Best Things to Do with Old Pillows: Repurposing Old Pillows

(Last Update: 10/29/2024)

Ever wondered what things to do with your old pillows instead of just throwing them away?

Many organizations accept pillows for donation, and there are also options to recycle pillows. In this detailed guide, I’ll share the best eco-friendly tips to repurpose old pillows and recycle your old pillows. 

We’ll explore creative and sustainable ways to give them new life together. By doing so, you'll reduce waste and feel empowered by your resourcefulness.

Whether you want to reduce waste or find a new use for your worn-out pillows, these ideas will inspire and excite you.

Let’s dive in and discover how you can make a difference!

Creative Home Solutions & Things To Do With Old Pillows

Transform Into Floor Cushions

• Floor cushions: Stack a few old pillows together, cover them with a bright fabric, and voila! You’ve got a comfy floor cushion perfect for movie nights or reading.
• Make cozy pet beds! Your furry friends will love a new bed made from your old pillow. Sew a pillowcase around the pillows, and you have a snuggly spot for your pet to relax, showing them how much you care about their comfort.
• Craft decorative throw pillows—cut your old throw pillows into smaller squares and sew new covers. Use an old pillow as an insert for throw pillow covers, whether homemade or store-bought. Add some fun patterns and colors to decorate your living room or bedroom.

Create a reading nook with pillow stacks. Stack pillows in a cozy corner to create a soft, inviting reading nook. Add a blanket and some good books, and you have a perfect spot to escape into your favorite stories.

Old pillow stuffing: DIY Draft Stoppers for Doors and Windows

Use old pillow stuffing to make draft stoppers. Sew a long fabric tube, fill it with the stuffing, and place it at the bottom of your doors or windows to keep the cold air out.

Gardening and Outdoor Uses

Old pillows can also be super handy in your garden and outdoor spaces. Here’s how:

• Composting Pillow Stuffing: If your old pillow has natural stuffing, like feathers or cotton, you can add it to your compost pile. It’s a great way to enrich your soil and reduce waste. Feathers from a feather pillow decompose well and can be reused sustainably.
• Cushioning for Garden Kneeling: Gardening can be hard on your knees. Cut old pillows in half, cover them with a waterproof fabric, and use them as kneeling cushions while you plant or weed. Remember to check the pillows for sharp objects or mold before using them to ensure safety.
• Repurposing Foam Pillows for Gardening: Foam pillows can be repurposed for various gardening tasks. You can use them as a knee pad or to create comfortable seating areas in your garden. You can also cover old pillows with durable fabric to create garden seating.

Bird Nests and Wildlife Habitats: Hang your old pillow in trees or bushes to create cozy nesting spots for birds and small animals. It’s like offering them a soft, warm bed!

Outdoor Furniture Cushions: Refresh your outdoor furniture using old pillows as cushions. Cover them with weather-resistant fabric, and your patio will look brand new.

Protecting Plants from Frost: When frost is forecasted, use old pillows to cover your delicate plants. The pillows provide insulation and help keep the cold away, protecting your garden from damage.

Arts & Crafts Projects

Upcycling and recycling pillows can be a creative way to create craft projects. Memory foam pillows can be transformed into outdoor-safe cushions for patio furniture.

Repurposing old pillows into pet beds for veterinary clinics or stuffing them for other textiles keeps them out of landfills. These eco-friendly tips help reduce waste and promote sustainable living. You can also consider upcycling old pillows for various arts and crafts.

• Quilting and Patchwork Projects: Make a quilt using the fabric and stuffing from an old pillow. It’s like making a big, cozy puzzle that keeps you warm.
• Handmade Dolls and Stuffed Animals: Make cute dolls or stuffed animals for kids. Just use the pillow stuffing to fill them up. You can create all sorts of animals or funny characters. Revitalize a limp or torn stuffed animal by adding pillow filling and sewing it back together.

Upholstery Projects: If you have small chairs or stools that need a new look, reupholster them using the fabric from an old pillow. It’s an easy way to refresh your furniture.

DIY Memory Boards and Bulletin Boards: Cover a piece of cardboard with pillow fabric to make a fun memory board. Use it to pin photos, notes, or drawings. It’s a great way to keep your favorite things in one place.

Pillowcase Art—Painting and Printing: Turn old pillowcases into canvasses! Paint or print your designs on them. You can hang them as art or even turn them into new pillowcases.

Donating Old Pillows

If crafting isn’t your thing, don’t worry! You can still make good use of old pillows by donating them. Here’s how to donate old pillows and show compassion to those in need, fostering a sense of community and connection.

Donating to local animal shelters, please ensure the pillows are in good condition and thoroughly cleaned. This will ensure that the pets can use them to stay comfy.

Before donating, it's important to clean the pillows thoroughly. This can be done by machine washing them with a mild detergent and then drying them completely. Please ensure no stains, tears, or odors on the pillows. This will ensure that the pillows are in good condition and safe for use.

• Many organizations, like the Salvation Army, accept pillow donations. For synthetic materials, you can find a textile recycling facility that accepts pillows responsibly. Additionally, some donation centers specifically accept old pillows.
• Community centers and daycares: These places often need extra pillows for nap times or activities. Your old pillow can find a new home here.
• International aid organizations: Some organizations send supplies to places in need worldwide. They might be happy to take your old pillows to help others.

Craft groups and schools: Art teachers and craft groups can use old pillows for various projects. They can turn them into art supplies or use them in creative activities.

By donating, you’re helping others and keeping old pillows out of landfills—a win-win! Think about how your old pillow can make a big difference in someone else’s life. Share this article to inspire others to do the same!

Practical Household Uses

Got some old pillows you don’t know what to do with? Let’s turn them into useful household items around the house! Here are some easy ways to repurpose those old pillows:

• Packing material for moving: When packing your things, use old bed pillows as padding. They help protect fragile items like dishes and picture frames from breaking.
• Insulation for attics and crawl spaces: Fill gaps in your attic or crawl space with old pillows. They can help keep your house warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer.
• Temporary padding or floor cushions for hard surfaces: If you’re working on a hard floor, add old pillows to make it more comfortable. It’s great for when you need to kneel or lie down while doing projects around the house.

Soundproofing rooms: Place an old pillow against walls or doors to help muffle sound. This can be especially handy if you have a noisy room or want to keep sound from escaping a music practice space.

Cleaning rags and dust cloths: Cut the fabric from an old pillow to make rags. They’re perfect for dusting and cleaning up spills. Plus, you’re recycling fabric instead of throwing it away.

Upcycling for Practical Use

Upcycling projects can repurpose pillows into practical household items. Use old pillows as knee pads for gardening or as carpet padding. Long socks can be used to make door draft stoppers, or the remaining fabric can become a pillow protector or cover for other pillows, extending their utility.

Repurposed pillows can also be used for various practical purposes around the house.

Better Health and Wellness Applications

Old pillows can also greatly help your health and wellness, offering numerous wellness benefits. Here’s how:

• Homemade heating pads: Fill a cloth bag with pillow stuffing and sew it shut. Microwave it for a minute or two to create a cozy heating pad for sore muscles or cramps.
• Meditation and yoga cushions: Use an old pillow to make cushions for meditation or yoga. They will provide extra support and comfort during your practice.
• Ergonomic support for office chairs: Place an old pillow on your office chair to provide extra support. This can help make long hours at your desk more comfortable.

Customized body pillows: Sew several old pillows to create a long-body pillow. This can provide great support while you sleep, especially if you need to align your spine.

DIY weighted blankets: Stuff old pillows with stuffing to make a weighted blanket. These blankets can help you sleep better by providing a calming, comforting pressure.

Best Pet Bed and Care Innovations

Let’s make something awesome for your pets! Pet care is essential, and here are some fun and useful ideas for turning old pillows into pet goodies:

• Travel cushions for pets: make a comfy travel cushion for your dog or cat. Just wrap an old pillow in a washable cover, and you have a portable bed for car rides or trips to the vet. Alternatively, repurpose an old pillow to create a pet bed. This sustainable option provides a cozy resting place that carries the familiar scent of home, making it perfect for your pet to relax. Old pillows can enhance pet comfort by providing a familiar and cozy spot.
• Play mats and tunnels: create a fun play mat or tunnel for your pet by cutting up an old pillow and sewing the pieces into different shapes. Your pet will love exploring and playing with its new toy.
• Training pads for puppies: Old pillows can be used to make puppy training pads. They can provide a soft, absorbent layer for your puppy’s training area.

Snuggle spots for cats: cats love cozy spots. Place an old pillow or cardboard box in a quiet corner to make a snuggle spot. Your cat will appreciate the comfy hideaway.

Bedding for small pets like hamsters and guinea pigs: cut up old pillows and stuff them with stuffing to make bedding for cages for hamsters, guinea pigs, or rabbits. It’s soft and warm, perfect for your little critters.

Travel and Camping Uses

Old pillows can be super handy on the go, especially as part of your camping gear. Here are some great travel and camping uses:

• Compact travel pillows: Turn old pillows into compact travel pillows by cutting them down to a smaller size and sewing them back up. They’re perfect for road trips, flights, or even a car nap. You can also create travel accessories from old pillows, like neck rolls or lumbar supports.
• Sleeping bag padding: use an old pillow to add extra padding to your sleeping bag. Open the sleeping bag and sew in some pillow stuffing. It makes sleeping on the ground a lot more comfortable.
• Seat cushions for long trips: make a cushion for long car or plane trips. Cover an old pillow with durable fabric, and you’ll have a comfy seat that’s easy to carry around.

Emergency car kits: keep an old pillow in your car as part of an emergency kit. It can provide comfort if you ever need to sleep in your car or use it as a cushion while waiting for help.

Temporary mattresses for camping: use an old pillow to create a temporary mattress for camping. Sew several pillows together and cover them with a sturdy fabric. It’s a simple way to make camping more comfortable.

Educational and Child-Friendly Ideas

Old pillows can become treasures for kids’ activities and educational tools. Let’s dive into some fun and educational ideas!

• Sensory play cushions: fill old pillowcases with different materials, such as beans, rice, or foam beads, to create sensory cushions. These can help kids explore textures and develop their sense of touch.
• DIY learning tools: cut an old pillow into various shapes and colors. These can be used to teach kids about geometry and color recognition. Plus, they’re soft and safe for little hands.
• Story time cushions: make story time cozier by using old cushions. Arrange them in a reading corner to create a comfy spot where kids can dive into their favorite books.

Fort building supplies: old pillows are perfect for building forts. Encourage your kids to use them to create imaginative play spaces. It’s like giving them building blocks made of clouds!

School nap mats: transform old pillows into nap mats for school. Sew a few pillows and cover them with cute, washable fabric. They’re great for daycare or preschool naptime.

Upcycling and Repurposing Challenges

My question is still, what to do with old pillows?

Upcycling old pillows can be a fun challenge for creative projects. Here are some creative projects to try:

• Pillowcase tote bags: turn old pillowcases into tote bags. Cut and sew handles onto them, and you have a reusable bag for groceries or books.
• DIY storage solutions: use an old pillow to create storage solutions. Sew pockets onto them and hang them to store toys, books, or craft supplies.
• Recycled fabric art: cut old pillows into pieces and use the fabric to create art. You can make collages, wall hangings, or even patchwork quilts. It’s a great way to get creative and recycle simultaneously.

Crafting pillowcase dresses: If you have old pillowcases, turn them into dresses for kids. You can make simple, adorable dresses perfect for summer with a little sewing.

Eco-friendly gift wrap alternatives: Pillowcases can be used as eco-friendly gift wraps. They can be tied around gifts and reused over and over. It’s a beautiful and sustainable way to wrap presents.

Eco-Conscious Disposal Methods to Recycle Pillows

When it’s time to part with an old pillow, let’s do it eco-friendly through textile recycling. Here are some methods you can try:

• Finding local recycling centers: Check if your local recycling center accepts pillows. Some centers have special programs for recycling textiles and stuffing. Additionally, look into recycling programs for old pillows to ensure they are disposed of responsibly.
• Pillow recycling programs: look for companies or organizations that offer bed pillow recycling programs. They might take your old pillow and recycle the materials to make new products.
• Composting natural fillings: if your pillows are filled with natural materials like feathers or cotton, you can compost them. Just remove the stuffing and add it to your compost pile. It’s a great way to enrich your soil!
• Cleaning and washing feather pillows: machine wash feather pillows with tennis balls to fluff the filling and reduce clumping. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results.

Municipal waste management options: some cities have specific waste management options for items like pillows. Please contact local waste management services to see if they have special disposal instructions.

Zero-waste living tips: Embody zero-waste living by finding creative ways to reuse and recycle everything in your home, including pillows. Join zero-waste communities online for more ideas and support.

Conclusion: A Greener Future for Your Old Pillow

So, what to do with old pillows? Repurposing old pillows can significantly reduce waste and benefit the environment, contributing to a sustainable future.

Try the various creative, practical, and charitable ideas this post shares.

By implementing these eco-friendly tips, you can give your old pillow a new life while contributing to a sustainable future. Also, consider adopting eco-friendly practices for repurposing old pillows to further support environmental conservation.

FAQs

Is It OK to Throw Away Pillows?

There are better options than throwing away pillows since they take up landfill space. Instead, consider recycling, repurposing, or donating them to animal shelters where they can be reused as bedding. It's a more eco-friendly way to dispose of your old pillows.

How Do I Dispose of Old Pillows Near Me?

Please check with local recycling centers or donation organizations to dispose of old pillows near you. Many animal shelters accept old pillows for bedding. You can also search online for textile recycling programs in your area to find the best disposal option.

How Do You Deal with Old Pillows?

To deal with old pillows, repurpose them as a pet bed or use the stuffing for craft projects. You may donate them to animal shelters or find local recycling programs that accept textiles. These options are environmentally friendly and practical.

Does Anyone Want Old Pillows?

Yes, many animal shelters and pet rescue centers want old pillows for bedding. Some recycling programs also accept them. It's always a good idea to call and check with local organizations to see if they can use your old pillows.

Are pillows recyclable?

Most pillows are not easily recyclable due to mixed materials like foam and synthetic fibers. However, options like textile recycling centers, donating to shelters, or upcycling for DIY projects can help reduce waste. Always check local recycling guidelines for specific solutions.