Don't Throw Out Old Egg Cartons Without Trying These 12 Genius DIYs

We may receive a commission on purchases made from links.

Empty egg cartons might seem like trash, but they can be surprisingly useful. For instance, it's incredibly simple to start seeds in cardboard ones. The material can also be reused in multiple ways for eco-friendly decor projects. Styrofoam cartons can be an even greater burden to the environment because they're non-biodegradable and can stay in their original form for centuries. So, repurposing them in your house will save you money on craft supplies and storage solutions while reducing waste. They work great as paint palettes for art projects, and they even make good drawer organizers. 

Are you interested in learning more about the ways you can give your old egg cartons a new life? Here are some genius DIYs you should try before throwing them out. Just make sure you clean them thoroughly to remove any food residue before you get started.

Looking for a beautiful organizer to grace your entryway or side table? Transform an old egg carton into a stunning decorative bowl by turning it into paper clay. You just need to soak it in water for a day and blend the mixture. Use flour and salt or Mod Podge Glue and Finish to turn the sludge into dough, using a bowl to mold it into shape. You'll also need napkins for decoupage. Use patterns or solid colors to match the room's vibe. Or get festive designs, like Halloween or Christmas ones, to create your own low-cost holiday decor.

Are you into the new fridgescaping trend that has everyone sprucing up their fridge interiors? If so, save some cash and craft a fancy basket for your eggs instead of buying one. You'll need to cut a plastic container, such as a large shallow bowl or old takeout container, to form the base. Measure its diameter prior to trimming your egg carton for a perfect fit, and paint it in a shade matching your fridge's theme. Then, embellish its exterior with thick jute rope for a rustic look or use metallic ribbon for a more glam vibe.

Thinking of starting seeds indoors? Cardboard egg cartons are an inexpensive way to begin. To reuse these empty food containers as DIY seed starters, trim the lid and create holes in the bottom of the cups for drainage. Sandwich your seeds between thin layers of potting soil and avoid pushing them in too deep, or they'll have trouble sprouting. After watering them generously, move the carton to a warm location that receives sunlight. When they're ready to be transplanted, tear off individual cups and place them directly in the ground. As the cardboard breaks down, it'll enrich the soil with carbon.

No matter how well you organize your drawer's contents, they won't stay in place for long without dedicated organizers. But if you're reluctant to spend money on fancy ones, try out an egg carton storage hack for a more organized home. Cut your carton in half if you don't have a lot of items or squeeze in another to organize your overflowing junk drawer. Sort your leftover hardware, craft supplies, sewing threads, or tape rolls and group like items together. If you have deep drawers that the carton will slide around in, keep it in place with Art3D's Double-Sided Mounting Tape. 

Don't like how chaotic your condiment bottles look on your refrigerator's shelves? An old egg carton will change the way you organize your fridge. Just ensure it's completely dry before putting it in one of your side shelves to discourage bacterial growth. The small compartments are the perfect size to store upside-down bottles, so you can get to every last drop of your favorite sauce or salad dressing. It'll also minimize fridge cleanup if the bottles leak. Simply change out the carton for a clean one when needed.

Do you like creating your own art work? A Styrofoam (cardboard might absorb paint) egg carton can double as a painting palette. Just tear off the number of cups that you need to mix colors for your current project. Now, add your acrylic or water paints in the compartments. If you need to store different-sized brushes throughout your project, create tiny holes in the carton's center with a screwdriver to hold them. 

Dimensional vases are on-trend and can add tons of visual interest to your space. To make one for a fraction of the retail price, make a bubble vase-inspired container of your own out of cut-up egg cartons. Use an old glass vase as the base (the cheap ones from Dollar Tree work, too) and attach the cut-up carton cups. Try a baking soda painting technique for a textured look that emulates stone. Or, go for a shiny finish like Rust-Oleum Painter's Touch Metallic Aluminum Spray Paint for a glam metal-like look. 

Don't have the funds for a full-blown greenhouse to start seeds early in spring? Make your own using plastic egg cartons. Poke holes in the bottom of the cups for drainage, and add a few in the top to promote ventilation. After sowing your seeds, close the lids and place the carton in a warm and bright spot. Water them as directed on the seed packet to help them sprout. This DIY works because the trapped moisture and heat will offer the ideal environment for the seedlings to germinate and get ready for transplantation.

Although starting seeds indoors can speed up the germination timeline, watering the soil daily can soon feel like a chore. So, set up a self-watering seed tray to make things easier. You'll repurpose the cups of your plastic egg carton as a mini greenhouse, and use its flat lid as your watering tray. This way, your seeds will have ready access to water, and you won't have to set reminders for watering them. 

Keeping your nail polish collection organized can be challenging. Not knowing which colors you own can lead to buying doubles, while others might get lost in the back of a drawer and go bad over time. Luckily, an empty egg carton can help maintain order. Simply cut it in half and organize the bottles in the cups. The open format will make it easier for you to access and put back your nail polish. If you don't like the carton's drab appearance, paint it a fun shade. This is also a great way to sort your lip balms and lipstick tubes.

Thinking of propagating plants using stem or leaf cuttings? Use plastic egg cartons when using water as a medium. Cut holes in the lid using a sharp pair of scissors or a tool like X-Acto's Precision Utility Knife. Set the carton in a location that receives indirect sunlight, fill it with room temperature water, and place your cuttings in the holes. Don't forget to replace the water every week or earlier if it gives off a bad smell to keep algae and bacteria at bay.

Having trouble fitting all your books in their assigned spot? Use your cardboard egg cartons as shelf risers. This will give your shelves a more organized look, and the tiered appearance will enhance visual interest. Plus, the added height will let you see the books at the back, so you won't have to move a bunch trying to hunt them down. However, don't place too many hardcovers on the risers, or the hollow cartons might buckle under the pressure.