By If you’ve been updating your home over the past year, chances are you’ve considered refreshing your window treatments. But what happens to the old ones once you’ve replaced them? At Window Treats Inc., we’re committed to helping you update your space without adding to landfill waste. Not sure where to start? Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered with sustainable, practical, and even creative ways to give your old window treatments a second life.
Figure 1: A Greener Approach to Home Updates
Step One: Evaluate Before You Eliminate
Before tossing anything, take a moment to assess the condition of your old window treatments.
- Still in good condition?
If they’re fully functional, consider donating them—they could be exactly what someone else needs. Great donation spots include:
- Goodwill or Salvation Army
- Habitat for Humanity ReStore
- Schools, colleges, or local community centers
- Friends, students, or neighbors starting fresh
- Too damaged to donate?
If your shades or blinds are beyond saving, recycling might be your next best bet. Here’s how to recycle by material:
Material Matters: How to Reuse or Recycle Different Window Treatments
Polyester Shades (Like Honeycomb Shades)
These shades are often made from polyester, which can sometimes be derived from recycled materials. However, recycling polyester isn’t easy in most local programs. Instead, donate the fabric (after removing it from the headrail) to:
- Local schools or after-school programs for arts & crafts
- Community art workshops
- Scout troops or maker spaces
Figure 2: Reuse or Recycle Different Window Treatments
Wood, Faux Wood, or Woven Wood Blinds
If these blinds are painted, stained, or contain PVC, they can’t be recycled. But that doesn’t mean they’re useless:
- Donate to schools for art projects
- Repurpose them in your own home! Use slats:
- As shelf liners
- To stabilize wobbly furniture
- For DIY wall art or signs
- Recycle the hardware (brackets, rods, screws) if it’s metal or recyclable plastic
Aluminum or Metal Blinds
Good news—these can be recycled at most metal recycling centers! Before you go:
- Remove the cords and headrail
- Wipe them down
- Take them to a local scrap yard or recycling facility
Roman Shades and Drapery Fabric
Even if there are rips or tears, some parts may still be salvageable:
- Cut and repurpose fabric into cushion covers, tote bags, or decorative items
- Donate usable pieces to fabric recycling programs or schools
- Recycle hardware components like metal brackets or curtain rods
Going Green Beyond the Windows
Home updates are exciting, but they’re also a great time to embrace more sustainable living. Whether you’re working with a contractor or doing it yourself, consider:
- Eco-friendly materials
- Energy-efficient options
- Recycling instead of discarding
Figure 3: Going Green Beyond the Windows with Bamboo Shades
Sure, it may take a little extra effort, but the environmental rewards—and peace of mind—are worth it.
Figure 4: Going Green Beyond the Windows
Final Thoughts: Let Sustainability Lead Your Next Home Project
Updating your window treatments doesn’t have to mean waste. With a little creativity and conscious effort, your old blinds, drapes, and shades can find new purpose and help reduce your environmental footprint. And remember, when in doubt—donate, repurpose, or research.
At Window Treats Inc., we’re always happy to help you not only refresh your windows, but do it the eco-conscious way. Got questions? Reach out—we’d love to help you plan your next green update.
