Pool Noodles Garbage Bin Not Recyclable Pool noodles are made of polyethylene foam, which is difficult to recycle. Fold or Cut the Noodle Since pool noodles can be long, cut or fold them in half to fit in your garbage receptacle. Ways to Reuse Upcycle into Toys, Crafts, or Household Hacks Old pool noodles have many uses, upcycle them into toys or crafts for your kids or repurpose them into household upgrades. Check out this post by Home Hacks for some neat ideas. Did You Know? Pool Noodle History The pool noodle was originally invented for use in construction before it was ever thrown in a pool. Read more about how the pool noodle began.