Preparing for the worst is a combo of storing what you need and using what you have on hand. That means not discarding anything until you decide if it could play a vital role in a survival situation.

Every day we throw away valuable supplies that could be critical in an emergency; the key is knowing what to keep and what to throw away. Otherwise, you go from being prepared to being a hoarder. That’s both inefficient and unhygienic.

1. Broken crayons, candle stubs, and any other form of paraffin wax can be used to make new candles, or along with other items to make fire starting tablets.

2. Dryer lint can be used as tinder, or when combined with paraffin wax or petroleum jelly, to make fire starting tablets.

3. Cardboard egg cartons can be used to sprout seeds or as the container for fire starting tablets.

4. All types of wood. Lumber can be used for construction and scrap wood (not pressure treated) can be used as fuel and in hugal beds/permaculture.

5. Water jugs/soda bottles can be used to store water, rice, beans, etc.

6. Rope—longer pieces can be used for climbing and shorter pieces can be used for lashing gear.

7. Plant waste (fruit and vegetable scraps, yard clippings, etc.) should be added to your compost pile to create natural fertilizer.

8. Certain fruit and vegetables, such as pineapples, carrots, and sweet potatoes can be regrown from scraps.

Being able to use stuff we have on hand is the key to survival. Fighting with the army you have is always easier if you are always on the lookout to build and be resourceful.

To see the full list of items you should never through out because they have awesome potential, please visit How To Survive It.