The variety when it comes to blinds is endless. They come in all different shapes, sizes, styles and materials. Figuring out whether you can recycle you blinds will depend on these factors. Although most blinds are made for materials that are easily recyclable.
What can I do with old window blinds?
Blinds can be recycled in many different ways. You can sustainably dispose, donate or repurpose them.
Giving them a new home is always the preferable option. You can donate old blinds to charity as long as they are in good working condition. Broken or stained blinds will not be of any use to a charity shop as they will be longing to sell them on.
If you wanted to make a little money you could sell them online. Blinds can be tricky, as windows vary in size; so not all binds will fit everyone's windows. Also watch out for delivery cost as they will be expensive. Opt for collection only when advertising your blinds to make it less costly.
What about if your blinds are no longer fit for purpose. If they no longer work as blinds maybe they can be turned into something else. Blinds can easily be repurposed or upcycled.
Lastly you can dispose of your old blinds. Make sure to do so responsibly, as most blinds are 100% recyclable. They should be sustainably disposed of, not just thrown in with general rubbish.
Upcycling and Repurposing blinds
Blinds are ideal candidates for repurposing and upcycling. The wide variety of materials they come in means they can be used for a whole host of things. Wooden or plastic slates can be used to make decorative pieces, photo frames or used to upcycle old furniture. Material blinds could be turned into cushion covers. Other components from your blinds can also be repurposed such as the metal pole, cords or motor if you have electric blinds.
If you're not up for a DIY project, there's always someone out there who is. Why not offer them up to a crafty friend or post them online.
Are blinds recyclable?
Generally yes, all blinds are recyclable. But it will depend on the material of your blinds, as to where you would recycle them. Common materials used for blinds are wood, metal, fabric and plastic. All of which can be recycled. Your blinds may also include a mechanism used to open and close them. This in most circumstances will also be able to be recycled.
Where to recycle blinds
If you are looking to dispose of your old blinds via recycling; you will need to fully dismantle them first. The different materials will need to be recycled separately. Most of these materials will be able to taken to your local recycling centre. Any metals, plastics or wood should be accepted.
Fabrics can be put in the scrap materials section of you recycling centre. But do check it has this first. You could also take fabric to a thrift store or clothes and textiles bank.
Conclusion
When disposing of old window blinds also ways find a way to give them a new lease of life first. Someone could give them a new home or they could be turned into someone new. But if you do decide to dispose of them, just be sure to do so by recycling them correctly at your local recycling centre.
