Finding ways to recycle your old bags isn’t just about saving the planet. Why let a bag you once loved go to waste, just because it isn’t on-trend anymore? A great antidote to working your way through bags is to purchase timeless pieces, of course. However, for now, employing ways to recycle your old bags is a fantastic way to get more from those accessories you were once in love with.
1. Decoupage
One of the simplest ways to recycle your old bags is to decoupage them. I’m not going to suggest you carry it around with you after decoupaging. Instead, you can use it for ornamental or storage purposes. The bigger the bag, the better this will be.
2. Laundry
Slight confession to make here, I have one laundry basket for my whole house. It takes about half a day to fill it up. If you have an old tote you are about to kiss goodbye, get it clean and use it as a laundry bag instead. Trust me, it looks prettier than letting clothes pile up in the corner of your room. As I tend to do…
3. Time to Play Dress up
Have kids? Then use your old bags as a dress up prop. Trust me, little girls hardly care about how tatty an old bag is, they’re just determined to look grown up. Don’t have kids? Then save them for little ones in your family. Trust me, you’ll appreciate having something to keep them entertained if/when you come to babysit.
4. Charity
Unless the bag is absolutely on its last legs, I highly recommend giving it to charity. It really is amazing what other people will buy, especially if they feel it has a hidden charm you are overlooking. The nicest part about donating an old bag to charity is that the end result is it will help someone else. As well as considering giving yours to a charity shop, see if a local women’s refuge is in need of donations. Honestly, women’s refuges need items of all kinds.
5. Planting
Okay, so you’re not going to get much floral joy out of sticking your plants into a faux-leather clutch. However, if you do have a straw shopper or another bag that offers similar filtration benefits, I don’t see why you can’t use your bag as a kooky planter. I used to work at my grandparents' garden centre, so I know that a little moss lining can go a long way when using various containers. This is likely to work better if you live in a drier climate or use the planter indoors.
6. Bathroom Organisation
I know some people love their storage solutions to look all uniform. I don’t, but I guess that’s because I’m not a very uniform person. Rather than letting toiletries and bits of makeup float around, structure your bag using embroidery hoops so they are easy to hang and open, and throw everything in them. It definitely makes tidying easier!
7. Decorate
I absolutely wouldn’t try this myself, because my ability to craft in a ‘fashionable’ way reaches the skill levels most toddlers possess. It’s quite tragic really. If you feel you can re-accessorize your bag, go ahead and give it a blast. You never know, you might be able to create a design that is on-trend for the current season.
So you don’t have to just throw your old bags out after all! If you use even one of these tips, you are doing yourself or someone else a favor. I am sure there are more inventive ideas than these out there. So with that in mind, how do you recycle your old bags?
Frequently Asked Questions
- How can I creatively recycle my old handbags?
- There are so many fun ways! You can turn them into unique planters, use them as storage organizers, or even make cute little craft projects. It’s all about getting creative!
- What if I want to donate my old purses?
- That's a fabulous idea! Many charities and shelters appreciate gently used handbags. It’s always nice to give back and help someone in need.
- Can I upcycle my old bags into something useful?
- Absolutely! You can make things like keychain holders, stylish new accessories, or even upcycled fashion pieces. The sky’s the limit!
- Are there any stores that take back old bags for recycling?
- Yes, some stores offer take-back programs where they recycle your old bags. It’s worth checking with your favorite brands to see if they offer this service.
- Is it possible to sell my vintage purses?
- Definitely! Vintage purses are often sought after. You can try consignment shops, online marketplaces, or even local treasure hunters. Someone out there will love your vintage gem!