Microwave or mailbox? US grandma’s quirky recycling idea takes internet by storm
A creative grandmother who repurposed her old microwave into a unique mailbox
A viral video from the US is doing the rounds on social media, showcasing a creative grandmother who repurposed her old microwave into a unique mailbox, promoting eco-friendly recycling.
The video, posted by user @imarisampson.realtor on TikTok, has amassed 3.9 million views as well as a tonne of comments since it was first shared on May 31.
A note overlaid on the video says: "POV [point of view]: You've arrived in Queens and see your Grandma's mailbox."
‘Upcycling Queen’
The video features a resourceful resident of Queens, New York, who has given her old microwave a second life by transforming it into an eco-friendly mailbox.
A voice in the viral clip asks "Grandma, what is this?" as the grandmother is shown opening the microwave, which is empty. Hysterical laughter is heard in the background as the grandmother walks away after shutting the microwave door.
In the viral video, she has strategically placed the microwave on the porch and provided clear instructions for the mail carrier. Notably, the top of the microwave is prominently marked "Mailbox," while a label affixed to the lower right corner of the door reads "Press to Open" in a direct and informative manner.
"When I say DECEASED. I know y'all can read them stickers on the MIRCOONDAS [the Spanish word for microwaves]. Yes the mail folks DO in fact follow directions," reads a caption shared with the post. "She let me know people walk by and come into the yard to take pictures."
This creative reuse approach has captured hearts on the internet.
One user called her "Upcycling queen,” while another commented, "This is actually genius because no bugs will get in, and she's recycling.”
"That's normal in regional Australia. Fridges, microwaves, gas bottles-anything you can stick something in is a mailbox," wrote a third user.
"As a teacher, I used an old microwave as my students' inbox for submitting work (before we went digital). I cut the cord so no one would try zapping staples or whatever. They got a kick out of it," commented another user.
(With inputs from agencies)