Repurpose Old Tomato Cages And Turn Them Into Versatile Home Storage

Do you have some old tomato cages collecting dust? Don't throw them out while you're organizing your garden shed — you can turn them into gorgeous, quaint, and functional home storage solutions instead. In a popular video from @hometalk on TikTok, the creator flips an old tomato cage upside down and cleverly turns it into a vertical storage organizer that's great for entryways, bathrooms, and even home offices. With just a bit of imagination and some budget-friendly materials, these garden fixtures can get a whole new lease on life — no tomatoes required.

In the video, the creator cuts off the cage's stakes using a wire cutter. Then, after painting the fixture to give it a fresh, cohesive look, they take a few planter baskets from Dollar Tree and fasten them to the inside of the cage's horizontal bars in order to make a two-tiered basket storage stand. The stand can hold everything from toilet paper and guest towels in the bathroom, to fruit and snacks on the kitchen counter. If you want to try this project for yourself, keep in mind that many commercially sold tomato cages can only hold a maximum of 10 lbs.. Therefore, you shouldn't use this DIY for storing hefty belongings like books or heavy toiletries. However, when used for lightweight items only, this stylish storage hack can be extremely versatile. 

Since the rings in a standard tomato cage are different sizes, hanging up storage baskets on the inside of them may not be a straightforward process. A planter basket may be able to rest evenly on the top tier of an upside-down tomato cage without the need for fastening, but the same sized basket will probably fall right through the other rings below. To use identical baskets for both tiers, you'll have to find a way to fasten the lower basket to the cage's middle ring. Some planter baskets come with clips that will be handy here. You could also purchase small S hooks with clips, or try using zip ties.

If you want to store small items with your organizer, you may want to consider adding a storage bowl inside each of the baskets, so that nothing falls through their wires. Clear decorative bowls will work nicely, but you could also opt for opaque storage bowls that match the painted cage or add a bold color. Also, if you're concerned about the cage toppling due to the weight of your items, consider attaching a wood or metal base to the bottom of your cage. Just make sure to use a glue that's appropriate for metal. This addition to the bottom will give your new storage solution more stability. This project could work nicely alongside other DIY storage projects that will make the most of your small home office. Alternatively, it might even help bring organization to a cluttered bathroom.