Stop Throwing Away Tuna Cans! 8 Genius Ways to Reuse Them
The next time you crack open a can of tuna, think twice before tossing that little can into the trash! While most of us see tuna cans as single-use, they’re actually sturdy, versatile, and surprisingly useful. From clever kitchen hacks to creative DIY projects, these small cans can be repurposed in ways that save money, reduce waste, and spark creativity.
Here’s why you should hold onto those tuna cans — and how to transform them into something amazing.
1. Mini Baking Molds
Tuna cans are the perfect size for personal desserts and savory treats. Wash them well, peel off the labels, and you’ve got reusable molds for mini cakes, pies, or quiches.
Bonus Tip: Shape English muffins or crumpets by pressing dough inside the can before baking.
2. Handy Storage Containers
Need storage but don’t want to spend a fortune on containers? Tuna cans are great for organizing office supplies, jewelry, spices, or craft materials. Dress them up with paint, washi tape, or fabric for a stylish touch.
Creative Idea: Stack and glue several together for a unique desk caddy or wall-mounted organizer.
3. DIY Emergency Candle Holders
A cleaned tuna can makes an excellent emergency candle holder. Simply pour in melted wax with a wick, or use cooking oil and a wick for a quick lamp.
Pro Tip: Add a few drops of essential oil for a homemade air-freshening candle.
4. Small Planters for Herbs
Herbs like basil, cilantro, or mint thrive in tuna can planters. Just poke drainage holes in the bottom, add soil, and plant.
Fun Idea: Decorate the cans for a farmhouse-style herb garden on your kitchen windowsill.
5. DIY Bird Feeder
Turn your tuna can into a simple bird feeder. Attach a perch, fill with seeds, and hang with natural twine. Birds will love it — and you’ll enjoy the view.
Eco-Friendly Tip: Use recycled materials for perches and hangers to keep it 100% sustainable.
6. Mini Grease Collector
Instead of clogging your drains with cooking grease, pour it into a tuna can. Once cooled, toss it in the trash or reuse the fat for bird suet in winter.
Sustainability Tip: Some people even reuse cooking grease for soap-making or tool lubrication!
7. DIY Decorations
Feeling crafty? Punch holes in the can to create rustic lanterns or luminaries. Spray paint them in metallic shades for chic candle holders or hang them as garden ornaments.
Crafting Idea: Cluster several together with fairy lights for an eye-catching centerpiece.
8. Save Money & Reduce Waste
By repurposing tuna cans, you’re not only cutting down on landfill waste but also avoiding the need to buy new containers, planters, or molds. It’s a win-win for your wallet and the planet.
Eco Tip: If you don’t plan to reuse them, always recycle tuna cans properly to keep them out of landfills.
Tuna cans may seem small and ordinary, but they pack a lot of hidden potential. With just a little imagination, you can turn them into baking molds, planters, organizers, or eco-friendly hacks that make everyday life easier.