Use It Up: Socks

Many things are tossed into the garbage can when they still have lots of good life left in them. Use It Up is a section on how to use this "trash" to make new, useful items for your home or to re-purpose items to avoid a purchase.

If you have ragged socks or that lonely sock who's partner was eaten by the dryer monster, here are a few ideas to divert them from the landfill.

*First, if it's just a little hole in the toe, mend it. If its got a larger hole, darn it. Learn how over on youtube. A search for "how to darn a sock" yields over 150 videos.

* Two words: Sock monkey.

Use socks in good condition that are missing their mates. Use thread bare or hopelessly torn beyond repair socks as stuffing. You can use these as gifts for that beloved puppy in your life.

* Dusting. Put an old sock on each hand and run your hands all over walls, windowsills, shelves and trinkets for easy dusting.

* Window and mirror cleaning. I use an old cotton sock to clean my mirrors and windows with glass cleaner or vinegar. It's free and doesn't leave the little bits of paper that a paper towel would.

* Pet toys. Sew or tie old knee high socks end to end and use as a tug-o-war rope with your dog. Take an old medicine bottle or panty hose egg and throw in a few dry beans. Place in the toe of a sock and tie or sew it in place. Use as a fun toy for your cat to wrestle with.

* Use really old socks as BBQ mops. This tip comes from Facebook reader Sheri.

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