Nifty And Thrifty Ideas For Your Outdoor Areas
August 5, 2023
source: Amazon / Family Handyman / Pinterest
Are you an outdoor enthusiast, a camper, or just someone who loves spending time in nature? If so, you probably know that creating a cozy and enjoyable outdoor space is essential. Whether you’re planning a camping trip, a picnic, or simply want to relax in your backyard, we’ve got some thrifty tips to help you make the most of your outdoor experience. From a clever camping toilet paper hack to a simple solution for noisy drips, we’ve got you covered!
1. Camping Toilet Paper Hack
Picture this: you’re on a fantastic camping adventure, surrounded by stunning landscapes, breathing in the fresh air, and feeling one with nature. But, when nature calls, you realize you’ve forgotten to pack the most basic necessity—toilet paper! Fear not, we’ve got a nifty camping toilet paper hack to save the day.
Before you head out on your trip, take an old plastic coffee canister or an empty, clean potato chip tube or oatmeal container. Remove the label and make sure it’s thoroughly cleaned and dried. Next, grab a roll of toilet paper and carefully unravel it. Place the roll inside the canister or tube. Now, you have a water-resistant, portable toilet paper dispenser that won’t get squished in your backpack. You can even decorate the outside of the canister with some stickers or washi tape to give it a personal touch. No more bathroom worries during your outdoor escapades!
2. DIY Hammock Stand:
Love the idea of lounging in a hammock, but not keen on buying an expensive stand? Build your own hammock stand using sturdy, affordable materials like PVC pipes or wooden pallets. There are plenty of online tutorials to guide you through the process, and you’ll have a customized hammock spot without denting your budget.
3. Noisy-Drip Stopper:
Imagine this: you’re sitting on your porch, enjoying a peaceful evening with a hot cup of tea, when suddenly you hear an annoying, rhythmic dripping sound. It’s the waterspout, and it’s slowly driving you crazy! Don’t worry, we have a simple and thrifty solution to stop that noisy drip.
Head to your kitchen and grab a clean sponge, the type you use for washing dishes. Wet the sponge, making sure it’s damp but not dripping. Now, carefully place the damp sponge inside the waterspout.
As the water drips, it will hit the sponge, which acts as a silent catcher, absorbing the drops without a sound. The sponge also serves as a makeshift seal, preventing any water from leaking further. This ingenious hack not only saves your sanity but also conserves water in the process, making it an eco-friendly solution too.
By using a simple kitchen sponge, you can bid farewell to that irritating dripping noise and enjoy your peaceful outdoor moments to the fullest. No more disturbances, just tranquility in your outdoor paradise!
4. Upcycled Outdoor Decor:
Who says you need to spend a fortune on outdoor decorations? Nature offers plenty of free, beautiful elements you can incorporate into your outdoor space. Gather fallen leaves, pine cones, or seashells, and create rustic centerpieces for your patio table. Arrange them with candles or string lights for a warm and inviting atmosphere.
You can also upcycle old containers or glass jars by turning them into charming outdoor lanterns. Simply place tea lights or LED candles inside, and voilà! You have a magical display of twinkling lights without breaking the bank.
5. Thrifty Planters:
Gardening and adding greenery to your outdoor space can be therapeutic, but store-bought planters can be pricey. Save money by using household items as creative planters instead. Old buckets, vintage teapots, or even worn-out shoes can be given new life as unique plant holders. Just make sure to add drainage holes to prevent overwatering.
6. Budget-Friendly Outdoor Games:
Entertaining friends and family in your outdoor space can be loads of fun, but commercial outdoor games can be quite expensive. Instead, get crafty and create your own budget-friendly games. For example, you can make a DIY ring toss game using old bottles and some colorful rings. Another idea is to draw a hopscotch grid on the ground with chalk, providing hours of entertainment for kids and adults alike. You can also organize a scavenger hunt using items from nature, like pinecones or specific leaves, to keep everyone engaged and active without spending a dime.
7. Solar-Powered Outdoor Lights:
Adding some lighting to your outdoor space can create a cozy and inviting ambiance, especially during evenings. Instead of splurging on electricity bills with traditional outdoor lights, opt for solar-powered lights. Solar lights come in various styles and sizes, including string lights, pathway lights, and even decorative lanterns. During the day, they soak up the sun’s energy, and as night falls, they’ll illuminate your space without any additional cost. It’s an eco-friendly and pocket-friendly way to add charm to your outdoor area.
8. Repurposed Furniture and Pallet Projects:
Outdoor furniture can be costly, but you can save big by repurposing old furniture or getting creative with wooden pallets. For instance, you can give new life to an old wooden table by sanding it down and applying a fresh coat of weather-resistant paint or varnish. Pallets can be transformed into a comfortable seating area by stacking and securing them together, then adding some cushions and pillows for coziness. Let your imagination run wild, and you’ll have budget-friendly furniture that still looks fabulous.
9. Compost Bin for a Greener Space:
If you’re a gardening enthusiast, a compost bin is an essential addition to your outdoor space. Rather than purchasing compost from the store, create your own nutrient-rich compost by recycling kitchen scraps and yard waste. You can build a simple compost bin using wooden pallets or repurposed containers. Composting not only helps you save money on fertilizers but also reduces waste, making your outdoor space greener and more sustainable.
10. DIY Bug Repellent:
Don’t let pesky insects ruin your outdoor fun. Instead of buying expensive bug repellents, make your own natural and budget-friendly version. Mix equal parts of water and white vinegar in a spray bottle and add a few drops of essential oils like citronella, lavender, or eucalyptus. Shake well and spray the mixture around your seating area to keep bugs at bay. Not only is this a cost-effective alternative, but it also eliminates the use of harsh chemicals, making it safer for you, your loved ones, and the environment.
Enjoying your outdoor spaces shouldn’t mean emptying your wallet. With these thrifty tips, you can create a cozy and inviting oasis without splurging. Embrace nature, get creative, and make the most of your outdoor adventures! Happy outdoor living!