Summary:
Learn how to recycle the packaging your Hunter Douglas shade arrived in, and what to do when it’s time to dispose of an old shade, motor, or battery.
Applies To:
Hunter Douglas Window Coverings
Recycling Packaging Materials
1. Cardboard Boxes
2. Plastic Straps
3. Plastic Wraps and Films
4. Foam Inserts
Recycling or Disposing of Shades
5. Manual Shades
6. Motorized Shades
7. Battery-Powered Shades
Helpful Tips
8. Follow Local Recycling Rules
9. Help Your Installer or Team Stay Informed
10. Reuse and Donation Ideas
Cardboard Boxes
Hunter Douglas shades are packed in corrugated cardboard to protect them during shipping.
How to recycle: Flatten boxes and place them in your curbside recycling bin
Before you recycle: Remove staples or packing tape if your local program requires it
Plastic Straps
Some boxes are secured with plastic shipping straps (usually labeled with recycling code #5).
How to recycle: Not curbside—drop them off at locations that accept rigid plastics
Tip: If you’re a retailer or installer, these can be reused for securing returns or supplies
Plastic Wraps and Films
You might find clear plastic wrap or film around your shade or hardware.
How to recycle: These aren’t accepted curbside in most areas, but many grocery stores have bins for plastic bag recycling (recycling code #4)
Foam Inserts
Foam end caps or inserts may be used to protect shades in transit.
How to recycle: Foam isn’t accepted in curbside bins in most areas. Check for local foam recycling centers or reuse when possible
Note: Hunter Douglas is actively exploring more sustainable packaging alternatives
Manual Shades
Non-motorized shades include a mix of materials:
Metal parts (frames/tubes): Usually made from aluminum or steel—widely recyclable
Fabric: May not be recyclable, but can often be donated to reuse centers or used for craft projects
Plastic parts: These are often mixed materials and may not be accepted in regular recycling
Motorized Shades
Motorized shades include electronics that require special handling.
How to recycle: Treat the motor like electronic waste (e-waste)
What to do: Bring it to a local e-waste collection site or community recycling event
Installer tip: If you handle large volumes, consider partnering with a local e-waste recycling vendor
Battery-Powered Shades
Some Hunter Douglas shades use lithium-ion rechargeable batteries.
Important: These batteries must not be thrown in the trash or regular recycling—they are a fire risk if they are improperly disposed of.
How to recycle: Take used batteries to a certified battery recycling center or participating retailer (e.g., Home Depot, Best Buy)
Follow Local Recycling Rules
Every city and county has different recycling guidelines. Check with your local waste management provider to confirm what can go in your curbside bin and what needs to be taken elsewhere.
Help Your Installer or Team Stay Informed
If you’re a dealer, installer, or service rep, knowing what can be recycled helps you confidently answer questions and support your customers. A quick review of this article before a visit can go a long way.
Reuse and Donation Ideas
If your shade or parts of it are still in good condition:
Donate: Fabric or hardware may be useful to local schools, artists, or reuse centers
Repurpose: Consider creative uses for leftover materials (e.g., crafts, pet shelters, garden shade, etc.)