Let's face it. Blankets don't last forever, and while you can extend their life with good care and easy blanket repairs, you'll eventually need a replacement. So what do you do with the old one? A common question asked is, "Are blankets recyclable?"
Today, we'll cover how to dispose of old bedding, great alternatives to recycling, and where to donate old bed sheets.
Are Blankets Recyclable?
Most blankets are recyclable because most are composed of textile material. However, some types of blankets, like those coated with plastic, cannot be. Then too, not all recycling centers accept blankets, so your old blanket could wind up in a landfill if you toss it into your recycling bin. The best way to determine if a blanket can be recycled is by contacting your local recycling center.
How to Find Your Local Recycling Center
Many of us don't know who our local recycling company is. We put our recycling in our bin, set it on the curb, and someone picks it up. But when you're trying to recycle a unique item, like blankets, it's best to figure out who your local company is and whether or not they accept the item in question.
You can learn about your local recycling center by contacting your county office. Alternatively, you can use recycling databases like Earth911 to search for recycling centers by zip code.
How to Dispose of Old Bedding
Are blankets recyclable in your area? How can you dispose of them if they're not?
Before you throw an old blanket into the trash, you have several alternatives, many of which may be better than recycling. For example, you could donate your old blankets to someone in need. You can usually do this by:
Scheduling a free pick up
Heading to a donation drop-off location
Donating to your local thrift store
5 Recycling Alternatives for Old Blankets
In with the new, out with the old. Here are five great recycling alternatives for old blankets.
1. Sell Your Old Blankets
Are your old blankets in good condition? Are they unique items or unwanted gifts? You may be able to sell them locally or online. You can try online options like eBay, Craigslist, or neighborhood-specific markets, like Facebook Marketplace. Another option is to take your old blankets to a consignment store or pawn shop.
2. Where to Donate Old Bed Sheets
Whether or not your bed sheets or blankets are recyclable, consider donating them before you toss them in the bin. We strongly recommend you donate old blankets or bed sheets that are still in good repair, and there are many ways you can do that.
Local Non-Profit Organizations
Goodwill and Salvation Army accept gently used blankets and bed sheets, and donating to either of these non-profit organizations is easy. You can find your local Goodwill store or drop-off location with the store locator. You may also be able to donate old blankets to local families in need by providing your donation to a local church.
Hearts for the Homeless
Hearts for the Homeless is a non-profit organization that provides help to homeless, low-income households, and those in need. You can help by donating old and unwanted blankets, clothes, and other items. Find your local donation bin here.
Local Animal Shelters
Humans aren't the only ones in need of blankets, either. Local animal shelters keep their doors open through donations, crowdfunding, fundraising events, and grants. Some most commonly needed items are pet food, toys, towels, and blankets.
3. Repurpose Your Old Blankets
Repurposing old blankets gives them new life and can help you save money on purchases that serve the same functions. Here are some great ways you could repurpose old blankets:
Use them as a picnic blanket
Make your dog's kennel more comfortable
Let your kids use them for an outdoor fort
Keep them for camping
Cut them up and use them as cleaning cloths or rags
Cut them to size and use them as furniture covers
Use them to protect your floors during an art project with the kids
Tear the blankets into strips and let birds use them for their nests
Make an emergency car kit
4. Get Crafty
Whether or not your blankets are recyclable, why not turn them into your next big craft? Here are some of our favorite crafty ideas, but don't be afraid to create your own!
Sew them and stuff them into a new animal bed
Create new curtains
Save money on cookware pads by making your own
Break out the sewing kit and create a custom tote bag
Cut and sew them into pillowcases, or stuff them to make new pillows
Make a baby blanket quilt
Craft scarves or mittens
Create a car seat blanket
Make a set of warm PJs for the kids
5. Regift Them
Did you buy new blankets but never use them? Or did they end up clashing too much with your room? Did you get the blankets as a gift but don't like their look or feel? If the blankets are still new but you can't return them, why not gift them to a friend or family member? Everyone uses blankets, and what may not work for you could work for a loved one.