How to Reuse and Repurpose Last Year’s School Supplies to Save Big This Year
Back-to-school shopping can get expensive fast, especially when you’re buying new supplies for multiple kids.
But before you head out to stock up on folders, markers, and lunchboxes, take a few minutes to shop your home first.
You might be surprised at how many items you already have from last year that can be reused, repurposed, or refreshed—helping you save a lot of money on school supplies.
Here are some practical, creative, and budget-friendly ways to reuse and repurpose school supplies you already have—and only spend money on what you truly need.
1. Take Inventory Before You Shop
Before you even think about heading to the store, round up all the school supplies hiding in your drawers, closets, backpacks, and even your car. Check:
- Old backpacks and lunchboxes
- Junk drawers
- Desk organizers
- Craft supply bins
- Closets and storage totes
Create or print a back to school supply checklist of what you already have.
This step alone can save you from buying duplicates of scissors, rulers, glue sticks, or composition notebooks you may have plenty of already.
2. Clean and Refresh Old Supplies
A lot of last year’s items just need a little TLC to be good as new. Try these simple hacks:
- Crayon and pencil boxes: Wipe them down with disinfecting wipes.
- Binders and folders: Remove old pages and add new label stickers or washi tape to give them a fresh look.
- Pencil pouches: Toss in the wash (if cloth) or wipe down with a cleaning spray.
- Markers and pens: Test each one and toss out dried items. Combine usable ones into a complete set.
3. Repurpose Supplies for New Uses
Thinking outside the box can help you save even more. Here are a few creative ideas:
- Empty notebooks with leftover pages can become scratch paper, homework trackers, or journal notebooks.
- Backpacks with minor wear can be cleaned and passed down to younger siblings or used as gym bags.
- Last year’s folders can be flipped inside out and redecorated.
- Broken crayons can be melted into fun new shapes using silicone crayon molds (great project for the kids too!).
4. Combine and Conquer: Create Sets
Do you have three half-used packs of colored pencils?
Combine them into one complete set and label it.
Gather spare erasers, glue sticks, or highlighters and assemble ready-to-go supply kits for each child. This is a great opportunity to teach kids about using what you have and being resourceful.
5. Use Extra Supplies for Homework Stations
If you have an overflow of certain supplies (like pens, loose paper, or rulers), set up a designated homework station at home.
This keeps essentials within reach and avoids scrambling to find things during study time.
Use old shoeboxes or mason jars to organize tools, or repurpose a utensil tray from the kitchen.
Consider affordable desktop caddies or organizers that make study stations neat and functional.
6. Reuse Last Year’s Backpack and Lunchbox
These are big-ticket items that don’t always need replacing. Unless they’re torn or completely worn out, many backpacks and lunchboxes can be spot cleaned or washed and look like new.
To freshen up:
- Use a gentle detergent or spot cleaner.
- Air them out in the sun to eliminate odors.
- Add a fun backpack patch, keychain, or pin for a new look.
7. Fill in the Gaps: Shop Smart for What You Truly Need
After taking inventory and refreshing what you already own, make a small shopping list of what’s actually needed. Stick to the essentials and don’t get caught up in flashy trends.
Frugal tip: If you do need to shop, Walmart offers a variety of back-to-school supplies for under $1—like glue sticks, notebooks, crayons, and pencils.
You can shop online and pick up in store or have them delivered, saving both time and money.
Final Thoughts
The back-to-school season doesn’t have to mean breaking the bank.
With a little creativity and a resourceful mindset, you can stretch your budget, avoid waste, and still send your kids to school with everything they need.
Start by shopping your home first, repurposing what you have, and filling in the gaps only when necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I know if last year’s supplies are still usable?
A: Check for broken parts, dried-out markers, and missing pieces. If it still functions well, it’s good to reuse!
Q: What’s the best way to clean a used backpack or lunchbox?
A: Spot clean with soap and water or toss soft backpacks in the wash on a gentle cycle. Let them air dry completely.
Q: What should I do with leftover loose notebook paper?
A: Combine it into a binder or use it for homework, doodles, or scratch paper. No need to waste it!
Q: How can I make old school supplies feel exciting again?
A: Let your kids decorate with stickers, washi tape, or personalized labels. It gives older supplies a fresh new feel.
Q: What items are okay to buy new each year?
A: Items like glue sticks, dry erase markers, and erasers wear down quickly. If they’re dried out or nearly gone, replace them.