Don’t Toss Tuna Cans — At Home, They’re Surprisingly Valuable: Clever Ways to Give Them a Second Life
Most people open a can of tuna, drain it, and immediately throw the empty can into the trash without a second thought. But that small metal container you’re discarding could actually help you save money, cut down on waste, and solve everyday household problems. What looks useless at first glance can turn out to be far more valuable than you’d expect.
Before you throw away another tuna can, pause for a moment. With a bit of imagination, these sturdy little containers can be repurposed into practical tools you’d otherwise pay for.
Here’s why tuna cans deserve a second look—and how they can become everyday “gold” around your home.
Why Tuna Cans Are So Practical
Tuna cans have several qualities that make them ideal for reuse:
They’re made from strong, durable metal
They can handle heat
They’re compact but sturdy
They’re easy to wash and sanitize
That combination makes them useful for dozens of household purposes, many of which involve items people normally buy new.
Smart and Creative Ways to Reuse Tuna Cans
Small Storage Solutions
Tuna cans are perfect for keeping tiny items organized, such as:
Screws, nails, and bolts
Buttons, beads, and sewing notions
Paper clips and office supplies
Arrange them neatly in drawers or attach them to a wooden board to create instant, low-cost organization.
Homemade Candle Holders
With wax and a wick, an empty tuna can can become:
An emergency candle
A citronella candle for outdoor use
A rustic decorative candle
You can personalize the outside with paint, twine, or fabric to match your décor.
Mini Planters for Herbs or Succulents
Their size makes tuna cans great for small plants like:
Herbs such as basil, mint, or parsley
Succulents and small cacti
Add drainage holes to the bottom, fill with soil, and you have a simple planter for a windowsill or balcony.
Drawer Organizers
If your drawers are always cluttered, tuna cans can help:
Separate makeup items
Organize kitchen tools
Sort craft supplies for kids
They’re free, durable, and often sturdier than store-bought plastic dividers.
Emergency Alcohol Stove
In outdoor or emergency situations, tuna cans can be converted into:
Simple alcohol-burning stoves
Compact heat sources for camping
This technique is commonly used by campers and survivalists and highlights just how versatile these cans can be.
Temporary Pet Bowls
When traveling or during emergencies, a clean tuna can works well as:
A short-term water dish
A food bowl for cats or small dogs
They’re lightweight and easy to discard after use if necessary.
Kids’ Craft Projects
Tuna cans are great for creative activities, including:
Homemade drums
Pencil or paintbrush holders
Decorated gift containers
As long as the edges are safe, they’re durable and reusable for countless projects.
Handy Kitchen Tools
In the kitchen, tuna cans can double as:
Round cookie cutters
Measuring containers
Molds for rice, desserts, or small cakes
Professional kitchens often use metal rings for similar purposes—yours just happens to be free.
How to Clean Tuna Cans Properly
Before reusing a can:
Wash it thoroughly with hot, soapy water
Check and smooth any sharp edges
Dry it completely to prevent rust
Once cleaned, it’s safe for most household uses.
Why Reusing Tuna Cans Matters
Throwing tuna cans away means:
Adding unnecessary waste to landfills
Spending money on items you already have substitutes for
Missing out on reusing strong, long-lasting materials
Reusing them saves money, reduces waste, and makes your home more functional—all with something that would otherwise be trash.
The Bottom Line
That small tuna can you’re about to throw out isn’t junk.
It can be storage.
It can be a planter.
It can be a candle holder.
It can even be a survival tool.
So the next time you open a can of tuna, think twice before tossing it away. Around the house, it’s worth far more than it looks.
