Turn An Old Laundry Detergent Bottle Into A Useful Outdoor Water Station
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Laundry detergent is one of those key household items that keeps your clothes clean and fresh — and sometimes it can feel like you're always buying new jugs. Detergent comes in numerous packaging and presentation methods, ranging from bottles to pre-measured pods and sheets. Still, even with all of the variations on the market, traditional detergent jugs remain one of the most popular options available. In fact, a 2026 survey from ACI found that 55% of U.S. households still choose liquid detergent over other options. Instead of just tossing the old jugs out, you can turn an old laundry detergent bottle into an outdoor water station the whole family can enjoy with a few DIY steps, including cleaning the jug and using the existing cap as a spout.
In addition to the environmental benefits, this is also an incredibly easy project that requires minimal materials. Before jumping right into this DIY upcycle, it's important to assess the type of detergent bottles you have. For example, some bottles, like the 125-fluid-ounce jug of Tide Liquid Laundry Detergent, feature a built-in dispenser cap with a button. These bottles are ideal, as they require minimal steps outside of setting up. However, standard bottles with twist caps will work perfectly well for this type of detergent bottle hack as well. The materials needed include the bottle itself, vinegar to clean the inside, a drill to create the cap holes, and any additional embellishments for decorating.
Steps to repurpose an old laundry detergent bottle into a water station
To start with a dispenser-style cap bottle, first use a product like vinegar to help clean out any excess detergent. Taking the time for this step makes sure there's no leftover residue to potentially get onto kids' hands or on the ground for pets and wildlife to ingest. Next, find the perfect spot for your water station, whether that's in your kids' outdoor mud kitchen or next to the garden for easy access to water plants. Turn the bottle on its side (cracking the second cap to help with water flow), and it's ready to dispense. Some handy ideas include propping it up in a mud kitchen for rinsing hands or even going a bit outside the box and adding a second detergent bottle to the space to make a DIY hand rinsing station for any area of your yard.
@nikkitied We're prepping for mud kitchen season! Last year's water dispenser cracked in storage and just as I was about to recycle our laundry bottle, I thought- this would be great! A little more sturdy and now we get even more use out of it! #mudkitchen #outdoortoys #toddlermom #repurpose #creatorsearchinsights
If you're working with a twist cap, you'll need to complete a few more steps before it functions. Again, start with cleaning out the leftover detergent to make sure it's safe for kids to rinse their hands and enjoy playing in their outdoor mud kitchens. The real DIY portion of these bottles requires drilling holes into the cap. While you won't have control via the button, you can just tip the jug sideways to let the water out. It's recommended to drill ⅛-inch holes on the cap to mimic a watering can, though you'll also need to drill a slightly larger one towards the back to help with pressure.
Don't overlook the fun in customizing a detergent bottle water station
Whether you're repurposing a used detergent bottle as a mud kitchen accessory or for functionality, remember not to overlook one of the most enjoyable steps: Customizing. This can go beyond just removing the labels and cleaning the bottle with a little creativity. For example, you can grab some spray paint and easily change the color of the jug to match the current season or your outdoor decor. If you're getting the kids involved in this upcycle, try adding some stickers or fun embellishments to really change up the design. Try to opt for waterproof vinyl decals that can stand up to the elements, or get creative and make your own stickers with waterproof paper.
The presentation of the watering station can also make a difference in its appearance and functionality! For example, try incorporating the water station into your garden space to make it easy to water plants or rinse hands by hiding it among the greenery or near a shed. You can also try turning the detergent bottle into a hanging station that can be used for watering or even storage.