9 Smart Ways to Repurpose Old Jeans Instead of Tossing Them

Give your once-favorite pair a new life.

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

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Chances are, you have old jeans taking up much-needed space in your closet. Rather than tossing or donating your unwanted pairs, experts say there are creative ways to give your old jeans a new life. From fun bookmarks to chic pillow covers, this article reveals some of the best ways to upcycle old jeans.

Why it matters

Denim is a durable fabric that is perfect for DIY projects, as it can withstand regular wear and tear. Repurposing old jeans is an eco-friendly way to give new life to items you no longer need, reducing waste and saving money.

The details

The article features tips from experts like Amanda Constantine, the home and apparel reviews analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute, and Jessie Gainsley Rivera, a Los Angeles-based celebrity stylist and co-owner of the online vintage shop, I Wanna Thrift With You. They share creative ideas for upcycling old jeans, such as turning them into bookmarks, pillow covers, and other useful items.

  • The article was published on February 17, 2026.

The players

Amanda Constantine

The home and apparel reviews analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute.

Jessie Gainsley Rivera

A Los Angeles-based celebrity stylist and co-owner of the online vintage shop, I Wanna Thrift With You.

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The takeaway

Repurposing old jeans is an eco-friendly and creative way to give new life to items you no longer need, reducing waste and saving money. The article provides a variety of smart DIY projects to try, showcasing the durability and versatility of denim.