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Frozen Dinner Trays Re-purposed

For the love of all that's good and green, here are some crafty ways to re-purpose those frozen dinner trays, instead of tossing them straight in to the recycling bin.  (Heaven forbid they go in the regular trash!)  Just keep in mind they should NOT go through the microwave any more, and should be hand-washed or dishwasher top rack.  :o)



First, think of the different types of trays you see: some are just a plain tray, others have two or even three compartments.  And then there's those "steamer" trays that have holes in them.
  • They make great bowl/plate hybrids for toddlers learning to use eating utensils. 
  • Use them with art projects: they can hold a good size of paint, glue, glitter, or whatever material(s) you're using.  What about those "steamer" trays with holes in them?  Put some glitter and shake it over your preglued paper!
  • Fill 'em up with baby shampoo and dip your bubble wand in for some bubblelicious fun!
  • Sand, beach, or bath toys.  Yep, your kids will fill 'em with water and have fun...  (Especially those "steamer" trays that have holes in them!)
  • "sensory table" toys - Okay, so this is probably more for a preschool teacher, but if you have a sensory (sometimes simply called a science table) where you put rice, beans, oatmeal, or any other "touchy" substance, these little containers would be great for sifting.  (Ditto, again for the "steamer" trays with holes.)
  • drawer organizers.  Yes, drawer organizers!  Why pay big bucks for something when you can reuse something you already have!??

What are some additional ways YOU re-use your frozen dinner trays?
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Comments

  1. Lisa BrawnerJuly 18, 2011 at 4:51 PM

    I save them and use to feed the feral cats with . I like to save scraps for the kitties and they work perfect

    ReplyDelete

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