We’ve all been there: You finish the last drop of your favorite shampoo, and you’re left staring at an empty bottle, unsure whether to toss it in the trash or keep it for something else.

Reusing old shampoo bottles is one of those things that seems too good to be true. They’re durable, often made of quality plastic, and have practical features like easy-to-pour spouts and wide openings that are perfect for repurposing.

But what exactly can you do with them? Instead of contributing to the waste piling up in landfills, there are countless ways to reuse shampoo bottles in ways that are both fun and functional.

In this blog post, I’ll share ten creative and practical ways to reuse those old shampoo bottles that will not only save you money but also help reduce plastic waste.

1. Shampoo Bottle Garden Planter

Perfect for: Gardening enthusiasts or those with limited space

A simple way to reuse your old shampoo bottle is by transforming it into a handy garden planter. Shampoo bottles are the perfect size for small plants like herbs, succulents, or flowers. Not only will this save you money on store-bought planters, but it also provides an environmentally friendly option for your plants.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

• Step 1: Thoroughly wash and clean the shampoo bottle to remove any soap residue.
• Step 2: Cut the bottle in half or along one side to create a wide opening. You can also cut the top off to make a small funnel-like opening.
• Step 3: Use a small nail or drill to poke a few holes in the bottom of the bottle for drainage.
• Step 4: Fill the bottle with some small rocks at the bottom to improve drainage, followed by soil.
• Step 5: Add your chosen plant or seeds, and you’re done!

Pro Tip: Paint or decorate the outside of the bottle to match your garden’s aesthetic. You can even hang them by attaching a string to create a unique vertical garden.

2. Portable Water Dispenser for Pets

Perfect for: Pet owners

If you have pets, particularly dogs, you’ll love this idea. Shampoo bottles can easily be turned into portable water dispensers that are perfect for outdoor adventures or walks. You can carry water for your furry friend without worrying about heavy bottles or finding a bowl at the park.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

• Step 1: Clean and dry the shampoo bottle thoroughly.
• Step 2: Cut a small section off the top of the bottle to create a spout that’s just the right size for your pet to drink from.
• Step 3: Fill the bottle with water.
• Step 4: When you’re ready to use it, simply squeeze the bottle to release water into your pet’s mouth or a small bowl.

Pro Tip: For added convenience, use a bottle with a flip-top lid for easy access while on the go.

3. DIY Spray Bottle for Household Cleaning

Perfect for: Homeowners who prefer eco-friendly cleaning solutions

Don’t toss that shampoo bottle just yet. It can easily be turned into a spray bottle for all your cleaning needs. Whether you need to spray your countertops or water your plants, shampoo bottles can make the perfect cleaning spray bottles.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

• Step 1: Wash and dry the bottle completely.
• Step 2: Use a small drill or nail to poke a hole in the bottle’s cap. Alternatively, you can keep the bottle’s nozzle and hose (if available) for more control.
• Step 3: Fill the bottle with your favorite DIY cleaning solution (e.g., a mix of water and vinegar).
• Step 4: Screw the cap back on and use the spray bottle as needed.

Pro Tip: Label the bottle with a permanent marker to avoid confusion with other cleaning products.

4. Creative Craft Storage Containers

Perfect for: Crafters and hobbyists

If you’re into DIY crafts, knitting, or sewing, then you can transform your shampoo bottles into storage containers for your small supplies. From buttons to beads, you can repurpose these bottles as fun, stackable storage.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

• Step 1: Clean and dry the bottle.
• Step 2: Cut the bottle’s top to the desired height for easy access to the contents.
• Step 3: Use these bottles to store things like buttons, craft supplies, or even small tools like scissors or glue.

Pro Tip: Decorate the bottles with colorful paper or fabric to give them a personal touch. You can even use them as organizers for your desk or workspace.

5. Shampoo Bottle Bird Feeder

Perfect for: Nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts

Turn that shampoo bottle into a bird feeder for your backyard or balcony. Birds will appreciate the easy-to-fill container, and you’ll get the joy of watching them visit your yard. This is a simple, eco-friendly way to reuse a plastic bottle that would otherwise end up in the trash.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

• Step 1: Thoroughly clean the shampoo bottle.
• Step 2: Cut a few holes near the bottom of the bottle, just wide enough for bird seed to spill out.
• Step 3: Poke two small holes on opposite sides of the bottle to insert a string or wire for hanging.
• Step 4: Fill the bottle with birdseed and hang it from a tree or balcony hook.

Pro Tip: You can even make small “perches” for the birds by attaching wooden dowels or sticks through the holes.

Table: Shampoo Bottle Reuse Ideas at a Glance

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Reusing Shampoo Bottles

While reusing shampoo bottles can be a fun and rewarding activity, it’s easy to make mistakes that could result in frustration or waste. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Not Cleaning the Bottles Thoroughly: Before repurposing your shampoo bottle for any project, make sure it’s completely clean and dry. Residual soap can cause problems, especially if you’re storing food or using it for pet water dispensers.
• Overloading with Too Much Weight: Some of the ideas, like bird feeders or garden planters, require you to attach extra items (e.g., perches, wires, etc.). Make sure the bottle is strong enough to handle any added weight or reinforcement.
• Not Considering Drainage: If you’re using a shampoo bottle as a planter, drainage holes are essential. Without them, water will accumulate, and your plants may drown.
• Improper Cutting: If you’re cutting the bottle, make sure to use proper scissors or a craft knife to avoid uneven cuts, which can lead to awkward-looking projects or difficulty in handling.

Conclusion

Repurposing old shampoo bottles is a fun, practical, and eco-friendly way to keep plastic out of the landfill while finding new uses for things that would otherwise be thrown away.

Whether you’re a pet owner, crafter, or gardener, there’s no limit to the creative possibilities for these bottles.

From planters to portable pet dispensers, you can turn these humble containers into useful items around the house, saving both money and resources.

Next time you empty a bottle of shampoo, don’t just toss it out—think about all the ways you could reuse it! Your creativity, combined with a little effort, can lead to fantastic, sustainable solutions.

Now that you have some creative ideas, give one of these projects a try! Have you reused shampoo bottles in any other ways?

Share your ideas in the comments, and don’t forget to share this article with friends who love DIY projects or eco-friendly living!

FAQs

Q: How do I remove the sticky residue from old shampoo bottles?
A: You can easily remove sticky residue by rubbing it with some olive oil or coconut oil, and then washing it with soap and water. If needed, use a small brush to scrub the residue away.

Q: Can I use shampoo bottles for food storage?
A: It’s best to avoid using shampoo bottles for food storage, as they might retain soap residue. However, if you’re absolutely sure the bottle is thoroughly cleaned, it could work for dry food items.

Q: Can I recycle shampoo bottles if I don’t want to reuse them?
A: Yes! Shampoo bottles are typically recyclable. Just make sure to rinse them thoroughly before placing them in the recycling bin.