What to Do With Old Campaign Signs: Reuse Ideas and Responsible Disposal Options

Old campaign signs can pile up fast after an election or event, leaving many people wondering what to do with them. Instead of throwing these custom yard signs away and filling up landfills, there are several smart ways to extend their usefulness and handle them responsibly. Whether you want to reuse, repurpose, or dispose of your old campaign signs, there are practical options that help reduce waste and benefit your community.

What Are Old Campaign Signs Made Of?

Most campaign yard signs are made from 4mm corrugated plastic, also called coroplast. This material is popular because it's lightweight, weatherproof, and sturdy enough to withstand the outdoors for months. Corrugated plastic is not biodegradable, which is why sustainable disposal is important. Custom signs from Legit Fast Printing are designed for durability, making them easy to repurpose or recycle.

Why and How to Reuse Old Campaign Signs

Reusing campaign signs helps keep plastic out of the landfill while saving money on new signage for future events. The smooth, sturdy surface of yard signs makes them ideal for creative and practical reuse. Here are straightforward ways to put old signs to work:

• Event Directionals: Flip the old sign around and use the blank side for new messages like "Parking" or "Restrooms" at community events, church gatherings, or school activities.
• Yard Sale or Garage Sale Signs: Cover old campaign graphics with a poster board or adhesive vinyl, then write your sale details. These weatherproof signs last through rainy weekends.
• Garden and Plant Markers: Cut signs into strips with scissors. Use these as labels for garden beds, potted plants, or even backyard projects. The waterproof plastic outlasts cardboard or paper tags.
• School Donations: PTAs, sports teams, and local teachers often need blank or reusable signs for events. Clean and donate gently used signs after an election.
• Workshop Projects: Corrugated plastic is handy for DIY jobs—like stencils for painting, lightweight barriers in workshops, or even as drawer dividers.
• Kids’ Crafts and Learning Tools: Let children decorate the back of old signs with paint, tape, or stickers and use them for indoor games or learning activities.
• Temporary Shelters or Barriers: Contractors and small businesses use old signs for temporary fencing, paint shields, or to block off areas in busy spaces.

Ordering the Right Size, Material, and Quantity of Yard Signs

Most campaign and event signs are ordered in standard sizes such as 18 x 24 inches or 12 x 18 inches. Choose a size that fits your visibility needs:

• 18 x 24 inches: Best for roadways, busy intersections, or when you need your message seen from a distance.
• 12 x 18 inches or 12 x 9 inches: Ideal for neighborhood campaigns, community information, or door-front announcements.

Selection of size and quantity depends on factors like traffic speed, the number of locations, and your campaign reach. For reference, neighborhood campaigns may start with 25–50 signs, while wider efforts might require 100 or more. If you need guidance, the team at Legit Fast Printing can help with recommendations based on your specific situation.

Best Materials for Durable, Reusable Yard Signs

Corrugated plastic (coroplast) is the industry standard for reusable yard signs. It's durable, weather-resistant, and easy to clean so it can be used multiple times. All custom yard signs from Legit Fast Printing are printed on thick, 4mm coroplast using weatherproof inks to ensure long outdoor life. This makes them perfect for repurposing or donating after your campaign or event.

Tips for Safe and Effective Placement

Proper placement increases your sign’s impact while minimizing waste. Here are a few pointers:

• Place at eye-level or just below so drivers and passersby see your message clearly.
• Keep signs at least 5–10 feet apart for readability in high-traffic areas.
• Avoid obstructing sidewalks, driveways, or visibility at intersections.
• If you plan to reuse, avoid permanent adhesives or mounting methods that could damage the sign.

Responsible Disposal Options for Old Yard Signs

When signs have outlived their useful life, responsible disposal keeps plastic waste in check. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Check Local Recycling Guidelines
   Search your city’s recycling website or contact your waste service. Some curbside programs accept #5 PP plastics (which many coroplast signs are made from), but this varies by location.
2. Remove All Metal Hardware
   Take out the H-stakes or frames. Recycle metal hardware with your other metal or scrap recycling.
3. Clean the Signs
   Wipe off any dirt, tape, or stickers before recycling. Clean signs are more likely to be accepted by recycling centers.
4. Bring to a Drop-Off Center
   Many local transfer stations, hardware stores, or specialized plastic recyclers can accept coroplast. Sites like Earth911.com allow you to search by material and ZIP code.
5. Landfill Only as a Last Resort
   If recycling isn’t available, break down the signs to reduce bulk before discarding. Always try reuse and donation first.

For more about environmentally sustainable options for signage, see our related guide: Are Yard Signs Recyclable? A Practical Guide to More Sustainable Sign Choices.

Donation and Trade-In Ideas

Not sure what to do with a big batch of old campaign or event signs? Try dropping them off at local schools, theater groups, or nonprofit organizations. Many groups use blank signs for art projects, event notices, or field days. If the signs are still in good condition, clean them and notify local groups through social media.

Additionally, Legit Fast Printing offers occasional trade-in programs where customers can email photos of their old signs and receive discounts on their next custom yard sign order. Ask our support team if you’re interested!

How to Order Yard Signs Built for Reuse

When planning for an upcoming campaign or event, think about how the signs can be reused later. Choose simple, bold designs and consider ordering some signs with blank backs for easy repurposing. At Legit Fast Printing, you can order double-sided yard signs, request custom sizes, and upload your own designs. We also include H-stakes with every order for easy ground setup.

Best Practices for Custom Printed Yard Signs

• Choose the right size for your message and location. For drive-by traffic, 18 x 24 inches is often best.
• Use weather-resistant materials, like corrugated plastic, for durability and easy cleaning.
• Opt for bold, simple designs. High contrast and large font sizes make signs readable from a distance.
• Reuse signs by planning generic wording or using the back for new events.
• Order in bulk for cost savings and future reuse opportunities. Many customers find that ordering extra is useful for last-minute events or changes.
• Contact us for free design help after you order—our team at Legit Fast Printing can assist with layout and clarity.

If you want more tips on yard sign design, check out our blog on campaign yard sign design mistakes and how to fix them fast.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Summary

Old campaign and event signs don’t have to become landfill waste. With durable custom yard signs from Legit Fast Printing, you gain the flexibility to reuse, repurpose, or donate as needed. Always start by looking for reuse opportunities. When disposal is necessary, check your local recycling options and clean the signs to ensure proper processing. If you’re ready for new signage, visit our homepage to order custom printed yard signs and get expert help every step of the way.