15 Strange Things That Can Be Recycled
If you’re decluttering your home or garage right now to prepare for the new season upon us, don’t be so quick to toss everything out. You might be surprised to learn that many things you think are trash can actually be recycled. Recycling means taking old items and turning them into new things instead of sending them to the landfill, where they just sit and take up space, causing all sorts of problems for our environment.
Many people know that they can recycle paper, plastic bottles, and aluminum cans, but there are lots of other items you might not realize can be recycled. For example, did you know that old toothbrushes, wine corks, and even used cooking oil can be recycled? There are special programs and places that can help you recycle these items instead of throwing them in the garbage.
Recycling is important because it helps the Earth. When we recycle, we use fewer resources and create less waste. This means we can take better care of our planet for ourselves and generations to come. Keep reading to discover the many surprising items you didn’t know can be recycled.
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Connect to a live representative and get a quote in real time for junk removal in your area.1. Coat Hangers
So many of us have way too many hangers in our closet. Instead of tossing them, recycle them! Coat hangers come in various materials, including plastic, metal, and wood. Many recycling centers accept all these materials, but you may need to break them down into their components first. Check your local recycling center guidelines to ensure you’re disposing of them correctly. Some clothing stores like Kohl’s or other organizations even offer hanger take-back programs, so you can return them when you purchase new clothes.
2. Wine Corks
Finishing your day with a bottle of red wine after work? Hang onto the cork! Natural wine corks are biodegradable and can be recycled in various ways. Many of them are made from sustainable materials, making them an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic corks. There are several cork recycling initiatives, and some companies even repurpose cork into new products.
Look for local recycling programs or drop-off locations that accept wine corks. Consider sending your corks to organizations like Cork ReHarvest or ReCork, which specialize in cork recycling.
3. Lithium Batteries, Electronics, & Ink and Toner Cartridges
Lithium-ion batteries are everywhere these days, powering everything from our electronics and phones to our e-bikes and scooters. However, they pose a significant fire hazard if damaged and can leak harmful chemicals if not disposed of correctly. Instead of tossing your old batteries and electronic devices in the trash, look for local recycling spots or retailers with take-back programs, like Home Depot or Best Buy.
These programs ensure safe disposal and recycling of electronic waste, preventing it from ending up in landfills and harming the environment. The same thinking goes for old electronics, including phones, tablets, and laptops, which contain valuable materials that can be recycled. Rather than letting them accumulate dust, consider recycling them through specialized programs that ensure responsible disposal.
Many people don’t realize that empty ink and toner cartridges can also be recycled. These cartridges can be refurbished and refilled, saving resources and reducing waste. You can also return empty ink and toner cartridges to office supply stores like Staples which often have recycling bins. Target also offers bins for multiple recyclables, like plastic bags, as well as electronics and ink cartridges.
4. Carpet
Redecorating the house and ready to ditch your worn carpet? Don’t throw it out –– recycle it. Many companies offer carpet recycling programs that can turn your worn-out flooring into new products. Carpet can be recycled into insulation, new carpets, or even animal bedding. Check with local recycling centers or your carpet manufacturer for their recycling programs. By recycling your carpet, you’re not only reducing waste but also supporting sustainable practices in the flooring industry.
5. Toilets
Yes, your old toilet can be recycled! While it may seem like a surprising item to recycle, many local recycling centers and water authorities accept toilets for reuse or recycling. Toilets can be repurposed into new building materials or components. Before discarding your toilet, reach out to your local waste management facility or recycling center to inquire about their policies and procedures for recycling toilets.
6. Seasonal Decor
As we welcome fall, you’re likely making plans to swap out your seasonal decor. But don’t trash it –– reuse it! For example, you can repurpose the pumpkins from your fall decor into pumpkins for Halloween and tablescapes for Thanksgiving effortlessly. Don’t forget to utilize every part of the pumpkin! The flesh can be turned into delicious puree for pies, and the seeds make a tasty snack when roasted. Once your pumpkins have reached the end of their life, composting them is a fantastic way to return nutrients to the soil.
7. Running Shoes
Have you run the soles of your shoes off? Don’t toss them or banish them to the back of your closet. Recycle them! Companies like Nike and GotSneakers have programs that recycle old shoes into new materials that are incorporated into a slew of products. You can even pocket a little cash with GotSneakers after you recycle your shoes.
8. Bicycles
Every year, millions of bicycles are tossed into landfills across the United States. Instead of sending your old bike to the dump, consider donating it. You can give your old two-wheeler a second lease on life by donating your wheels to either a local bike shop, thrift shops, or Bikes for the World, which collects, refurbishes, and donates bikes to people in need.
9. Toothbrushes
Your old toothbrush might seem like germy trash, but did you know it too can be recycled? Companies like Oral-B have developed recycling programs for used toothbrushes, ensuring they are processed into new materials instead of ending up in the trash. This small action can contribute to reducing plastic waste and promote a more planet-earth-friendly lifestyle. Simply check the program details and send in your old toothbrushes for recycling. It's a small action on your part that can make a big impact.
10. Cooking oil
Used cooking oil can be recycled into biodiesel, a renewable fuel source. Instead of pouring it down the drain (which can harm your plumbing), consider recycling it. Some recycling centers or restaurants have programs for collecting used cooking oil.
When you’re done cooking, store the used cooking oil in a sealed container, then drop it off at one of the local recycling facilities or restaurants that accept used cooking oil.
11. Bras
Every year, millions of bras are discarded, many of which end up in landfills where they can take decades to decompose due to their synthetic materials. Before throwing out an old bra, check out textile recycling companies nationwide like the Bra Recyclers. They’ll take your worn-out bras and make sure they’re recycled properly.
Many organizations collect gently used bras to distribute them to women in shelters or in underserved communities, where access to proper undergarments may be limited. This not only helps individuals who may not have the means to purchase new bras but also promotes dignity and self-esteem among those who receive them. By recycling your bras, you’re not only reducing textile waste but also supporting women who may benefit from receiving a new-to-them undergarment.
12. Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs
Compact Fluorescent Light bulbs (CFL) and fluorescent light tubes should not be put into (or placed next to) the curbside recycling or trash carts. The components in these items (mercury in light tubes) need to be recycled separately and properly, and should not be mixed in with the contents of residential recyclable items or placed into the landfill. The good news is there are plenty of places locally to safely dispose of CFL bulbs, like Home Depot and Ikea, along with some electric and lighting stores. By recycling these light bulbs, you’re preventing toxic materials from entering the landfill and supporting safe disposal practices.
13. Crocs
There’s plenty of debate about Crocs, but love them or hate them, Crocs can be recycled. When your crocs have reached the end of their lifespan, you can send them back to the company through their partnership with Soles4Souls. This program recycles gently used Crocs and donates them to those in need. By participating in this program, you’re not only decluttering but also helping others benefit from your once-loved shoes.
14. Tires
Used tires are often seen as waste, but they are actually recyclable. Tires can be repurposed into various products, including rubber mulch, mats, and asphalt. Many recycling centers accept tires, making it easier for you to dispose of them responsibly. When replacing your old tires with new ones, the tire shop will frequently charge a fee to handle the recycling of your old tires.
Contact local tire retailers or auto shops, as many offer tire recycling programs. Some municipalities hold special collection events for tires.
15. Denim Clothing
Ready to part ways with that old denim jacket? Set it aside for recycling. Denim is one of the most recyclable fabrics, and many brands have started recycling old jeans. Denim can be recycled into insulation, new clothing, or even art projects.
Check with retailers like Levi’s or H&M, which often have take-back programs for not just old denim but any clothing item you no longer want. Look for local textile recycling facilities that accept denim.
Importance of Recycling
Recycling is more than just a way to declutter your home; it plays a crucial role in protecting our planet. Each year, millions of tons of waste end up in landfills, contributing to pollution and environmental degradation. By rethinking how we dispose of our belongings and consider their potential for recycling, we can significantly reduce this waste and help create a healthier planet for future generations.
Make Recycling Part of Your Daily Routine
Research the local recycling guidelines. Different municipalities have varying rules about what can and cannot be recycled. Take the time to research these guidelines so you can make informed decisions about your waste.
Create a recycling station at home. Designate a specific space for recyclable items to make sorting and storing them easier. This could be as simple as using separate bins for paper, plastics, metals, and glass. Having a dedicated recycling station encourages you and your family to think about recycling as part of your everyday habits. If your community offers a free recycling bin that can be placed out for pickup, take advantage of this service. Just remember to check that you’re placing the correct items in the bin each week to avoid cross-contamination.
Keep up to date with information about changes in recycling programs in your area. Many communities are constantly expanding their recycling options, introducing new programs, or modifying existing guidelines. By keeping up with these changes, you can ensure that you’re recycling as effectively as possible and taking full advantage of all resources available.
Remember, recycling is not just limited to the common items we think of, like paper and plastic bottles. There are numerous unexpected items that can be recycled or repurposed in creative ways. From electronics to old clothing, many things you might usually toss away can have a second life.
In addition to recycling, getting into the habit of reusing and donating your unwanted items is another simple yet effective way to protect our planet. Instead of throwing out items you no longer need, consider whether they can be repaired, repurposed, or given to someone else who might find them useful. It’s the most simple thing you can do to protect our earth.
If you’re looking to declutter, recycle, or need help with disposal, JiffyJunk is here for you. Our 24/7 customer service team is ready to assist — contact us to schedule an estimate today.
Tammy has an extensive background in journalism, media relations, social media strategy, marketing, and brand management. She resides in Michigan with her family which includes her two sons and their Goldendoodle, Max. In her free time, she loves to read and travel.
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