Many people are unsure what to do with their old rice cooker once it can no longer be used for cooking, and they end up taking up valuable space in the house. But did you know that your old rice cooker can still be a handy helper in your daily life? Let’s explore some of its magical uses.
First Use: Dry Food Storage
During the summer, when the weather is humid, grains such as rice, millet, red beans, and mung beans are prone to dampness and insect infestation. A simple solution is to wash and dry the inside of your old rice cooker and fill it with uncooked rice. Then, close the lid.
The rice cooker’s inner pot is designed to be airtight and is usually made of aluminum alloy or stainless steel, providing better moisture control and insect protection than regular plastic buckets. This not only preserves your food but also saves your family money by preventing the need to throw away spoiled grains.
Second Use: Storage Container
Metal tools like screwdrivers, wrenches, and pliers are often kept in drawers or corners of the house. However, they are susceptible to oxidation and rust, especially in humid conditions.
Instead of letting them lie around in disarray and risk rusting, you can place all these tools inside your old rice cooker, close the lid, and keep them dry. By doing so, the rice cooker helps isolate moisture, keeping your tools rust-free and easily accessible when needed.
Third Use: Vegetable Washer
When hosting meals for friends and family, you may find yourself with a pile of dishes and vegetables to wash. In such cases, your old rice cooker can serve as a handy temporary washbasin.
The size and depth of the rice cooker are just right for washing vegetables, potatoes, bell peppers, and small dishes. The stainless steel material of the cooker makes it easier to clean and less prone to staining, allowing for quick cleanup after use.
Fourth Use: Desktop Trash Bin
Many people like to have a small trash bin on their kitchen or office desk to dispose of minor waste like tissue paper and fruit peels. However, regular plastic bins can leak odors and become a source of unpleasant smells over time.
By cleaning out your old rice cooker and placing a trash bag inside, you create a desktop trash bin with excellent sealing capabilities. This not only contains odors but also provides a convenient way to dispose of waste.
Fifth Use: Flower Pot
For those with a green thumb, using an old rice cooker as a flower pot is a creative idea. The sturdy material and large capacity of the cooker are perfect for growing plants like Swiss chard, succulents, or asparagus ferns.
Simply drill a few small holes in the bottom of the cooker for drainage, add a layer of clay or gravel for water drainage, and you’re ready to plant your favorite flowers or greenery.
Sixth Use: BBQ Grill Base
Summer is the perfect time for outdoor grilling. You can utilize your old rice cooker as a base for your grill by filling it with charcoal or wood briquettes and placing a small grill rack on top.
The metal body of the rice cooker can withstand high temperatures and helps contain sparks, ensuring a safer grilling experience. After use, the cooker is also easy to clean, preventing ash and soot from spreading everywhere.
So, instead of discarding your old rice cooker, consider these creative ways to repurpose it. Not only will you save space, but you’ll also contribute to environmental protection. These magical uses not only provide practical benefits but also showcase your ingenuity and creativity in daily life.
