Less Mess, More Yes

DIY Rain Catcher

By Michaela Coyle of Sterilite Corporation

Summer is right around the corner and we’ve all started to plant our flower and veggie gardens, which means we’ll have to frequently be watering them to keep them flourishing! This is also the time of year where towns start to enforce water bans, which makes it difficult to nourish your plants while also saving on water - unless you have a well of course.

We have an eco-friendly solution that can help you save money and also recycle unused rain water - a DIY Rain Catcher. Although this project may seem a bit intimidating, this particular rain barrel is very simple and great for first timers! With a little help from a friend that has power tools, I was able to create a fully functioning rain catcher in less than 30 minutes.

Supplies you will need:
• Container (I used the Sterilite Utility Can)
• Water Spigot (Amazon has many affordable options)
• Safety Gloves
• Safety Glasses
• Drill
• Crushed Stone or Pebbles

First, grab container you would like to use to create the rain catcher (we recommend using the Sterilite Utility Can) and carefully drill some holes in the lid so the rain can trickle in. In this case, the lid of the Utility Can is recessed which was a perfect spot to drill the holes. The recessed lid also nicely holds the crushed stone that will prevent any debris from polluting the fresh rain water.

Next, create another hole about 2 inches up from the bottom of the Utility can, big enough in diameter so you can install your spigot. Make sure the seal is secure between the spigot and the utility can to prevent any leakage!

Lastly, grab your crushed stone/pebbles and place them in the recessed part of the lid above the drill holes.

Once complete, simply place your rain catcher in your desired area of your yard. You will use less water from your home and also recycle old rain water to nourish your beautiful plants!

Thank You, Teachers!

By Tori Lind of Sterilite Corporation

It’s Teacher Appreciation Week! For over a year, teachers have been tasked with trying to create a fun and exciting way for students to learn remotely. While it has been difficult at times, we are truly thankful for all they do! If you are looking for an easy, yet creative and thoughtful gift to give to a teacher in your life, continue reading!

The first thing you want to do is choose an item to package the gift in. Yes, you could simply get a gift bag, but why not get something that can be utilized in the classroom upon receiving! This could be anything from a basket to a caddy to a small storage container. I chose to use the Sterilite Small Weave Basket – it truly is the perfect size. Once you have your base, it’s time to fill it! You can customize the contents of this basket with some of the teacher’s personal favorites or just everyday essentials. For example, if they are a math teacher you can buy rulers! Some other fun suggestions are snacks, room decorations, and a personalized note thanking them for all they do.


If you don’t know too much about the teacher, play it safe! Every teacher needs the essentials no matter what subject or grade they teach. Below are some ideas:
•Wipes
•Hand sanitizer
•Pencils, pens, crayons, markers, glue, etc.
•Stickers or stamps
•Water bottle
•Starbucks or Dunkin Donut gift card
•Candy, gum, or mints

If you don’t have the time to go to your local shopping center, there are a few other ways you can show appreciation. The first is to see if your child’s teacher has an Amazon wish list. If they do, you can purchase those items and have them sent directly to them. You can also send e-gift cards, flowers, or an Edible Arrangement.

We would love to see what creative Teacher Appreciation gifts you are gifting this year. If you utilize any of our products, make sure to share pictures with us on Instagram and to use #sterilitenation!