Over time, even the most durable backyard playground equipment begins to show signs of wear. Whether your children have outgrown their swing set or the structure has aged beyond safe use, the question arises: what to do with old playground equipment? Instead of letting it sit unused or deteriorate in your yard, there are several ways to repurpose, recycle, donate, or responsibly dispose of outdated play structures. In this guide, we’ll walk through the most effective options for handling old playground gear — from creative reuse to eco-friendly disposal — so you can reclaim your space and make a positive impact in the process.

Assessing the Condition

Before deciding what to do with old playground equipment, assess its current condition. Is the frame still structurally sound? Are the swings or slides usable, or have they become brittle, rusted, or broken? Some equipment may be too damaged for continued play but may still have parts worth saving or reusing. Others might be perfect candidates for donation or resale.

If you’re unsure about safety, look for obvious issues such as cracked wood, rusted chains, frayed ropes, or missing hardware. Even if the main frame is stable, unsafe accessories should be replaced before any donation or repurposing.

Option 1: Donate to a Family, School, or Community Group

One of the best things to do with used playground equipment in decent shape is to donate it. Local families, daycares, churches, or nonprofits often welcome play structures that still have life left in them. Donating gives your equipment a second chance and helps others who might not be able to afford a brand-new set.

Before donating, clean the equipment thoroughly, remove any hazards, and make sure all parts are included. You may also want to include the original instructions if available. Many families are happy to pick up used swing sets themselves, especially if you can help disassemble or load the parts.

Option 2: Sell or List for Free Online

If you’re looking to recoup some value from your old swing set or play structure, consider selling it online. Marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and neighborhood apps often have high interest in gently used playground sets.

Price depends on brand, age, and condition, but even older sets often find buyers — especially if they’re from a reputable manufacturer or include desirable accessories. If the set is no longer safe but still contains valuable parts like slides, climbing walls, or swings, you can list those separately.

Alternatively, listing the equipment as “free if you haul” can speed up removal and help you avoid the hassle of dismantling it yourself.

Option 3: Repurpose or Upcycle Parts

For families who enjoy DIY projects, old playground equipment can be a treasure trove of usable materials. Slides can be turned into garden ramps or used in dog agility courses. Swing chains, climbing ropes, and wooden panels can be transformed into rustic furniture, trellises, or unique outdoor decor.

Some creative homeowners even turn old tower structures into sheds, treehouse frames, or garden forts. Repurposing saves money, keeps materials out of landfills, and offers a fun way to preserve the memories attached to your swing set.

Option 4: Recycle Responsibly

If your playground equipment is no longer safe or usable, recycling is an environmentally friendly option. Most wooden sets can be disassembled, with the wood repurposed or chipped. Make sure to check if the wood is pressure-treated, stained, or painted, as some finishes may limit recycling eligibility.

Metal parts such as chains, bolts, or steel frames can typically be taken to a local scrap metal facility. Plastic components — especially heavy-duty molded slides — are harder to recycle, but some specialized centers may accept them if they’re clean and labeled with the appropriate resin code.

Call your local recycling center in advance to ask which components they accept and whether any prep work is needed.

Option 5: Schedule Bulk Trash or Junk Removal

When equipment is beyond saving or too large to transport, your municipality’s bulk pickup service or a private junk removal company can help. Many cities offer scheduled large-item pickups, especially in the spring or fall. Contact your local sanitation department to inquire about rules, scheduling, and fees.

Private junk removal services, while more costly, offer convenience — they’ll handle the heavy lifting, dismantling, and disposal for you. Some companies even sort items for recycling as part of the service.

Plan Ahead for Future Play Spaces

Clearing out old playground equipment opens the door for something new. Whether it’s upgrading to a modern swing set, building a family garden, or adding a shed or patio, reclaiming your yard space gives you more flexibility.

At Kids World Play Systems, we help families make that transition. From high-quality, customizable swing sets to safe surfacing and basketball hoops, we offer everything you need to build the next stage of outdoor fun. Our team also helps customers navigate removals, upgrades, and proper site prep — so your next investment is built to last.

Conclusion

So, what should you do with old playground equipment? It depends on its condition, your goals, and how much effort you’re willing to put into the process. From donating or selling to recycling and repurposing, there are many responsible and even creative options. What matters most is making sure the structure is handled safely and thoughtfully — whether that means passing it on to another family or transforming it into something completely new.

With a little planning, you can give your swing set a new chapter and set the stage for a fresh outdoor vision that grows with your family.