Let’s look at what you can do with an old tablet sleeve, what materials are more eco-friendly, and how to keep your tech protected without adding to landfill.
What Are Tablet Sleeves Made Of?
Tablet sleeves can be made from a wide range of materials, including:
- Neoprene
- Faux leather
- Polyester or nylon
- Felt (synthetic or wool blend)
- Cotton, canvas, or upcycled fabrics
The more synthetic a sleeve is, the harder it is to recycle. Mixed materials, bonded layers, padding, and coatings all make it difficult for standard textile recycling to handle.
Can You Recycle a Tablet Sleeve?
Most council recycling systems in the UK do not accept padded or mixed-material sleeves. However:
- Some textile recycling centres might accept fabric-only sleeves (e.g. 100% cotton).
- Neoprene and polyester sleeves often end up in landfill unless upcycled.
- Faux leather is rarely recyclable.
Check your local authority’s textile recycling guidelines or search for a nearby textile drop-off point. The UK’s Recycle Now campaign has a helpful tool for this—find out more here.
Eco-Friendly Alternatives
If you’re looking to buy a tablet sleeve and care about the environmental impact, here are some things to consider:
- Choose sleeves made from natural or repurposed fibres like cotton, linen, or rescued fabric.
- Avoid foam or plastic padding if possible.
- Look for one-of-a-kind or handmade options to avoid mass production.
- Buy from small makers who prioritise quality and low-waste processes.
At Watership Down Crafts, I make padded tablet sleeves from beautiful repurposed fabrics that were headed for landfill. Each one is one-of-a-kind and made to last. Browse the collection here.
Can You Reuse or Upcycle Old Tablet Sleeves?
Absolutely. Here are some ideas:
- Use it as a pencil case or to hold craft tools
- Repurpose it into a zip pouch or bag insert
- Turn the fabric into a patchwork or quilt block
- Donate it to a charity shop or local crafting group
If it’s damaged, you can still salvage zips, buttons, or outer fabric to use in other projects.
FAQs
Are tablet sleeves bad for the environment?
Mass-produced, synthetic ones can be. Choosing handmade or upcycled sleeves made from fabric is a lower-impact option.
Can I compost a fabric tablet sleeve?
Only if it’s made from 100% natural materials with no interfacing, thread, or zips—which is rare.
How do I know if my sleeve is recyclable?
Check the label and contact your local textile recycling service. Most mixed or padded sleeves can’t go in standard recycling.
What’s the greenest option?
Use what you already have, or choose a handmade fabric sleeve from rescued materials.
Are Watership Down Crafts sleeves eco-friendly?
They’re made from fabric that would otherwise be wasted, and every one is built to last—so yes, they’re a more eco-friendly option than mass-produced plastic sleeves.
