A Great Way to Recycle

How to Remove the Print from Plastic Containers

I got this general idea on Pinterest from twobusybrunettes, but I didn't want to soak any of my washcloths or towels so I changed it for my needs and so I would have less clean-up.

You should do this in a well ventilated space, the acetone is pretty stinky and you shouldn't breath the "fumes".

Materials:

-paper towel, about 3 sections long for each container

-acetone {normally used as nail polish remover and oil based paint clean-up}

-plastic container with label printed on it

-large strong rubber band, one for each container

-rubber gloves

Process:

1. Fold the paper towel in half, end to end; then fold in half lengthwise.  {This will depend on the size and shape of your container; you want at least 3-4 layers of paper towel all the way around your container.}

2. Wrap the paper towel around the container; the paper towel should be touching the container all the way around.

3. Put rubber band around the center of the paper towel to hold it in place tightly.

4. Working over a garbage can or a surface protected with newspaper, carefully pour a little acetone all the way around the container, saturating the paper towel.

5. Let the acetone saturated paper towel sit on the container for at least 10 minutes   {The longer you leave it on the easier the print comes off; but don't leave it on so long that the acetone evaporates.}

6. Wearing rubber gloves; remove the rubber band and use the saturated paper towel to rub away the print from the plastic container.  {It should rub away easily, if not "soak" longer.}
7. Wash containers with warm soapy water to remove any residual acetone.

8. Enjoy!  You can use these for food storage, kid's toys/art materials, your studio/crafting things things, holiday gift treats, the possibilities are endless!