When the summer sun sets and pool days become a distant memory, you might find yourself wondering what to do with those leftover foam pool noodles. While storing them away for next summer is one option, these versatile and affordable items have a plethora of uses beyond the pool. Their lightweight, buoyant nature combined with their flexibility makes them perfect candidates for creative repurposing around the house and garden.
From practical household hacks to fun DIY projects, pool noodles can be transformed in ways you might never have considered. Not only can they save you money, but they can also add convenience and safety to your daily life. Here are 10 smart ways to reuse those cheap foam pool noodles and give them a second life beyond the water.
1. Turn Pool Noodles Into Draft Stoppers for Doors and Windows
Drafts under doors and windows can increase heating bills and reduce comfort in your home. To combat this, cut a pool noodle lengthwise and place it under your door or along your window sill. You can even cover it with fabric or an old sock to improve its appearance. The foam acts as an effective barrier to prevent cold air from seeping in, thanks to its snug fit and insulating properties. Typically, a noodle is about 5 to 6 feet long, so it should fit most standard doors without needing much adjustment.
2. Protect Your Car Doors and Garage Walls on the Cheap
Parking in tight garages often leads to accidental dings and scratches on car doors. To avoid this, cut pool noodles in half lengthwise and attach them horizontally to your garage walls using adhesive strips or screws. Position them at the height where your car doors might hit the wall for maximum protection. This simple solution not only cushions the impact but also prevents long-term damage without costing a fortune.
3. Make Kid-Friendly Bed Bumpers and Safety Guards
Transitioning toddlers from cribs to beds can be tricky, especially with the fear of falls. To create a soft barrier, place a pool noodle under the fitted sheet on the edge of the mattress. The noodle acts as a gentle reminder for kids to stay away from the edge. Since pool noodles are about 2.5 to 3 inches in diameter, they provide just enough of a barrier without being uncomfortable. This hack is not only cost-effective but also easy to install and remove as needed.
4. Create Custom Drawer, Shelf, and Tool Organizers
