Not Baskets, Not Buckets: The Antique Find You Can Use To Store Wet Umbrellas

There are a few items which have become entryway staples for a reason. A bench is useful for sitting down to put your shoes on, hooks are essential for hanging coats and leashes, and an umbrella stand is a non-negotiable in areas that get a lot of rain. But, if you've been on the hunt for the perfect umbrella stand for your home, you may have been disappointed with the plain options available or underwhelmed by the idea of using a simple basket or bucket.

So, why not repurpose a different item for use as an umbrella holder bursting with character and personality? Antique milk or cream cans are a great contender for this project because their size and shape is similar to what you would look for in a classic umbrella stand. In addition, their hardy metal exterior means they are great for storing wet umbrellas and are also perfect for decoration, allowing you to turn this forgotten thrift store find into a unique statement piece that reflects your home's style. You can source your own antique milk or cream can from places that sell pre-owned items such as thrift stores, antique shops, or online marketplaces like Etsy and Facebook marketplace. You may also have better luck finding a wider variety to choose from in rural areas that boast a history of dairy farming. So, once you've found one that you like, how can you turn the can into unique decor for your home which is both attractive and functional? Let's check out how to style antique milk jugs and the best ways to use them for storing umbrellas.

One of the great benefits of this project is that it can be as simple or as complicated as you like. If you already have a rustic home design and you like items which look authentic and a little rough around the edges, then you can simply clean the can up and get it ready for use. Combine 1 cup of vinegar, ¼ cup of lime juice, and ½ cup of table salt, then dip a soft cloth into the mixture and use it to clean the can (while wearing gloves). Though many antique milk cans are made of galvanized metal, which is relatively rust-resistant, this process can help to remove any rust that has cropped up over time. It is also a good idea to seal the can afterward cleaning to prevent the appearance of any rust in the future as a result of damp umbrellas. To keep your milk can in the best condition, you may also want to consider placing a microfiber cloth at the bottom of the can to help soak up the moisture from wet umbrellas. The cloth can then be easily changed out for a dry one as needed.

If you don't have a rustic decor scheme or you think the milk can looks a little plain, try decorating this antique find to match your preferred aesthetic. For example, you could sand down the outside, coat the can with a primer, and then paint or decoupage it with fun patterns or decals. Alternatively, you could try adding additional decorative elements such as lace, ribbons, or bows to really make the piece stand out.