These rubber sink strainers are secretly useful all over the house. Here are 10 smart ways to reuse them

Rubber sink strainers are typically seen as purely utilitarian objects, designed to keep your drains free from food debris and hair. However, these often-overlooked items can be reimagined for a variety of uses around the house, making them an invaluable tool for creative problem-solving. Their flexible material and perforated design allow them to adapt to different needs, making them a versatile addition to your home.
From organizing small items to providing practical solutions for everyday challenges, rubber sink strainers can be used in innovative ways you may not have considered. Whether you have extras lying around or are looking to reduce waste by repurposing them, here are ten smart ways to reuse rubber sink strainers throughout your home.
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1. Turn Them Into Pet Food Bowl Drip Catchers

If you’re tired of dealing with the mess that comes from your pet’s water or food bowls, consider using a rubber sink strainer as a drip catcher. Place the strainer underneath the bowl to catch any spills or drips, keeping your floors cleaner. The strainer’s perforations allow any spilled water to be easily managed, and the rubber material provides a non-slip surface to help keep the bowl in place. Ensure the strainer is slightly larger than the bowl base, typically about 10 inches in diameter, to maximize its effectiveness.

2. Use as Soap-Saving Trays in the Shower

Extend the life of your soap bars by placing them on a rubber sink strainer in the shower. The perforations allow water to drain away quickly, preventing the soap from sitting in a puddle and becoming mushy. Choose a strainer that fits comfortably on your shower shelf or soap dish area, often around 5 inches in diameter. This simple hack not only saves soap but also maintains a tidier shower area.
3. Create Gentle Scrubbers for Pots, Pans, and Produce

Rubber sink strainers can be turned into gentle scrubbers, perfect for cleaning delicate surfaces like non-stick pans or fresh produce. Their soft yet durable material makes them ideal for scrubbing without scratching. To use, simply grip the strainer comfortably in your hand and scrub in a circular motion. The small holes in the strainer also help in rinsing away debris while you scrub, making cleanup easier.
4. Corral Craft Supplies Like Beads, Buttons, and Sequins

Organize small craft supplies by using rubber sink strainers as mini sorting trays. Their shallow design and perforated surface make them perfect for keeping tiny items like beads, buttons, or sequins contained while you work. Place several strainers in a larger tray or bin to create easy-to-access compartments that prevent small items from rolling away. This approach helps keep your crafting area neat and organized.
5. Make Mini Drying Racks for Sponges and Dishcloths

Keep your kitchen sponges and dishcloths fresher for longer by placing them on a rubber sink strainer to dry. The perforations allow air to circulate, speeding up the drying process and reducing the growth of mold and bacteria. Position the strainer near your sink or on a windowsill, ensuring it’s large enough to accommodate your cleaning tools, typically around 6 inches in diameter.
6. Use as Plant Pot Drainage Covers and Soil Savers

Prevent soil from washing out of your plant pots by using a rubber sink strainer as a drainage cover. Place the strainer at the bottom of the pot before adding soil. The strainer will allow excess water to drain while holding soil in place, promoting healthy root systems. This method is especially useful for pots with larger drainage holes, where soil loss can be a significant issue.

7. Turn Them Into Portable Snack Strainers for Kids

 

Make snack time less messy by using rubber sink strainers as portable strainers for rinsing fruit or holding snacks. Their lightweight and flexible design make them easy for children to handle, and the perforations are perfect for draining washed fruit. Use a strainer that is comfortable for small hands, typically around 5 inches in diameter, and encourage kids to help prepare their snacks independently.
8. Catch Hardware and Small Parts During DIY Projects

Keep track of small hardware items like screws, nails, and bolts during DIY projects by using a rubber sink strainer as a catch-all tray. The strainer’s perforations allow dust and debris to fall through, while the rubber material prevents parts from rolling away. This is particularly useful when working on projects that require frequent sorting and organization of small components.
9. Repurpose as Hair and Lint Catchers in Laundry Areas

Place a rubber sink strainer in your laundry area to catch hair and lint before they cause drainage issues. Simply position the strainer over the drain or inside the lint trap of your washing machine. The small perforations are effective at trapping debris while allowing water to flow through, helping to prevent clogs and maintain efficient drainage.
10. Use for Bath Toy Storage and Quick Drain Organization

Keep bath toys organized and allow them to dry quickly by storing them in a rubber sink strainer. Hang the strainer on a hook or suction cup inside the bathtub, where it can act as a handy storage solution. The perforations help water to drain away, reducing the risk of mold and mildew developing on toys. Choose a larger strainer, around 10 inches in diameter, for optimal storage capacity.