The Magic of Rice Cookers: 8 Creative Ways to Upcycle Yours.

1. Transform the Inner Pot into a Saucepan

If you have an old rice cooker that’s no longer in use, you can repurpose its inner pot as a handy saucepan. This saucepan can be used for boiling water or warming milk, contributing to recycling efforts and reducing waste.

To do this, you’ll need a few tools like a drill and a saucepan handle (which can be purchased online). Using a drill bit designed for metal, drill two holes on either side of the inner pot. Once drilled, attach the handle to the holes.

With these simple steps, you’ve transformed your old rice cooker’s inner pot into a useful saucepan. Give it a try!

2. Create a Storage Container for Rice and Dry Goods

Using airtight containers to store rice and dry goods is considered the best way to keep them fresh for extended periods while protecting them from pests like mice, cockroaches, and insects. Additionally, sealing the container helps shield the contents from oxygen, moisture, and light, further prolonging their shelf life.

If you don’t have airtight containers, you can use your broken rice cooker as a storage solution for rice or dry goods. Simply pour the dry goods into the rice cooker and close the lid.

3. Build a Small Stove

I once considered buying a tea-making set online, but the price seemed unreasonable. However, when my rice cooker at home broke down, I had the idea to use its inner pot as a small stove for tea.

If you have the inner pot of an old rice cooker, you can put it to good use as a mini stove. Simply place a stainless steel grill or rack inside. Then, add charcoal to the pot and place a teapot or snacks like chestnuts and sweet potatoes on the rack.

As the weather gets colder, this setup is perfect for enjoying tea and relaxing with your family, especially the little ones, on the balcony or in the garden.

4. Plant a Garden

If you have a green thumb and love flowers and plants, consider repurposing your old, non-functioning rice cooker as a planter. I’ve tried this myself, and it works great for small cacti, making watering easier without creating a mess. It’s a very convenient solution.

If you’re into hydroponics, the old rice cooker can also be used to grow other types of plants without needing to purchase additional pots.

5. Create a Tea Tray

In a fun twist, you can use your old, non-functioning rice cooker as a tea tray. Specifically, the inner pot and steam tray of the rice cooker can be utilized as a tea tray, allowing water and tea residue to drain directly into the pot, keeping your table clean and easy to maintain.

Additionally, the lid can be removed and used to cover the tea tray during preparation, protecting it from dust when not in use. This is a creative way to repurpose household items, saving money and adding convenience.

6. Make a Pet Water Bowl

If you have a broken rice cooker, you can easily turn it into a water bowl for your furry friends.

I repurposed the inner pot of my old rice cooker and a small leftover water pump to create a drinking fountain for my pets, saving me from having to buy a new one.

7. Create an Aquarium

You can transform the inner pot of your old rice cooker into a mini aquarium with a few simple steps. Line the bottom of the pot with gravel, and then add a few small aquatic plants. Voilà! You now have a unique, space-saving fish tank.

8. Craft Decorative Storage Baskets

Instead of discarding old, non-functioning rice cookers, you can turn them into handy storage baskets. Simply detach the inner pot and use it to hold small items, helping to keep your living space neat and tidy.

To enhance the aesthetic appeal, use a hot glue gun to attach small flowers or decorate with fabric flowers you already have at home. These little touches will make your basket unique and beautiful.