The new year brings with it the irresistible feeling of a fresh start. As temperatures in the Northeast continue to drop and the sun sets by 5 p.m., I’ve taken on a mission: a serious home clean-out. Who says spring cleaning needs to wait until spring?
Lately, I’ve been reflecting on how to breathe new life into household items that aren’t getting much love. If these items can’t be repurposed, how can I find them a new home where they’ll be appreciated?
After some serious research, I’m excited to share some creative ways we’ve found to give your old favorites a second life.
(P.S. Important note: These are not sponsored recommendations. We have no affiliations or partnerships with the businesses mentioned—we’re simply sharing some businesses we believe are doing great work!)
- Old T-Shirts: Too Cool T-Shirt Quilts Over the years, I’ve collected a lot of t-shirts packed with memories—some falling apart, others relics from 30+ years ago. Parting with them felt impossible, so I sorted through the ones with the most emotional attachment and sent them off to Michigan. The result? A stunning quilt that turns nostalgia into something both beautiful and functional. Check them out here
- Dishware and China: Brooklyn Tea Cup What can you do with those special china tea cups and dishware gathering dust? Brooklyn Tea Cup will transform your china into things like gorgeous jewelry stands or tiered cake serving trays. It’s such a fun way to repurpose heirloom dishes and make them part of your daily life. They also make incredible gifts for loved ones! Discover more here
- Jewelry Reimagining: Spur Jewelry Have unworn pieces in your jewelry box? Spur Jewelry specializes in reimagining and combining old pieces into stunning new creations. Imagine turning mismatched earrings into a ring or a vintage necklace into something modern and meaningful. Explore their work here
- Kids’ Artwork: Art Collages by Mimi Gravel If your kids’ artwork has taken over every drawer and wall, turn those priceless creations into a masterpiece. Mimi Gravel crafts collages using your children’s art, preserving their creativity in a way you can cherish forever. See her amazing work here
- Clothing and Textile Recycling: Trashie Take Back Bags For unwanted clothing and textiles, consider recycling them with a Take Back Bag from Trashie. Fill up the bag and send it back to ensure your textile waste stays out of landfills. It’s an easy and impactful way to clean out your wardrobe responsibly. Learn more here
Cleaning out doesn’t have to mean letting go of memories or contributing to waste. These businesses help make it easier to embrace new beginnings while preserving what matters most.
Here’s to fresh starts and creative solutions for the things we love!