Chloe Zhang
With the ever-growing amount of plastic waste ending up in landfills, it is important to consider what to do with old plastic toys. While the easiest option may be to throw them away, this contributes to the global waste crisis and can have negative environmental consequences. Instead, there are several alternative options to deal with old plastic toys, including recycling, selling, donating, or repurposing them.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Recycle | Check the bottom of the toys for a recycling symbol. If found, toss them in with your recycling or find a recycling center near you that will take them. |
| Sell | Check for a local consignment shop that accepts toys. Facebook groups, Craigslist, and eBay are other options to sell old toys. |
| Donate | If the toys are in good condition, consider donating them to local charities, schools, or daycare centers. |
| Reuse | Repurpose toys as decorations, storage containers, or use them in arts and crafts projects. |
| TerraCycle | TerraCycle is a company that recycles toys and other items that are not accepted by local recycling services. |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Check for recycling symbols and contact local centres
If you have old plastic toys that you no longer want, the first step is to check for a recycling symbol on the toy. These symbols are usually found at the bottom of the toy and are often moulded onto the plastic. The number inside the "chasing arrows" triangle identifies the type of plastic and helps determine the proper disposal or recycling method. There are seven plastic recycling symbols in total, each representing a different type of plastic with distinct recycling instructions. For example, Symbol 1 with the acronym PETE or PET represents polyethylene terephthalate, a clear, strong, and lightweight plastic commonly used for food and drink packaging. LDPE, or low-density polyethylene, is another type of plastic identified by Symbol 2. It is a flexible plastic that has historically not been accepted by most American recycling programs, but more and more communities are starting to accept it.
Once you have identified the recycling symbol on the plastic toy, you can check with your local recycling centre or refer to online resources, such as Earth 911, to find out if they accept that particular type of plastic for recycling. It is important to research and understand your town's legislation and rules for recycling to ensure that you are following the correct procedures. Some types of plastic might not be accepted by your local recycling centre, but there may be businesses or drop-off centres nearby that collect specific types of plastic.
Before bringing your plastic toys to a recycling centre, it is essential to clean them thoroughly and remove any batteries or electronic components. This helps ensure that the toys can be safely recycled without causing harm to the environment. Additionally, some recycling centres may have specific requirements for accepting recycled materials, such as ensuring that plastic items are clean, rinsed, and dry before being placed in the recycling bin.
By properly disposing of plastic toys and understanding the recycling symbols, you can play a vital role in reducing landfill waste and supporting a more sustainable approach to plastic usage.
Installing Drywall Anchors: Plastic Anchors, Easy Steps
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Sell them online or at a consignment shop
If you're looking to sell your old plastic toys, there are several options to consider, including online platforms and consignment shops. Here are some detailed suggestions:
Online Platforms
Selling your old plastic toys online is a convenient way to reach a wide range of potential buyers. Popular platforms such as eBay, Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and specialty forums like SellYourToysNow.com provide great exposure to collectors and enthusiasts. These platforms offer various benefits, such as competitive pricing, direct negotiation with buyers, and the ability to showcase your toys through detailed descriptions and photographs.
Consignment Shops
Local consignment shops, including thrift stores and those dedicated to kids' items, provide a physical space to display and sell your old plastic toys. These shops often have a loyal customer base, increasing the chances of your toys being noticed and purchased. Consignment stores typically accept toys on consignment, meaning they will display and sell the items for you, and you'll receive a percentage of the sale price. It's important to note that consignment stores may take a commission on sales and might be selective about the toys they accept, so it's worth researching their criteria before approaching them.
Preparation and Presentation
Whether you choose to sell online or in-store, proper preparation and presentation of your old plastic toys can significantly impact their perceived value. Ensure that the toys are clean and, if necessary, use Lysol wipes or plant-based cleaning products. Rinse the toys with water afterward to remove any residual cleaning agents. If the toys have minor flaws or damage, consider repairing, regluing, or replacing any broken parts. You can also touch up paint wear with hobby paint that matches the original color, being careful not to over-paint. Transparent plastic bags or boxes can be used for packaging, allowing buyers to inspect the toys without direct handling.
Pricing and Research
To maximize your profitability, research the value of your old plastic toys by studying sold listing prices on similar items from the past few months. This will help you set fair and competitive prices. Additionally, consider using aggregate pricing data tools, like 130Point.com, to get an accurate range for used sale prices.
Selling old plastic toys online or at a consignment shop can be a rewarding and profitable endeavor. By following these suggestions, you can effectively clear out unwanted items, make some extra money, and give your old toys a new lease of life with someone else.
Fix Leaky Gutters: Seal Plastic Guttering
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Donate to charities, schools or daycares
If your plastic toys are in good condition, consider donating them to local charities, schools, or daycare centres. Many children will still be able to enjoy playing with them. There are several organisations that facilitate toy donations, such as Second Chance Toys, which has donation seasons during April (Earth Month) and December (Holiday Season). You can also donate toys to TerraCycle, which recyles toys and other plastic items that are typically not accepted by local recycling services.
If you're looking to donate toys to a specific type of organisation, such as a school or daycare centre, you could try contacting local institutions directly to ask if they would be interested in receiving toy donations. You could also try posting on local community groups on Facebook or other social media platforms to see if anyone is able to suggest charities or organisations that are currently accepting donations.
If you're looking to donate a large number of toys, you could consider partnering with a local charity or organisation to host a toy drive. This could be a great way to give back to your community while also ensuring that your old plastic toys find new homes. You could also try contacting local community centres or churches, which may be able to connect you with families in need who would appreciate toy donations.
When donating plastic toys, it's important to ensure that they are clean and in good condition. It's also worth checking that any donated toys comply with relevant safety standards and regulations, especially if they are being donated to a school or daycare centre. By donating your old plastic toys, you can help bring joy to children in need while also reducing waste and helping to protect the environment.
Gyres: Plastic Deposition in Our Oceans
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Reuse as decorations or storage containers
Old plastic toys can be reused as decorations or storage containers. This is a great way to give new life to old toys and get creative. Here are some ideas to get you started:
Decorations
Plastic toys can be cleaned and painted in fun colours to create unique decorations for your home or garden. You can hang small toys from the ceiling or place them on shelves or tables as conversation pieces. For example, a collection of plastic dinosaurs could be spray-painted gold and displayed in a group on a coffee table or used as place settings at a dinner party. Larger toys, such as plastic playhouses or ride-on cars, can be decorated and used as garden features.
Storage Containers
Old plastic toys with hollow spaces can be turned into storage containers for small items such as stationery, hair accessories, or craft supplies. For instance, a plastic dollhouse could be repainted and used to store art supplies, with each room containing a different type of item. Plastic baskets or crates could be decorated and used to store toys, books, or games. You could also use plastic toys to create unique storage solutions, such as a plastic tree with branches that hold jewellery or a plastic animal with a hollow back that can be filled with small items.
When reusing plastic toys, it is important to consider the types of plastic they are made from and whether they are safe for their new purpose. Some plastics may contain harmful chemicals that could leach out over time, so it is worth researching the types of plastic suitable for your intended use. Additionally, remember to clean and disinfect the toys thoroughly before reusing them, especially if they will be used by children or come into contact with food.
Ice Cream Plastic Seals: Are They Universal?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
![PLAY Eco-Friendly 3 in 1 Emergency Vehicle Toy Set, [USDA Certified] No BPA/Phthalate/PVC, Recycled Bioplastic Rescue Vehicle with Fire Truck, Police Car & Ambulance Toy](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71HDrJph2zL._AC_UL320_.jpg)
![PLAY Eco-Friendly Garbage Truck, [USDA Certified] No BPA/Phthalate/PVC, Recycled Bioplastic Trash Truck Toys for Boys 1-4, Fine Motor Skills Car Toys Vehicle Gift for Kids](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71e6CnTggqL._AC_UL320_.jpg)
Use in arts and crafts projects
Old plastic toys can be used in arts and crafts projects in a variety of ways. Here are some ideas to get you started:
Create a Mobile
Cut out pieces from the plastic toys and string them together to make a colourful mobile. You can use fishing line or clear nylon thread to create a floating effect. Hang your mobile near a window or in a corner of the room to add a touch of whimsy to your space.
Make a Collage
Break down the toys into smaller pieces and use them to create a collage on a canvas or a sturdy piece of cardboard. You can glue the pieces together to form a unique design or arrange them to spell out a word or phrase. Add paint or glitter to enhance your creation.
Build a Sculpture
Gather a collection of plastic toys and use them as the base for a sculpture. Glue, screw, or wire the toys together to form a unique structure. You can add other materials such as wood, metal, or found objects to create a mixed-media sculpture.
Jewellery Making
Small plastic toys can be transformed into quirky jewellery pieces. Drill holes through the toys and string them onto cord or chain to create necklaces, bracelets, or earrings. You can also use jump rings to attach the toys to jewellery findings for a more polished look.
Customise Picture Frames
Attach plastic toys to plain picture frames to give them a fun and playful twist. Use strong adhesive or a hot glue gun to secure the toys in place. Display your favourite photos or artwork in these one-of-a-kind frames.
Remember to use appropriate safety gear, such as gloves and eye protection, when handling sharp tools or cutting plastic. With a bit of creativity, you can give new life to old plastic toys and create something truly special.
Evian Water: Plastic-Free or Plastic-Full?
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Do not throw them away! Plastic toys are not biodegradable and will fill up landfills. Instead, consider recycling them. Check the bottom of your toys for a recycling symbol, and if they have one, clean them thoroughly and remove any batteries before tossing them in with your recycling or finding a recycling centre near you that will take them.
TerraCycle is a good option for recycling plastic toys. They have been working for two decades as a mission-driven company to combat the global waste crisis. They recycle items that are not typically accepted by traditional recyclers, like toys. You can also join one of their brand-sponsored recycling programs and earn points that can be redeemed for a cash donation to the school, nonprofit, or charity of your choice.
You can sell them on eBay, Craigslist, or Facebook groups, or at local consignment shops. You can also donate them to local charities, schools, or daycare centres if they are in good condition.
Yes, you can get creative and repurpose plastic toys as decorations, storage containers, or even use them in arts and crafts projects.
