Creative Uses for Yogurt Cups and Lids

http://plasticrevolution.blogspot.com/2008/09/plastics-de-coded.html

As I finished my yogurt this morning, I cringed as I put it in the garbage can.  I have always been somewhat annoyed that the plastic used for most yogurt cups and containers is not readily recyclable.  I guess there probably is a good reason for it, but most containers I have seen have either #5 or a #7 symbol on the bottom and most recyclers, at least in my area, accept only #1 (PETE) and #2 (HDPE) for recycling.  So what can we do with these things to extend their life and usage before they eventually and unfortunately find their way to the landfill? 

There are many creative uses for yogurt cups and lids (rinsed or washed out, of course).  I didn't come up with these ideas, although  I have tried a few: 

• Catch paint drips. Cut a hole in the yogurt top (not the foil kind) and slip it onto the handle.  Drips will fall into the top.
• Make popsicles.  Fill up your yogurt cup 1/2 way with your favorite drink, put foil over the lid and stick a popsicle stick (or some other handle-type object) through the foil.  Freeze, remove, enjoy.
• Organize nuts and bolts (and other small objects).  
• Make a funnel.  Punch a hole in the bottom of a yogurt cup and use it to funnel liquid or sandy stuff.
• Start seedlings.  Poke a hole in the bottom of a yogurt cup for drainage, fill with soil, then plant your seeds.Watch them grow, then transplant when they are ready.
• Protect faucet handles.  Place yogurt cups over faucet handles while painting or re-caulking the bathroom (or kitchen).
• Freeze veggies.  Use larger containers to freeze veggies like squash or even tomato sauce.  Smaller containers can be used for single-serving portions.  Just be sure not to reheat these containers in the microwave!

Have more ideas?  Let's hear 'em!  Please share in the comments section below.

And if you're up for a laugh (and who isn't?) here is Sarah Haskins in Target Women: Yogurt Edition.  Enjoy!