CDs, DVDs, and computer discs can contribute to household clutter. Sometimes you have to take a hard look and be honest: How often do you really watch "Almost Famous"? And if the songs are not on your MP3 player, will you really miss those CDs? You can always donate them to the library or thrift shops or try to sell them. But here are some other ways to help thin out those piles:

• Coasters: eHow, Scrapdash and design*sponge are just a few of the many tutorials out there.

• Relfectors: Many sites suggest using the CDs as reflectors on your bike or mailbox. They can also be used in the garden to scare away birds.

 • Art: Break up the CDs to create mosaics or this cool light catcher by Planet Green

• More: Interbent has 22 ways to reuse CDs, including an iPod doc and disco ball.

 Now it's your turn. Have done anything cools with old CDs? Leave a comment below. (AP photo)

Posted by baltimoresun.com at 6:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: DIY, Reuse Me, Tips
        

Today we're starting a new feature on B'More Green. We pick an item and brainstorm ideas on how to repurpose it instead of tossing it into the recycling bin. Ideas can range from practical to creative and absurd. Leave your contact info when you comment if you wish to receive a B'More Green magnet.

Let's kick things off with phone books. Phone books are always stacked in the breezeways of my condo complex, and I have at least three in the bottom of my coat closet. The Green Cheapskate blog offers 17 creative things to do with phone books, including using pages for mulch and as window wipes. The blog also points out that you can opt out of the Yellow Pages' distribution list.

What do you think of these ideas? And what ways have you found to reuse phone books? Leave a comment below.

Posted by baltimoresun.com at 9:48 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: DIY, Going Green, Reuse Me