Deconstructing the Costume
Now that you have your costume in hand, the next step is to take it apart! This process will involve separating the individual components that make up the costume you're recreating. If there are any unnecessary or worn out pieces, go ahead and remove them from the mix. On the contrary, if you have some extra pieces or fabric scraps, collect them for repurposing later.
Begin by identifying each individual item within the costume you are repurposing. Note down any additional items you may need to recreate the look. Make sure to create an inventory of the items you will be using and of the items you need so that you can easily keep track while crafting.
Once you know what pieces you will be using to create the costume, you can start piecing everything together. Utilize a sewing machine or fabric glue to make sure everything stays together through the night. If you can find a pattern that matches the look you are going for, use it as a guideline. If not, you can use existing pieces to create your design vision.
What Can and Cannot be Recycled
Halloween costumes can be surprisingly hard to recycle effectively due to their unique materials and complex construction. Most costumes are made from either a combination of synthetic and natural fabrics, or plastic-based materials, and determining what parts of the costume can be recycled and how is key.
Naturally fibered materials, such as cotton, linen and wool, can typically be recycled, though check with your local municipality to find out their exact guidelines. Synthetic-based materials, such as polyester, rayon and lycra, usually cannot be recycled and should be sent to the landfill.
Likewise, vinyl-based materials, such as PVC and spandex, are often difficult to recycle because of their heavy chemical content, though some municipalities and private companies may be able to recycle them for a fee. Check with your local waste management facility for specific requirements regarding these materials.
Plastic accessories and ornaments, such as buttons, sequins, glitter, and artificial feathers, are also difficult to recycle effectively. In most cases, it is best to avoid purchasing costumes with excessive amounts of plastic-based decorations, or disassemble the parts that can be recycled, such as buttons and glitter, from the costume before recycling.
Finally, many Halloween costumes are packaged in paper or cardboard boxes which can be recycled easily, along with metal products such as zippers, hooks, and fasteners. These can be discarded easily with other metal items.
Sorting the Recyclables
Before the recycling process can begin, you must sort the materials you intend to recycle. Many of the materials for a costume may be recyclable, but the sorting process varies from city to city. Generally, these are the types of materials you will need to sort for recycling:
- Plastics
- Fabrics (e.g. foam, cotton, polyester)
- Metals (e.g. aluminum, tin, iron)
- Glass
Check with your local recycling center to find out which materials they accept and how it should be sorted. Some centers may require materials to be separated or bagged in certain ways, or may accept limited amounts of certain materials.
Washing the Costume Materials
Before reusing a Halloween costume, it’s important to clean the materials to ensure the costume is fresh and free of any germs.
The first step is to read the fabric care instructions on the tag. It’s important to follow these instructions as washing the costume materials incorrectly could ruin the costume.
If the label indicates that the costume materials can be machine washed, place in a delicates bag and gently cycle in cold water on the lowest spin speed. You can also opt for hand washing for delicates which will give better results.
For costumes with non-washable materials, such as plastic, foam or glitter-covered items, simply vacuum or lightly brush with a soft cloth and water. Avoid using soap or liquid detergent for these materials as this could damage the fabric.
Once the costume is clean, let it air dry or, depending on the materials, you can use a low tumble dry setting.
Repurposing and Upcycling Ideas
Repurposing and upcycling are two great ways to reuse a costume instead of throwing it away!
- Transform old costumes into new costumes. This might involve adding some fabric dye and embellishments, or cutting and sewing parts of the costume together.
- Repurpose old hats, helmets, masks and crowns for art projects. These can be used to make sculptures, decorations, or become part of a mixed media artwork.
- Turn old costumes into stuffed animals or pillows. Simply stuff your fabric pieces until you have an adorable and one-of-a-kind toy or cushion.
- Be creative and use your old costumes as window or table decorations. This could involve crocheting old fabric pieces together, or attaching foam shapes to a foam costume for a 3D effect.
So don't throw away that old costume! There are plenty of ways to reuse and repurpose it for other fun projects.
Donating the Costume
If you've decided to part ways with a Halloween costume, consider giving it away instead of throwing it away. Halloween costumes are expensive, and donating them allows someone else the opportunity to enjoy the costume. Consider donating costumes, masks, props and decorations to thrift stores, charities, or other organizations that collect and give away costumes.
If you're not sure where to donate a costume, check with your local thrift store or community center. You can also call and ask if they accept donations of lightly used costumes. Some churches also host costume drives for their members or community during the late summer and fall. Ask around and you'll likely find a place to donate your costumes.
Disposing of Materials That Cannot be Recycled
It is important to note that not all materials used in a Halloween costume can be recycled. Materials such as wires, plastics, elastics, glues and adhesives, Styrofoam and gum can’t typically be recycled through curbside recycling.
These materials should be sorted out before recycling, and disposed of properly. Hold onto small parts of the costume, such as beads and feathers, for future use. These can be reused for other projects or costumes, rather than being thrown away.
Trash and hazardous materials should be disposed of in an appropriate manner. Electrical and electronic materials, such as batteries, lights, and wires, should be recycled or disposed of at hazardous waste collection sites. Check with your city or county for details on disposal centers close to you.
Unfortunately, some pieces of the costume may have to be thrown away. Opt for biodegradable garbage bags, which are much better for the environment than plastic. Cardboard, paper and styrofoam packaging should be recycled if accepted by your local recycling plant.
For some materials, options may be few. Large pieces of non-recyclable plastic, such as fake fur, should be disposed of in waste bags in the trash. Above all, ensure that the materials that cannot be recycled won’t end up in a landfill.
