Im a big fan of using what you have, and my favorite thing to save for reuse is glass jars. Here’s how we remove the labels and adhesive residue from those glass jars. We use jars for everything, from storing dry bulk goods in our pantry to storing small art supplies in our cabinets. We of course, also use them for crafts! Upcycling is my favorite sustainable practice— it’s important because although certain materials can be recycled (glass, for example is infinitely recyclable— the issue lies in whether people are good about actually recycling it 100% of the time) and ultimately there will still be energy and environmental pollution created to process and re-manufacture those materials into new products. Many food items that you may already buy already come in glass jars that can be easily reused so the label is the only thing standing in your way! Here are my favorite strategies for removing labels from glass jars.

How to remove labels from glass jars

1. Wash your jars in hot soapy water and peel off as much of the label as you can to start.
2. If your jars have paper labels, submerge and soak in hot water for about half an hour. The label should peel right off. For coated labels, boil water in a kettle and place your jars into the sink. Pour the boiling water directly into the jars and let sit for 15 minutes before peeling the label off.

DIY Natural adhesive remover

This non-toxic alternative to store-bought adhesive remover is fantastic and I have been making and using as long as I can remember. I make large batches of it and store it in an airtight glass jar under our sink. This adhesive remove will also work for any other non-porous surfaces.

Ingredients:

1 part baking soda + 1 part coconut oil + a few drops of lemon or orange essential oil

How to:

Mix the above ingredients together and store in an airtight glass jar. To use, apply the adhesive remover paste over the adhesive residue and let sit for several minutes (or longer if the adhesive is old or stubborn). Scrub until gone and rinse with warm soapy water.

Favorite ways to upcycle glass jars

— storing bulk dry goods in the pantry
— freezing food (make sure that you use mason jars that are freezer-safe)
— to make candles
— as vases for flowers
— to store art supplies
— for planting herbs in to give away as gifts
— for crafts, like these diy recycled jar lanterns
— bringing smoothies on-the-go