Thinking Differently About Waste - what happens to your broken pool inflatables

Upcycling Pool Toys: How PLOYS Turns Waste into Sustainable Style

When summer hits, millions of inflatable pool toys appear across the globe. From giant unicorn floaties to bright swim rings, these PVC creations are a seasonal staple. But once the fun is over, most end up in landfill. Because pool toys are made of flexible PVC, valves, and mixed plastics, they cannot be recycled through mainstream systems. This means tonnes of colourful, once-loved inflatables become permanent waste each year.

The environmental impact is heavy: PVC doesn’t break down for centuries, it can leach harmful additives into the soil when buried under tons of waste, and it often fragments into microplastics that pollute waterways and harm wildlife. A product that might bring joy for just one summer leaves behind an environmental footprint that lasts lifetimes.

The PLOYS Solution  

This is where PLOYS steps in. Instead of allowing broken or unwanted pool inflatables to end up as waste, we rescue and upcycle them into high-quality handmade products.

Every inflatable we collect is carefully cleaned, cut, and slowly sewn into something new. What was once a punctured flamingo or pool raft becomes a sustainable, durable, and unique bag, purse, wallet, wash bag, or carry-all tote.

Because no two inflatables are the same, every PLOYS product is one-of-a-kind — bold colours, unexpected patterns, and playful textures make each piece a conversation starter.

Why Choose PLOYS Over Mass-Produced Products?

When you buy a PLOYS product, you’re not just purchasing a bag — you’re making a conscious choice to support sustainability and craftsmanship.

• Sustainable – Every piece diverts waste from landfill and reduces the need for virgin plastics.
• Slowly Made – Each bag is crafted with care, not churned out in industrial bulk.
• Quality Handmade – Strong stitching, durable waterproof PVC, and thoughtful design make products built to last.
• Better for the Environment – Instead of adding to plastic waste, you’re actively reducing it by giving inflatables a new life.
• Unique & Stylish – No two pieces are the same; each bag carries its own story of transformation.

Changing the Way We Think About Waste

PLOYS shows that fashion and function don’t have to cost the earth. By choosing handmade, sustainable alternatives over mass-produced, fast-fashion accessories, you’re proving that small decisions create big impact.

Every tote, wash bag, or purse made from upcycled pool inflatables is proof that waste can become something wonderful — practical, stylish, and good for the planet.

So next time you reach for a bag, choose one that carries more than just your belongings. Choose one that carries a story of recycling, sustainability, and hope for a cleaner future. Check out our products here