Got a Graveyard of Stanley Tumblers? Here’s What You Can Do With Your Old Ones

Stanley tumblers are a cultural phenomenon, and a rare hit with teens, social media influencers, and older adults alike. In fact, Stanley’s annual sales reportedly skyrocketed from $75 million to $750 million in 2023 after the tumblers exploded in popularity on social media.

Many Stanley fans have built up collections featuring different colors and sizes. And, with the brand regularly rolling out new patterns and shades, it’s understandable to want to make more room in your cupboard at some point. That raises a big question: What should you do with your old Stanley tumblers?

Stainless steel, which is a big ingredient in Stanley tumblers, is usually a recyclable material. But these tumblers also contain a concealed lead pellet, posing even more questions. So, can you actually recycle your Stanley cups or is it better to donate them? Here’s what you need to know.

Can you recycle Stanley tumblers?

Yes and no. Stanley tumblers can be recycled, according to Krista Ulatowski, senior marketing and PR manager for Stanley. However, it’s not as simple as tossing your tumbler in your recycling bin, according to an industry expert.

Stainless steel tumblers are not usually successfully recycled in a curbside program due to the material that they’re made of, which can’t be sorted with other types of steel (like steel cans). But these tumblers can be recycled — just not the conventional way.

Related: The 10 Best Recycling Bins for Every Kitchen

“When your Stanley has finally reached the end of its road, don’t toss it,” Ulatowski says. “Look up metal recycling centers in your area. They can handle materials like stainless steel that curbside recycling can’t.”

Does Stanley have its own recycling program?

Stanley doesn’t have its own recycling program where you could drop off your old tumblers. However, the brand is big on sustainability and uses recycled and upcycled materials in its products. Stanley has committed to making at least 50% of its stainless steel products from recycled materials.

However, if you’re talking about tumblers in general, Hydro Flask does have a recycling program. So, if you’re the owner of a Hydro Flask you no longer need or use, you can simply ship it back to the company for a $5 promotion code to use toward future purchases.

Can you donate your Stanley tumbler?

There’s no reason not to donate your Stanley tumbler if you’re done with it. “If you're not using your Stanley anymore, think about giving it to a friend, family member, or donating it to a local charity,” Ulatowski says. “This keeps it out of the trash and gives it a new life.”

Organizations like The Salvation Army and Goodwill will usually take your used tumblers, provided they’re still in decent condition. If you’re out of cupboard space but don’t really want to part with your tumbler, you can also consider upcycling it into something new, like a utensil holder, toothbrush holder, or plant vessel.

Ultimately, if you have a tumbler at home that you no longer want but would prefer to dispose of responsibly, consider donating it or dropping it off at a metal recycling center in your area. 

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