How to Recycle Plastic Children's Toys

It doesn't take long for a child to outgrow a toy.

Plastic toys often have a short life and cleaning them out of the house every few months can ease the clutter underfoot. Recycling plastic can be very difficult since there are many different kinds, and they cannot be mixed together at the recycling plant. By law, all plastic must be marked with a code enclosed in a small triangle. Your local recycling company will tell you if it accepts the type of plastic your toys are made of. If you don't know what kind of plastic it is, you can set it out with the other recyclables and let the professional recyclers determine it.

Instructions

1. Check the toys to see if they are still usable and have all the working parts.

2. Divide the toys into two categories: new to almost new looking and used but still functional.

3. Clean the toys thoroughly of any dirt, body particles and residue. Plastic is often hard, which makes clean-up easy.

4. Call various charities and companies to ask if they would like the toys for their children. Hospitals, churches, day cares and other places are often willing to take toys in excellent condition. The obviously used but functional toys might be able to find a home at doctor's offices, beauty salons and other places where children just quickly pass through.

References

• Eco Life: Guide: Recycling Plastic

Resources

• Second Chance Toys