Reusing and Repurposing Plastic Milk Jugs

 

My emphasis is on half-gallon and gallon jugs. I hope the video inspires you to try to reuse and repurpose such jugs.

Wonder about the common jugs used for milk these days? Remember when milk containers were glass? How about cardboard that you peeled open, then folded back the flaps? Still used, although the cartons now have screw caps. Anyway, the plastic used is High-density polyethylene (HDPE). (Incidentally, "Environmental Footprint of Milk Containers" briefly describes pros and cons of milk cartons,plastic jugs, and glass bottles.)

Some HDPE Resources to Digest

From "What is High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE)?"

High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) is one of the most versatile and widely used plastics in the world. From milk jugs and water pipes to fuel tanks and geomembranes, this polymer is everywhere.

From "Plastic HDPE: The Material Behind Your Everyday Milk Jug"

HDPE, or high-density polyethylene, is the main material for milk jugs and crates. Because of Its durability, safety, and recyclability make it the ideal choice for the dairy industry.

A bit more in line with my topic: "Sort Smart Recycling Guide Milk Jugs" provides reuse suggestions, such as "Ways to Reuse" and "Make a Handy Scoop".

With its convenient handle, a milk jug makes a great scoop for gardening, dog food, or for the kids’ sandbox. Just cut the bottom off with a pair of scissors.

View the embedded how-to YouTube video on the site, or go directly to YT "How To: Milk Gallon Sandwich Holder "

Ready to Try Out Plastic Jug Reusing and Repurposing?

The jugs are easy to cut, with thickness of .5 to 1 mm (1/50th to 1/20th inch). I poked a few in-line slits using xacto knife/knives, then use scissors to cut the rest. For smaller cuts, such as oval holes, I used smaller scissors.

***Exercise caution when cutting.***