10 Things to Recycle That You Never Thought You Could

1. Vintage doorknobs, radiators, windows and mantels: Donate or sell these architectural components to restoration projects.
2. Toothbrushes: Some companies, such as Recycline, manufacturer their toothbrushes from yogurt containers. Return each worn-out brush in a postage-paid envelope and it will be remade into plastic lumber.
3. Foam packaging: Packaging made from expanded polystyrene contains 25 to 100 percent recycled material.
4. Sneakers: Nike’s Reuse-a-Shoe program turns used athletic footwear into a material called Nike Grind, which is used to surface playgrounds, running tracks, and outdoor courts.
5. Toys: Ask local homeless shelters if they accept used toys.
6. Wine corks: Yemm & Hart, which produces recycled building materials, turns used corks into floor and wall tiles.
7. Motor oil: Recycled motor oil can be used as a lubricant or fuel.
8. Formal dresses: Charities like Chicago’s Glass Slipper Project accept donated gowns, shoes and purses to provide free prom wear to low-income teens.
9. Eyeglasses, frames and cases: The Lions Club and Give the Gift of Sight Foundation collect used eyeglasses for needy people around the world.
10. Computers, cell phones and other e-waste: Staples, Office Depot and Best Buy offer in-store e-waste recycling. Best Buy also recycles used appliances. Dell, Toshiba and Sony lead the way in recycling computer products.