Don’t Toss That Ketchup Bottle! 3 Genius Ways to Upcycle It

We’ve all been there—squeezing, shaking, and desperately tapping the bottom of a ketchup bottle to get the last drop. And when it’s finally empty, there's that bittersweet moment: No more ketchup, but now, a perfectly good squeeze bottle in your hands. Instead of tossing it, why not give it a second life? Upcycling isn’t just trendy—it’s a clever way to cut down on waste while flexing your creativity.

That old ketchup bottle? It’s about to become your new kitchen MVP.

1. The Pancake Game-Changer

Want picture-perfect pancakes without the mess? Forget the ladle. An empty ketchup bottle gives you total control over the pour, so you can make flawless, evenly sized pancakes every time. Just whip up your favorite batter, funnel it in, and squeeze your way to perfection. Bonus: It’s great for fun pancake shapes, too!

2. DIY Sauce & Dressing Storage

If you’ve ever dabbled in homemade sauces or dressings, you know the struggle—pouring from a mixing bowl or dealing with flimsy plastic wrap is not the vibe. Instead, transfer your custom creations into a squeeze bottle for fresher storage and easy serving. The built-in silicone slit helps keep air out, so your dressings and sauces last longer and stay mess-free.

3. Cooking Oil, But Make It Precise

Ever tried pouring oil straight from the bottle and ended up with way more than you needed? A ketchup bottle solves that. The controlled squeeze lets you drizzle just the right amount—whether you’re greasing a pan, dressing a salad, or finishing a dish with a touch of olive oil. No more accidental oil slicks on your countertop!

Pro Tip: Clean It First!

Before you start upcycling, make sure to wash the bottle thoroughly with hot, soapy water, rinse well, and let it dry completely. Residual ketchup and oil don’t mix well (unless you’re making a very weird dressing).

So, next time you finish off a bottle of ketchup, don’t see it as trash—see it as an opportunity. Who knew a simple squeeze bottle could be such a kitchen hero?