- 1Inspect all equipment for safety and structural integrity
- 2Disassemble large equipment for easier transport
- 3Clean all surfaces thoroughly
- 4Check for recalls or safety issues
- 5Remove any damaged or unsafe components
- 6Take photos for resale or donation listings
- 7Save assembly instructions if available
- Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist for resale
- Daycare centers and preschools
- Community centers with children's programs
- Metal scrap yards (for metal components)
- Habitat for Humanity ReStore locations
- Churches and religious organizations with children's programs
Safety is paramount with playground equipment - never donate unsafe or recalled items. Metal components have scrap value. Many families are interested in quality used equipment.
Playground equipment reuse extends product lifecycles and provides affordable recreation options for families. Metal components can be recycled, and plastic parts may have limited recycling options.
- Sell working equipment through online marketplaces
- Donate to families or organizations with children
- Scrap metal components at recycling centers
- Repurpose materials for garden or home projects
- Check with schools for educational or therapeutic use
Accepted
- Swing sets and swing components
- Trampolines and safety nets
- Playhouses and play structures
- Slides and climbing equipment
- Sandbox and sandbox toys
- Outdoor ride-on toys and equipment
Not Accepted
- Equipment with structural damage or safety hazards
- Recalled playground equipment
- Equipment missing essential safety components
- Rusty or corroded metal equipment
- Equipment that doesn't meet current safety standards
Estimated value: $50-500+ for complete, safe equipment; metal components worth $0.50-1.00 per pound as scrap
Donation
- Local daycares and preschools
- Community centers
- Churches with children's programs
- Therapeutic recreation programs
- Lead paint on older equipment (pre-1978)
- Chromated copper arsenate (CCA) in older wood structures
- Weathering chemicals in some plastic components
How do I know if playground equipment is safe to donate?
Check for structural integrity, current safety standards compliance, and recall status. If you have any doubts about safety, it's better to recycle the materials rather than risk someone's safety.
Can I sell playground equipment that needs minor repairs?
Yes, if you're transparent about the needed repairs and they don't affect safety. Many buyers are willing to do minor maintenance on quality equipment.