x-post on what to use as bean bag fillers?

[NMDemDist2]

need to do something with these old windows in my new house. they let dust in like mad and when the wind starts gusting some even whistle

since we blew our budget on a new shower and deck, I am thinking I need to make some "beanbags" to seal off the gaps until we can replace windows

it's gonna be a small diameter bag to fit (1" or so) so I'm thinking lentils? rice? something that may get wet and not swell like crazy. ideally I want to be able to wash the bean bags a few times a year

suggestions?

[Stinky The Clown]

1. Perlite

You can get it at almost any garden supply place. If you have a choice, get the coarsest (largest pellet/granule size) you can find.

[NMDemDist2]

2. dude, I have ONE "garden supply store" and it leaves a LOT to be

desired

:rofl:

edit to add, I'm an internet gardener now for sure hehehe

[Bluerthanblue]

3. I'd forget the idea of washing them, or make a sleeve, and

go with plain old sand- You should be able to get it for free, and if you want to make sure it isn't going to be so fine that it creates it's own dust problem, then use a screen and only use the sand that doesn't fit through the screen-
It won't swell, attract bugs, or rot- If you don't want to sift it, you could probably line your tubes with plastic sheeting (drycleaner bags- recycled grocery bags, trash bag strips- newspaper sleeve bags etc).
Bear in mind the sun is likely to fade the material pretty quickly, so something like a simple muslin or other natural choice (that fits your color scheme) would be good to use- otherwise they are going to look pretty care-worn after a short time (from experience).

Good luck- hope these ideas help-

blu

[NMDemDist2]

4. that's a great idea. I can make the sand bags then the decorative covers

can be changed with the seasons or replaced as needed

I hoping to get new windows by next year