Can You Recycle Pillows?

Can You Recycle Pillows?

Last reviewed by James Hartley on 01 April 2026

Not through kerbside recycling. Donate clean pillows to animal shelters, or check if your local textile recycler accepts them.

Recycling pillows isn't as straightforward as you might think because they're made of a variety of materials that don't mix well with standard recycling processes. Most pillows contain synthetic fibres like polyester and memory foam, which aren't easily recyclable at kerbside facilities.

According to the UNEP, A single tonne of circuit boards contains 40-800 times more gold than a tonne of ore.

Why Pillows Isn't Easy to Recycle

Pillows are tricky to recycle due to their mixed material composition. They often include a combination of fabric covers, foam fillers, and sometimes feathers or down. The challenge lies in separating these materials effectively without damaging them. For instance, memory foam pillows contain polyurethane foam that isn't accepted by most recycling facilities.

How to Recycle Pillows Properly

The best approach is to take your used pillows to a textile recycler like Terracycle, which runs programmes for hard-to-recycle items. You can also check with local thrift stores and charities-they often accept clean pillows in good condition. In the UK, organisations like Oxfam or the Salvation Army will take them.

Alternatives to Throwing Pillows Away

Before tossing your old pillows, consider donating them to animal shelters. Many shelters use discarded pillows as bedding for animals. Another option is swapping with friends or family who might still need a new pillow but don't want to buy one. This way, you're keeping the item in circulation and preventing waste.

FAQ

Can I Put Pillows in My Kerbside Bin?

No, kerbside collections typically don't accept pillows due to their mixed-material composition and lack of recyclability at standard facilities.

What Happens If I Donate Old Pillows?

When you donate old pillows, they can be reused or repurposed. Shelters often use them for bedding, while thrift stores might resell them if they're in good condition.

Are There Any Recycling Programs Specifically for Pillows?

Yes, Terracycle runs recycling programmes that accept a variety of household items, including some types of pillows. Check their website to see if your pillow fits into one of their accepted categories and find out how to send it in.

Sources

• UNEP
• WHO
• UN Global E-Waste Monitor 2024