Creative & Practical Ways to Reuse Plastic Mesh Produce Bags

Plastic mesh bags — the kind that hold onions, citrus fruits, avocados, or even potatoes — often go straight into the trash after a single use.

But with just a little creativity, these mesh bags can find a second life in your home, garden, or craft room. Reusing them not only reduces waste but can also save you money and provide clever solutions to everyday problems.

Here are several simple and effective ways to reuse those colorful mesh bags:

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1. Scrubbers for Dishes or Veggies

Mesh produce bags are perfect for creating DIY scrubbers. Just ball up a few bags together, secure them with a twist tie or a rubber band, and use them to scrub pots, pans, or even root vegetables like carrots and potatoes.

They’re gentle enough to avoid scratching but tough enough to get the grime off.

2. Produce Storage Helpers

Use mesh bags to store onions, garlic, or shallots — items that benefit from good air circulation. You can even tie multiple bags together and hang them in a cool, dry place to create a hanging pantry.

3. Soap Saver or Shower Scrubber

Slip the end of a mesh bag over a bar of soap and tie it off. This not only makes the soap last longer but also creates a lather and works as a gentle exfoliator in the shower.

4. Bird Feeder Fillers

Fill mesh bags with bird-friendly treats like suet, nesting materials (such as bits of yarn or hair), or even peanuts in the shell. Hang the bag from a tree branch to attract birds and help them build nests in the spring.

5. Garden Tool Cleaner

Keep a mesh bag filled with sand and a bit of vegetable oil to clean and lightly oil your garden tools. Just dip and rub your tools into the bag after use — the grit helps remove dirt and rust, while the oil prevents corrosion.

6. Toy or Beach Gear Organizer

Mesh bags are great for containing small toys, bath items, or beach gear like shells and shovels. The mesh allows water and sand to drain out, keeping everything clean and dry.

7. Craft Supply Organizer

Use them to group together yarn, ribbon, fabric scraps, or other lightweight materials in your craft room. You can hang them up for easy access and visibility.

8. Non-Slip Grip for Jars

Need to open a stubborn jar lid? Use a small piece of mesh bag as a grip — it gives you extra traction and makes the task easier without needing a specialty tool.

9. Protective Wrap for Delicate Items

Wrap fragile items like holiday ornaments or glassware in mesh bags for added cushioning. They’re especially handy for storage or when moving house.

10. Mini Compost Bags (Temporary)

While they’re not biodegradable, mesh bags can temporarily hold food scraps before transferring to your compost bin or pile. The air circulation can help prevent odors and mold buildup during short-term use.

11. DIY Planter Bags

Mesh bags make great breathable liners for potted plants or starter grow bags for small veggies and herbs. Just fill the bag with soil, place your seedling inside, and set it in a larger pot or tray.

The mesh provides drainage and airflow, helping roots stay healthy.

12. Nesting Material for Birds

Cut up mesh bags into thin strips and stuff them into suet cages or tie them to tree branches. Birds will pick out the material to line their nests. Just make sure the strips are short (about 2–4 inches) to keep them safe for wildlife.

A Few Tips Before Reusing:

• Rinse and dry your mesh bags before reusing, especially if they held produce that leaves residue.
• Cut off any metal clips or sharp plastic edges to avoid injury or snags.
• Remember that some mesh bags are made of plastic that breaks down over time — if they become brittle or fray, retire them responsibly.

Final Thoughts

It’s easy to overlook the potential of these little mesh bags, but once you start finding ways to reuse them, you may never toss them in the trash again.

Small changes like this add up — reducing waste and giving everyday items a second life in fun, practical ways.