We’ve all got a pile of old bed sheets hiding at the back of the cupboard that we probably should have thrown out a while ago. Maybe they’ve gone a bit bobbly, there’s a small tear in the corner, or the once-crisp white is now somewhere between “eggshell” and “unintentional grey”. But before you chuck them out, hold up – because those tired old sheets might end up being more useful than you think.
Upcycling’s not just trendy – it’s practical, good for the planet, and can save you a few quid in the long run too. We’ve compiled a list of some surprisingly brilliant (and easy) ways to breathe new life into your old bed linen.
cleaning cloths and rags – the classic
This is undoubtedly the go-to move for old sheets, and for good reason. Cotton sheets are ideal for cutting up into cleaning cloths. They’re absorbent, soft, and washable. What more could you need?
Simply snip them into squares – no need to be meticulous with the scissors – and you’ve got yourself a new collection of reusable dusters, window cloths, or even mop heads. Goodbye kitchen roll, hello eco-friendly cleaning.
Keep a pile of these in a kitchen drawer and you’re good to go. Probably for a good while depending on how many bed sheets you’ve been hoarding.
make your own produce bags
If you’re trying your best to cut down on plastic, why not turn those old sheets into some reusable produce bags for fruit and veg? If you’ve got a sewing machine, or some needle and thread along with a little bit of patience, it’s super simple to do.
Cut your sheet into rectangles, sew up each side, add a drawstring at the top. Job done. Not only do they reduce waste, but they’re also machine-washable – perfect after a visit to the farmers’ market.
Plus, if your old sheet has a funky pattern, your bags will stand out in the veg aisle.
kids' craft projects or fort building
If you've got little ones, an unwanted bed sheet is a blank canvas for ideas– quite literally. Spread it out and let them go wild with fabric paints, markers, handprints, glitter. You name it.
Or, for the ultimate rainy-day activity, whip out the pegs and dining chairs and build the world’s best living room fort. Drape some sheets over the top, add in some cushions, and suddenly you’re not at home anymore – you’re in a castle, spaceship or magical cave.
The kids will be occupied for a few hours, and can finally have a cuppa in peace.
picnic or beach blanket
Old sheets can make brilliant picnic blankets – especially if you’ve got enough to double them up and sew a waterproof layer underneath (a cheap shower curtain is great for this).
They’re light to carry, big enough for the family, and you won’t be devastated if they get stained by ketchup or squashed strawberries. They’re light enough that you can even keep one in the boot for spontaneous park trips or festival lounging.
No posh blanket with patterns and tassels required. Just your family, some sarnies and sausage rolls, and your trusty upcycled sheet.
diy gift wrap (yes, really!)
If you’re feeling fancy and want to jump on the furoshiki bandwagon, the Japanese tradition of wrapping gifts in fabric has firmly made its way to the UK. It's a fantastic way to be more environmentally friendly and reduce wrapping paper waste.
Cut your bed sheet into large squares, hem the edges (optional but cute), and start wrapping. It works especially well for those oddly shaped gifts – bottles, boxes, even plants. No more needing to use an entire roll of gift wrap so it stops tearing.
Secure it with a nice bow, some twine, or just a good old knot. It looks rustic, thoughtful, and about 100 times more eco-friendly than some shiny plastic paper.
sew your own pyjamas or loungewear
If you’re drawn to the crafty side of life and your old sheet’s still in fairly good nick, you could use it as fabric for simple sewing projects. Maybe it’s some pyjama bottoms, scrunchies, or even a lightweight summer dress or nightie.
Bedsheets are basically just big pieces of fabric anyway, so why not put them to good use? If you’re new to sewing, there are loads of beginner-friendly tutorials on YouTube and Pinterest. Plus, you’ll have taught yourself a new hobby and might even find a hidden talent you didn’t know you had.
The best part? You’re literally sleeping in sheets that used to be... well, sheets. Double comfort.
pet bedding or shelter donations
Got pets? Cut up your old sheets to make liners for pet beds, crate covers, or even just something soft and simple for your cat to curl up on.
Animal rescues are also super grateful when it comes to receiving clean old linens – especially those flat sheets and pillowcases. They can use them for bedding, cleaning, and adding comfort. Just make sure to give them a quick ring first to see what they’re accepting.
It’s a lovely way to help out and make a difference without having to spend a penny.
gardening goodies
Here’s one for the green-fingered folk. Old sheets can be surprisingly handy in the garden.
- weed barrier: lay a sheet down under mulch to help prevent weeds, saves you buying some plastic lining.
- frost cover: protect those special tender plants from cold snaps by gently draping sheets on them overnight for some added protection.
- transporting garden waste: use an old sheet like a tarp – pile on the weeds, leaves, or hedge trimmings, and drag it over to the compost bin.
Not glamorous, the neighbours might raise an eye, but seriously useful.
reusable “kitchen roll”
This one’s a bit niche, but hear us out. Cut your sheet into little squares, hem the edges (or don’t, up to you), and use them in place of kitchen roll. You could even roll them up around a cardboard tube like a reusable kitchen roll. Wash, reuse, repeat.
If it works for you, it can save a load of paper in the long run, plus it’s one less thing to buy at the supermarket.
halloween costumes on the cheap
Forget spending £20+ on a plastic costume that falls apart by November and only gets one use. A plain old bed sheet is a goldmine for some DIY Halloween fun.
Now obviously, the classic ghost costume is a no-brainer – cut some eye holes, pop it over your head, and you're done. But don’t limit yourself, you can get way more creative too:
- toga party outfit (Greek god/goddess – just wrap and pin, voila)
- mummy costume (tear the sheet into strips and wrap like bandages)
- vampire cloak (dye it black or deep red and add a collar)
- zombie anything (cut, tear, add fake blood – sorted)
Get the kids involved or make your own last-minute adult costume – all without adding to landfill or your credit card bill. You could even make matching family costumes.
turn it into art
If your sheet has an interesting pattern or a nostalgic print, why not turn a square into a wall hanging, fabric banner, or even frame it and stick it on the wall?
Cut it to size, pop it in a wooden embroidery hoop or picture frame, and ta-da – quirky, upcycled art. Pretty original if you ask us.
It’s also a great way to keep a bit of something that might be sentimental without hoarding the whole thing.
final thoughts
So there you have it – eleven clever ways to upcycle those pesky old bed sheets. Whether you’re into crafting, cleaning, gardening or just building a top-tier den, there’s loads you can do with that forgotten linen stack before you throw it away.
Next time you find yourself tempted to bin an old sheet, stop and have a think instead. With a little creativity, you could give it a new lease of life. Until next time, eve Sleep.
