Thanks to our friend Jessica Schanberg for being a guest contributor this week to share her tips for recycling in Chicago, just in time for Spring cleaning! With our basement under renovation and purging in full force, I’ll be using all these.
Have you ever had something that you would like to recycle, but you don’t know where it should go? It’s easier than you think using my seven tips for recycling in the city for busy moms! There are many ways to recycle, but it is nice to know that your donations are being donated properly and to a good cause.
- Batteries: There are drop off locations for used batteries all over the city of Chicago. To find out where the nearest drop- off is, go to this website call 2 recycle and put in your zip code. Rechargeable batteries that don’t work anymore can also be recycled.
- Computers and Monitors: Computers and Monitors can be recycled at a city facility called Household Chemicals and Recycling Facility. They also recycle video games, computer cables and cell phones, amongst many other things. They are located at 1150 N Branch St. The hours are limited so it’s best to check this link before you go.
- Air Conditioners and Other Appliances: You can always recycle your appliances when you are buying a new one. Most big appliance stores will remove and recycle your old appliances. If they are still in working order you can call the Salvation Army for pickup: (888) 5 – PICKUP. You can also schedule a pickup online.
- Cars: Salvation Army will also accept donations of vehicles whether they are running or not. It’s a nice way to get a tax deduction!
- Clothing: Besides the usual donation sites, like Goodwill, you may want to get a little money for cute children’s clothes that you’re children have outgrown. Welcome to MoxieJean. It’s an online resale shop with very nice clothes. Whether you want to sell “like-new” items for cash, credit or a donation to the Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, you can get a free donation mailer bag to send to MoxieJean.
- Shoes: Kids go through so many shoes. Wouldn’t it be nice if it helped someone in need? Soles4Souls is a very special organization that brings shoes to those in need in Haiti, Costa Rica, Tanzania and other countries. Any shoes that aren’t donated to children are donated to local people to help create their own businesses.
- Books: Children go through so many books, as do their parents. There is a wonderful place to donate. Open Books is a non-profit organization that promotes literacy in the Chicago Public Schools. All proceeds from the bookstore go to fund these much needed programs. You can donate in person at 213 W. Institute Place near the Chicago and Franklin brown line stop. They are open everyday. Monday through Saturday 10am – 7pm and on Sundays from noon to 6pm.In case you decide to stick around, it is a very kid-friendly bookstore with a play area in the back.
I’ve just scratched the surface of the opportunities to recycle in Chicago. Luckily we have a lot of resources here.
Jessica Schanberg is a loving aunt to two nieces and a nephew. She has been a personal organizer and personal assistant for three years in the city of Chicago. She has a passion for organization and recycling. Find her at her website and @pixelpeony on Twitter.
