Where to Donate Clothes Hangers and Declutter Responsibly

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Where to donate clothes hangers becomes a common question after a closet cleanout, you're left with a mountain of unused hangers: plastic, wood, even metal, all just sitting there.

Now, here’s the thing: we rarely think of hangers as “waste.” hangers actually come up more often than you’d expect.

The Best Places to Donate Clothes Hangers

Thrift Stores and Charity Shops

The most common and effective place to donate clothes hangers is your local thrift store.

Goodwill, The Salvation Army, and St. Vincent de Paul often accepts used hangers, especially if they’re in decent condition. Wooden and plastic hangers are preferred for their durability, while metal wire hangers are hit-or-miss.

Pro Tip: Call ahead. Some stores have more donations than they can handle and may only accept certain types of hangers.

Dry Cleaners and Laundromats

Many dry cleaners gladly accept wire hangers because they can reuse them for customers. If you’ve been stockpiling those thin metal hangers after every dry cleaning visit, this is your solution.

Retail Recycling Programs

Some large retailers like Kohl’s, Target, and Walmart have internal recycling programs. They often reuse or recycle hangers from returned or unsold merchandise.

Community Groups and Online Freecycling

You’d be surprised how many people are looking for hangers online.

Check out:

• Facebook Marketplace

  
  

• Buy Nothing groups

  
  

• Nextdoor

  
  

• Freecycle.org

Teachers, local theater groups, shelters, and even crafters often use hangers for organizing or creative projects. It’s a win-win: less waste for you, and a useful tool for someone else.

Step-by-Step Guide to Donating Hangers

Here’s a quick checklist to get your hangers donation-ready:

Sort Them: Separate by type—wire, plastic, or wood.

Clean Them: Wipe off dust or residue.

Bundle Smartly: Group them with rubber bands or string for easier transport.

Contact Your Destination: Confirm donation hours and policies.

Complete the Drop-Off and Take Pride in a Greener Choice.

Easy Drop-Off Options: Clothing Donation Boxes

If you’re the type who likes a quick and easy drop-off option, clothing donation boxes might be your best bet. You’ve likely seen them tucked into parking lots near shopping centers, gas stations, or grocery stores. These boxes are operated by a mix of nonprofit and for-profit organizations, and many of them accept clothes hangers along with clothing—especially if they’re bundled neatly.

Donation Box Tips:

• Label your hangers clearly (e.g., “Reusable hangers”)

• Avoid broken or tangled hangers

• Keep everything clean and dry

Look for donation bins managed by reputable organizations like Planet Aid or USAgain. Always check the signage or organization’s website to confirm they accept hangers.

How Golden Bear Hauling and Junk Removal Can Help You Donate Clothes Hangers Responsibly

Sorting through household clutter, including hangers and other small items, can feel like an endless task. That’s where Golden Bear Hauling and Junk Removal makes a difference.

Our team does more than haul away items—we actively look for ways to reduce landfill waste. We help clients identify what can be recycled, reused, or donated, including bulk donations like hangers.

We can:

• Pick up and transport large donations

• Recommend local donation partners

• Separate recyclables and responsibly dispose of non-donatable items

Our eco-friendly hauling services take the guesswork out of decluttering, making it easier for you to live cleaner and lighter.

Why Donating Hangers Is More Important Than You Think?

According to a 2019 report by Common Objective, Americans discard over 15 million hangers each day, adding up to nearly 8 billion hangers annually—with an estimated 85% ending up in landfills. That’s a staggering volume of plastic and metal waste. And if that isn’t enough to put things into perspective, here’s a stat that really struck me:

The ReCollective confirms that approximately 8–10 billion hangers are produced annually in the U.S., with a large portion discarded soon after use. Source: The ReCollective

That’s why choosing to donate hangers instead of trashing them makes a real difference.

What You Shouldn't Do

Now, let's talk about what not to do with your old hangers.

Don’t Toss Them in the Recycling Bin

Most curbside recycling programs don’t accept hangers, especially if they’re made of mixed materials (like metal with plastic coating). These items can jam sorting machines and often get diverted to the landfill anyway.

Plastic hangers are especially problematic, as they can release harmful chemicals like benzene and BPA into the environment as they break down.

If you’re not 100% sure your local recycler accepts hangers, don’t risk it.

Final Thoughts: Small Items, Big Impact

Donating clothes hangers may seem insignificant, but small choices add up. Every time you take a moment to donate instead of dump, you protect the environment and support your community.

Golden Bear Hauling and Junk Removal is here to make that process easier. From removing bulk items to identifying the best next step for your unwanted stuff, we’re committed to giving every item a second chance.

If you’re looking to clean up without creating more waste, reach out to us today. Let’s keep our homes—and our planet—clear of clutter, one hanger at a time.

Frequently Asked Questions About Donating Clothes Hangers

1. Will thrift stores take plastic hangers?

Yes, many thrift stores accept clean, reusable plastic hangers. However, some locations may have limited storage space or specific preferences, so it’s best to call ahead and ask what types they accept.

2. What should I do with broken or damaged hangers?

Broken hangers generally can't be donated. If they’re plastic or metal, check with a local recycling center or scrap yard. Avoid placing them in curbside recycling bins unless your municipality specifically allows it.

3. Do donation bins accept hangers?

Some do, but many do not. Always check the signage on the bin or visit the organization’s website. If accepted, hangers should be bundled and clearly labeled to avoid confusion.

4. Can professional clothing be donated with hangers included?

Absolutely. Organizations that distribute professional clothing—like Dress for Success or local career centers—often prefer hangers because it keeps garments in better condition and makes sorting easier.

5. How do I know which donation option is best near me?

Start by calling local thrift stores, dry cleaners, or checking donation bin networks like Planet Aid or USAgain. If you're unsure where to begin or need help with larger donations, Golden Bear Hauling and Junk Removal can assist with transportation and sorting.