties to festive holiday table linens, learn how you can go from bed to breakfast with your old sheet fabric here.
Wall art
DIY wall hoop art is easy as pie (easier even!). For just a few dollars (0r less if you already have the embroidery hoops), this doesn’t require anything except a pair of scissors.
You can also check out this tutorial here.
Drop cloths
Just like rags, drop cloths aren’t very exciting. However, if your sheets have stains or just aren’t pretty enough to make into something new, then they can always keep things clean during your next DIY project.
Garment bag
Don’t throw your old bed sheet. Instead, they can make perfect garment bags. It’s a great way to store your favorite off-season or special occasion clothing.
In fact, it’ll feel special every time you open it to take out that item. Check out this tutorial to find out more about how to turn old sheets into an adorable garment bag.
Bulletin board backing
Want to know what to do with old bedding? Well, you can turn them into bulletin board backing.
If those adorable baby sheets are just taking up space, they make a really cute material for this DIY project. Check out how to do this project in more detail here.
Seat cover
Speaking of pets, they’re not always the best car passengers if you care about cleanliness.
But used bed sheets can make a great barrier between those paws and your interior.
Even better, you don’t need to do anything fancy at all except tuck it in properly. Cheap way to reuse old bed sheets, right?
Donate them
Do you know that you can donate your old bed sheets?
You may ask, where to donate old bed sheets? You can start off by donating them to thrift stores (and get a nice tax write-off), but pet shelters are often in dire need of linens for their tenants.
Before you drop them off, give them a call to see if there’s a use for them at that time.
Simple cami
Do you love cami shirts? Whether it’s for bedtime or for daytime, a cami made from old sheets is perfect because you can use just about any material, including a jersey.
There’s measuring and sewing, but here are 15 different patterns to get you started.
Stuffed toys
Not into foraging through the baby registry for the latest piece of plastic?
Erase that and try your hand at making your own toys with a simple pattern from one of these ideas.
Scrunchies
Always losing your scrunchies? Make dozens of them! Use your old bed sheets and create as many as you can.
It’s even better if you have silk sheets to reuse! Check out this super-easy video tutorial to create the newly back-in-style hair accessory.
Photo Backdrop
White sheets, colorful sheets, it doesn’t really matter. A fun photo shoot is made even better thanks to upcycled sheets.
It’s cheaper and you can reuse it every time there is an occasion.
Baby bib
Have only small amounts of useable old baby sheets? You can still use them by making them into unique baby gifts for other little ones, like this bib.
Takeaway
Now that you know what to do with old bed sheets, you’ll never think of throwing them away.
Less waste, more upcycling uses.