One of the best feelings, especially after a long day, is to cosy up in a newly made-up bed with crisp, fresh sheets. But after a few years of repeating this, your bed sheets may not give you that crisp, fresh feeling anymore. Whether discolouration, wear and tear, pilling or stretched out elastic bands, bed sheets start to show their age after some time. But don’t toss them in the bin just yet – we’ve got 10 clever uses for old bed sheets.
1. DIY pet beds
There are two options here: no-sew and sew. No-sew pet beds are made by layering old sheets several times and securing the ends with clips or rubber bands. To take it further, you can layer the middle with old towels or foam for extra padding. For a more permanent result, sew one edge of the layered sheets together. Then stuff the centre with old towels or foam, and sew the remaining edge together.
2. Cleaning rags
Somehow, the best, tried-and-true cleaning cloth is made from old fabric. Simply cut old bed sheets into squares to make the best cleaning rags. Use these for polishing the silver or wooden furniture, to dab and clean pet messes, wipe down dusty surfaces, clean windows – you name it!
3. Produce bags
Save yourself a few rands each time you grocery shop and make produce bags with old bed sheets. Not only is this an eco-friendly alternative to plastic, but it also minimises the fabric that ends up in dumps or on beaches. Cotton and linen sheets are strong and ideal for this project. If your old bed sheets are made with more delicate fabric, consider a two-layer approach or opting to make them into something else instead.
4. DIY Ironing board cover
The durable, soft textures of bed sheets make for the perfect foundation for ironing clothes. Simply cut the old bed sheet to size (enough to wrap around the ironing board) and either secure with elastic bands or a strong staple gun, or, if you’re an avid sewer, sew in an elastic band so that you can easily pop it on and off. If you have a few old bed sheets lying around, you can get creative by cutting even squares and quilting an iron board cover together for a quaint and quirky alternative design.
5. Storage covers
Instead of reaching for old newspapers or bubble wrap for wrapping around delicate pieces, use old bed sheets instead. They’re perfect for adding extra protection and padding to delicate items like glassware, trinkets, and artwork. Cut them to your liking and get layering and wrapping! These also make for perfect wrapping alternatives when moving house.
6. DIY Play tent
Take old bed sheets and drape them over a frame to create an indoor play tent for your kids. Whether it’s a proper tent or a quick teepee, your kids will love this. Just add in some fairy lights, blankets and pillows, and you’re good for the next adventure. The best thing is that this doesn’t require any sewing, just a few clever placements.
7. Potpourri bags
Instead of making cleaning rags, or if you have more sheets in need of a second life, consider making potpourri bags. Fill bags with dried rose petals, lavender, marigolds, and other spices. Place them inside your shoes, in your underwear drawer, or hang them next to your winter coats. Not only do they make your clothes and shoes smell great, but they also keep pesky moths and other bugs from eating and damaging your items. If you aren’t an avid sewer, don’t stress – simply cut a square piece of fabric and fill it with your favourite combos, bring all four corners together and tie them tight with string or ribbon!
8. Furniture protector
If you have pets, this option was made for you. Use old bed sheets to cover the couch or bed your pet just can’t resist. The sheets are perfect for keeping pet dander and muddy paws from damaging furniture and new bed sheets… Simply drape them over the piece of furniture you want protected and tuck firmly into the creases. It can be removed and laundered as needed.
9. Paint sheets
If you have some painting happening soon, or your family are crafters, instead of heading to the store to buy pricey paint sheets, layer old sheets on the floor or over furniture. They absorb paints and other materials better than the plastic paint sheets do, not to mention they can be washed and reused more than a few times.
10. Make scrunchies
We all have one or two sets of duvet and pillow covers that are just too beautiful to use as paint sheets or cleaning rags, and too sentimental to toss. Instead, make adorable scrunchies instead! All you’ll need is a couple of material elastic bands, a quick YouTube video and a sewing machine. Not only will they help you create fun hairstyles, but also make for the perfect DIY birthday or Christmas gift!
