What are Clothes Hangers Made Of?
Before we can answer the question of whether clothes hangers can be recycled or not, we need to understand what they are made of. There are two main types of clothes hangers: plastic and metal. Plastic hangers are made from polystyrene or polypropylene, while metal hangers are typically made from steel or aluminum. It’s important to note that some hangers may be coated with paint or other materials, which can affect their recyclability.
Are Clothes Hangers Recyclable?
The short answer is yes, clothes hangers can be recycled. However, it’s not always an easy process. Because hangers are made from a variety of materials and may have different coatings, they may not be accepted by all recycling facilities. In addition, some curbside recycling programs specifically state that hangers are not accepted because they can get tangled in recycling machinery.
How Can You Recycle Clothes Hangers?
If your curbside recycling program accepts clothes hangers, you can simply place them in your recycling bin. However, it’s always a good idea to check with your local recycling center to confirm their policies. If your recycling program doesn’t accept hangers, there are still other options. Some dry cleaners and laundry services accept hangers for recycling. You can also contact your local recycling center to see if they accept hangers for drop-off or special collections.
What Can You Do With Non-Recyclable Hangers?
Even if you can’t recycle your clothes hangers, there are still ways to keep them out of landfills. If you have metal hangers, consider donating them to a thrift store or secondhand shop. Many of these stores rely on donated hangers to keep their inventory organized. You can also reuse hangers in creative ways. For example, plastic hangers can be used to make DIY home décor or storage solutions.
The Bottom Line
Clothes hangers can be recycled, but the process isn’t always straightforward. If your local recycling program doesn’t accept hangers, consider alternative disposal methods like drop-off or contacting a laundry service to see if they accept hangers. Additionally, consider reusing hangers or donating them to secondhand shops rather than throwing them away.
