4. Upcycled Plastic Food Storage Tub
For a zero-budget, highly practical solution, look no further than your recycling bin. Large plastic tubs that once held yogurt, ice cream, or bulk peanut butter can easily be repurposed into lightweight countertop compost bins. This project is an excellent way to practice waste reduction by giving single-use plastics a second, highly functional life in your home.
Start by thoroughly washing the plastic tub and lid with warm, soapy water. Use a utility knife or a drill to carefully poke several small ventilation holes through the plastic lid. To manage odors, you can tape a small piece of charcoal filter or even a breathable cotton makeup pad soaked in a drop of tea tree essential oil to the underside of the lid. Because plastic can absorb odors over time, consider lining this bin with a compostable bag or a simple sheet of newspaper to make emptying and cleaning a breeze.