An old planner can be reused, recycled, donated, or repurposed into a craft. If it still has blank pages, do not toss it. Tear out the used parts and keep using the rest, or turn the whole thing into a notebook, journal, or scrapbook.
Planners pile up fast at the end of each year. Here is how to clear them out without just trashing usable paper.
Keep the Blank Pages
Most “finished” planners still have plenty of empty pages. Use them as a notebook for lists, a journal, a meal planner, or scratch paper by the phone. Many planners are undated, so you can simply keep going into the new year.
Save What Matters, Then Let Go
Before recycling, flip through and pull out anything you want to keep, like important dates, notes, or a meaningful memory. Snap photos of those pages so you have a record, then you can recycle the rest with a clear conscience.
Donate It
Teachers, classrooms, and after-school programs can use blank or lightly used planners and notebooks for students. Senior centers and community groups may want them too. Call first to see what they accept. This pairs well with clearing out old school supplies.
Repurpose It Into a Craft
- Turn it into a junk journal or scrapbook base
- Cut pages into gift tags, bookmarks, or note cards
- Use the cover and binding for a homemade notebook
- Save sticker sheets and pockets for other projects
How to Recycle a Planner
If it is full or worn out, recycle the paper. Remove any spiral binding, plastic cover, or elastic band first, since those parts usually cannot go in paper recycling. The inside pages then go in your paper bin. For the rest of the desk, our guides on old books and dictionaries and the declutter and recycle guide can help.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I do with unused planner pages?
Use them as a notebook, journal, meal planner, or scratch paper. Many planners are undated, so you can keep using them into the new year.
Can you recycle a planner?
Yes. Remove the spiral binding, plastic cover, and elastic first, then recycle the paper pages in your paper bin.
Where can I donate old planners?
Teachers, classrooms, after-school programs, and senior centers often welcome blank or lightly used planners and notebooks. Call ahead to check.
Should I keep my old planners?
Keep ones with sentimental notes or records you may need. Otherwise, photograph any important pages and recycle or repurpose the rest.