5 Ways to Reuse Your Kid’s Old Waterproof Coat
We’ve come up with a bunch of ways to reuse your kid’s old waterproof coat. We all know kids grow so quickly, so if you have a raincoat they have outgrown, why not repurpose it?
Waterproof Jackets are often durable, long-lasting and made from weather resistant material, which can be put to good use, even after they no longer fit your children.
Here are five thoughtful and creative ways to give that little raincoat a second life — saving money, reducing waste, and maybe even creating something fun along the way.
1. Turn your Waterproof Coat into a Backpack or Lunch Bag 🎒
If you’re handy with a sewing machine (or even just determined with fabric glue!), that old raincoat can be transformed into a waterproof backpack or lunch bag.
Why it works: Waterproof fabric is perfect for protecting school supplies or food from spills and weather. You can use parts of the coat like zippers, pockets, or toggles in the new design.
Tip: Reinforce the inside with old fabric or a lining (like a wipeable plastic sheet or an old shower curtain) for structure and extra durability.
2. Donate the Waterproof Coat for Outdoor Learning 🌎
If your child’s coat is still in decent shape, consider donating it instead of discarding it. Waterproof coats are fantastic additions to schools, nurseries, or forest school programs. You could also check with friends or family to pass down your raincoat or try your local charity shops.
Why it works:
Waterproof coats are super durable, so they can often be passed on to other children. Little explorers use them in outdoor learning settings, where extra gear is always welcome.
Good To Know: Call your local charity shop, playgroup, or primary school to ask if they accept donations like this.
3. Create Doll or Stuffed Animal Rainwear 🧸
Give your child’s toys a mini fashion makeover by turning the coat into tiny rain jackets or hoods for dolls and stuffed animals. Kids love dressing their toys — and it's even more fun when those clothes are handmade from something familiar.
Why it works: You can use sleeve cuffs for pant legs or small sleeves, and the hood might be just the right size for a teddy bear!
Bonus: It's a great way to teach kids about reuse and creative problem-solving.
4. Upcycle into a Rain Hat or Hood Extension 👒
If you're not ready to part with the whole coat, consider trimming it down to make a rain hat, visor, or clip-on hood. You can attach it to another jacket or hoodie using velcro or snaps.
Why it works: Kids often grow taller before they grow out of a jacket completely. This is a great way to extend the life of another jacket by adding weather protection.
DIY Level: Intermediate (some sewing required) or go no-sew with strong fabric glue and velcro strips.
5. Make a Scarecrow from an Old Waterproof Coat♻️
One fun and practical way to reuse your child's old waterproof coat is to turn it into a charming garden scarecrow!
Not only is this a creative upcycling project, but it also gives that beloved coat a second life.
Here's how you can do it:
What You’ll Need:
- Your child’s old waterproof coat (a bright one adds personality!)
- An old pair of trousers or overalls
- A wooden stake or cross-shaped frame (two pieces of wood nailed together)
- Straw, old rags, or plastic bags for stuffing
- String or twine
- An old hat or beanie (optional)
- Gloves, scarf, or other fun accessories (optional)
- A pillowcase or sack for the head (or a plant pot if you want to go rustic)
Instructions:
- Create the Frame:
Secure your wooden stake or cross-shaped wood frame into the ground. - Dress the Frame:
Slide the coat onto the cross so the sleeves hang over the horizontal arms or leave them to hang down if you have just a wooden stake. Then, attach the trousers or overalls to the bottom. You can tie or pin them to the vertical stick to keep them from slipping. - Stuff It:
Use straw, old rags, or even plastic grocery bags to stuff the coat and trousers so they look full. Be sure to pack the sleeves and body so the scarecrow looks lifelike. - Add a Head:
Use a pillowcase, sack, or even a plastic plant pot for the head. Draw or sew on a face if you like. Attach it to the top of the vertical stick. - Accessorize:
Pop a hat on top and maybe add some gloves at the ends of the sleeves. Or you could put the hood up on the old waterproof coat! Plus, a scarf or old sunglasses can add even more character. - Secure It in the Garden:
Push the bottom of the vertical stick into the ground firmly or secure it in a pot with stones if you prefer to keep it mobile.
This scarecrow will be great fun to do with your children, plus it will bring lots of personality to your garden! Being in the garden may prompt your little ones to be more involved with gardening: Here are the top 4 benefits to gardening with your children.
Old clothes don’t have to end up in landfills — especially when they’re as tough and useful as a waterproof coat. With just a bit of creativity and intention, you can turn your child’s outgrown rainwear into something brand new and practical.
Whether you’re upcycling for fun or simply trying to waste less, these ideas are a great way to teach kids the value of reusing what we already have.✨