Purging Your Plastic? Repurpose It Instead

The best way to reduce microplastics starts at the source, which means saying no to new plastic whenever possible. But what do we do with all the plastic that’s already there in our kitchen, bathroom, and other living spaces? Trashing that just moves the problem downstream.

‍

So if you’re ready to let go of plastic for good, great — but let it go with purpose. Sometimes, giving plastic a new life is the most sustainable choice of all.

‍

{{cta-join2}}

‍

Give It Away

‍

If your plastic item is in good condition and it’s clean, someone else might still need it.

‍

• Buy Nothing groups: Post your clean, usable plasticware — someone might be hunting for just that.
• Mutual aid networks and shelters: Many organizations accept plastic containers and utensils, especially when distributing meals or storing supplies.

‍

It’s not a long-term solution to plastic pollution, but sharing within communities can reduce the need for new plastic to be bought and produced. It can also keep the existing plastic out of landfills and oceans for a longer period.

‍

Get Creative

‍

Plastic doesn’t biodegrade easily, but that also means it’s sturdy, waterproof, and versatile. You can use that to your advantage. Here’s how you can upcycle some of the commonly used plastic items at home:

‍

Plastic Cooking Utensils

‍

• Use as paint stirrers or gardening tools for kids.
• Glue them into sculptures or wall hangings for a quirky craft project.
• Chop off the handle and use it as a plant marker in pots.

‍

Plastic Dishes & Trays

‍

• Turn plates or bowls into water trays under plant pots.
• Use as paint palettes, craft organizers, or even pet food dishes.
• Snap or cut them into shapes for mosaics or jewelry projects.

‍

Plastic Water Bottles

‍

• Freeze them and use them as reusable ice packs in coolers.
• Poke holes in the cap, turn them upside down, and stick them into the soil as slow-drip irrigation (preferably for non-edible plants).
• Fill with small objects for a DIY maraca or shaker toy.
• Use them to make a bottle brick.

‍

Plastic Cutting Boards

‍

• Use as placemats, mudroom shoe trays, or even lap desks for kids' snacks or crafts.
• Cut into custom drawer liners or cabinet protectors.
• Carve into shapes to use as stencils for painting or sewing.

‍

What About Plastic in Clothing?

‍

Synthetics like polyester, nylon, and acrylic shed microfibers every time you wash them. But tossing them just sends those fibers to the landfill. Instead, you can do the following:

‍

• Keep using them as long as possible.
• Wash with a microfiber-catching bag or install a filter on your washing machine.
• When they’re no longer wearable, repurpose them into cleaning rags or to fill pet beds or pillows.
• Some brands now offer take-back programs for their clothes. Check before you discard.

‍

Can It Be Recycled?

‍

Less than 9% of plastic that’s been made has been recycled, which means our recycling systems can’t keep up with our production. But if you can’t give away your plastic or reuse it, recycling can be a last resort. 

‍

Many household plastic items like cooking utensils, trays, and storage containers are made from a single type of plastic, which makes them recyclable if your local program accepts them. Look for a resin identification code on the back or bottom (those triangle numbers):

‍

• #1 (PET) and #2 (HDPE) plastics have the highest recycling rates. Think water bottles, some food containers, and jugs.
• #4 (LDPE) is commonly used for plastic films, especially plastic bags. While not usually accepted in curbside recycling, many grocery stores and retail locations have designated drop-off bins for these materials.
• #5 (PP) is used in many utensils and food containers — it’s less commonly accepted curbside, but can sometimes be dropped off at specialty centers.
• Avoid combining materials — if your spatula has a plastic handle and silicone top, it’s unlikely to be recycled unless you separate its parts.

‍

Look up your city’s recycling facility to find out which plastics they accept. Some even run dedicated drives for hard-to-recycle plastics. You can also check out TerraCycle, which accepts most of the hard-to-recycle plastic.