My BFF was doing the summer to winter clothing transition and ended up with a ton of extra hangers. Of course, she turned to her fav green source to determine where she could recycle her used hangers.

Let’s figure out where to recycle used hangers by material type:

For wire hangers, first try to return them where you got them. Dry cleaners (mostly) always accept used wire hangers.

Used wire hangers that have seen a little more wear & tear can go to scrap metal recycling.

Used plastic hangers can be donated to second hand stores, local shelters, hospitals, or nursing homes. Check out local schools to see if hangers can be used for art (or school) projects. Of course, you could list your plastic (or wire) hangers for free on Freecycle.

If you have used wooden hangers, you can make this sweeeeet fruit bowl!

No thank you! One place you can NOT donate or recycle used hangers is Goodwill.

And remember: Next time you go to a store, decline the hanger if they try giving one to you.

Photo: Adventures of LPL

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Julie Hancher is the co-founder and Executive Director of Green Philly, an independent media organization making sustainability accessible, affordable and actionable. Since launching Green Philly in 2008, she has grown it from a passion project into a leading voice for local climate storytelling, pairing impactful journalism with community events and experiences. Julie is a frequent speaker on climate, media innovation and the future of local journalism, and is the creator of SustainPHL and EcoFair. Outside of Green Philly, you can find her hiking, biking, traveling, or exploring Philadelphia. View all posts by Julie Hancher