8 Ways to Reuse Laundry Dryer Lint You've Probably Never Thought Of

Create Some Fire Starters

One of the reasons we clean out highly flammable dryer lint is to prevent fires. So, why not use it to start a fire when you want one?

One method for creating fire starters is to pack the lint into a small section of toilet paper or paper towel tubing. The lint will light quickly and get your kindling off to a good start. These starters are very lightweight to take along on a camping trip. Just place them in a resealable plastic bag (or wrap them in wax paper and twist the ends to seal) to keep them dry.

Another method for making fire starters is to pack lint into the cups of paper egg cartons (never use Styrofoam cartons). Pour melted candle wax over the lint. Cut the egg carton apart into 12 separate fire starters. Simply light the edge of the paper egg cup and place it next to your kindling to get a good blaze started.

Stuff Small Crafts

If you just need a bit of filling for a craft project, ornament, or toy, use lint. Dryer lint can also be used to stuff throw pillows and comforters, however, it is not a good material choice for any project that will later be washed. When it gets wet, the lint will compact and the stuffed item will lose its shape.

Prevent Soil Erosion and Weed Growth

A thick layer of lint is not a great mulch for plants that you want to thrive, but it can prevent weed growth and erosion in areas that need extra help.

Lint from natural fibers like cotton, linen, and flax can be added directly to your compost pile. Drop handfuls evenly over the top of the compost pile, moisten with water, and mix it in with a rake or shovel.

Add to Compost

When you think of compost, eggshells, banana peels, and coffee grounds might come to mind. But did you know that wool and cotton fibers can also be used as compost? Be sure to scatter small amounts of dryer lint when composting instead of larger chunks or sheets to allow an easier breakdown of material in the soil.

Use as Packing Material

Dryer lint is quite soft, so it's a good option if you don't have bubble wrap on hand when packing fragile items. If you're using lint as packing material to protect delicate items such as holiday decor, be sure to keep it away from any flammable objects and extra hot areas.

Line Plant Pots

Using dryer lint as a liner in your plant pots and planters will not only keep soil from spilling out, but it will help plants retain moisture as well. Lint is super absorbent and biodegradable, making it eco-friendly for all plants.

Make Paper or Papier Mache

Dryer lint can be used to make paper or papier mache projects. These art projects are perfect for organized groups because they are inexpensive and everyone has lint to contribute. If you need lots of lint at once, just visit a local laundromat. Learn how to make paper below.

Clean Spills

Dryer lint is great at absorbing spills, especially those from oil. Simply cover the spill with enough dryer lint, let it sit for 24 hours, and remove it to assess the spill or stain. You may have to repeat this a few times, depending on the type of spill or stain.