- 1Clean and condition leather if possible
- 2Check for significant damage or wear
- 3Remove any non-leather components when possible
- 4Consider professional repair for valuable items
- 5Research specific brand take-back programs
- Luxury consignment shops
- Leather repair shops
- Specialized leather recyclers
- High-end thrift stores
Quality leather goods often have high resale value. Leather can be ground into new products or processed into gelatin for industrial use.
Extending leather product life maximizes the environmental cost of leather production. Leather recycling recovers valuable protein materials.
- Professional restoration
- Repurpose into smaller items
- Craft projects
- Pet accessories
Accepted
- Leather jackets and coats
- Leather handbags and purses
- Leather belts and accessories
- Leather shoes and boots
- Leather furniture items
- Vintage leather goods
Not Accepted
- Faux leather or synthetic leather items
- Heavily damaged leather beyond repair
- Leather contaminated with harmful chemicals
- Patent leather with plastic coatings
Estimated value: $2-10 per pound for leather recycling; $25-500+ for quality leather goods
Donation
- The RealReal
- Vestiaire Collective
- Local luxury consignment shops
- Crossroads Trading
Manufacturer/Retail Take‑Back
Is it worth repairing leather goods before disposal?
Often yes! Quality leather items can be restored and have significant resale value. Get repair estimates first.
Can all types of leather be recycled?
Genuine leather yes, but faux leather and heavily treated leather may not be accepted by recyclers.
What happens to recycled leather?
Ground into new leather products, processed for gelatin production, or used in composite materials.