Creative Ways to Reuse Your Mint Tins

By Diane Hoffmaster

Heading through the grocery checkout line with kids can be challenging−especially with items such as soda, candy and toys placed at the end of every aisle within easy reach. One thing I always seem to say yes to is a tin of mints. Everyone loves having fresh breath so keeping a tin of mints tucked into a purse or car can come in handy. At the end of the month, however, there are several empty mint tins that inevitably end up in the recycle bin. There are several things you can do with these tins than just toss them in the trash or recycle bin.  Here are just a few ideas to help you find a new use for them once the mints are gone.

1.    Business card holder: Add some pretty ribbon or material to the outside of your tin to give it a more professional look. Then, store your business cards inside for a creative, card holder. You never know when you might meet someone important and this time you’ll be prepared!

2.    First aid kit: Make a first aid kit out of your tin so you’re ready for any unexpected moment. Add some bandages, alcohol wipes and antibiotic cream and you are all set for the next skinned knee.

3.    Headphone holder: Store your headphone’s and ear buds in the tin can for an easy, mess-free retrieval. This is a great way to keep your family’s headphones, or ear bud’s tangle-free and in tip-top shape.

4.    Junk drawer organizer:  Use your tin can to store little, miscellaneous items such as paper clips, safety pins, rubber bands and thumb tacks. This will help to keep your drawer organized and allow you to find what you need in seconds. For additional directions on how to keep your drawers organized, check out this post from fellow Blogger Panel Member Eric.

5.    Travel game: Using a simple noughts and crosses (O’s and X’s) template and six painted stones or colored gems, you can make a travel game to store in your car for those unexpected delays during morning carpool. Glue a small magnet to the base of each piece so the pieces don't scatter if you hit a bump.

6.    Sewing kit: For an easy fix no matter what time of day, store a needle and thread in your empty tin and be prepared for any rips and tears. No more wondering how to sew on that button right before the school band concert starts!

7.    On-the-go art kit: Store a few crayons and a piece of scrap paper in your tin container.  Next time you are at grandmas with a fidgety toddler, take it out and ask them to draw you a picture. Then, sit back and enjoy quality time with your loved one.

How would you repurpose your mint tin?

Photo courtesy of Diane Hoffmaster.