Pillows and blankets don’t last forever. Maybe they’ve gone flat, frayed at the edges, or just don’t match your decor anymore. Once they’re worn out or no longer wanted, figuring out what to do with them isn’t always straightforward. Can they be donated? Recycled? Tossed in the trash? If you’re unsure, you’re not alone. Many people wonder how to dispose of pillows the right way. We’ll walk you through all the best and most responsible options to get rid of old pillows and blankets—whether they’re still usable or ready to retire.
How to get rid of old pillows and blankets
Here are a few ways you can responsibly say goodbye to old pillows and blankets:
Donate if they’re still in good shape
If your pillows and blankets are clean, stain-free, and in usable condition, some shelters or charities may accept them. Organizations like the Red Cross or Goodwill may take linens and bedding, though not all locations accept pillows. Be sure to check the donation guidelines before dropping them off.
Give to an animal shelter
Many animal shelters accept gently used bedding to help keep pets warm and comfortable. Old pillows can make cozy beds for cats and dogs. That said, not every shelter takes them due to sanitation concerns, so check with your local shelter or visit the ASPCA’s website for more information.
Use a textile recycling program
If your old pillows and blankets aren’t in good enough condition to be donated, recycling might be the next best step. Textile recycling centers break materials down into industrial rags, insulation, or fiber fill. Organizations like SMART support sustainable textile recycling. Some municipalities also host textile recycling events or drop-off bins.
Repurpose them at home
If you enjoy DIY projects, consider transforming your old bedding into something new. Use pillow stuffing for pet beds, packing material, or draft stoppers. Cut up blankets for cleaning rags or car blankets. With a little creativity, you can give your old pillows a new purpose.
Hire a junk removal service
Sometimes you just want it gone. If you’re short on time or clearing out multiple items, 1-800-GOT-JUNK? can help you get rid of old pillows, blankets, and other household items—we’ll even take your mattress. Book a pickup online or call us at 1-800-468-5865. Our team can take almost anything from anywhere in your home, and we do our best to recycle and donate items when possible.
Why it’s important to reuse or recycle old pillows
Pillows are often made from polyester fill, memory foam, or synthetic fabrics that don’t break down easily in landfills. Tossing them in the trash contributes to growing textile waste. According to the EPA, over 11 million tons of textiles end up in U.S. landfills each year.
While curbside recycling typically doesn’t accept pillows, textile recyclers and reuse programs offer a more responsible option. Donating or repurposing helps reduce environmental impact and gives your bedding a second life. Before you toss old pillows in the trash, check to see if someone—or some pet—might still benefit from them.
