How to Recycle Old Trophies: 3 Ways to Give Them a New Life
Trophies are symbols of proud moments, big wins, hard work, or even funny inside jokes.
But over time, they can pile up on shelves, gather dust in storage bins, or break in a move. So what do you do when you're no longer displaying them but don’t want just to throw them away?
The good news is: recycling old trophies is easier and more meaningful than you might think.
Whether you're clearing space or just want to be more eco-conscious, here are three simple ways to give those old awards a second chance.
1. Donate Them for Reuse
Believe it or not, there are organizations and local shops that want your old trophies.
Nonprofits, schools, and youth sports programs often accept gently used awards.
Some trophy shops will even refurbish them, replacing the engraving plate and repurposing the base or figure.
Where to look:
Local thrift stores or donation centers
School or park district athletic programs
Charities like Awards Mall or Total Awards & Promotions (some accept mail-ins)
If the trophy’s in decent shape and the design is flexible (like a generic figure or column trophy), this option is a win-win; it clears your space and makes someone else’s day.
2. Break Them Down and Recycle the Parts
Most trophies are made from a combination of plastic, metal, and wood or marble. While they can’t be tossed straight into your curbside recycling bin, you can take them apart and sort the materials.
Here’s how:
Unscrew the components
Separate the metal from the plastic (check for recycling codes)
Recycle what you can at your local facility
Safely dispose of or reuse what’s left (like the base)
It takes a bit more effort, but if you're serious about sustainable living, recycling old trophies this way helps reduce waste and gives the materials a shot at a new life.
3. Get Creative and Repurpose Them
Feeling crafty? Turn old trophies into something fun or functional:
Create a trophy lamp for a game room or man cave
Make custom “fun awards” for office parties or family game nights
Build a memory shelf with old award parts, ticket stubs, and photos
Use the bases as bookends or display stands for other memorabilia
Repurposing gives you a way to honor the memory without keeping clutter. Plus, it's a great conversation starter.
Let Your Old Wins Inspire New Ones
Just because a trophy’s time on your shelf is up doesn’t mean its story is over.
Whether you donate, recycle, or repurpose, recycling old trophies is a simple way to pass the torch, literally and symbolically.
At Trophy Deals, we love helping people celebrate life’s moments. And when you’re ready to create new memories, we’re here with affordable, fully customizable trophies that are just as meaningful as the ones you’re prepared to retire!