7 Creative Ideas for Old Pool Noodles That Save Money and Prevent Waste

Don’t let those colorful pool noodles gather dust in your garage when swimming season ends. These versatile foam tubes can transform into surprisingly useful household items, creative toys, and innovative home solutions with just a few simple cuts and tweaks.

You’ll be amazed at how these inexpensive summer staples can solve everyday problems while helping you reduce waste and save money in the process.

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7 Creative Ways to Repurpose Pool Noodles Around Your Home

1. Door Stoppers – Cut pool noodles into 6-inch sections and slice lengthwise to create instant door stoppers. Slide them onto doors to prevent slamming and protect little fingers from getting pinched.
2. Garage Wall Bumpers – Attach pool noodles to garage walls where car doors might hit. Simply cut them lengthwise and secure with strong adhesive or screws to create protective cushioning for your vehicle.
3. Garden Knee Pads – Create comfortable garden kneelers by cutting pool noodles in half lengthwise and securing them with zip ties or duct tape to a small board. Your knees will thank you during those long weeding sessions.
4. Boot Shapers – Insert pool noodles into tall boots to help them maintain their shape during storage. Cut the noodles to the appropriate height and place them inside boots to prevent creasing and folding.
5. Child Safety Edges – Cover sharp furniture edges with split pool noodles to create safe spaces for toddlers. Cut the noodle lengthwise, slip it over table corners or hearth edges, and secure with tape for instant childproofing.
6. Floating Cup Holders – Create pool-friendly drink holders by cutting 4-inch sections of pool noodle and slicing a hole through the center that’s slightly smaller than your cup. These float perfectly and keep beverages within reach while swimming.
7. Wreath Base – Form a circular wreath base by connecting the ends of a pool noodle with duct tape or a dowel. Wrap with ribbon, fabric, or artificial greenery and add seasonal decorations for a lightweight, weather-resistant door display.

Transform Pool Noodles into DIY Garden Supports

Creating Flexible Plant Ties

Turn old pool noodles into perfect plant ties by cutting them into thin strips. Simply slice the noodle lengthwise into 1/4-inch ribbons, then cut these into 6-8 inch sections. These foam ties are gentle on delicate stems while providing flexible support. Wrap them around plants and stakes, securing with a simple knot that won’t damage growing stems like traditional twist ties often do.

Building an Inexpensive Tomato Cage

Convert pool noodles into sturdy tomato cages at a fraction of store-bought options’ cost. Cut a pool noodle into four equal sections and bend each into a U-shape. Insert bamboo stakes or dowels through both ends of each noodle piece and push into the soil, creating a circular support structure. These colorful cages provide flexible support for growing tomato plants while preventing fruit from touching the ground.

Craft Child-Friendly Home Safety Solutions

Door Stopper Guards for Little Fingers

Transform old pool noodles into effective door stopper guards that prevent painful finger pinches. Simply cut a 6-inch section from your pool noodle, slice it lengthwise along one side, and slip it over the edge of doors. These colorful foam guards prevent doors from closing completely, eliminating the risk of little fingers getting caught in door hinges or jambs.

Bathtub Edge Cushions for Toddlers

Convert pool noodles into soft bathtub edge protectors to keep bath time safe and enjoyable. Cut the noodle to match the length of your tub’s edge, slice it lengthwise, and press it firmly onto the rim. This creates an instant cushioned barrier that prevents head bumps and makes bath time safer for wobbly toddlers learning to sit independently.

Design Unique Storage Solutions with Pool Noodles

Vertical Boot Organizers

Transform pool noodles into practical boot organizers that maintain your footwear’s shape while saving closet space. Cut pool noodles to match your boot height, then insert them into each boot to create sturdy vertical supports. These colorful foam inserts prevent boots from folding over or creasing, extending the life of your favorite footwear while creating an organized, space-efficient storage solution.

Garage Wall Protectors for Car Doors

Mount cut pool noodles horizontally along garage walls to create instant protection for car doors. Simply slice pool noodles lengthwise, then attach them at door-height using screws or strong adhesive tape. These foam buffers provide perfect cushioning when car doors open, preventing expensive dings and scratches. The bright colors also serve as visual guides when parking, helping family members position vehicles safely every time.

Create Engaging Kids’ Activities and Games

Transform your old pool noodles into exciting play opportunities that will keep kids entertained for hours. These versatile foam tubes can become the building blocks for creative games that cost almost nothing to make.

Backyard Obstacle Course Components

Turn pool noodles into an exciting backyard obstacle course by bending them into arches and securing with garden stakes. Create hurdles at different heights by threading noodles onto dowel rods between two chairs. Add challenge stations by standing noodles vertically for kids to weave through like a slalom course. These colorful obstacles provide hours of active play while improving coordination and gross motor skills.

Rainy Day Indoor Hopscotch Markers

Cut pool noodles into 6-inch segments and arrange them in traditional hopscotch formation on carpet or tile floors. The soft foam pieces stay in place without sliding while providing safe, quiet jumping surfaces for indoor play. Number each segment with marker or tape for proper game progression. These impromptu hopscotch markers store easily in a small bin and can be quickly deployed whenever rainy weather keeps energetic kids cooped up inside.

Fashion Practical Outdoor and Camping Accessories

Pool noodles aren’t just for poolside fun—they can become essential companions for your outdoor adventures with these simple modifications.

Floating Drink Holders for the Lake

Transform pool noodles into convenient floating cup holders by cutting 4-inch sections and slicing halfway through the center. These buoyant beverage holders keep your drinks afloat while you’re relaxing in the lake. For added stability, connect multiple holders with twine to create a floating drink station that won’t drift away from your swimming spot.

Makeshift Sleeping Pad Extensions

Cut pool noodles lengthwise and place them under the edges of your camping sleeping pad for extra cushioning and width. They’re particularly useful for side sleepers who need additional shoulder support. These lightweight foam extensions also help keep you centered on narrow pads and provide insulation from cold ground, improving your overall camping sleep quality.

Build Handy Household Helpers and Tools

DIY Draft Stoppers for Windows and Doors

Transform old pool noodles into effective draft stoppers by slicing them lengthwise along one side. Slide these foam tubes onto the bottom of doors or window sills to block cold air from entering your home during winter months. These colorful insulators can reduce heating bills and eliminate uncomfortable drafts while being easy to remove and store when not needed. For sliding doors, cut the noodle to exact width measurements for a perfect fit.

Customized Cleaning Tool Grips

Turn pool noodles into ergonomic grips for cleaning tools by cutting them into 6-8 inch sections. Slice one side lengthwise and slide them onto broom handles, mop sticks, or garden tools for improved comfort during use. These foam grips reduce hand fatigue and prevent blisters during extended cleaning sessions. You can even color-code different tools with various noodle colors for quick identification in your storage closet.

Give New Life to Pool Noodles with Decorative Projects

Pool noodles truly are the unsung heroes of household DIY projects. These versatile foam tubes can transform from simple swimming aids into practical solutions that protect your home enhance organization and even entertain your kids.

With these seven creative ideas you’ll not only save money and reduce waste but also solve everyday problems with items you might have otherwise discarded. The projects require minimal effort tools or expertise making them perfect weekend activities.

Next time you spot those colorful foam tubes at the end of summer don’t pass them by. Their flexibility durability and low cost make them ideal materials for countless home projects. Why not grab a few extras now that you know how valuable they can be beyond the pool?

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some ways to repurpose pool noodles around the home?

Pool noodles can be transformed into door stoppers, garage wall bumpers, garden knee pads, boot shapers, furniture edge protectors, floating cup holders, and wreath bases. They’re versatile, inexpensive, and require minimal modifications to create practical household solutions that prevent damage, enhance safety, and organize your space.

How can pool noodles be used for child safety?

Pool noodles make excellent child safety tools. Cut them lengthwise and place them over sharp furniture edges to prevent injuries. They can also be used as door stopper guards to prevent finger pinches and as bathtub edge cushions to protect toddlers during bath time. These solutions are inexpensive, easy to install, and provide peace of mind.

Can pool noodles help with gardening?

Absolutely! Pool noodles can be cut into thin strips to create flexible plant ties that won’t damage stems. You can also build inexpensive tomato cages using U-shaped noodle sections and bamboo stakes. Additionally, sections of pool noodles make comfortable knee pads for gardening, reducing strain on your joints while working.

How do I create storage solutions with pool noodles?

Cut pool noodles to match boot height for vertical boot organizers that maintain shape and save closet space. You can also use pool noodle sections for organizing wrapping paper rolls or storing holiday lights without tangling. These simple storage hacks help maximize space and keep items in good condition.

What children’s activities can be created with pool noodles?

Transform pool noodles into backyard obstacle courses by bending them into arches or using them as hurdles to enhance coordination skills. For indoor play, cut noodles into segments for safe hopscotch markers. You can also create toy swords, racecar tracks, or building blocks that are lightweight, safe, and colorful for endless creative play.

How can pool noodles enhance camping and outdoor experiences?

Create floating drink holders by cutting noodle sections and slicing them for buoyancy. Use cut pool noodles as sleeping pad extensions for added cushioning while camping. They can also serve as makeshift armrests for beach chairs or padding for canoe seats. These lightweight additions take up minimal packing space but add significant comfort.

Can pool noodles help with energy efficiency?

Yes! Make DIY draft stoppers by slicing pool noodles lengthwise and sliding them onto door bottoms or window sills to block cold air. This simple hack helps reduce heating bills during winter months and can be easily removed and stored when not needed. It’s an inexpensive alternative to commercial draft blockers.

How do I make pool noodle door bumpers?

Cut a pool noodle into 4-6 inch sections. Slice each section lengthwise along one side. Slide these pieces onto the edges of doors to prevent slamming and protect walls from doorknob damage. You can secure them with double-sided tape if needed. These bumpers are especially useful in homes with children or in windy conditions.

Are there ways to make cleaning tools more comfortable with pool noodles?

Cut pool noodles into 6-8 inch sections and slice them lengthwise. Slide these cushioned grips onto broom handles, garden tools, or paint rollers to create ergonomic grips that reduce hand fatigue and blisters during extended use. They’re especially helpful for people with arthritis or hand strength issues.

How long do repurposed pool noodles typically last?

When used indoors, repurposed pool noodles can last for several years. Outdoor applications may deteriorate faster due to UV exposure and weather conditions, typically lasting 1-2 seasons. Indoor items like door stoppers, boot shapers, and child safety edges tend to maintain their functionality longer than outdoor applications like garden supports.