How To Recycle Wire Hangers At Home – Best Practice

As the world becomes more aware of the importance of recycling, it is important to know how to properly recycle wire hangers. Once they become bent, twisted, or no longer needed, it’s crucial to properly recycle them. Despite being small in size, wire hangers can cause harm to the environment with improper disposal. When you dispose of wire hangers improperly, they can result in them ending up in landfills where they can take hundreds of years to decompose.

Wire hangers are a common item in many households, and they can be tricky to recycle because of their shape and size. Fortunately, there are a few simple steps that can help ensure these hangers are recycled properly and do not end up in a landfill. In this article, we will discuss how to recycle wire hangers properly, as well as the benefits of doing so.

We will also look at some of the alternatives to wire hangers that are more eco-friendly. Let’s get started!

Types of Wire Hangers

Wire hangers are essential pieces of equipment used in the clothing industry, both in the home and in commercial applications. They are designed to hold garments in place, making them easier to view, store, and transport. There are several types of wire hangers available to suit different needs, from specialty hangers for delicate clothing to heavy-duty hangers for coats and other heavier garments.

how to recycle wire hangers
Types of Wire Hangers

Let us discuss the different types of wire hangers, as well as their impact on the environment.

1. Steel Wire Hangers

Steel wire hangers are made of metal, which is a non-renewable resource. As such, the process of mining, refining, and manufacturing steel uses a significant amount of energy and resources, leading to environmental pollution of hangers and the release of harmful toxins into the environment. Steel wire hangers are also not biodegradable, meaning that when they are thrown away, they will remain in landfills for an indefinite amount of time.

In addition to the environmental impacts of steel wire hangers, they are also not very durable and can easily bend or break. As a result, they often need to be replaced, leading to more metal being used and more resources being consumed.

2. Plastic Coated Wire Hangers

Plastic coated wire hangers are made from a combination of plastic and metal. Plastic is an incredibly durable material, but when it is not recycled properly, it can be incredibly damaging to the environment. The plastic coating on these hangers can break down over time, releasing chemicals into the environment, which can have a negative impact on both wildlife and human health. Additionally, because plastic is not biodegradable, it can remain in the environment for a long time, further damaging the environment.

The metal in these hangers is also a concern. While it is usually made from recycled materials, the production process can release toxins into the air and water. These toxins can be harmful to humans and wildlife, and can accumulate in the environment over time.

Wire Hanger Environmental Problems

Wire hangers are a common item found in most households, but the improper disposal of these hangers can result in serious environmental problems. Despite being small in size, wire hangers are made of metal, which means they can take hundreds of years to decompose in landfills. Plastic coated in wires are also a source of environmental pollution of hangers and can pose a threat to wildlife. They release chemicals like benzene and Bisphenol-A (BPA) into groundwater when the plastic degrades. Moreover, their long decomposition period contributes to the growing problem of waste in our environment.

Wire Hanger Environmental Problems
Wire Hanger Environmental Problems

According to Common Objective, 85% of hangers end up in landfills, which is a sad fact. Over 15.5 million plastic, wood, and wire hangers are discarded daily in the US, totaling 8 billion annually. Meanwhile,100 million plastic hangers are thrown away in the UK annually.

Another environmental wire hanger problem is that they can damage the machinery at recycling facilities. When wire hangers are mixed with other recyclables, they can get tangled in the equipment, causing it to break down or become clogged. This not only creates additional waste but also slows down the recycling process, making it less efficient and environmentally friendly.

Importance of Recycling Wire Hangers

Recycling wire hangers is a simple yet effective way to reduce waste, conserve natural resources, and protect the environment. Despite being small in size, wire hangers are made of metal, which means they can take hundreds of years to decompose in landfills. This long decomposition period contributes to the growing problem of waste in our environment.

Importance of Recycling Wire Hangers
Importance of Recycling Wire Hangers

One of the biggest benefits of recycling wire hangers is that it reduces the demand for new hangers to be manufactured. This, in turn, conserves natural resources, such as iron and steel, which are used to make wire hangers. In addition, recycling wire hangers conserves energy, as the recycling process uses significantly less energy than the manufacturing process.

Another advantage of recycling wire hangers is that it helps to prevent land pollution. Hangers also cause problems with land pollution. Recycling wire hangers also reduces the amount of waste that goes to landfills, which can help to conserve space and minimize the environmental impact of waste disposal.

Methods of Recycling Wire Hangers

There are several methods of recycling wire hangers, each with its own benefits and challenges. In this article, we will explore the most common methods of recycling wire hangers and the steps involved in each process.

1. Donating To Charities and Thrift Stores

If you still have good quality hangers, the best option is to donate your wire hangers to organizations such as Goodwill or the Salvation Army. They will accept any type of hanger and usually have a specific area for them. Or, you may also give them to thrift stores to display their products.

how to recycle wire hangers
Recycling At Local Facilities

2. Reusing for Household Purposes

If you prefer to recycle clothes hangers at home, there are several DIY projects that allow you to do so. For example, you can use wire hangers to create garden trellises, wreaths, or even jewelry.

3. Recycling At Local Facilities

One of the most convenient methods of recycling wire hangers is to drop them off at a local recycling facility. Most cities and towns have a local recycling facility that accepts a variety of recyclable materials, including wire hangers. For example, DNYC in New York and Jersey Shore Recycling in New Jersey accept recycling wire hangers.

To participate in this type of recycling program, simply collect your wire hangers and take them to the recycling center. They will be sorted and processed hanger for reuse.

4. Selling Scrap Metal

In addition to helping the environment, selling scrap metal from wire hangers is also a profitable way to make extra money. Scrap metal can be sold to a scrap metal recycling center for cash or trade. Prices for metals vary depending on the type of hanger and condition. Selling scrap metal can be a great way to make some extra cash.

How Do You Reuse Wire Hangers At Home?

Wire hangers are a versatile household item that can be used for a variety of purposes. While they are typically associated with hanging clothes in your closet, they can also be repurposed in a number of creative ways.

how to recycle wire hangers
How Do You Reuse Wire Hangers At Home

Here are some creative and practical ideas for reusing wire hangers at home:

  • For Home Gardening. Wire hangers can be used to create garden trellises for climbing plants. Simply bend the hanger into a trellis shape and stake it into the ground. Your plants can then grow up and around the trellis, adding height and interest to your garden.
  • For Crafts. Wire hangers can be used to create wreaths, bird feeders, and other crafts. Simply bend the hanger into the desired shape and wrap it with ribbon, twine, or other materials. The possibilities are endless and limited only by your imagination.
  • Organizing. Wire hangers can be used to organize a variety of items in your home, such as necklaces, scarves, or belts. Simply bend the hanger into a hook shape and hang the items on it. This is a great way to keep your jewelry and accessories organized and easily accessible.
  • Cleaning. Wire hangers can be used to clean hard-to-reach areas in your home. For example, you can bend the hanger into a hook shape and use it to clean cobwebs or dust in corners and crevices.
  • Decorating. Wire hangers can be used to create unique and creative decorations for your home. For example, you can bend the hanger into a heart shape and decorate it with ribbon or flowers to create a festive decoration for Valentine’s Day or other special occasions.

Benefits of Recycling Wire Hangers

Wire hangers have become an essential part of our daily lives. From the clothes we wear to the furniture we use, wire hangers can be found everywhere. But did you know that recycling wire hangers can be beneficial for the environment and for your wallet as well?

Benefits of Recycling Wire Hangers
Benefits of Recycling Wire Hangers

Here are some of the benefits of recycling wire hangers:

  • Reducing Waste in Landfills. Wire hangers are a common household item that can accumulate quickly. By recycling them, we can reduce the amount of waste generated and prevent these hangers from ending up in landfills.
  • Conserving Natural Resources. Wire hangers are typically made from steel, which is a finite natural resource. By recycling wire hangers, we can conserve the resources needed to produce new hangers and reduce the demand for new materials.
  • Promoting Sustainability. Recycling is a key aspect of sustainable living and helps to reduce the overall impact of our activities on the environment. By participating in a recycling program, we are taking an active role in supporting sustainable living practices and helping to preserve the planet for future generations.
  • Creates Jobs. Recycling requires a significant amount of human labor, which can create jobs and stimulate economic growth. By recycling wire hangers, we are supporting the creation of new jobs and contributing to the local economy.
  • Saves Energy. Recycling wire hangers requires much less energy than producing new hangers from raw materials. This not only conserves energy but also reduces greenhouse gas emissions and helps to mitigate the effects of climate change.

Tips for Reducing Wire Hangers

Wire hangers are a common household item and can be difficult to manage. They can easily become twisted and tangled, which makes it difficult to hang clothes properly.

To help you keep your wire hangers organized, here are some tips for reducing wire hangers:

how to recycle wire hangers
Tips for Reducing Hangers
  • Reuse and Repurpose. Reusing wire hangers is a great way to save money and reduce clutter. Instead of throwing out hangers, consider donating them to a local thrift store or giving them to a friend or family member who may be able to use them. You can also use them to hang up decorations, organize jewelry, store small items, and more.
  • Invest in Clothes Hangers. Recyclable clothes hangers are a great way to reduce wire hangers. Investing in plastic or wooden hangers will help keep your clothing organized and wrinkle-free. Plus, you won’t have to worry about these recyclable clothes hangers becoming tangled or twisted.
  • Store Hangers Vertically. When storing wire hangers, make sure to store them vertically. This will help keep them from becoming tangled and make it easier to find the hanger you’re looking for.
  • Donate Wire Hangers. If you have a large number of wire hangers that you no longer need, consider donating them to a local dry cleaner, who may be able to reuse them. This will help to reduce waste and support local businesses.
  • Recycle Clothes Hangers. If you cannot reuse or donate your wire hangers, consider recycling them. Wire hangers can be recycled and turned into new products such as magazine racks or vacuum accessory keepers.

How Do You Make Money with Wire Hangers?

Wire hangers are a common household item that can be found in almost every home. However, did you know that wire hangers can also be a source of income? Yes, it’s true!

wire hanger chafts
Source: Pinterest (@theshabbytree.com)

There are several ways to make money with wire hangers. Check this out!

  • Sell Wire Hangers To Recycling Centers. Wire hangers are made of metal and can be recycled. You can collect wire hangers from friends, family, or neighbors and sell them to a recycling center for cash. Most recycling centers in the US accept wire hangers such as DSNY in New York. The price you receive for the wire hangers will depend on the current market value of metal.
  • Start A Wire Hanger Recycling Business. If you have a large number of wire hangers, you can start a wire hanger recycling business. This can involve collecting wire hangers from individuals and businesses, sorting them, and selling them to recycling centers for a profit. You can advertise your services on social media or through local classified ads.
  • Turn Wire Hanger Into Crafts. Wire hangers can be used to create unique and creative crafts, such as jewelry, wall art, or home decor. You can sell these crafts online, at local markets, or through your own website. This can be a fun and rewarding way to make money with wire hangers.
  • Sell Wire Hangers To Dry Cleaners. Dry cleaners often use wire hangers to hold clothes, and they may be in need of more hangers. You can offer to sell them wire hangers for a profit. The price for wire hangers varies depending on the type of hanger and the quantity purchased. Generally, wire hangers cost between $0.05 and $0.15 each.

Eco-friendly Alternative To Wire Hangers

When it comes to hanging clothes, wire hangers have been the go-to choice for decades. But while they’re one of the most inexpensive and convenient options, wire hangers have a few drawbacks. For one thing, they’re not eco-friendly, and they don’t always provide the best support for heavier items.

bamboo hangers
Source: Pinterest (@MOHFAD)

If you’re looking for an eco-friendly alternative to wire hangers, there are a few great options that you can choose from.

1. Wooden Hangers

Wooden hangers from Whitmor or Interdesign are made from sustainable materials and are biodegradable. They are also durable and can last for many years, making them a great investment for your home. Wooden hangers come in a variety of sizes and shapes to accommodate all types of clothing, and they also look stylish and elegant in your closet.

2. Bamboo Hangers

Bamboo is a fast-growing and renewable resource that is a great alternative to wire hangers. Bamboo hangers from Fairyhaus are lightweight, durable, and also biodegradable. They also help to reduce carbon emissions and protect the environment.

Final Thought

Recycling wire hangers is an important step towards reducing waste and preserving the environment. Wire hangers are not biodegradable and can remain in the environment for many decades, causing harm to wildlife and the ecosystem. By recycling wire hangers, you can reduce their impact on the environment and help to conserve natural resources.


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FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Can you put wire coat hangers in the recycle bin?

No, wire coat hangers should not be placed in the recycling bin. They are too rigid and can damage the machines used to process recyclables. In addition, they can also get tangled in other recyclables, creating a hazardous mess. If you are looking for the best tips on how to recycle wire hangers properly, please read the article above.

Are steel coat hangers recyclable?

Yes, steel coat hangers are recyclable. Steel is a valuable material that can be recycled and repurposed without losing its strength or quality. Steel coat hangers can be melted down and turned into new products such as appliances, construction materials, or new coat hangers. Suppose you need more tips on how to recycle wire hangers correctly, you can check the article above.

Are wire hangers better than plastic?

Wire hangers are generally not better than plastic hangers. Plastic hangers are often seen as more durable and can hold heavier items than wire hangers. Plastic hangers also don’t easily bend or break, and they’re less likely to rust or corrode than wire hangers. Plastic hangers are also generally more affordable than wire hangers, making them a more economical choice. Whether wire or plastic hangers they have their own downside. For more tips on how to recycle wire hangers properly, you can read the article above.

What can you use instead of hangers?

Instead of hangers, you can use hooks. Hooks are a great alternative to hangers because they take up less space, are easier to install, and can be used for a variety of items, such as coats, hats, and purses. If you are looking for environmentally friendly alternatives and the best ways on how to recycle wire hangers, please read the article above.