13 Surprising Ways to Repurpose Old Toys

Every household with children will at some point experience an overflow of toys, a situation both daunting and clutter-inviting. Instead of consigning these plastic bits and stuffed curiosities to the landfill, why not get creative? Repurposing old toys not only gives them a second life but also brings an exciting opportunity for upcycling projects that benefit both you and the environment. Dive in with us as we explore 13 surprising and innovative ways to revamp and reuse those forgotten toys.

1. Toy Flower Pots

Transform large, hollow toys into charming flower pots. Plastic dinosaurs, trucks, or dolls can host small plants with just a little modification. Start by cutting an opening if necessary, and ensure there’s a drainage hole at the bottom to avoid waterlogging. Fill them with soil and your favorite succulents, or herbs and place them on your window sill for a playful touch of greenery.

2. Customized Jewelry

Old toy parts, like Legos, buttons, or beads, are perfect for creating unique jewelry pieces. You can easily turn small figurines or car models into pendants or earrings with a soldering iron and some jump rings. The vibrant colors and quirky designs make for fantastic statement pieces that show off your creativity and sustainable living ethos.

3. Keyholders from Action Figures

Action figures are the perfect candidates for creating whimsical keyholders. Securely mount the figures onto a wooden base or directly onto your wall using screws or strong adhesives. Their outstretched hands can hold your house or car keys, ready for action whenever you need them.

4. Wall Art Installations

If you have a plethora of small toys that are no longer in use, consider turning them into a vibrant piece of wall art. Glue toys of all sizes to a canvas or wooden board, painting them a uniform color—like chic matte black or shimmering gold. This approach provides modern and eye-catching wall decor with an element of nostalgia.

5. Drawer Knobs from Cute Figurines

Small toy animals or figures can turn into adorable and one-of-a-kind drawer knobs. After carefully drilling a hole and inserting a threaded screw, attach the toys where traditional knobs would go on your furniture. The result is both charming and practical, bringing a playful vibe to children’s rooms or eclectic spaces.

6. Garden Markers

Reimagine toys like old toy cars or cut animal figures as garden markers. Affix them to stakes, paint their tops with chalkboard paint, and label your garden plants accordingly. These imaginative markers add an element of fun and vibrancy to your seasonal gardening ventures.

7. Kids’ Coat Racks

Have a board and a few mid-sized toys at hand? Transform them into a quirky coat rack. Bolts or strong glue can secure the toys onto a wooden plank. This setup not only provides a practical solution for kids’ rooms but also encourages children to hang up their coats and bags, which in itself is a bonus.

8. Planters for Aquatic Environments

If you have aquatic-themed toys like sharks or submarines, submerge them in your fish tank. Ensure they’re thoroughly cleaned and safe for aquatic life first. These playful additions can decorate your aquatic environments, providing both amusement for you and potential hideaways for your fish.

9. Bookends

A pair of sturdy toys make excellent bookends. Heavy toys are ideal for this purpose, but you can always fill lighter toys with sand or concrete to give them more stability. Glue the toys to L-shaped wooden or metal bases to create unique bookends that will keep your books neatly in line.

10. Picture Frame Decorations

Add a personal touch to plain picture frames by embellishing them with small toys. Hot glue dinosaurs, cars, or blocks around a plain frame to create a keepsake that showcases both your personal style and cherished memories.

11. Toy-themed Candle Holders

Larger plastic toys, especially those with a hollow center or an easy-to-remove top, can be transformed into charming candle holders. Always ensure they’re fire-safe and keep a close watch when they’re in use. They add a hint of whimsy to your home decor, perfect for table centerpieces or bedside tables.

12. Pet Toys

Why not share the love by repurposing toys for your pets? Ensure they’re durable and safe, free from small parts that could be swallowed. For example, fabric toys can become chewables for your dogs if properly reinforced, while larger figurines may be suitable for interactive play with cats.

13. Toy-based Magnets

Create colorful and useful magnets from small toys like Lego bricks or puzzle pieces. Attach a strong magnet to the back and you have a versatile new set to beautify your refrigerator door or magnetic board. This fun project is both practical and easy to complete, making it a perfect crafting project for young hands.

Embracing a Creative Spirit

Repurposing old toys is not only innovative but serves as a compelling conversation starter when applied throughout your home. Each toy-turned-art piece carries the legacy and charm of playtimes gone by, offering a nod to sustainability by reducing waste and satisfying our creative urge. So, the next time you find yourself sorting through an overflowing toy chest, remember these inventive ideas. Your home—and the planet—will thank you for it.