10 Ways to Repurpose Items for Cleaning Storage That Save Money

Why it matters: You’re probably throwing away potential cleaning storage solutions every day without realizing it. Those empty containers and household items collecting dust can transform into organized cleaning stations that save money and reduce clutter.

The bottom line: Smart repurposing turns everyday junk into functional storage that keeps your cleaning supplies accessible and your space tidy.

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Transform Empty Containers Into Cleaning Caddies

Empty containers sitting in your recycling bin are actually perfect cleaning storage solutions waiting to happen. You’ll discover that these everyday items can become organized, portable cleaning stations.

Convert Plastic Milk Jugs Into Portable Organizers

Cut a rectangular opening in the side of clean milk jugs to create instant cleaning caddies. The built-in handle makes them perfect for carrying supplies from room to room. You can store spray bottles, sponges, and microfiber cloths in the main compartment while using the cap area for small items like scrub brushes. Label each jug for specific cleaning tasks like “bathroom,” “kitchen,” or “all-purpose” to streamline your cleaning routine.

Repurpose Coffee Cans for Brush and Tool Storage

Metal coffee cans become excellent storage for long cleaning tools like scrub brushes, feather dusters, and toilet brushes. Remove the labels and sand any sharp edges for safety. You can stack multiple cans in cleaning closets or under sinks to maximize vertical storage space. The cylindrical shape keeps brushes upright and easily accessible, while the sturdy construction prevents tools from falling over or getting damaged.

Turn Old Furniture Into Cleaning Supply Stations

Old furniture pieces make excellent cleaning storage solutions when you think beyond their original purpose. You’ll discover that repurposing existing furniture creates dedicated cleaning stations that keep supplies organized and accessible.

Convert Unused Bookshelves Into Supply Pantries

Bookshelves transform into vertical cleaning pantries with adjustable shelving that accommodates bottles of various heights. You can designate specific shelves for different cleaning categories like bathroom supplies on the top shelf and kitchen cleaners on lower levels. Install small baskets or bins on each shelf to prevent items from falling through and create easy-to-grab sections for sponges scrub brushes and microfiber cloths.

Transform Nightstands Into Mobile Cleaning Carts

Nightstands become portable cleaning stations when you add caster wheels to the bottom and install a towel bar on one side. You’ll have two drawers for storing cleaning cloths rags and small tools while the top surface holds spray bottles and frequently used supplies. The compact size allows you to roll your cleaning cart from room to room making it perfect for quick touch-ups and daily maintenance tasks.

Repurpose Kitchen Items for Cleaning Organization

Your kitchen drawers and cabinets hold untapped potential for cleaning supply organization. These readily available items can transform your cleaning storage without requiring additional purchases.

Use Silverware Dividers for Small Tool Sorting

Silverware dividers excel at organizing small cleaning tools that typically get lost in larger containers. Place scrub brushes, sponges, and cleaning cloths in separate compartments for quick access. You can stack multiple dividers in deeper drawers or use them inside cleaning caddies to create customized sections. Label each compartment to maintain organization and ensure family members return items to their designated spots.

Convert Spice Racks Into Wall-Mounted Storage

Spice racks provide perfect vertical storage for small cleaning bottles and supplies. Mount them inside cabinet doors or on pantry walls to maximize space efficiency. The narrow shelves accommodate travel-sized cleaners, spot removers, and essential oils perfectly. You’ll appreciate having frequently used items at eye level while keeping countertops clear. Choose racks with lips or rails to prevent bottles from falling during door movement.

Transform Bathroom Accessories Into Cleaning Storage

Your bathroom accessories offer untapped potential for organizing cleaning supplies throughout your home. These waterproof, portable items are perfectly designed for handling wet cleaning products and chemicals.

Repurpose Shower Caddies for Supply Transport

Shower caddies excel at transporting cleaning supplies from room to room with their built-in drainage holes and sturdy handles. You’ll find wire mesh versions work best for bottles and sprays while plastic caddies handle heavier items like detergent containers.

Mount suction cup caddies inside cleaning closets to hold frequently used bottles at eye level. The drainage feature prevents moisture buildup and protects cabinet surfaces from spills and condensation damage.

Convert Medicine Cabinets Into Cleaning Closets

Medicine cabinets provide perfect storage for small cleaning supplies with their adjustable shelves and secure doors. You can organize spray bottles on upper shelves while storing sponges and scrub brushes on lower levels for easy access.

Install magnetic strips inside cabinet doors to hold metal cleaning tools like scrapers and small brushes. This maximizes vertical space while keeping sharp tools safely contained behind closed doors.

Convert Shoe Storage Solutions for Cleaning Supplies

Shoe organizers offer perfect compartments for cleaning supplies, transforming vertical spaces into functional storage systems.

Transform Over-Door Shoe Organizers Into Supply Holders

Over-door shoe organizers create instant cleaning supply storage without permanent installation. You’ll maximize door space while keeping supplies visible and accessible through clear pockets.

Fill larger pockets with spray bottles and detergents, while smaller compartments hold sponges, scrub brushes, and microfiber cloths. Label each pocket with a permanent marker to maintain organization and ensure family members return items to their designated spots consistently.

Repurpose Shoe Boxes for Categorized Storage

Shoe boxes provide sturdy, stackable containers for organizing cleaning supplies by category or room. You’ll create a modular system that adapts to your storage space and supply collection.

Designate separate boxes for bathroom cleaners, kitchen supplies, and floor care products. Cut finger holes in the sides for easy lifting, and cover boxes with contact paper or labels for a professional appearance that matches your storage area.

Repurpose Laundry Items for Cleaning Organization

Your laundry room holds untapped potential for cleaning supply organization. Items you already own can become powerful storage solutions with minimal effort.

Convert Laundry Baskets Into Supply Stations

Laundry baskets create perfect portable cleaning stations that you can carry from room to room. You’ll fit multiple spray bottles, cleaning cloths, and brushes in the spacious interior while maintaining easy access to everything.

Choose baskets with sturdy handles and drainage holes to prevent liquid accumulation. Stack multiple baskets to create vertical storage towers in your utility closet, with each basket designated for specific cleaning categories like bathroom supplies or kitchen cleaners.

Transform Mesh Laundry Bags Into Spray Bottle Holders

Mesh laundry bags become excellent spray bottle organizers when hung on utility room walls or inside cleaning closets. The breathable fabric prevents moisture buildup while keeping bottles visible and accessible.

Use drawstring bags to group similar products together – one for glass cleaners, another for disinfectants. The lightweight mesh material won’t tear under the weight of multiple bottles, and you can easily transport entire collections when deep cleaning different areas of your home.

Turn Office Supplies Into Cleaning Storage Solutions

Your home office holds untapped potential for cleaning organization. Desk accessories and filing systems can transform into efficient storage solutions for your cleaning supplies.

Repurpose File Organizers for Cleaning Product Categories

Desktop file sorters become perfect spray bottle organizers when placed on cleaning closet shelves. You’ll create distinct sections for glass cleaners, disinfectants, and all-purpose sprays. Magazine holders work brilliantly for storing flat items like microfiber cloths and cleaning rags. Label each compartment to maintain your new organizational system and locate supplies quickly during cleaning sessions.

Convert Desk Drawers Into Supply Dispensers

Old desk drawer organizers transform into modular cleaning supply dispensers inside cabinets or closets. You can separate small items like scrub pads, sponges, and cleaning wipes into individual compartments. Stack multiple drawer organizers vertically to maximize storage space while maintaining easy access. The clear plastic versions let you see contents at a glance, eliminating guesswork when restocking supplies.

Transform Craft Supplies Into Cleaning Organization

Your craft room contains numerous organizational tools that can be repurposed into highly effective cleaning storage solutions. These specialized containers and organizers often provide better functionality than traditional cleaning storage options.

Repurpose Tackle Boxes for Small Cleaning Tools

Tackle boxes offer the perfect solution for organizing small cleaning tools and supplies. You’ll find multiple compartments that keep items like scrub brushes, sponges, and cleaning pods separated and easily accessible.

The adjustable dividers let you customize compartment sizes for different tools. You can dedicate specific sections to microfiber cloths, steel wool pads, and rubber gloves. The clear lid provides instant visibility of contents, while the secure latching system prevents spills during transport from room to room.

Convert Mason Jars Into Cleaning Supply Containers

Mason jars transform into excellent storage containers for cleaning supplies that need airtight protection. You can store homemade cleaning solutions, powdered detergents, and concentrated cleaners while maintaining their effectiveness.

The wide mouth design allows easy access for scooping powders or filling spray bottles. You’ll appreciate how the glass construction won’t absorb odors or stains from strong cleaning products. Label each jar with contents and mixing ratios to create a professional-looking cleaning supply station that keeps everything organized and fresh.

Repurpose Outdoor Items for Indoor Cleaning Storage

Your garage and shed hold untapped potential for cleaning organization. These weatherproof outdoor items often feature superior durability and compartmentalization compared to typical indoor storage solutions.

Transform Garden Caddies Into Cleaning Totes

Garden caddies make exceptional cleaning totes with their built-in dividers and comfortable handles. You’ll find multiple compartments perfect for separating spray bottles from scrub brushes and microfiber cloths. The waterproof materials resist spills and splashes while the sturdy construction handles heavy bottles without breaking. Most garden caddies include center handles that distribute weight evenly when you’re carrying supplies between rooms.

Convert Toolboxes Into Comprehensive Cleaning Kits

Toolboxes excel as comprehensive cleaning kits with their lockable lids and organized compartments. You can dedicate each drawer or section to specific cleaning categories like bathroom supplies or kitchen cleaners. The metal construction prevents chemical reactions with cleaning products while foam inserts can be customized to hold uniquely shaped bottles. Many toolboxes feature removable trays that create portable cleaning stations for quick tasks.

Create Multi-Purpose Storage From Household Waste

You’ll find some of your best cleaning storage solutions hiding in your recycling bin. Transform everyday waste into custom organizers that cost nothing but deliver maximum functionality.

Repurpose Cardboard Boxes Into Custom Organizers

Cardboard boxes become perfect drawer dividers when you cut them to fit your cleaning cabinets. Cereal boxes work exceptionally well for storing spray bottles upright, while shoe boxes create stackable modules for different cleaning categories. Cover them with contact paper or paint for moisture resistance, and you’ll have custom storage that fits your exact space dimensions. Label each section clearly to maintain organization and create a professional appearance.

Transform Plastic Bottles Into Hanging Storage

Plastic detergent bottles make excellent hanging organizers when you cut strategic openings in their sides. Mount them on pegboards or hang them from closet rods using their original handles for instant vertical storage. The built-in spouts become perfect dispensers for small items like scrub pads and microfiber cloths. Milk jugs work similarly but offer wider openings for larger cleaning tools, and their translucent material lets you see contents at a glance.

Conclusion

Your journey toward better cleaning organization doesn’t require expensive storage systems or major renovations. You’ve discovered that countless everyday items sitting around your home can become powerful organizational tools with just a little creativity and effort.

These repurposing strategies offer multiple benefits beyond simple storage. You’ll save money while reducing waste and creating customized solutions that perfectly fit your space and cleaning routine. The beauty lies in the flexibility – you can adapt any of these ideas to match your specific needs and available materials.

Start small by identifying one or two items you’re ready to discard and transform them into functional storage instead. You’ll be amazed at how quickly these simple changes can revolutionize your cleaning supply organization and make your household maintenance more efficient and enjoyable.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of empty containers work best for cleaning storage?

Plastic milk jugs, metal coffee cans, and plastic detergent bottles are excellent choices. Milk jugs can be cut to create portable cleaning caddies, coffee cans are perfect for storing long tools like scrub brushes vertically, and detergent bottles can be converted into hanging storage solutions for small cleaning items.

How can old furniture be repurposed for cleaning organization?

Unused bookshelves make excellent vertical cleaning pantries with adjustable shelving for different bottle heights. Old nightstands can be converted into mobile cleaning carts by adding caster wheels and towel bars. These transformations create dedicated cleaning stations that keep supplies organized and easily accessible.

What kitchen items can help organize cleaning supplies?

Silverware dividers are perfect for sorting small cleaning tools like scrub brushes and sponges. Spice racks can be mounted on walls to store small cleaning bottles at eye level. These kitchen organizers maximize space efficiency while keeping frequently used items within easy reach.

How can bathroom accessories be used for cleaning storage?

Shower caddies provide excellent portability for cleaning supplies and can be mounted inside cleaning closets using suction cups. Medicine cabinets can be converted into cleaning closets with adjustable shelves and magnetic strips for metal tools, maximizing vertical space while keeping sharp items safely contained.

What are the benefits of using shoe organizers for cleaning supplies?

Over-door shoe organizers create instant storage without permanent installation. Clear pockets provide visibility and accessibility, with larger pockets holding spray bottles and smaller ones storing sponges. They’re stackable, modular, and can be easily labeled for better organization.

How can laundry items help organize cleaning supplies?

Laundry baskets can be converted into portable cleaning stations that easily move from room to room. Mesh laundry bags work as spray bottle holders that can be hung on walls or inside closets, keeping bottles visible while preventing moisture buildup.

Can office supplies be repurposed for cleaning organization?

Yes, desktop file sorters work perfectly as spray bottle organizers, while magazine holders are ideal for flat items like microfiber cloths. Old desk drawer organizers can become modular cleaning supply dispensers, providing easy access to small items like scrub pads and sponges.

What craft supplies work well for cleaning storage?

Tackle boxes are excellent for organizing small cleaning tools with their adjustable dividers and clear lids for easy visibility. Mason jars provide airtight storage for homemade cleaning solutions and powdered detergents, with wide mouths that make filling and scooping easy.

How can outdoor items be used for indoor cleaning storage?

Garden caddies make excellent cleaning totes with built-in dividers and waterproof materials. Toolboxes serve as comprehensive cleaning kits with lockable lids and organized compartments that can be customized for different cleaning categories while ensuring durability and security.

What household waste can be repurposed for cleaning organization?

Cardboard boxes can be transformed into custom drawer dividers and stackable storage modules for different cleaning categories. When covered, they become moisture-resistant. These solutions demonstrate how common waste items can create organized, efficient cleaning environments while reducing environmental impact.