Turn A Plastic Bottle Into A Creative Way To Dry And Store Umbrellas

Storing an umbrella near the front door can be incredibly convenient. You can easily pull it out and brave summer showers or chilly autumnal rain. And you can just put it back in place just as easily. Besides, there'll be no visible clutter in your entryway, and it'll always be guest-ready. Sadly, stuffing your wet umbrellas in a confined space is one of the worst errors you can make with your coat closet. The dripping water will create a dank environment and promote bacterial growth. Mold and mildew will also set up shop if this becomes a regular occurrence. Plus, the moisture will rot your floorboards or cause other damage over time. This is where a plastic bottle can come in handy. Simply cut off its top or bottom to turn it into a functional umbrella holder.

This way, you can save another bottle from clogging up overflowing landfills around the world and put it to good use. Also, you won't have to splurge for a dedicated stand. Better yet, this DIY won't cost you a penny, as you'll find all the required supplies at home: a plastic bottle, a utility knife with a sharpened blade, and a piece of twine or string (should be strong enough to shoulder a wet umbrella's weight). Decorative elements like paint, contact paper, and peel-and-stick wallpaper are optional. Additionally, this hack won't take up a lot of time.

Start by removing the label from the bottle. In case you're having trouble, a steam cleaner is a foolproof way to remove sticky labels from nearly any surface. Now, determine how you plan on draining your holder once the umbrella stops dripping. Would you want something as simple as opening the cap and letting the accumulated water drain, or would you prefer upturning the holder? This will help you decide whether you should cut off a few inches from the top or bottom of a plastic bottle. Then, grab your utility knife and make a straight cut. You can even draw a line with a marker if you want a clean finish. Don't forget to buff the edges with sandpaper for a smooth edge.

Afterward, poke two holes on opposite ends of the bottle (near the open edge). Get the hole punch tool from your home office or heat up an old screwdriver over an open flame and use it instead. Finally, loop in the twine and hang up your wet umbrella holder in a concealed spot near the entryway or in your coat closet. If it looks a bit basic, paint its exterior and draw on designs to prettify it. Some contact or peel-and-stick wallpaper will also help you hide your holder's humble origins. Either way, be prepared for the paint to chip or the paper to come off with regular use due to the presence of moisture. Moreover, your umbrella's lifespan will be cut short if it doesn't get a chance to dry properly. So, take it out and leave it open in a well-ventilated area once it's no longer dripping wet.