How Do You Recycle Feed Sacks?

If you have chicken or horses, buying feed is almost second nature to you. But while it is necessary, it can be quite annoying when you eventually end up with tons of feed sacks on your property, especially when you’re trying to live sustainably.

So, can you recycle these bags? Can you reuse them? And if so how?

This is what we’re going to talk about in this article!

Can animal feed bags be recycled?

Since feed bags are usually made of woven polypropylene, they can be recycled.

How do you recycle feed sacks?

While feed sacks can easily be recycled, getting a facility that accepts them can be a challenge – you will have to check with your local authorities.

If you live in Australia though, you can use RedCycle bins. These can usually be found at Coles, Woolworths, and other big retail stores.

Are feed sacks biodegradable?

Since they are made from a type of plastic, feed sacks aren’t biodegradable. Currently, the only biodegradable feed sacks on the market were created by Cargill in 2020.

These sustainable bags are even compostable and made of food-grade materials.

What can I do with old feed sacks?

Apart from recycling old feed sacks, you can also reuse them. Some ways you can do this include:

1. As grow bags

If you need to grow some plants and don’t have any grow bags, feed sacks can be a good alternative.

All you have to do is make a few small holes at the bottom of the feed bag and then add then put some soil or compost inside.

Afterward, you can comfortably plant your potatoes or other vegetables inside it.

2. As totes

With a little bit of sewing knowledge, you can easily convert your feed sacks into reusable shopping bags.

All you have to do is wash and dry them then cut them up before stitching. Just remember to sew them inside out.

3. To store your hay

If you need to organize hay on your farm or easily move it from one place to another, you can use your old feed bags to hold it.

This is a great way to eliminate messes.

4. As a cover for your feed bucket

If you have a problem with grain spills or keeping critters from your pre-measured rations, old feed bags can come in handy.

Just cut a square piece of your feed bag that’s large enough to cover your bucket and then some.

Afterward, use twine to secure it on the bucket.

5. To protect your floor or surfaces

A great way to protect your floor is to cut your feed bags into small squares and then use them under your horse’s hooves whenever you’re oiling or blacking them.

Reuse and recycle

When it comes to dealing with old feed bags, the most sustainable option you have is to reuse them as much as you can then recycle.

Otherwise, you’ll have to throw them in the trash can, and nobody wants that!