About us - the story behind PLOYS - Reducing Plastic Waste by Upcycling of Pool Inflatables

About PLOYS | Upcycling Pool Inflatables into Sustainable Waterproof Bags

PLOYS is an Australian social enterprise dedicated to recycling and upcycling discarded PVC pool inflatables into unique, sustainable and waterproof bags and accessories. Our mission is simple yet powerful: to reduce plastic waste by transforming unwanted pool toys into functional, long-lasting and eco-friendly designs.

PVC is one of the most problematic plastics on the planet, taking up to 1,000 years to decompose. At PLOYS, we see this durability as an opportunity — repurposing this strong material into beautifully crafted products that keep plastic out of landfill and waterways.

Our Mission: Turning Waste into Purpose

Through a clever ploy of re-design, PLOYS gives pool inflatables a second life as handmade waterproof bags, wet bags, handbags, toiletry bags, laptop sleeves and fashion pieces. Each product is thoughtfully designed to be practical, durable and one-of-a-kind, while actively supporting a circular economy.

As a not-for-profit focused social enterprise, sustainability and impact are at the heart of everything we do.

Meet the Makers Behind PLOYS

PLOYS is proudly run by husband and wife team Carin and Gerhard.

• Carin, an Occupational Therapist, cleans, cuts, designs and hand-makes each bag. Her professional background in adapting and redesigning for function naturally flows into creating products that are both practical and innovative.
• Gerhard, a Systems Architect, manages the IT, marketing and logistics, ensuring PLOYS runs smoothly behind the scenes.

We operate pool inflatable recycling bins with the support of community organisations, eco businesses  and locals who kindly offer a recycling point.

During busy periods, PLOYS is supported by two local mums, helping with sewing, keeping production local and community-focused.

How PLOYS Began

The idea for PLOYS was born in January 2020, beside our own backyard pool. Like many households, we had a growing pile of punctured or unused pool inflatables — toys that were “no longer played with” but felt wrong to throw away.

Knowing the environmental impact of PVC, we asked ourselves: How can we reuse this plastic instead of buying new?

The first creations were pencil cases and book bags made from our children’s old pool toys — a sustainable alternative to buying mass-produced stationery made from virgin plastic. The response was overwhelmingly positive, and PLOYS officially launched on 9 January 2020.

From there, our range expanded into swim bags, beach bags, wet bags and everyday accessories, and continues to grow today. We’ve even ventured into sustainable fashion, combining upcycled fabrics with PVC appliqué.

Watch this space — we’re constantly surprising ourselves with what waste can become.

A Community-Driven Circular Economy

PLOYS has grown into a community-powered recycling initiative. All of our PVC materials are donated by households across Australia, collected via local drop-off points, posted to us, or sourced through recycling partnerships with pool inflatable businesses.

By choosing PLOYS, you’re supporting:

• Plastic waste reduction
• Local, handmade production
• Ethical and sustainable design
• A circular economy for PVC materials

Become a PLOYSHERO

Have broken or unwanted PVC pool inflatables?

You can donate them to PLOYS, help divert plastic from landfill, and become a PLOYSHERO — as a thank you, you’ll receive a $10 PLOYS voucher. You can also post. to us for free through the SunnyLife recycle program.

Materials we recycle include clean and good quality PVC from pool inflatables, rubber boats and air mattresses. Our biggest project was taking on the challenge of repurposing a Great Barrier Reef Marine Rescue Life Raft and a huge Bouncy castle!  We don’t hesitate to take on a challenge! 💚♻️ please contact us if you have a large project for recycling.

Visit our Recycling Pool Inflatables page to learn how to recycle your pool inflatables with us.

Our Growing Sustainable Community

We’re proud to have built a strong and passionate community of like-minded Australians who care deeply about sustainability, waste reduction and choosing environmentally responsible, ethically made products. Join us in supporting our planet and passion for waste reduction, through email or social media. And join us in one of our beach clean up's!

PLOYS is recognised as a sustainable business and social enterprise and recommended by the Vinyl Council and an affiliated member of Global Plastic Pollution and Marine Litter ♻️

PLOYS is based in Bargara (Bundaberg) where we have our main studio and we also have a design base in Wooloongabba (Brisbane).

Every PLOYS piece tells a story — of reuse, creativity and positive impact.