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Tip Store: Household: Recycling
Re-think Your Throw Outs
Recently we were preparing for a council hard rubbish collection, so under the house hubby went for contributions. Out came a very old tent in unremembered condition. Being old, dusty and roughly folded it was sent to the pile. On a rethink it came back in and the base was cut up and sewn into potato growing sacks. Handles were made from the top of the tent and holes for drainage made in the bottom of the sacks. Zips will be unpicked and recycled and upper parts or the tent will be made into double layered shopping bags. When fancy potato sacks cost about $78 for five this is a big savings (even if they only do one or two seasons), not including the savings for the shopping bags.
Contributed by Carolyn Koerntjes
Contributed by Carolyn Koerntjes
Other Uses for Plastic Bag Storage Tubes
The question of how to repurpose plastic bag dispensers was raised in a chat group. I use mine to store cleaning rags; clean underwear (frees up drawer space), scraps of crafting fabric, partially used skeins of wool. Some other contributors suggested using the Ikea style ones for storing wrapping paper rolls and umbrellas. I store my home made netting produce bags in one of the cloth tubes, to keep them dust free.
Contributed by Dianne Kelly
Contributed by Dianne Kelly
Plastic Bag "Disposal"
Re-use and Repurpose are always preferable options to Recycle.
For years, I have been using plastic bags of all kinds to stuff draught excluders I make for older homes. I like a really thick door sausage as the gaps under the doors in older houses can be significant.
I make the cover from remnant furnishing fabrics (e.g. discarded fabric sample books or offcuts) then pack tightly with plastic bags such as those from the supermarket, clean bread bags, postage packs etc.
These days they take a little longer to fill up but it's a great way to keep the draughts out and reduce the impact on the atmosphere that the recycling process creates.
They could be stuffed with unwanted fabric or linen etc. but the plastic filling is resistant to any dampness that can be a nuisance in older homes too.
The sausages do stay in place but move readily when you open the door without getting jammed underneath.
Contributed by Delaney Avenel
For years, I have been using plastic bags of all kinds to stuff draught excluders I make for older homes. I like a really thick door sausage as the gaps under the doors in older houses can be significant.
I make the cover from remnant furnishing fabrics (e.g. discarded fabric sample books or offcuts) then pack tightly with plastic bags such as those from the supermarket, clean bread bags, postage packs etc.
These days they take a little longer to fill up but it's a great way to keep the draughts out and reduce the impact on the atmosphere that the recycling process creates.
They could be stuffed with unwanted fabric or linen etc. but the plastic filling is resistant to any dampness that can be a nuisance in older homes too.
The sausages do stay in place but move readily when you open the door without getting jammed underneath.
Contributed by Delaney Avenel
Decluttering...Again
When decluttering, one of the questions I ask myself is: if I lost this item in a fire would I be looking for another one??
Contributed by Patricia McCarthy
Contributed by Patricia McCarthy
Many Milk Bottles
Trying to reduce my recycling and be more effective around home, I have been using plastic milk bottles (2L size) for many things.
Washed out and left whole they store -bicarb soda, washing powder, cat food, rice and pasta, anything that comes in a bag but should be airtight after opened.
If you cut down the top of a 2L Coke bottle, it works perfectly as a funnel (separate ones for different things) and it makes it a lot easier to fill the milk bottles.
I also cut milk bottles down to different sizes, to use for different things: cut in half and use to store bathroom items on the counter, different items in your pantry, as drawer dividers, pet food bowls, to hold craft supplies, to store small things in your garage, cut to make baskets for kids to make presents, as kitchen plant pots and tray (one inside another, top one with holes in bottom to drain), the list could go on.
I like using milk bottles because they are white (go with everything), easy to cut to the size you need, can be replaced (and recycled) when you don't need them anymore, are easy to stick together, and are easy to label nicely so you know what they are for.
Contributed by Denise Scotford
Washed out and left whole they store -bicarb soda, washing powder, cat food, rice and pasta, anything that comes in a bag but should be airtight after opened.
If you cut down the top of a 2L Coke bottle, it works perfectly as a funnel (separate ones for different things) and it makes it a lot easier to fill the milk bottles.
I also cut milk bottles down to different sizes, to use for different things: cut in half and use to store bathroom items on the counter, different items in your pantry, as drawer dividers, pet food bowls, to hold craft supplies, to store small things in your garage, cut to make baskets for kids to make presents, as kitchen plant pots and tray (one inside another, top one with holes in bottom to drain), the list could go on.
I like using milk bottles because they are white (go with everything), easy to cut to the size you need, can be replaced (and recycled) when you don't need them anymore, are easy to stick together, and are easy to label nicely so you know what they are for.
Contributed by Denise Scotford
The Easiest Way to Empty the Rubbish Bins
It really isn't that hard to pick up a rubbish bin in the bathroom or the kitchen or study and run it out to the recycle or garbage bin. But it is so much easier if the bin is lined. Trouble is lining those bins can be fiddly and expensive if you buy bin liners.
Firstly, save money by recycling bread bags or plastic grocery bags (if you still use them) or even veggie bags. At least using them as bin liners is making them more than single use tip fill.
Secondly, save time and energy by stacking 12 bags on top of each other. Then each time you empty the bin just pick up the top bag and take it away and forget about having to go back and line the bin - it's already done!
Firstly, save money by recycling bread bags or plastic grocery bags (if you still use them) or even veggie bags. At least using them as bin liners is making them more than single use tip fill.
Secondly, save time and energy by stacking 12 bags on top of each other. Then each time you empty the bin just pick up the top bag and take it away and forget about having to go back and line the bin - it's already done!
Multi Use Dog Food Bags
I have used an opened out dog food bag as a ground sheet when I had a lazy starter motor and had to get under the car to tap it. I have also used it when making a beach bag as the lining plastic (use a large stitch on the machine and sew with a piece of paper under it if the machine is unco-operative), and also as a backing for a waterproof pad as a chair protector for an elderly relative. I have also lined fruit boxes with them before growing plants to stop soil washing out the big holes, l put just a few small holes for drainage. A humble plastic bag with so many re-uses.
Contributed by Carolyn Koerntjes, 17th January 2017
Contributed by Carolyn Koerntjes, 17th January 2017
Plastic Containers Only with BPA Sign
Please check all your plastic containers in your cupboards and if not BPA safe throw them out or use around the house or in the shed. They can be used for anything except food or drink containers and are handy when you're painting and need a container for a small amount of paint. You can also use them in the car to store things in the boot.
Contributed by Lynette Stewart, 8th January 2017
Contributed by Lynette Stewart, 8th January 2017
Save Shop Trays, Bakery Packaging etc.
Since joining the Cheapskates Club I've been applying a more active 'repurpose' approach to items that would normally go straight to the bin. I have found that keeping a little stock of shop 'packages' has been so useful and saving me heaps! I often provide little care packages of dinners, deserts etc. to hard up neighbours and nearby uni students etc. I am not having to buy take away containers or worse, losing plates or Tupperware . I pack things into washed veggie or meat trays and cover. Even washed bread bags are re-purposed for covers!
Contributed by Lindy Stuetz, 26th May 2016
Contributed by Lindy Stuetz, 26th May 2016
Don't Bin the Ziplock Bag
I use the small ziplock bags for a variety of things my avocado that's been cut, to freeze over ripe bananas, nuts etc, I was wasting my money by throwing them away especially if I had stored something mushy in it, I decided to start washing them but then they didn't dry very well, solution - I use a glass turned upside down , slide the ziplock bag over it so the water can drip down, make sure the edges of bag aren't turned up so the water can get away & that the glass is tall enough to allow water to get away, I just leave on the sink for a few hours or so then reuse it for my next avocado or bananas etc.
Contributed by Andrea Bethel, 18th May 2016
Contributed by Andrea Bethel, 18th May 2016
Not So Flat Batteries
Approximate $ Savings: $4
I have been throwing out my batteries to a light I have in the toilet, I had a idea this last time to try them in my wall clock and my clock is still working a month later with the same battery I would have thrown out. Then my alarm clock needed a new battery so I used the other "flat" battery and it is working fine two weeks later. I have saved buying two batteries. My next lot of batteries I will keep are my from my small torch to see if they will work as well. I am amazed that instead of throwing them out I have them still working in another item.
Contributed by Lynette Stewart
I have been throwing out my batteries to a light I have in the toilet, I had a idea this last time to try them in my wall clock and my clock is still working a month later with the same battery I would have thrown out. Then my alarm clock needed a new battery so I used the other "flat" battery and it is working fine two weeks later. I have saved buying two batteries. My next lot of batteries I will keep are my from my small torch to see if they will work as well. I am amazed that instead of throwing them out I have them still working in another item.
Contributed by Lynette Stewart
Cycling Goods
Approximate $ Savings: $50-$1000
There is a website called Freecycle (www.freecycle.com.au) It has each town available in Australia and if not your town there would be one close by. Members list items they no longer need for any members that need these items and can also put up 'wanted' items if you are searching for anything in particular. The website is free to join and the items are free. The idea is about anti-consumerism in a way and also instead of the items going to the tip it could go to someone that can get some more use out of it. I recently picked up from a member a baby carrier saving at least $50 nd from another member toys saving at least $100. I know once I have no need for something around the house I can put it on the site and someone will surely need it : )
Contributed by Rachel Lewis, 14th February 2013
There is a website called Freecycle (www.freecycle.com.au) It has each town available in Australia and if not your town there would be one close by. Members list items they no longer need for any members that need these items and can also put up 'wanted' items if you are searching for anything in particular. The website is free to join and the items are free. The idea is about anti-consumerism in a way and also instead of the items going to the tip it could go to someone that can get some more use out of it. I recently picked up from a member a baby carrier saving at least $50 nd from another member toys saving at least $100. I know once I have no need for something around the house I can put it on the site and someone will surely need it : )
Contributed by Rachel Lewis, 14th February 2013
Recycling Large Dry Dog Food Bags
After years of packing empty soft drink cans and bottles into the old plastic shopping bags and finding it a hassle to take it to the recyclers I now pack them into the large dry dog food bags (which in the past have seemed a huge waste to just place in the recycling bin with out having used them at least once more because they are so durable) Now when I go to the scout recycling depot the cans and bottles are delivered more easily and the strong bags come home with me for the next time round. Contributed by Rachel Ashworth, 29th November 2012
Recycle Fruit'n'Veg Bags
When purchasing fruit'n'veg, use the plastic bags offered in store. Then reuse these to bag up your bulk meats.
Contributed by Kanina Francis, 31st July 2011
Contributed by Kanina Francis, 31st July 2011
Use the School Network to Give or Get Egg Cartons
As we go through 2 dozen eggs a week I try to give the cartons away. Try putting an ad in the local school newsletter, as it is normally free and ask if you can drop them off at the office for people to collect them.
Contributed by Tracey Ashley, 6th June 2009
Contributed by Tracey Ashley, 6th June 2009
Offer Empty Egg Cartons to Others
Join your local LETS or Freecycle group. My husband loves his eggs so we generate a lot of empty egg cartons. I usually offer them on LETS or Freecycle before throwing them out. If you live in the Hunter, call me!
Contributed by Diane Call, 5th June 2009
Websites:
www.lets.org.au
www.freecycle.org/group
Contributed by Diane Call, 5th June 2009
Websites:
www.lets.org.au
www.freecycle.org/group
Sourcing Building Supplies At the Tip (Shop)
If you are looking for budget priced building materials, go to the shop at your local tip (or to a tip that has a recycle shop with it) where you can get used building materials that have been thrown out. In the tip shop at Browns Plains, S E QLD, we have one that has everything from tiles and windows to doors and carpets and fencing, everything at very affordable prices. They also have bathroom and toilet items and materials. You will be surprised how many people go to the tip shop for building supplies. Some tip shops also have other household items such as furniture, bedding, clothing, toys etc. Contributed by Carol, Woodridge, 6th June 2009
Style a Plastic Bag Dispenser
Reuse old plastic ice cream containers as empty plastic bag holders. Cut a circular hole (not too big) in the middle of the lid then masking tape the lid onto the tub. Then knot the plastic bags and put them into the tub through the hole. This way you can have plastic bags stored in the bathroom and kitchen etc, which saves running around to one spot to get a plastic bag, money spent on buying multiple plastic bag holders, and a neat and tidy area.
Contributed by Cynthia Tay, 26th June 2010
Contributed by Cynthia Tay, 26th June 2010
Bag Box
If you don't have a "bag bag" use an empty tissue box. Just place your empty shopping bags in it and pull one out as you need it. Convenient and tidy in one go!
Contributed by Keren, Mooroolbark, 2nd May 2009
Contributed by Keren, Mooroolbark, 2nd May 2009
Sauce Bottle Scoops Make Life Easy
Approximate $ Savings: $5.00 each
I buy a large 2 litre bottle of tomato sauce and when finished I cut the bottom off, about 2cms up, and the top section makes an absolutely fabulous scoop as it is quite rigid and has a handle. I have scoops for wheat and pellets for the chooks, dog and cat biscuits and potting mix but they could be used for anything where you need a scoop. The remaining bottom section can be used as a cat dish, or a plant saucer or a little tray for baby chickens - there are any number of uses. And because the scoops are red they are easy to see in the bin or bag.
Contributed by Larraine, Bathurst, 14th May 2010
I buy a large 2 litre bottle of tomato sauce and when finished I cut the bottom off, about 2cms up, and the top section makes an absolutely fabulous scoop as it is quite rigid and has a handle. I have scoops for wheat and pellets for the chooks, dog and cat biscuits and potting mix but they could be used for anything where you need a scoop. The remaining bottom section can be used as a cat dish, or a plant saucer or a little tray for baby chickens - there are any number of uses. And because the scoops are red they are easy to see in the bin or bag.
Contributed by Larraine, Bathurst, 14th May 2010
Dump Shop Bargains
Approximate $ Savings: $50 - $100
I noticed that you were hoping to find shade cloth to repair your greenhouse. Sometimes people dump perfectly good shade cloth. If you have a dump shop, shade cloth (and other items) have often been reused and put up for sale in the dump shop for a lot cheaper than new! I have found very good shade cloth that way. It just may not be the actual dimensions that you want, but if you can be patient, you can add to it as you find it. We have renovated old cupboards into cages using the bits and pieces from the Dump Shop as well.
Contributed by Patricia, North Rockhampton, 1st April 2010
I noticed that you were hoping to find shade cloth to repair your greenhouse. Sometimes people dump perfectly good shade cloth. If you have a dump shop, shade cloth (and other items) have often been reused and put up for sale in the dump shop for a lot cheaper than new! I have found very good shade cloth that way. It just may not be the actual dimensions that you want, but if you can be patient, you can add to it as you find it. We have renovated old cupboards into cages using the bits and pieces from the Dump Shop as well.
Contributed by Patricia, North Rockhampton, 1st April 2010
Before You Throw Out a Bread Bag....
Always tie bread bags, supermarket bags etc in a knot before disposing of them. They are less likely to fly about, becoming entangled in wildlife etc. Quick and easy to do.
Contributed by Norma, Hamilton, 24th January 2010
Contributed by Norma, Hamilton, 24th January 2010
Recycle Old Wheelie Bins
Most councils are changing their bins to homeowners. Our council will collect your old bin, but you don't have to hand it in if you don't want too. So why not use it for: 1. Gardening goods 2. Grey water for the garden and lawn (you can wheel it to where you want) 3. Spot fire bin - bin full of water, should electricity go out and your pump is not working 4. Pet food bin I'm sure club members could come up with a lot more hints.
Contributed by Sally-Anne, Coomba Park, 28th August 2009
Contributed by Sally-Anne, Coomba Park, 28th August 2009
Limitless Savings on Everything You Need
About 2 months ago I joined a Yahoo group called 'Freecycle'. Its a group for people who want to recycle and reuse something rather than throw it away. 'Freecycle' is a world wide initiative. One constraint: everything posted must be free. You can post want ads and offers. So far I have got rid of a few things and acquired a working washing machine, a wardrobe and cupboard. Just do a Freecycle group search on Yahoo.com to find your closest group. Help the environment and be a Cheapskate too!
Contributed by Jess, Sandford, 25th March 2010
Contributed by Jess, Sandford, 25th March 2010
Tear Off Scribble Pads
Approximate $ Savings: This tip saves the environment as well as a few dollars.
Save all the unused pages from school exercise books, scrap paper from the printer, or just any clean writing paper and cut to the same size, if possible. Assess to a guillotine or craft cutter would be an advantage but scissors will do the job. Make sure one end of the pile of paper is very even and hold it in place with clips or even a vice and then paint the even end with wood glue. I give it a couple of coats, drying each coat thoroughly before applying the next one. Once dry each page will tear off like the store bought scribble pads and looks more professional then just clipping or stapling together. I have been doing this for so long that I can't remember the last time that I bought a shopping list or notepad.
Contributed by Desley, Kirwan, 12th November 2009
Save all the unused pages from school exercise books, scrap paper from the printer, or just any clean writing paper and cut to the same size, if possible. Assess to a guillotine or craft cutter would be an advantage but scissors will do the job. Make sure one end of the pile of paper is very even and hold it in place with clips or even a vice and then paint the even end with wood glue. I give it a couple of coats, drying each coat thoroughly before applying the next one. Once dry each page will tear off like the store bought scribble pads and looks more professional then just clipping or stapling together. I have been doing this for so long that I can't remember the last time that I bought a shopping list or notepad.
Contributed by Desley, Kirwan, 12th November 2009
Free Furniture and Clothing for the Taking
My saving hint is to visit Melbourne Free Cycle. Any one can post for free anything they like to give away for free when they no longer require it e.g. I have received for free a desk for my son, kitchen chairs, chest of drawers and lots of different household items. Having three kids and on one income, we have to get creative. You can also post an item that you might be after that someone might have and don't need. Someone wanted a baby cradle and I had mine that I had put away and forgotten about so I gave them my cradle. Another time my kids were begging for a basketball ring. Looking at the prices at the shops I knew we weren't going to get a new ring so I posted my message saying "Wanted basketball ring" and I got was given one. The owner was happy to get rid of it from his backyard, my kids were happy and me, well I was very happy especially when after about 6 weeks basketball was boring. You need to become a member, it is free to join and free to post messages. To get to it you need to type: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/melbourneozfreecycle/ I have received so many things and have given away as well. My favourite is my son's bike. It cost us nothing and he rides it everyday. He loves it so much as I am sure the little boy that out grew it loved did. And it was free.
Contributed by Myriam, Hadfield, 6th January 2010
Website: groups.yahoo.com/group/melbourneozfreecycle/
Contributed by Myriam, Hadfield, 6th January 2010
Website: groups.yahoo.com/group/melbourneozfreecycle/
Freebies Galore
I have recently joined my local Freecycle group and am amazed at how many unwanted items I have been able to get rid of (and not added to landfill) and how often i have been able to find items I need from Freecycle (including bunk beds, tomato plants, worms for my worm farm, play clothes for my boys etc).
Contributed by Fiona, Chapel Hill, 10th September 2009
Contributed by Fiona, Chapel Hill, 10th September 2009
Offered Free
I joined a Freecycle group which you can search via the yahoo web page group section. You get daily emails with postings of what people are offering for free. I picked up brand new curtains for our kitchen and lounge room that were still in the packet! Saved me at least $40 and I didn't have to pay anything! You can find anything from unwanted furniture, clothing, anything that is still usable and unwanted. I've gotten a few good things that I would have had to pay a bit for even second hand.
Contributed by Jessica, Boronia, 13th August 2009
Contributed by Jessica, Boronia, 13th August 2009
Bag It and Store It
Approximate $ Savings: $5.00 per storage container
I've discovered another handy use for onion bags. I had already been using them for a scourer, as a bag when I buy loose fruit and veg, but was looking for something in my cleaning cupboard and had an idea. I now hang my onion bags on the hooks in the cupboard and use them to store the different bits and pieces that I keep in the cupboard. In one bag I have all my cleaning cloths, another has my vacuum cleaner bits and pieces. The uses are endless and the best part is you can see what's in the bags. They would be very handy in the shed too.
Contributed by Paula, Biloela, 2nd April 2009
I've discovered another handy use for onion bags. I had already been using them for a scourer, as a bag when I buy loose fruit and veg, but was looking for something in my cleaning cupboard and had an idea. I now hang my onion bags on the hooks in the cupboard and use them to store the different bits and pieces that I keep in the cupboard. In one bag I have all my cleaning cloths, another has my vacuum cleaner bits and pieces. The uses are endless and the best part is you can see what's in the bags. They would be very handy in the shed too.
Contributed by Paula, Biloela, 2nd April 2009
Host a Swap Meet
Another idea for unwanted goods is, have a swap party where you swap things that you do not want for the things that you do. This is also an environmental solution.
Contributed by Maryellen Flynn, 1st April 2009
Contributed by Maryellen Flynn, 1st April 2009
Second Life
We are saving hundreds of dollars a year buy re-using leftover building materials, broken and odd items. My partner is right now out tinkering in the shed making a bird box out of scrap wood picked up from a rubbish pile out for collection. Earlier we used some old curtain rods to make stakes for the tomatoes. I even used a broken string necklace to tie the tomatoes to the stakes. Later today I'm going to make some planter boxes out of old fence palings. Almost anything can be given a second life, all you need is a good imagination.
Contributed by Rebecca, Umina, 28th November 2008
Contributed by Rebecca, Umina, 28th November 2008
Girls Night in Swap Meet
Approximate $ Savings: Varies - at least $100 depending on what is available.
My girlfriends and I get together for a 'girls night' without the kids and husbands about 3 times per year. This time around it was suggested that we have a girls night in. I've been talking to my friends over the past couple of months and realised that we were all in the same boat - we all have a collection of casserole dishes, platters, kids and adult clothes, handbags, utensils, containers, toys, ornaments etc etc etc. The items we have are all perfectly fine but we either don't use them or don't need them (presents, upgraded, outgrown etc). We didn't know what to do with them as they are still fine and didn't want to throw them out, so we combined our 'girls night in' with a swap night and all bought along any unwanted items on the night. We could then take anything that caught our eye and anything left is then donated to a local charity. It works perfectly as everyone gets rid of their 'good junk' and they get something that they really like - you know what they say - one persons junk is another's treasure!
Contributed by Julie, Kellyville, 16th October 2008
My girlfriends and I get together for a 'girls night' without the kids and husbands about 3 times per year. This time around it was suggested that we have a girls night in. I've been talking to my friends over the past couple of months and realised that we were all in the same boat - we all have a collection of casserole dishes, platters, kids and adult clothes, handbags, utensils, containers, toys, ornaments etc etc etc. The items we have are all perfectly fine but we either don't use them or don't need them (presents, upgraded, outgrown etc). We didn't know what to do with them as they are still fine and didn't want to throw them out, so we combined our 'girls night in' with a swap night and all bought along any unwanted items on the night. We could then take anything that caught our eye and anything left is then donated to a local charity. It works perfectly as everyone gets rid of their 'good junk' and they get something that they really like - you know what they say - one persons junk is another's treasure!
Contributed by Julie, Kellyville, 16th October 2008
Weighing Down the Gazebo
Reading the milk bottle ideas reminded me of one we use when we camp /entertain etc. Portable gazebo etc are usually pegged down or you need to carry heavy weights to weigh it down. An easier idea is to use 3litre milk bottles filled with water. Tie these to the legs and there you go. You can pack them before you go empty and fill when you get to where you are going and empty them when you leave. Saves extra weight when packing. Also if you need emergency fresh water, you have it on hand.
Contributed by Julie, Seventeen Mile Rocks, 21st July 2008
Contributed by Julie, Seventeen Mile Rocks, 21st July 2008
Recycle Rubber Gloves
Don't buy rubber bands at $5 a box or more, they can cost a lot over a year. With each pair of rubber gloves that are no longer useable for cleaning etc, cut the fingers into narrow bands to make your own rubber bands.
Contributed by Felicity, Bellerive, 1st June 2008
Contributed by Felicity, Bellerive, 1st June 2008
The Story of Stuff
www.storyofstuff.com
I viewed this clip a few weeks ago, and it completely changed my attitude towards being a consumer. I have decided to remove myself from the vicious "buy buy buy" cycle, and only buy things that I TRULY need, not things that I am fooled into thinking I need. I also reuse products instead of throwing them out, and recycle more. All from watching this fantastic clip, which is a real eye-opener!
Contributed by Anjum, Granville, 28th April 2008
I viewed this clip a few weeks ago, and it completely changed my attitude towards being a consumer. I have decided to remove myself from the vicious "buy buy buy" cycle, and only buy things that I TRULY need, not things that I am fooled into thinking I need. I also reuse products instead of throwing them out, and recycle more. All from watching this fantastic clip, which is a real eye-opener!
Contributed by Anjum, Granville, 28th April 2008
One Man's Trash….
Find your local "freecycle" group - this is where you can obtain things free - it's that stop between the garage and the kerbside pickup - everything from clean glass jars to washing machines - in all sorts of condition - from just unwanted or not needed to "useful for parts" - you name it - I've seen it offered on freecycle - register with your local group and get email notification of items offered each day. The goal is to cutback on landfill. There are a few basic commonsense and courtesy rules but bundles of money to be saved. They say one man's junk .... it's amazing!! [email protected]
Contributed by Kaye, Forrestfield, 24th April 2008
Contributed by Kaye, Forrestfield, 24th April 2008
Trip to Recycling Centre Fills a Need and Saves Money
Approximate $ Savings: $140
I can exercise, but I had difficulty getting up and down from the floor. My clever husband has just made me an exercise bench with timber salvaged from the dump. The bench stands about knee high and the thick foam mat I had bought from Dunlop fits into the top of it. This saved about $100 worth of timber. Then he painted it up for me in a colour we call 'Dump Green' with paint from guess where? and saved another $40. The joke is that he and his mate took a full load of rubbish from his mate's place to the dump. On the way in they were charged a fee, and the ute was weighed. On the way out the ute was weighed again and it was a hundred kilograms heavier than when they went in. We think they should have been given a refund.
Contributed by Wendy, North Rockhampton, 10th April 2008
I can exercise, but I had difficulty getting up and down from the floor. My clever husband has just made me an exercise bench with timber salvaged from the dump. The bench stands about knee high and the thick foam mat I had bought from Dunlop fits into the top of it. This saved about $100 worth of timber. Then he painted it up for me in a colour we call 'Dump Green' with paint from guess where? and saved another $40. The joke is that he and his mate took a full load of rubbish from his mate's place to the dump. On the way in they were charged a fee, and the ute was weighed. On the way out the ute was weighed again and it was a hundred kilograms heavier than when they went in. We think they should have been given a refund.
Contributed by Wendy, North Rockhampton, 10th April 2008