8 Ways to Recycle & Repurpose Old Lanyards
Ever wondered what to do with old lanyards? They’re often used for display badges, id cards, or tickets.
Once you no longer need them, then they just sit around somewhere. Sustainability is about being as resourceful as possible. Using and re-using things as much as we can to reduce waste.
Lanyards have a variety of uses for DIY projects. Here are some ideas for what you can do with old lanyards.
8 Ways to Recycle and Repurpose Old Lanyards
1. Tote and handbag handles
Lanyards are made of synthetic materials like polyester and nylon. These materials are stronger than cloth tote bags.
You can use the lanyard to replace a busted cloth handle. The metal part can be a keyholder for the bag.
2. Donate
Different organizations may take old lanyards and reuse them for their events. They may use them for bathroom keys or clipboards. Consider contacting a homeless organization to see if they will accept them.
3. Weaves
Get creative and weave the lanyards together to create a covering of some kind. Make them into a mat to protect the flooring from furniture or planters.
Turn them into a coaster to protect your tables from staining. There are a number of ways they can be used as a covering or barrier. If you’re handy with a sewing machine, give it a shot.
4. Tie things up
Lanyards can tie up a lot of things that you need to keep together. You can tie it to a plant and use it as a plant hanger. You can think of a number of different things that maybe you need tied up.
5. Leashes
If you don’t have a leash currently, the lanyard could be used as a leash for your pet. The material is strong enough to handle the pull of most small or medium-sided dogs. Tie up a few of them together to make a long leash.
6. Bring them to the next event
A simple way we can all reduce lanyard waste is just reusing them for the next event. Hang on to it until you need it again.
7. Give them to schools
Teachers and students sometimes wear these badges on campus for identification purposes. Ask any teachers you know if their school is need of some.
8. Key holders
Are you always losing your keys? Help yourself avoid losing them again by attaching them to a lanyard. Organize your keys with lanyards of different colors. It’ll be easier to find the key you need for whatever lock you’re opening.
Can lanyards be recycled?
Lanyards can’t be recycled to a facility like other materials, but they can be recycled through reuse. Consider the various ways you can use it again to keep it from being waste.
Can you reuse a lanyard?
You can reuse lanyards to tie things, create coverings, and so much more. Think of an item you need in your house and see if you can make it with lanyards.
When should lanyards be retired?
Different sources suggest that lanyards should be replaced after about three years. Once they’re retired from use for events, start reusing them in other ways.
