There comes a time when children's playground equipment is past its prime life, whether it is already unsafe, outdated, or no longer in use. You can help kids say goodbye to their favorite commercial playground equipment in several ways, starting with recycling, repurposing, and donating. Let's dig deeper into each method and find the best disposal method for your current play equipment.
Even after serving in children's playgrounds, outdated commercial playground equipment has some interesting ways to live longer. Here are several practical and eco-friendly playground solutions for recycling:
Quality commercial playground equipment, such as play systems, slides, and climbers, that are still usable or in good condition, can be sold on online marketplaces and local thrift stores or donated to families, communities, and organizations looking for low-cost playground solutions. Selling and donating used playground equipment provides new children and users opportunities to enjoy them and take advantage of opportunities for physical, social, and cognitive development. It is still important that the equipment meets the necessary ADA guidelines and safety standards before children's use.
Outdoor play equipment doesn’t have to be limited to playground use—it can be repurposed into unique features for indoor and outdoor spaces. This approach not only reduces waste but also promotes sustainable solutions. With a little creativity and the right tools, old playground equipment can be transformed into functional or decorative pieces that bring new joy to both children and adults.
Some playground equipment manufacturers offer take-back programs to encourage responsible recycling of play structures and amenities. Reach out to the original manufacturer to see if they provide services including disassembly, recycling of parts, and disposal of playground components. This responsible approach can help you save money with disposal and support eco-friendly practices within the playground industry.
Most commercial playground equipment parts, such as metal, plastic, and rubber safety surfacing materials, can still be recycled and repurposed for new use. Different recycling centers and scrap yards specialize in specific materials, so contact these local centers first to check their requirements before they can accept and process the said components.
When the play equipment can no longer be sold, used, or repurposed, professional junk services are the best final option for disposing of these components. These disposal experts are dependable in handling complex playground equipment and sorting eligible metal and plastic materials according to local regulations. By investing in these services, you can be assured of an efficient process with proper aftercare for the equipment and play area.
Creative repurposing allows children to reconnect with their old outdoor play equipment in new and imaginative ways, extending its usefulness. Here are some transformation ideas for your outdated playground structures:
Your old outdoor play equipment can be someone's new source of fun and adventure. Here are several organizations and communities that would greatly benefit from your generous donation of commercial playground equipment.
There is always a shortage of school playground equipment, especially in smaller schools with little to no budget for play equipment. Donating pre-owned playsets can provide more students access to an engaging play environment that encourages physical activity, social skills, cognitive challenges, and imaginative play.
Another important organization where your used commercial playground equipment can spark joy for new children is the daycare and childcare facilities. These facilities often have tight budgets and lack sufficient components to create quality play areas. Access to these playsets is beneficial for supporting early childhood education and developing social skills at lower costs.
Starting inclusive playgrounds with donated commercial playsets can positively impact local families and children in community centers, especially in underserved neighborhoods with no allotted budget for recreation. By transforming empty community spaces into vibrant play areas, neighborhoods can get a much-needed boost in child development and community bonds.
Your donation of park and school playground equipment can support nonprofit organizations like KABOOM! and kids around the world, which focus on creating engaging play areas and distributing commercial playground equipment to promote child development and community involvement. Your contribution helps these organizations maximize their budgets and invest in other essential playground facilities, furthering their mission to enrich underprivileged communities.
Churches and religious institutions actively support children's development through dynamic church grounds and proactive outreach programs. By donating your used playground set, the church congregation and community program stakeholders—especially the kids—can benefit from the added opportunities for physical activity, social interaction, and imaginative play during services and events.
Being outdated or damaged does not have to be the endgame of commercial outdoor playground equipment. Children, families, and communities can find creative transformations and new homes for these old play structures to provide new adventures. At AAA State of Play, we offer a wide selection of the best playground equipment you can depend on in playgrounds and post-prime life.
How Long Do Backyard Playsets Last? | AAA State of Play
Are There Maintenance Requirements For Playground Equipment? | AAA State of Play
How Long Does Commercial Playground Equipment Last? | AAA State of Play
How Long Do Commercial Play Structures Last? | AAA State of Play
Mandy has been a playground salesperson and CPSI-certified playground inspector for 12 years. Her passion for play shines through her work, and with years of experience in the playground world, her knowledge of playground safety is unparalleled. In her free time, Mandy enjoys watching her kids play baseball.
