10 Recycled Materials You Can Use to Decorate Your Home Sustainably

Decorating your home doesn’t have to mean buying expensive or environmentally harmful items. In fact, many of the best decor elements come from recycled materials you already own! In this article, we’ll show you 10 popular items you can upcycle into beautiful, functional decor with little effort and lots of eco-impact.

1. Mason Jars

Perfect for candles, planters, or bathroom storage. You can also use a Mason Jar Planter Set (Amazon) for a ready-to-go solution.

2. Glass Bottles

Use colored bottles as flower vases, window displays, or turn them into hanging light fixtures.

3. Tin Cans

Clean and punch decorative holes to create DIY lanterns, utensil holders, or desk organizers.

4. Wooden Pallets

Transform discarded pallets into wall-mounted shelves, garden planters, or rustic coffee tables. Add brackets like these floating shelf brackets (Amazon) to support your builds.

5. Cardboard Boxes

Cut and shape them into modern wall art, kids' toys, or drawer dividers. They’re surprisingly versatile and easy to paint or wrap in fabric.

6. Fabric Scraps

Turn old t-shirts or curtains into pillow covers, rugs, or patchwork table runners. You can also start with a beginner sewing kit like this portable sewing set (Amazon) .

7. Plastic Bottles

Cut and paint them into wall planters, bird feeders, or light covers. They're ideal for balcony gardens and kids' projects.

8. Wine Corks

Create DIY cork boards, drawer handles, or trivets. They’re lightweight and naturally insulating.

9. Old Magazines

Roll pages into art, frame your favorite covers, or decoupage tabletops for a retro-modern look.

10. Leftover Tiles

Use extra ceramic tiles as coasters, candle holders, or wall mosaics. Combine them with this strong eco-safe adhesive (Amazon) to keep things in place.

Bonus Tip: Where to Find Recycled Materials

Check local flea markets, garage sales, or ask friends and neighbors for items they plan to throw out. You’ll be surprised what you can save and transform!

Final Thoughts

Eco-friendly decorating is a mindset. It’s about making something beautiful while doing something meaningful for the planet. Start with just one of the materials above and watch your creativity (and your home) flourish.

Want more ideas? Check out our full collection of green DIY tutorials →