Make the Most of Your Summer with these Outdoor Hacks

Summer, is that you? 

Sure, the official season may not kick off for another couple weeks, but if you’re like us, your heart is already in full summer mode. After all, ‘tis the season for backyard barbecues, camping trips and long days at the beach, lake or pool. 

Whatever your summer plans have in store for you and your family, you can make them even better with a few simple household hacks. These clever ideas are all about outdoor convenience, so you can stress less while enjoying that sunshine just a little more! 

Freeze Water Balloons for Cooling Drinks:

Stay refreshed on hot summer days by freezing water balloons and using them as ice packs in your cooler. Not only will they keep your drinks cool, but as they melt, you'll have ready-to-use water balloons for an impromptu water fight (and who isn’t a fan of that?).

Use a Shoe Organizer for Outdoor Utensil Storage:

Hang a shoe organizer on a fence or a tree near your outdoor dining area. This makeshift organizer can store utensils, napkins, condiments and even sunscreen, keeping everything within easy reach and preventing clutter on your picnic table. Plus, less prep for meals means there’s a greater likelihood you’ll actually dine al fresco this summer!

Turn a Pool Noodle into a Beverage Float:

Cut a pool noodle into smaller sections and slice them lengthwise. Attach these sections to the edge of a plastic tray or a sturdy foam board, creating a floating drink holder. Now you can relax in the pool without worrying about spilling your favorite beverage!

Create DIY Citronella Candles:

Keep pesky mosquitoes at bay by repurposing small, empty tin cans into citronella candles. Fill the cans with melted candle wax, add a few drops of citronella essential oil and place a wick in the center. These homemade candles will provide a pleasant ambiance while keeping those bothersome bugs away.

Transform a Shower Caddy into a Portable Food Station:

Heading to the beach or a park for a picnic? Use a (new) shower caddy with multiple compartments to transport and organize your snacks. It will keep your food separated and prevent it from getting crushed during transit.

Use a Cookie Cooling Rack as a BBQ Vegetable Grill Basket:

Don't have a vegetable grill basket? No problem! Grab a cookie cooling rack from your kitchen and use it to grill small vegetables like cherry tomatoes, sliced bell peppers or zucchini. The openings in the rack will allow the heat to reach the veggies while preventing them from falling through the grill grates.

Repurpose a Ladder as a Vertical Garden:

If you're tight on outdoor space but still want to enjoy gardening, repurpose an old ladder. Lean it against a wall or fence and use the rungs as shelves for potted plants or herbs. This vertical garden will add a touch of greenery to your outdoor area while saving valuable space.

Turn a Bed Sheet into a DIY Hammock:

Create your own cozy hammock using a sturdy bed sheet and some rope. Tie the ends of the rope securely around two sturdy trees or posts, and then gather the excess sheet in the middle and tie it to the rope. Voila! You have a comfortable and budget-friendly spot to relax and soak up the summer breeze – in any color or print you fancy.

Make a DIY Bug Spray with Essential Oils:

Summer hikes are idyllic, but keeping clear of bugs – without resorting to harsh chemicals – can be tough. Combine a few drops of essential oils like citronella, lavender or peppermint with water in a spray bottle. This homemade bug spray will help repel insects and keep you comfortable during outdoor activities.

Use a Mesh Laundry Bag for Sand-Free Beach Toys:

Heading to the beach? Place your sandy toys in a mesh laundry bag and give them a shake before leaving. The mesh will allow the sand to fall through, leaving your toys clean and ready for the next beach adventure.

Use a Squeeze Bottle for Pancake Batter Dispensing:

Planning a camping trip or outdoor breakfast? Repurpose a clean squeeze bottle (like those used for condiments) to hold pancake batter. Fill it up with your prepared batter, seal it tightly, and use it to dispense perfectly shaped pancakes onto your griddle or pan. It eliminates the mess and allows for precise pouring. Plus, you can prep the batter before you go for the easiest breakfast imaginable.

Turn a Metal Colander into a Fruit Fly Trap:

Enjoying fresh fruits outdoors can attract pesky fruit flies. To keep them at bay, repurpose a metal colander as a trap. Place overripe/rotten fruits in the colander and cover it with a plastic wrap, securing it with a rubber band. Poke small holes in the wrap to allow the flies to enter. They will be attracted to the fruit and get trapped in the colander, leaving you free to enjoy your snack in peace.

Create a DIY Outdoor Movie Screen with a White Sheet:

Transform your backyard into a cozy outdoor theater by using a white sheet as a projection screen. Hang the sheet between two trees or posts, ensuring it is stretched tight. Use a projector to display your favorite movies or stream content onto the sheet and set up some blankets and cushions for a memorable movie night under the stars.

Use a Muffin Tin as a Condiment Holder:

Hosting a summer BBQ or picnic? Repurpose a muffin tin as a condiment holder. Fill each section with different sauces, toppings, or condiments like ketchup, mustard, relish, or pickles. This hack keeps everything organized and prevents multiple bottles from cluttering up your serving area.

Repurpose Wine Corks as Plant Markers:

If you're an avid gardener, repurpose wine corks as plant markers. Write the names of different herbs, flowers, or vegetables on the corks, and stick them into the soil next to the corresponding plants. This hack adds a decorative touch to your garden while helping you keep track of your plants.

With these clever outdoor hacks using household items, you can make the most of your summer and enjoy your time outside to the fullest. And speaking of making the most of the summer ahead, be sure to check out our new Summer Collection, full of sunshine, vibrant colors and all the summer vibes! From beach towels to kitchen basics, we’ve got the prints you’ll enjoy all season long.