How to Upcycle or Recycle Your Old T-Shirts

We are thrilled to help thousands of people create and sell t-shirts that raise funds for various organizations and causes – but what happens to all of those t-shirts after they’ve been worn out?

We care about the journey of our t-shirts, from design to production and beyond. In fact, we launched in 2012 to eliminate the waste traditionally associated with t-shirt fundraising. By following a preordering model, recycling ink waste, using 100% recycled shipping bags, and more, we are prioritizing sustainability every step of the way. 

We care about our planet and the impact that we have on it. And we care about you, the people who helped make a difference by buying a t-shirt from a Bonfire campaign. We want to make sure you enjoy your t-shirt for as long as possible. So, when your favorite tee gets one too many holes in it, doesn’t fit anymore, or maybe has just passed its prime, we have thought of some creative ways to repurpose your old t-shirt.

How to Upcycle Your Old T-Shirts

Looking to find a new use for your well-worn and well-loved t-shirts? We have great news for you – there are practically endless possibilities for what you can create using your old tees! Check out a few of our favorite ideas for upcycling tees:

Braid Your Tees into Baskets, Bowls, or Rugs

If you have a number of old t-shirts to work with you can cut them into strips, braid them together, and sew them into eclectic-looking baskets, bowls, or rugs! These colorful storage and decor options can be used anywhere in your home and are sure to brighten up your spaces.

Create Stylish Headbands

T-shirt material works great for headbands because it’s soft and stretchy. It’s also super easy to work with and doesn’t fray too easily. Headbands have seen a comeback in recent years, and there are lots of different styles to choose from and play around with. Check out these tutorials to learn how to make a couple of super cute headband styles!

Make Cute Plant Hangers

Did you know you can make a macrame-style plant hanger from your old tees in less than 30 minutes?! Sounds like the perfect activity for a night in with friends!

Transform Your Tees into Workout Shirts

In just a few easy steps you can turn your old tees into racerback workout tank tops! No sewing or gluing is necessary. You’ll be ready to exercise and ready to sweat in your “new” tank top in no time! 

Twist and Tie Your Tees into Dog Toys

Your furry friend will definitely appreciate you turning your old tees into toys for them to play with! You’ll have a brand new collection of eco-friendly dog toys without having to spend a dime. Try out these different t-shirt dog toy ideas and see which ones your dog likes best! 

Sew Your Tees into Cool Patchwork Pillows

We’ve all seen the standard t-shirt quilt blankets and pillows that have been around for a while now, but what’s stopping you from creating your very own t-shirt quilt fabric that is fresh and new? Making a randomized patchwork pattern will ensure a gorgeous, modern look that no one will suspect is made from your old t-shirts. 

Repurpose Shirts into Cleaning Rags

Tired of spending money on paper towels or expensive cleaning cloths? An old t-shirt is a great way to save some cash and cut down on paper products. You can use your old t-shirt to dust, shine, and clean up spills. The best part? You can wash the shirt and use it again and again!

Turn Your Tees into Reusable Shopping and Produce Bags

If you have some scissors and an old t-shirt, you can easily turn one of your retired tees into a reusable shopping bag or a produce bag – a great addition for a stop at your local farmer’s market! If you’re looking to turn your shirt into a produce bag, we recommend cutting small holes into the fabric to help the produce stay fresh during travel.

Create Fun Wall Art

Looking to refresh your space with a cool piece of art? An old tee can be easily repurposed into a piece of artwork! If you have multiple old tees, cut the shirts to fit into a frame and create a piece of unique block art on your walls.

Transform Your Tee into an Apron

If you’re skilled in the kitchen, consider turning your old tee into a fun apron! It’ll protect your outfit from any messes and is a fun way to find a new purpose for an old tee.

Stay Warm with Boot Socks

If you have an old long-sleeve tee, you can easily cut the sleeves to create stylish, warm, and fun boot socks! This is perfect for the chillier weather and will keep your feet and legs comfortable for all your fall and winter adventures.

How to Recycle Your Old T-Shirts

In an effort to reduce the amount of textile waste that ends up in landfills, many companies have created textile recycling programs. These programs encourage you to mail in or bring in (depending on the participating company) your unwanted clothing to be responsibly recycled. Many of these companies also offer store credit or discounts as added incentives for your recycling efforts! How cool is that?!  Here is a list of a few companies with textile recycling programs.

For Days

The closed-loop fashion brand, For Days, offers organic, zero waste, and 100% recyclable clothing. Through their site, you can order a Take Back Bag, which allows you to send them your old clothes from any brand, in any condition (as long as they are washed and don’t include undergarments). For each bag, you will receive a $30 credit. Like For Days says, it’s “a win for you, a win for the planet.”

Marine Layer’s Re-Spun 

Marine Layer, an eco-conscious clothing company, has a t-shirt recycling program called Re-Spun. Through the Re-Spun page on Marine Layers’ website, you can purchase a prepaid mailer, send in your old tees, and receive a $40 credit per bag.

Phoenix Fibers

Phoenix Fibers is one of only a few textile fiber converters in the Southwestern United States. Each month they turn over 300 tons of textile waste into “shoddy” which can be used to manufacture lots of things including insulation, sound dampening products, and mattresses. They also partner with Bonded Logic and donate insulation made from “shoddy” to Habitat for Humanity. To find out how to donate your fiber goods to Phoenix Fibers, contact them through their website. 

Donate

It’s always an option to donate your tees to your local Goodwill or other thrift stores. You can also lookup Planet Aid donation bins in your area. Oftentimes churches, homeless shelters, and community outreach centers accept clothing donations as well. Be sure to call ahead or go online to find places that are currently accepting donations and how to go about donating. You might be done with your old t-shirts, but there are people out there who would benefit greatly from having them. Donations are so very helpful and so very important.

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By finding ways to repurpose your old t-shirts, you are stretching your creative muscles, saving money, and cutting down on the amount of textile waste that ends up in landfills! We hope this list of DIY ideas inspires you to transform your unwanted items into something new and exciting! Thank you for taking the time to make small changes that have a big impact on our planet.