FAQs: What to Do with Old Shoes: Creative and Practical Ideas?

When your shoes start to wear out or no longer serve their purpose, it can be tempting to toss them. However, there are plenty of ways to give those old shoes a second life, whether you choose to recycle, donate, or repurpose them. Here are some practical and creative ideas for what to do with old shoes:

1. Donate Them

If your shoes are still in wearable condition, consider donating them. Many charities and organizations accept gently used shoes for those in need, including people experiencing homelessness, refugees, or low-income families. Some notable places to donate shoes include:

• Goodwill
• Salvation Army
• Soles4Souls
• Local shelters or churches

Donating shoes can help someone in need while keeping them out of landfills.

2. Recycle Them

Shoes are often made from a variety of materials (rubber, leather, synthetic fabrics, etc.), which can be tricky to dispose of properly. However, many recycling programs and shoe brands offer ways to recycle old shoes:

• Nike Reuse-A-Shoe: Nike has a program where you can drop off old shoes (from any brand) at their stores. They recycle the materials into new athletic surfaces like running tracks or playgrounds.
• TerraCycle: This company offers a "Zero Waste Box" program for shoes, where you can send your old footwear to be recycled.
• Local recycling centers: Check with your local recycling facilities to see if they accept shoes.

Recycling ensures that shoes get a new purpose and reduces the environmental impact of shoe waste.

3. Repurpose Them

Old shoes can be transformed into something useful or decorative. Here are some creative ways to repurpose shoes:

• Plant Pots: Turn an old pair of shoes into unique planters for your garden or home. Simply add drainage holes and soil, and you have a quirky, eco-friendly garden container.
• Shoe Art: Create a fun DIY project by using shoes as part of a larger art installation. You can paint them, glue them together, or even hang them on a wall.
• Crafting Projects: Old shoes can be used for scrap material in various craft projects, like making keychains, jewelry, or home décor.

Repurposing is a great way to make sure old shoes don’t end up as waste while unleashing your creativity.

4. Sell Them

If your shoes are in good condition and still stylish, consider selling them. You can list them on platforms like:

• eBay
• Poshmark
• Mercari
• Facebook Marketplace Selling shoes can not only help you clear out your closet but also make a little extra cash.

5. Use Them for Cleaning or Yard Work

Sometimes old shoes can be used for tasks that don’t require a brand-new pair. For example:

• Garden Shoes: Old sneakers or sandals can be used for gardening or yard work, where they might get dirty or damaged.
• Cleaning Shoes: If you need shoes to wear while cleaning or painting, old shoes are perfect for those tasks. You won’t mind getting them dirty!
• Mudroom Shoes: Keep a pair of old shoes by the door for quick outdoor tasks or for rainy days.

These shoes may not look pretty, but they can still serve a useful purpose!

6. Upcycle into Fashion

Old shoes can be given a new lease on life with a little creativity and DIY work. Consider upcycling them into something fashionable:

• Custom Sneakers: Repaint or add embellishments to your old sneakers to create a completely new look.
• New Laces: Change the laces to give your shoes a fresh look, or experiment with different colors, patterns, and styles.
• Shoe Refurbishment: If the shoes are made of leather, you can polish them or replace worn-out soles to extend their life and improve their appearance.

Upcycling can be a fun way to make your old shoes unique and stylish again.

7. Use Them for Training or Fitness

If the shoes still provide enough support, consider using them for workouts or training:

• Weight Training: Old shoes can be worn during weightlifting to provide a stable, flat base.
• Outdoor Training: If you don’t want to wear your best shoes outside for workouts like running or hiking, repurpose an old pair for the job.

This way, your old shoes can still help you achieve your fitness goals without getting damaged further.

8. Check with Shoe Brands for Take-Back Programs

Many shoe brands have programs where you can return your old shoes for recycling or donation:

• Adidas: Adidas has a program where they repurpose old shoes for new products, like running surfaces.
• Allbirds: Allbirds offers a recycling program for their shoes, ensuring they’re either reused or recycled properly.

These programs help you dispose of your shoes sustainably while supporting the brand’s commitment to reducing waste.

9. Create a Memory Keepsake

Old shoes, especially those that hold sentimental value, can be turned into a keepsake. You can frame them, turn them into a shadow box with photos, or incorporate them into other memorabilia. This can be a wonderful way to preserve the memory of a special time or milestone, like your child’s first pair of shoes.

10. Compost Certain Shoes

Some shoes are made from natural materials that can decompose over time. Shoes with rubber soles, leather, and natural fabric uppers can sometimes be composted—if you remove any synthetic materials first (such as glues, plastic, or synthetic rubber). Be sure to research which materials are compostable before trying this method.

Final Thoughts

Before throwing your old shoes away, consider these alternatives. By donating, recycling, repurposing, or upcycling, you can help reduce waste and even give your shoes a second life. Whether they end up in the hands of someone in need or as a creative DIY project, your old shoes can continue to serve a purpose long after they’ve been worn out.

Ready to clear out your closet? Take a moment to consider these options and find the best way to dispose of your old shoes responsibly!