Safety pins are essential in every household. They serve various purposes, from clothing repairs to first aid needs. However, these small metal objects are even more versatile than you might realize. Safety pins can be used for organizing, holding items together, cleaning tight spaces, and even for crafting festive decorations.
There are different types of safety pins available, such as traditional, curved, button, heavy duty, and bulb pins, each serving a specific function based on the project requirements. It’s important to keep safety pins organized and easily accessible before starting any project. Storing them in lidded containers with dividers or creating a chain by pinning them together are effective ways to keep them handy. Here are 12 creative ways to repurpose extra safety pins around your home.
Use as organizer clips
Keep your household items organized by using safety pins as budget-friendly organizational tools. You can secure fabric items like towels, clothing, and rags together with safety pins. They can also be used to hang items like keys, jewelry, belts, and hats on nails or wall hooks. Safety pins can even hold hair ties, rubber bands, and charging wires in place like a clip. Make sure to use different sizes of safety pins based on the thickness of the items you are trying to organize.
Make unique jewelry
Create one-of-a-kind jewelry pieces using safety pins. From earrings to necklaces, bracelets, and belts, there are countless jewelry items you can craft with safety pins. Add personality by painting the pins, adding beads, charms, ribbons, or thread. Sanitize older safety pins, especially if using them for earrings. Making safety pin jewelry can be a fun activity for a girls’ night or as a potential business venture.
Convert to wall hangers
Display wall decor easily by using safety pins as hangers. Glue safety pins to the back of decorative objects or picture frames to hang them securely on nails. Remember that safety pins are best suited for lighter items, so avoid using them for heavy objects.
Create a keychain for house and car keys
Keep track of your keys by attaching them to a safety pin. Slide the pin through the keyholes and add a ribbon or hair tie for easy identification in a bag or purse. Hang the keychain on a nail or hook at home and label each hook for multiple key sets.
Keep paired clothing items together
Prevent losing socks or other clothing items by using safety pins to keep them together. Pin one end of socks or gloves together to ensure they stay matched in the washer and dryer. Leave the pins in place when storing your clothes to avoid losing any items.
Clean small crevices and holes
Clean tight spaces and holes by using safety pins to scrape away grime. This method works well for cleaning shower heads, spice jars, appliance seams, or gaps between surfaces. Remember to have a cleaning solution and rag on hand to wipe the area after cleaning.
Keep curtains closed
Prevent sunlight from streaming in through gaps in curtains by using safety pins to keep them closed. Secure a safety pin in the middle of the curtain opening or use two pins for heavier fabrics. Clip the pin from the back side facing the window to keep it hidden.
Stop static cling on clothes
Eliminate static cling on clothes by attaching safety pins to the hemline or inside of garments. You can also add safety pins to towels or dryer balls to reduce static electricity in the dryer.
Use as a zipper pull or to fix a broken zipper
Use safety pins as a temporary fix for missing zipper pulls or broken zippers. Attach a safety pin tied to a string as a zipper pull for easier dressing.
Stop covers from falling off
Prevent sheets or blankets from slipping off the bed by securing them with safety pins. Pierce the sheets and mattress at each corner with strong safety pins to keep them in place.
Use as clothespins while drying laundry
Use safety pins as temporary clothespins when drying laundry outside. Attach lightweight items to safety pins and hang them on a clothesline. Avoid leaving safety pins outside for extended periods to prevent damage.
Create home decor
Get creative with safety pins to make unique home and holiday decorations. Craft sculptures, wall art, ornaments, and other decorative pieces using safety pins, beads, ribbons, and charms. Have a thimble on hand for added protection when working with multiple safety pins.