Why You Should Skip Plastic Disposable Halloween Decorations

Why You Should Skip Plastic Disposable Halloween Decorations 

Halloween is one of the most fun and whimsical holiday’s to celebrate, with creepy costumes, pumpkins on doorsteps and spooky decorations everywhere.

But there’s a scary truth behind the fun: the environmental cost of disposable plastic decorations. Strands of fake spiderwebs stretched across bushes are a deadly trap for birds searching for food. 

Every year, millions of cheap plastic spiders, skeletons, and tombstones end up in bins after just a few days of use. Most of these decorations are made from non-recyclable plastics that break down into micro-plastics, harming wildlife, polluting oceans, and leaving behind waste that lingers for hundreds of years.

So, before you stock up on disposable cobwebs and inflatable ghouls, here’s why we should rethink buying annual plastic Halloween decorations:

 

1. They Create Mountains of Waste

Plastic tombstones, fake pumpkins and polyester spiderwebs are rarely made to last. Once they rip, fade or break, they go straight into landfills. Few people recycle their decorations but simply buy more each year. Unlike real pumpkins or natural materials, plastic doesn’t decompose, it just piles up in landfill. 

2. They Harm Wildlife

Loose synthetic cobwebs, holiday tinsel and small plastic trinkets can entangle birds feet, or be ingested by insects, and small animals. What we see as festive fun can be life-threatening for our local neighbourhood wildlife.

3. They Drain Resources

Producing disposable plastic decorations uses fossil fuels, water, and energy, all for an item designed to be used once and tossed away. It’s a huge environmental footprint for short-lived fun.

4. They Miss the Spirit of Creativity

Halloween has always been about imagination. Instead of buying mass-produced plastic, let’s can get crafty and resourceful at home! There are so many fun Halloween activities to do with your kids, carving pumpkins, making lanterns out recycled jars... reuse what’s in your recycling bin to craft your own bats out of cardboard, or create costumes and décor from found fabrics. Not only are these options more sustainable, they’re also unique and create amazing holiday memories to share with your kids.

5. They Cost More in the Long Run

Cheap plastic decorations seem budget-friendly, but if you’re re-buying every year, costs add up. Investing in reusable, sustainable pieces; likewooden decorations, fabric banners or DIY crafts saves money over time and reduces waste.

Sustainable Alternatives:

Instead of plastic disposables, try:

• Pumpkins, gourds, and squash - natural, compostable, perfect for carving or painting.

• Paper or cardboard crafts – bats, lanterns, and masks made from recycled paper.

• Fabric banners and flags – reusable for years to come.

• Glass jars with candles – easy DIY lanterns that look magical.

• Handmade props – one of a kind decorations with a story behind them.

 

Halloween fun does not need to cost the earth. By skipping disposable plastic decorations, we not only reduce waste but also embrace the true spirit of the holiday: creativity and spooky family fun.