GreenGuardian.com is now RethinkRecycling.com
In 2005, Minnesotans discarded approximately 180,000 tons of carpet. There are several options to consider for disposing of old carpet. Today the best alternative to disposal is to reuse old carpet when new carpet isn't required.
Buy Recycled
To encourage recycling, buy carpet and padding made from post-consumer
recycled materials. Ask your carpet dealer for more information.
New Alternatives
Consider using carpet squares as an alternative. When an area is worn or damaged the area can easily be replaced with new squares.Breathe Easier
New carpet typically releases emissions, a process known as off-gassing. To reduce these emissions, look for carpeting that meets the standards for indoor air quality established by the Carpet and Rug Institute. When carpet is installed, completely air out your home for at least two days.
- Reuse carpet for floors in cars, trucks, boats, fishing houses, cabins and utility rooms.
- Post your used carpet on the Twin Cities Free Market, an online listing service for residents who want to give or get free reusable goods for their home, garage or garden.
- Use the classified ads to buy or sell used carpet.
Many landfills/transfer stations accept carpet for disposal for a fee. Click here to find one in your area.
- Your waste hauler may accept carpet and padding for disposal. Call first for potential fees and material preparation requirements.
- When purchasing new carpet, ask the installer about reuse, recycling or disposal options for the old carpet.
For more information on properly disposing of carpet and padding, contact your county.
Recycling paper doesn’t just save trees! Production of recycled paper uses 80 percent less water, 65 percent less energy and produces 95 percent less air pollution than paper production using raw materials.
