Ways to Reuse Canning Lids

Ways to Reuse Canning Lids

When it comes to using mason jars and canning lids, you don’t want to just throw them away after they have been used just once. I have found several ways to reuse canning lids around my home. I have always loved finding new ways to use things instead of just throwing them out. Here are some ways I reuse canning lids around my home. Just remember that for the purpose of canning and preserving food they should only be used once if they aren’t labeled “reusable” from the manufacturer. 

1. Storing Items- Canning lids fit on a lot of other containers, so we use them to store items. Some ideas are you can store office items in them like paper clips, you can store little toys in the containers like LEGO and even Barbie shoes. You can use containers like peanut butter jars or Parmesan cheese containers as the base.
2. Craft Projects– With the kids, we’ve been known to use canning lids as the center of our art projects. You can make tons of crafts using canning lids. Some crafts we have done in the past include, Christmas tree ornaments, sun catchers, mini wreaths, and even picture frame magnets.
3. First Aid Kit Storage- Gathering old containers, preferably see-through ones, I’ve been able to make mini first aid storage kids using old canning lids for the top.
4. Leftovers in Jars- Whenever we save our leftovers, canning lids are always what we use for the lid. This also makes an awesome portable way to carry leftovers to and from work and school.
5. Garden Name Tags- One of my favorite ways to use old canning lids is to make them into garden name tags. There are several ways you can do this.
6. In the Kitchen- If you are a cook, you’ll want to save those canning lids for in the kitchen. We’ve used them to make cupcakes and mini pies and of course dry goods storage. They make a great addition to your cooking routine.

Try not to throw away those canning lids, if you can remember because they make excellent tools for reusing and recycling. What ways have you reused canning lids around your home and workplace?