How to Recycle Plastic Lawn Furniture and Playground Toys

Recycling plastic lawn furniture and playground toys can be a challenge, but with a little effort, you can ensure these items are disposed of responsibly. While many recycling programs accept various plastics, items like lawn chairs, tables, and kids play sets often present specific challenges due to their size, shape, and the type of plastic used in the product.

Why Are Plastic Furniture and Toys Difficult to Recycle?

Plastic lawn furniture and playground toys are typically made from hard, durable plastics such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE, known as #2 plastic) or polypropylene (PP, or #5 plastic). While these materials are recyclable, their large size and irregular shapes can pose problems for standard recycling machinery. Local curbside recycling programs and drop-off centers might not accept these bulky items because they can do not fit into sorting machines or require more handling and processing than smaller plastic items like bottles and containers. This limitation often leaves consumers wondering what to do with their old outdoor furniture and toys.

Additionally, these items may contain metal parts, screws, or other components that need to be removed before recycling.

Local Recycling Centers and Special Collection Events

If the manufacturer of your plastic furniture or toys does not offer a takeback program — and at this time we find no active takeback or recycling efforts — check with your local recycling center to see if they will accept large plastic items. Visit the Earth911 Recycling Locator and add your ZIP Code to search for locations that accept #2 or #5 rigid plastics,. and call ahead to ask about furniture and toys.

Some facilities may have specific days or special collection events for bulky plastic items. It’s also worth contacting your local waste management service to see if they provide pickup for large recyclables or can direct you to a nearby facility that does.

Repurposing and Donation

Before recycling, consider if your old furniture or toys can be repurposed or donated. Many items can find a second life with new owners. Websites like Freecycle, BuyNothing, Craigslist, and Facebook Marketplace are great platforms for giving away items. Local schools, daycares, or community centers might also be interested in accepting gently used playground equipment or furniture.

While recycling plastic lawn furniture and playground toys can be more complex than tossing them in your curbside bin, options are available to ensure they don’t end up in the landfill. By utilizing manufacturer takeback programs, special recycling events, or finding new homes for these items, you can make a positive impact on the environment. But what is needed now are focused efforts to collect large plastic items for recycling across the country. Talk with your local representatives or solid waste management office about their recycling policies and how you can participate in collecting and processing plastic — there might be a local business opportunity based on these currently wasted materials that sell for hundreds of dollars per ton collected.

For more information on recycling and sustainable living, visit Earth911.com. Let’s work together to reduce waste and promote a circular economy. By following these tips, you can responsibly dispose of your old plastic lawn furniture and playground toys, contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable environment.