DIY Projects for a Greener Home – From Dishcloths to Tote Bags

Sustainability starts at home – and often with the little things. Instead of tossing yarn scraps or buying new cloths, why not turn leftover cotton into stylish, reusable helpers?

In this post, I'll share 10 creative DIY projects for your home – plus a step-by-step crochet pattern for a dishcloth, material suggestions, care tips, and ideas for reducing waste.

🧶 10 Sustainable DIY Ideas

1. Dishcloths (pattern below)

2. Makeup remover pads

3. Reusable produce bags

4. Soap pouches

5. Potholders from yarn scraps

6. Tote or mesh shopping bags

7. Storage baskets for kitchen & bathroom

8. Lingerie wash bags

9. Waffle-texture cloths

10. Crocheted gift wraps or pouches

🧵 Suggested Materials

For all projects, try:

• 100% cotton yarn (e.g. Drops Safran, Catania, Schachenmayr) – absorbent & durable

• Recycled cotton (e.g. Hoooked Eco Barbante) – great for larger items

• Hemp or linen – ideal for sturdy washcloths or net bags

• Wool remnants – use for dry use like storage baskets

• Macramé cord – stable for bags or soap pouches

💡 Avoid synthetic blends (like acrylics) for dishcloths – they aren't heat resistant and may release microplastics.

🧽 Step-by-Step Crochet Pattern: Eco Dishcloth

A washable, reusable alternative to sponges – simple to make and easy to clean!

📏 Size:

Approx. 20 x 20 cm

📦 You'll need:

• 50–60 g of 100% cotton yarn

• 4.0 mm crochet hook

• Tapestry needle for finishing

🧶 Pattern: (US Terms)

Waffle stitch – highly absorbent and textured

Foundation chain: Multiple of 3 + 2 turning chains

1. Row 1:
   Work 1 dc into the 4th chain from hook. Continue with dc across.

2. Row 2:
   1 front post dc, 2 dc repeat until end. Turn.

3. Row 3:
   1 dc, 2 front post dc repeat until end. Turn.

4. Repeat rows 2 and 3 until square is formed.

5. Finish off and weave in ends. Optional: add single crochet border.

♻️ Sustainability & Care

• Machine washable at 60 °C

• No fabric softener

• Dry completely after use

• Boil or wash at 90 °C once a month to remove bacteria

• Optional: iron on high heat to sanitize

✨ My Takeaway:

Sometimes, making a change starts with a stitch.
Whether you're crocheting dishcloths or reusable totes – sustainable yarn projects bring awareness, creativity, and heart into your daily life. And the planet will thank you, too. 

👋 What green project is on your hook?
Share your ideas in our Facebook Group or tag me on Instagram – I'd love to see your sustainable stitches! 

#ecocrochet #diyhome #crochetdishcloth #stashbuster #strickenimtrend

Because every green step ist a good step!

Yours,
Kathrin ☀️🧶