Mixing bowls are kitchen essentials that often find themselves relegated to one specific task: mixing ingredients for culinary creations. However, these versatile vessels have far more potential than meets the eye. With a touch of creativity and ingenuity, these cooking staples can be repurposed in numerous ways throughout the house, serving functions beyond their original design. From organization solutions to DIY decor projects, these bowls can seamlessly transition from the kitchen to other areas of the home, offering convenience and practicality in unexpected ways.
In this exploration of repurposing mixing bowls, we’ll delve into 24 innovative ideas to maximize the utility of these humble yet indispensable tools. Whether you have spare ones gathering dust in your cabinets or are simply looking for inventive ways to utilize everyday items, this guide will inspire you to think outside the box and reimagine the potential of your kitchenware. It doesn’t matter if you’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast or just someone seeking practical solutions for everyday challenges, as there’s bound to be an idea here that sparks your imagination. Further, these tricks can work no matter what type of mixing bowl you have, whether wooden, metal, ceramic, glass, or plastic. So, let’s embark on a journey to unlock the hidden potential of mixing bowls and transform them into indispensable tools for every corner of your living space.
1. Planter
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Convert a mixing bowl into a unique planter for indoor or outdoor plants. Drill drainage holes in the bottom, fill it with soil, and plant your favorite flowers or greenery to create a charming addition to your home or garden. The bowl’s spacious interior accommodates various plant sizes, while its durable construction withstands outdoor weather conditions. Whether you’re cultivating a small houseplant collection on your windowsill or adding greenery to your patio or balcony, a mixing bowl planter offers versatility and style. Its sleek design complements any decor style, while its functionality allows you to enjoy the beauty of nature indoors or outdoors.
2. Gift basket
Transform a mixing bowl into a versatile gift basket, perfect for any occasion. Fill it with an assortment of carefully-curated items tailored to the recipient’s preferences. From gourmet treats and fine wines to cozy blankets and scented candles, the possibilities are endless. The mixing bowl serves as both a practical container and a decorative element, adding a charming touch to your gift’s presentation. Tie a ribbon around the rim or attach a personalized card to complete the ensemble. Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or holiday celebration, a gift basket housed in a mixing bowl is sure to delight and impress the lucky recipient.
3. Tiered stand
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If you also have a smaller bowl that you’d like to upcycle, turn these items and a small spindle or furniture leg into a tiered stand. This could be used to organize items or display decorations in your home. To create this piece, just glue the spindle to the center of the large mixing bowl, then attach the smaller bowl on top. You could either spray paint the whole piece afterwards or keep it different colors for an eclectic vibe. This decorative-but-practical item is sure to impress, providing a unique piece that you can brag about DIYing yourself to anyone who inquires about it.
4. Ice bucket
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Utilize a large mixing bowl as a makeshift ice bucket for chilling beverages during a backyard barbeque, dinner party, or any other gathering. Fill it with ice cubes and place bottles or cans inside to keep drinks cold and refreshing — or, keep the ice bucket with a scoop nearby the drinks so guests can fill their cup with ice and then pour their drink of choice on top. The bowl’s generous size accommodates plenty of ice, ensuring that beverages remain chilled throughout the event. Its durable construction withstands the weight of ice and drinks, while its wide opening allows for easy access to refreshments.
5. Open plant terrarium
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Have an old glass mixing bowl you no longer use? Easily turn it into an open plant terrarium in just a few simple steps. First, you’ll layer in something to increase the drainage, such as small pebbles. Then, if desired, you can include a layer of landscaping fabric. Next, pour in your substrate of choice — for succulents, something that drains quickly is key. Finally, plant your greenery and any other decorative items you want to include such as larger rocks, crystals, or shells. Consider adding some of these types of terrarium plants anyone can take care of.
6. Potpourri bowl
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Fill a mixing bowl with potpourri for a fragrant decorative accent in any room. Display it on a coffee table or shelf to add a subtle scent and aesthetic appeal to your living space, or place it in the bathroom to freshen the area. The bowl’s wide opening allows for easy access to the potpourri. Additionally, the mixing bowl’s sleek design complements a variety of decor styles, making it a versatile and stylish addition. By repurposing a mixing bowl as a potpourri holder, you create a sensory experience that enhances the ambiance of your living space.
7. Candle holder
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Repurpose a glass or ceramic mixing bowl as a decorative candle holder by simply placing a candle inside. The bowl’s depth and stability provide a safe and stylish base for creating ambient lighting in any space. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet evening at home, a mixing bowl candle holder adds warmth and coziness to your environment. Depending on its design, it can complement a variety of decor styles. To personalize the piece, you could paint the bowl before placing the candle inside, if desired.
8. Jewelry organizer
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Use a small mixing bowl to store your jewelry collection. Its smooth interior prevents tangling, while its depth accommodates rings, bracelets, and necklaces, keeping them within easy reach. Whether you place it on a dresser, vanity, or bedside table, a small mixing bowl jewelry organizer adds a touch of elegance to your storage solution. Its sleek design can look gorgeous in any home, while its durability ensures longevity and reliability. This will ensure both a functional and stylish way to keep your accessories organized.
9. Bird bath
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Provide a refreshing oasis for birds by using a mixing bowl to make a charming DIY bird bath. Place it in your garden or on a balcony, fill it with water, and watch as feathered visitors stop by for a quick splash. The bowl’s wide opening accommodates birds of all sizes while providing a safe and comfortable bathing experience. Additionally, the mixing bowl’s construction withstands outdoor elements, ensuring longevity. To make a stable place for birds to land inside the bowl, it’s best to add some rocks or other hard organic materials to the center.
10. Mushroom decoration
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To create a one-of-a-kind decoration that’s extra cute and gives off cottagecore vibes, flip your old mixing bowl upside down and attach a piece of wood to the middle with glue. This will make your old piece look like a mushroom. You can then paint it however you’d desire, but to really ensure everyone knows it’s a mushroom, you could paint the top red with white spots. If sprayed with a clear sealant, this piece could be placed outside in your garden, or it could be used to enhance your style indoors.
11. Floating candle centerpiece
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Create a stunning centerpiece by filling a mixing bowl with water and floating candles. Place it on a table for a captivating display that adds warmth and ambiance to any occasion. The bowl’s wide opening accommodates multiple candles, while its depth prevents tipping. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or celebrating a special occasion, a floating candle centerpiece adds elegance and sophistication to your decor. Its versatility allows you to customize the look with different candle sizes and colors, while its simplicity ensures easy setup and cleanup. Create a focal point that enhances the atmosphere of your event and leaves a lasting impression.
12. Home decor centerpiece
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Elevate your interior styling with a mixing bowl transformed into a striking home decor centerpiece. Fill it with an array of decorative elements such as polished stones, dried botanicals, or seasonal ornaments. The mixing bowl’s versatile design allows for endless creativity, enabling you to customize the centerpiece to suit any theme or color scheme. Place it as a focal point on a dining table, coffee table, or mantel to instantly enhance the aesthetics of your space.
13. Yarn bowl
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Keep yarn organized and tangle-free while knitting or crocheting by using a mixing bowl as a yarn bowl. If the bowl is plastic, making a small, smooth slit in the side and then threading the yarn through that opening prevents it from tangling during crafting sessions. Further, the bowl’s wide opening accommodates various yarn sizes, and the mixing bowl’s sleek design makes it a stylish and functional addition to your crafting supplies. By making a yarn bowl, you create a practical solution for keeping your yarn organized and accessible while working on projects.
14. Catch-all for entryway
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Instead of forcing yourself to hang your keys on a hook every time you enter your home, why not corral them in an accessible location? By placing an old mixing bowl in your entryway, you’ll have an area to simply throw down your keys and other items such as your wallet, loose change, and chapstick. Further, if desired, you could personalize the bowl before using it for this purpose. Cover it in spray paint, attach decorative paper, or glue twine around it to create a one-of-a-kind piece.
15. Egg collection bowl
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Utilize a mixing bowl for effortless egg collection during daily farm chores. Its spaciousness accommodates multiple eggs, reducing the need for frequent trips to the henhouse. The bowl’s smooth interior ensures gentle handling, minimizing the risk of cracking or damaging delicate eggs. Its wide opening allows for easy access, enabling you to swiftly gather eggs from nesting boxes without hassle. With the mixing bowl in hand, navigate through the chicken coop with ease, gathering freshly-laid eggs with efficiency. Or, if you don’t have a farm, you could simply display your grocery store eggs inside this bowl in the fridge for aesthetic purposes.
16. Seedling starter tray
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Create a DIY seedling starter tray by repurposing a mixing bowl. Fill it with potting soil, plant seeds, and cover with plastic wrap to create a mini greenhouse for germinating seeds indoors. The bowl’s spacious interior accommodates multiple seedlings, while its sturdy construction ensures durability and stability. Additionally, the mixing bowl’s wide opening allows for easy access to the seedlings, making it simple to monitor their growth and progress. By repurposing a mixing bowl as a seedling starter tray, you provide a warm and humid environment that promotes seed germination and healthy plant growth.
17. Hanging basket
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Transform a mixing bowl into a unique and eye-catching hanging basket for your plants. Drill small holes in the bottom of the bowl to ensure proper drainage, preventing root rot and promoting healthy growth. Line the bowl with coconut coir or sphagnum moss to create a natural and moisture-retaining bed for your plants. Fill it with a selection of trailing or flowering plants, cascading elegantly over the edges. Attach sturdy ropes or chains to the bowl’s sides, ensuring secure hanging from a porch, pergola, or tree branch. The mixing bowl’s deep shape provides ample space for root development, while its durable construction withstands outdoor conditions.
18. Catchall for small tubs and plasticware
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Utilize a mixing bowl as a convenient catchall for small tubs, plasticware, and lids in your kitchen. Its spaciousness accommodates various sizes of containers, providing a tidy solution for keeping all your plastic or glass tubs and lids organized. Place the mixing bowl in a designated area of your cupboard, making it easy to access items when needed. The bowl’s deep design prevents items from toppling over or spilling, keeping your storage area organized and clutter-free.
19. Pet bathing basin
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Bathe pets such as cats or small dogs in a large mixing bowl. Its shallow depth and smooth surface provide a comfortable bathing experience for pets while containing water and messes. The bowl’s wide opening allows for easy access, while its construction ensures stability during use. Additionally, the mixing bowl’s sleek design makes it easy to clean and store when not in use. By repurposing a mixing bowl as a pet bathing basin, you create a convenient and hygienic solution for keeping your furry friends fresh.
20. Herb garden
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Create a mini herb garden by repurposing a mixing bowl as a planter for culinary herbs. Place it on a sunny windowsill or balcony, plant herbs such as basil, parsley, and thyme, and enjoy fresh ingredients for cooking. The bowl’s wide opening accommodates multiple herb plants, allowing you to grow much more than you would if you were using a small planter. Further, the mixing bowls can also add a touch of style to your kitchen or outdoor space.
21. Cleaning product container
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Streamline your cleaning routine with a mixing bowl repurposed as a versatile cleaning kit. Fill the bowl with essential supplies such as microfiber cloths, sponges, scrub brushes, gloves, and multipurpose cleaners. The mixing bowl’s spacious interior accommodates all necessary items, keeping them organized and easily-accessible as you move from room to room. Whether you’re wiping down countertops, scrubbing floors, or dusting shelves, having all your cleaning supplies neatly stored in a mixing bowl kit enhances efficiency and convenience. Simplify your household chores with this practical and functional cleaning solution, making tidying up a breeze.
22. Emergency washing basin
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In emergencies or on camping trips, use a mixing bowl as a washing basin for quick cleanups. Its durable material and deep basin make it suitable for washing hands, food, dishes, or small clothing items when you don’t have access to a sink. Additionally, the design makes it easy to clean and store when not in use. By repurposing a mixing bowl as an emergency washing basin, you create a convenient and hygienic solution for maintaining cleanliness in challenging situations.
23. DIY pendant light
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If you have two old mixing bowls on hand, you can use them to make a show-stopping light fixture that is sure to impress. To turn your kitchen mixing bowls into a money-saving pendant light, start by spray painting your bowls one color, if desired. Then, drill a large hole in the bottom of each bowl and glue them together with their wide openings facing out, to create an hourglass shape. Finally, you’ll attach the hardware and hang your unique pendant anywhere you desire.
24. Foot bath
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An unused mixing bowl can make a convenient foot bath. Its spacious interior can accommodate enough water to comfortably soak both feet at once. Simply fill the mixing bowl with warm water and add soothing ingredients like Epsom salts, essential oils, or herbs for added relaxation and benefits. The rounded shape of the bowl provides ample room for movement and soaking, allowing the water to envelop your feet completely. Using a mixing bowl as a foot bath is a cost-effective and practical way to indulge in some self-care and pamper your tired feet.
