Do you have loads and loads of old plastic and metal containers lying around the house or apartment? Many of us find uses in the garage for things like this, while other recycle all the containers they can.

But, if you'll imagine for a moment -- couldn't you use several of those containers as storage for various household items? A five-gallon paint bucket makes for a great car-washing-item-holder, while baby wipe packages are perfect for ponytail holders and barrettes.

Since most guests to your home will never see the storage containers you use, why not just use the ones you've already paid for (as grocery items, most likely) instead of spending a lot on specific-purpose storage containers? It's your call, but it is possible. Warning: frugality required.