We may have a sustainable wardrobe, but we all also have that collection of hangers taking up space in our closets, and it’s easy to wonder what to do with them once they’re no longer needed. Can you recycle plastic hangers? Yes! And, luckily, recycling plastic hangers is easier than you might think. Not only is it a great way to reduce landfill waste, but it also helps to conserve resources for a more sustainable future. So, let’s dive in and explore the different ways you can recycle plastic hangers, from donating to thrift stores to using TerraCycle’s hanger recycling program.
Check out our posts on recycling bubble wrap and recycling plastic bottles.
What To Do With Plastic Hangers
While plastic hangers serve their purpose of keeping clothes organized and wrinkle-free, they can accumulate quickly and contribute to the plastic waste problem. Instead of throwing them away, consider these tips and ideas for reusing and recycling plastic hangers.
1 / Donate or Give Away
If you have excess hangers that you no longer need, consider donating them to a local charity, thrift store, or clothing donation center. They can be used by others who may not have hangers or are in need of them.
2 / Sell or Trade
If you have hangers that are still in good condition and of a desirable brand, consider selling or trading them online. There are various online marketplaces where you can sell or trade items such as hangers.
3 / Repurpose for Household Organization
Plastic hangers can be repurposed for various household organization tasks, such as:
- Hanging plants
- Holding belts, ties, or scarves
- Storing craft supplies
- Organizing cords or cables
- Creating a jewelry holder
- Hanging towels or linens
4 / Recycle
If the hangers are no longer usable or have broken, they can be recycled. Look for the hanger’s recycling number. If it’s number 6, then it’s made of polystyrene, and is very hard to recycle. Most plastic hangers, however, don’t have a recycling symbol. So you will have to check with the recycling center whether they will accept these hangers or not. Check first in any case before dropping them off, since not all recycling centers accept plastic hangers.
Does Walmart Recycle Hangers
Yes, Walmart offers a hanger recycling program at select locations across the United States. Customers can bring in their clean and dry plastic hangers to the designated recycling bin at participating Walmart stores. The hangers will then be collected by a recycling partner for processing and reuse.
While this program is a part of Walmart’s broader sustainability initiatives to reduce waste and promote circular economy practices, it’s important to note that not all Walmart stores participate in the hanger recycling program. Check with your local Walmart store to confirm if they offer hanger recycling services. Additionally, not all recycling centers accept plastic hangers, so, again, check with your local recycling center before dropping them off.
Recycle Plastic Hangers At Target
Target offers a hanger recycling program at select locations across the United States. You can bring in your clean and dry plastic hangers to the designated recycling bin at participating Target stores. The hangers will then be collected by a recycling partner for processing and reuse.
Please first check with your local Target store ahead of time whether they will accept your plastic hangers!
Where To Donate Plastic Hangers
If you have a surplus of plastic hangers, instead of throwing them away, consider donating them to organizations that can put them to good use. Here are some options for where to donate plastic hangers.
1 / Local Thrift Stores or Donation Centers
Many local thrift stores or donation centers accept donations of plastic hangers. These organizations often rely on donations to stock their stores and help those in need. By donating hangers, you can help these organizations save money and reduce waste.
2 / Clothing Banks and Charities
Clothing banks and charities are another option for donating plastic hangers. These organizations distribute clothing to those in need and often require hangers to organize and display the clothing. Consider donating hangers to charitable organizations such as your local Goodwill, Salvation Army, or Dress for Success.
3 / Community Theater and Costume Departments
Community theaters and costume departments are always in need of hangers to organize costumes for productions. If you have excess hangers and a local community theater or school with a theater program, consider donating them to the costume department.
4 / College Dormitories
College dormitories are another option for donating plastic hangers. College students often need hangers for their dorm closets, and donations can help reduce the cost for students who are already struggling to make ends meet.
5 / Online Marketplaces
Online marketplaces such as Freecycle and Craigslist allow individuals to post items they wish to give away for free. Consider posting your excess hangers on these sites to connect with individuals who may need them.
What To Do With Old Hangers
When it comes to old hangers, there are various options for disposal and reuse, depending on the material they are made of.
Plastic Hangers
- Check with local recycling centers: Not all recycling centers accept plastic hangers, but some do. Check with your local center to see if they have any special requirements for plastic hanger recycling.
- Donate to thrift stores or clothing banks: Thrift stores and clothing banks often accept plastic hangers for organizing clothing donations.
- Reuse or repurpose: Consider reusing plastic hangers for organizing items such as scarves or belts, or repurpose them for craft projects such as wreath-making or jewelry displays.
Wooden Hangers
- Donate to thrift stores or clothing banks: Wooden hangers are often in demand at thrift stores and clothing banks, as they are sturdier than plastic hangers and can better support heavier clothing items.
- Reuse or repurpose: Wooden hangers can be reused for their original purpose, or repurposed for home decor projects such as DIY coat racks or wall art.
Metal Hangers
- Donate to thrift stores or clothing banks: Metal hangers are durable and long-lasting, making them a valuable donation for thrift stores and clothing banks.
- Take them to a scrap metal recycling facility: Metal hangers are made of steel or aluminum, both of which can be recycled at scrap metal recycling facilities.
- Repurpose or upcycle: Metal hangers can be transformed into various DIY projects, such as plant holders, photo displays, or even chandeliers.
Can You Recycle Plastic Hangers With Metal Hooks
It depends on the recycling program in your area, because the two materials need to be separated before recycling and only some recyclers do that. Some programs may accept plastic hangers with metal hooks, while others may not. It’s best to check with your local recycling center or waste management department for specific guidelines on what can and cannot be recycled in your area.
Terracycle Plastic Hangers
TerraCycle accepts plastic hangers of all types, including those with metal hooks, and turns them into new plastic products. To participate, you can sign up for their program and send your hangers to their designated recycling facility.
Stop Buying Plastic Hangers!
The best way to reduce the accumulation of plastic hangers is to avoid buying them in the first place. Consider purchasing wooden hangers or bamboo hangers, which are more durable and environmentally friendly. buy cheaper plastic hangers secondhand at thrift stores, but do make sure you recycle them at the end of their life.
This Post Was About Recycling Plastic Hangers
And there you have it – a range of options for recycling plastic hangers and giving them a new lease on life. Whether you choose to donate them to a thrift store, repurpose them for a DIY project, or use a hanger recycling program, you can feel good about reducing waste and promoting sustainability.
The next time you’re decluttering your closet, don’t forget about those hangers! With a little effort, you can ensure they don’t end up in a landfill, but instead are repurposed or recycled into something new.
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