Why don’t we accept hangers?
We generally do not accept hangers as part of our commitment to eco-friendly practices.
Our commercial trash vendor and local recycling facilities do not accept hangers because they can damage recycling equipment. If hangers are placed in commercial recycling, it can result in fines.
The best way to recycle hangers
While we can’t recycle hangers through our facility, there’s a better option:
👉 Place wire hangers in your household trash (not recycling).
In many cases, local municipalities are able to recover and recycle the metal from regular trash. It may sound unusual, but this is currently the most environmentally responsible option.
What happens if you bring hangers to us?
If you do return hangers:
- We’ll reuse any that are in good condition (~20%)
- The rest (~80%) are typically damaged and must be discarded
Types of hangers
Wire Hangers
- Used for shirts
- Reused when not bent or damaged
Caped Hangers (with paper covering)
- Reused if in good condition
- Not recyclable due to mixed materials (paper + metal)
Strut Hangers (with cardboard tube)
- Used for pants and sweaters
- Not reusable once worn
- Only recyclable if the cardboard is removed
Why this matters
Sorting, untangling, and transporting hangers for recycling is extremely time-consuming and not practical at scale for a small business.
By directing hangers to the right disposal method, we help reduce landfill waste while staying efficient and sustainable.
Learn more