Proper Ways to Handle Old Vinyl Blinds After a Window Upgrade
Vinyl blinds typically cannot be recycled, so consider donating them to charity instead. Before dropping off any window treatments for recycling or donation, call ahead to confirm the facility will accept them.
By Hayden Adams
How to Recycle Vinyl Blinds
Now that you've updated your windows, you might be wondering what to do with the old vinyl blinds. They can be cumbersome to handle, and it's important to dispose of them responsibly rather than just tossing them in the trash.
Disposal Options for Vinyl Blinds
The method for getting rid of vinyl blinds isn't universal—it varies depending on your location and local recycling rules. As of now, most towns and counties do not accept vinyl blinds for recycling. For instance, New York City lists blinds among items that are not accepted, alongside foam plastics, printer ink cartridges, and hardcover books. Similarly, Montgomery County in Maryland has no recycling options for vinyl blinds.
Why is it so hard to find places that will take old vinyl blinds? The issue lies in their material: vinyl blinds are made from polyvinyl chloride, a type of plastic that requires special handling. Although they can be recycled, facilities need to process them separately to avoid contaminating other recyclables. The recommended approach is to get in touch with your local recycling center. Searching online for "recycling centers near me" can help you find ones to call. Don't just load the blinds into your car and show up—make a phone call first to check.
Donating Vinyl Blinds to Charitable Organizations
If your vinyl blinds are still in good shape and clean, you might think about giving them to a charity such as the Salvation Army. However, it's crucial to call ahead. Many donation centers won't accept them, though some might take other types of blinds, such as those made of aluminum or wood. For example, Blinds to Go, in collaboration with World Vision, accepts certain blinds.
World Vision is a global humanitarian group that assists children, families, and communities worldwide in fighting poverty and injustice. You can drop off blinds at participating Blinds to Go locations, and they are then sent to World Vision distribution hubs in areas like New Orleans, Dallas, Appalachia, and Los Angeles.
Recycling Alternatives for Other Window Coverings
Wood blinds can only be recycled if they haven't been painted or treated. You can bring extra lumber to recycling centers, but that's the extent of it. Alternatively, consider repurposing them for DIY projects at home; if not, donation is your next option. Aluminum blinds are generally made from recyclable aluminum, so they can often be taken to recycling centers or scrap metal yards. Be sure to clean them and call ahead before going, as you might need to disassemble them first.
Fabric window treatments like curtains are simpler to donate and recycle. Charities frequently need them, provided they are in good condition, clean, and free from mold or mildew. For recycling centers, you'll need to remove the fabric from cords and hardware. If you're handy, you could also recycle them yourself by turning them into pillow covers, doll clothes, or other items.
