Plastic vs. Wood: Toys & Playsets

ChiShanona

Hi there EFFs!   My DD's 1st bday is coming up and while making a wish list for her I came across some really cool playhouses and wagons, and a few items which are made from recycled materials or are dubbed eco-friendly.  I was wondering what insight you all might have on the subject.  Is there a way of recycling those plastic houses, kitchens, etc. when/if it breaks or you decide you don't want it anymore?  I know they can last forever as hand me downs.  But what about when someone decides they just can't use it anymore?

What about the new wooden trend?  Can you throw wood in the recycling bin?  Is it as durable as the plastic stuff?

TIA for your input!

Poonico

I would go for wool, or metal in the case of the wagon

Plastic is just so chalk full of chemicals and takes so much to produce in comparison.  Plus worst case scenario, you can burn it if it becomes total junk.

Lotte134

Well, my general philosophy is to buy used whenever possible and then turn around and resell or freecycle when I'm done.  I do prefer wood to plastic in most cases, but used is more EF, in my opinion, so that trumps everything.

daisyterp

We have a wood table and chair set for DD and the ILs gave us a plastic picnic table for her that they got for free from someone.

If you don't mind giving your LO something that's 2nd hand try looking on Craigslist or even ask for something on freecycle.  I feel like people are always selling or off-loading these things as their kids get too big for them. 

Ris1127

I do like wood over plastic but it seems that DD has a ton of plastic toys. Most of which were from my 2 neice's so even though they are plastic 2nds are more EFF to me. If I was buying new I would buy wood or cloth of some sort. HTH

Ris1127

You can recycle the larger plastic toys just where I'm at I have to drop it off at the recycling plant. I would just check with your local recycling hub.