for the plastic coffee containers, I make large holes in the lids, cut the bottom off and use it to spread de-icing mixture during the winter...(not that I have had to use it this year). I just cover the lid with a plastic wrap, secured with a rubber band and remover it when ready to sprinkle....It is best to make the holes from the inside out, as the mixture moves out better that way...also do the same for garden food or grass seeding in spots the hole size is made dependent on the substance coming out....on camping vacation, i do the same and use it as a strainer for pasta, potatoes, veggies, etc to drain the liquid...space saver for sure....I also cut just the bottoms off and use it for a pattern holder as it is placed on the side....then I hang little file tabs (reusable) from the top to let me knnow what type of patterns are in each container.... just think outside the box and ideas come