The Truth About Inflatable Hot Tubs: Pros, Cons and Safety Concerns

Unless you have access to a gym or apartment complex with a hot tub, it’s likely that you probably don’t own one. First and foremost, they are expensive, but more importantly, they can take up a lot of space which can be problematic for those with space constraints.

For some people, the thought of using an inflatable hot tub is enticing because it can help relax and unwind after a long day, but are they actually worth it?

Ahead, we spoke with a plumbing expert about all things related to inflatable hot tubs from price and materials to whether or not you it’s worth investing in one.

What Is an Inflatable Hot Tub?

According to Steven Bahbah, managing director of Service First Plumbing, an inflatable hot tub is a portable spa typically made of multi-layered, durable PVC or vinyl material with rigid walls capable of containing hot water pressure.

“Being soft-sided, you can deflate and store it if you are space-challenged or would like to only use it for part of the year,” he says. “The shell is designed to be puncture-resistant, yet it is comfortable to sit in.”

How Much Do Inflatable Hot Tubs Cost?

The price of an inflatable hot tub can vary based on the size, material and brand. “Depending on the brand and size, you’ll pay somewhere between $400 and $1,500,” Bahbah says. “If you find one under $400, beware, it may not hold up or heat well.”

The price of an inflatable hot tub may also vary on where you are buying from. For example, you might be able to find more savings at a place like Walmart compared to a specialty store.

How Long Do Inflatable Hot Tubs Last?

The longevity of an inflatable hot tub depends on how well it’s maintained, the material it is made from and how often it is used. In general, they last approximately two to five years in most circumstances. “That is, if you take care of it, keep it clean, keep it out of the sun, and keep it off of rough surfaces,” says Bahbah.

Are Inflatable Hot Tubs Safe?

According to Bahbah, inflatable hot tubs are safe. “From a safety standpoint, they’re insulated so the water never actually touches the heat and cannot burn you,” he says. “It’s safe as long as you are using the manual and it’s plugged into a GFCI outlet.”

Inflatable Hot Tub Pros and Cons

Pros

• Portable

• Easy to set up

• Less expensive

Cons

• Slower to heat

• More susceptible to environmental damage

• Less powerful jets (if any)

Inflatable Hot Tubs: Should I Get One?

Whether or not you should get an inflatable hot tub is up to you, but you may want to think about getting one if you don’t have the space for a traditional one, have the capacity to care and maintain it, or are looking for a more affordable option that won’t cost you thousands.

On the flipside, if you live in place with strict rules like an HOA or other community or perhaps are looking for something spa-grade and more fancy, then you likely won’t be satisfied with an inflatable hot tub.

FAQ

Do inflatable hot tubs naturally lose air?

Yes, similar to an inflatable pool or an air mattress, inflatable hot tubs naturally lose air. This happens often with temperature changes so you’ll want to be sure to top it off every few days, according to Bahbah.

How do you clean an inflatable hot tub?

To clean an inflatable hot tub Bahbah recommends rinsing the filters weekly, periodically changing the water every few weeks and adding chemical products such as chlorine or bromine to prevent bacteria from developing.

How does an inflatable hot tub stay hot?

As you can imagine, the ability for an inflatable hot tub to stay hot greatly depends on the weather outside.

Aside from that, heating is handled by an electric heater and an insulated cover. “It takes longer than a hard-shell spa, maybe 12 to 24 hours to reach full temperature,” says Bahbah.

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• Think Adirondack Chairs Are Uncomfortable? You’re Using Them Wrong 
• Why You Shouldn’t Crush Aluminum Cans Before Recycling 

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Curtains Open vs. Closed: Which Is Better to Combat Summer Heat?

With summer in full swing, you might be looking for ways to maintain a comfortable temperature at home without driving up your electric bill. While turning off the lights or closing the blinds may come to mind when thinking about controlling the temperature, you shouldn’t overlook the power of keeping your curtains open or closed as needed.

That said, we tapped energy efficiency experts and interior designers to share insights on whether you should keep curtains open or closed in the summer and winter, as well as how you can maneuver them to achieve your desired home temperature. They also share what types of curtains (and materials) work best depending on the season.

Do Curtains Impact the Temperature in Your Home?

Yes, curtains do impact the temperature in your home. “[Curtains work] by blocking loss of heat in the winter and blocking gain of heat in the summer,” says Chris Walters, owner and director of The Training Center of Air Conditioning & Heating.

That said, there are a couple of nuances to consider regarding how your curtains impact the temperature in your home, such as their placement (whether you keep the curtains open or closed), the time of day, and the positioning of the windows they’re on.

Should You Keep Your Curtains Opened or Closed in the Summer?

You should aim to keep your curtains closed on the windows where the sun is strongest at various points throughout the day to maintain coolness. “In the summer, you would want to close the east-facing drapes in the morning and then close the west-facing window drapes in the late afternoon in an effort to keep the solar rays out,” says Walters.

Should You Keep Your Curtains Opened or Closed in the Winter?

“To keep a home warm in the winter, draperies can be kept open during the brightest part of the day so that any warmth available from the sun can penetrate the glass and help heat the home, while closing them at night can help insulate the home from cold drafts,” says Lindsay Boudreaux, interior designer and founder of Shotgun Double Interior Design. .

FAQ

Does the type of curtains matter when it comes to the temperature in your home?

Yes, the type of curtains you have in your home can impact the temperature. “Light-colored curtains will reflect light back out the window, so that would be great for summer; however, dark curtains might be best in the winter because they will absorb heat from the sunlight,” explains Walters.

Regardless of whether you keep the curtains opened or closed, their materials can contribute to the temperature in your home. “Curtains made from materials like cotton, velvet, or those with a thermal backing offer the best insulation,” says Sarah Jacquelyn Schwuchow, owner and principal interior designer of Sarah Jacquelyn Interiors. “In contrast, sheer or unlined curtains provide minimal protection.”

Furthermore, Walters notes that the size of your curtains can impact their effectiveness when it comes to maintaining temperature. “You are going to get more benefit from heavier curtains with the floor-to-ceiling helping the most because they cover more wall surface as well,” he says.

About the Experts

• Chris Walters is the owner and director of The Training Center of Air Conditioning & Heating.
• Lindsay Boudreaux is an NCIDQ-certified interior designer and founder of Shotgun Double Interior Design.
• Sarah Jacquelyn Schwuchow, ASID, NCIDQ, WELL AP, RID, is the owner and principal interior designer of Sarah Jacquelyn Interiors.

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Upgrade Your Shower With These 8 Gorgeous Tile Design Ideas

Dark Drama

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Dark colors are dominating in the design world, and shower tile is no exception. The dark, emerald green tile in this shower from @theflairhunter makes a big statement, and is an easy way to bring drama to a small space. The green pairs well with the small-scale black and white floor tile, which adds just the right amount of contrast.

What We Like About It: “Tile drenching is gorgeous, but for aging eyes or users with limited visibility, high contrast between floor and walls is safer and more practical,” says bathroom expert Amy Wasserman.

Large Scale Tile

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Large-scale tile, like the one in this shower from @california_home_center, gives the illusion of one big marble slab, elevating the entire look of the bathroom for a fraction of the price. The gray veining adds subtle interest and elegance.

What We Like About It: “Large format tile can create a seamless, monolithic effect,” says Wasserman, “And fewer grout lines mean less visual interruption and easier maintenance.”

Playful Pattern

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With all the available colors, textures and styles, tile is a great opportunity to take a risk, especially in a playful space like a kids’ bathroom. The geometric tile in this shower and bath combo from @livdendesigns is full of retro charm, and the gold fixtures are like jewels, providing the perfect finishing touch.

What We Like About It: This Terrazzo tile (called Petals Tile from Livden) is a great eco-friendly choice because it’s made from 65% recycled material!

Checkerboard

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To get a high-end look on a budget, steal this idea from @studiofantoush. The gorgeous checkerboard pattern was created with simple and affordable porcelain tiles. With just two colors and some creativity with the installation, this shower is a total showstopper!

What We Like About It: “My personal favorite is porcelain tile. It is versatile and durable,” says bathroom and plumbing expert Steven Bahbah, “It can elevate the entire bathroom to a more high-end, classic feeling space without the maintenance of real stone.”

Glossy Blue

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This beautiful shower from @kimberlyparkerdesign features glossy blue tile in a vertical stack pattern. The high gloss finish bounces light around the room, while the vertical layout leads the eye up to make the space feel taller.

What We Like About It: “Don’t underestimate the impact of tile layout and lighting. A simple tile can become striking when used in an unexpected pattern like vertical stacking,” says Wasserman.

Subtle Variation

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Handmade Zellige tile, as used in this shower from @invisiondesigns_ (installed by @cloisterflooring), has subtle color variations for an interesting and natural finish. The different tones of green provide dimension where a plain solid color might fall flat. And don’t forget to match the grout for a seamless look.

What We Like About It: “Shower remodelers be warned: grout color matters!” says Bahbah, “It will completely transform the appearance of the tiles, take care in selecting a color that works well both with the tiles and the overall design.”

Stunning Stripes

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A post shared by SJ Designs | Samantha Jones (@samanthajones_interiordesign)

Take rectangular subway tiles to the next level by installing them in an unexpected pattern, like stripes! This green and white striped shower from @samanthajones_interiordesign would be simple to duplicate, and the color combination options are endless. Use frameless shower glass so the tile can take center stage.

What We Like About It: “Subway tiles also continue to be a favorite, particularly when done in a striking color or when installed in an interesting configuration,” says Bahbah.

Photographer: @kellygracephotography

Herringbone Layout

Herringbone pattern is another way to elevate simple tiles. The pattern looks sophisticated and custom, but also timeless so you won’t grow tired of it. The earthy taupe color adds to the soothing spa-like ambiance.

What We Like About It: “Always pay attention to how natural and artificial light hit the tile. The glossier finish on the wall bounces light, while the matte tile on the floor creates depth and softness.” says Wasserman.

About the Experts

• Amy Wasserman is the CEO and co-founder of The Unoriginal Bathroom Company, a curated bathroom design platform built to streamline the renovation process with stylish, ready-to-execute packages. Amy merges functional design with elevated aesthetics, creating spaces that are both beautiful and livable.
• Steve BahBah is the Managing Director at Service First Plumbing, and specializes in bathroom design. He brings decades of hands-on plumbing experience to deliver a practical approach to helping customers make the best choices in their bathroom remodels.

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10 Things New Homeowners Should Never Buy New

Statement Art

There’s no shortage of used quality prints and framed works in good condition for your home. Bailey notes that shoppers can find “unique, one-of-a-kind pieces at an accessible price,” plus it adds a layer of fun trying to find the right art for your space. Framed art tends to stay preserved and intact for longer, but if you don’t like the frame, that’s an easy thing to swap out.

Credenzas

McKenzie highlights wood furniture, like credenzas, as one of the best items you can buy used for your home. “They can be refinished and repaired easily,” she explains, which is worth the effort compared to cheaper materials like MDF or veneer that are used in a lot of new furniture today. These types of materials, while they can still look nice and may seem cost-effective, aren’t designed to last, and may require replacement quicker than something older made out of solid wood.

Tables

You can almost never go wrong with a used table, especially one that’s made of materials like wood, iron, or marble as these durable materials stay sturdy over time. When you’re shopping, “look for maker’s marks or stickers, [as] they can provide additional information about the brand, material, and origin,” Bailey notes. Tables are a fairly common item to find at any price point, but Bailey adds that if you’re looking for something in better condition or higher-quality, estate sales are the place to shop.

Coffee Table Books

Large, decorative books are one of the best items around the home you should buy used. As much as I love the coffee table book section in the home department at Bergdorf’s, paying over $100 for a tome you might not ever actually open seems trivial compared to a thrift store find in good condition for $25. And since there are books about virtually any topic in the world, you can find one that’s personal to you, or simply with a design that matches your style.

Chairs

Wood- and sometimes even metal-frame chairs are fairly reliable items to buy used. McKenzie says that her MR10 black leather and chrome dining chairs from the 1960s are her favorite pieces that she bought used on eBay. “I love that they’re simultaneously a statement and minimal – they transform any space, and add a bit of contrast to a simple wood dining table,” she says.

Vases

Vases are an item for your home that you should always buy used since there’s lots of variation in different styles at a range of prices, and antique ones tend to have more charm than something brand-new. Whether you prefer larger decorative pots or simple vases to show off fresh flower bouquets, they’re an easy item to find that helps bring in more of your personality and sense of style to your space.

Dressers

I’m in love with my ’80s Formica waterfall-edge dresser that I bought used on Facebook Marketplace—while I only acquired it in 2022, the thick, solid wood structure and drawers have stood the test of time (and survived two moves without a scratch) for over 40 years and counting since it was first made. Sites like 1stDibs and Chairish have high-quality, good-as-new vintage furniture, but I got lucky and found mine for less than a quarter of the price of a similar item on 1stDibs.

Mugs + Dishware

While there may not be as much of a cost benefit of buying mugs and other dishware used compared to new (depending on where you buy), there’s so much charm in antique ceramic designs that makes opting for a secondhand set worthwhile. My collection of ’70s floral print dishes and bowls came from a stoop sale, but there’s plenty of unique Fiestaware and Pyrex available at your local antique market, estate sale, or online at reasonable, retail-comparable prices.

Mirrors

Bailey’s favorite used piece in her home is an organic-shaped, handmade, vintage pinewood mirror. “Its large scale draws attention to the vertical space in our home and the pine has a beautiful grain and patina from its age and previous life,” she explains. Take extra caution to wrap and secure mirrors when transporting them to prevent any dings, scratches, or cracks.

Lamps

Instead of a cookie-cutter Ikea lamp, look for carved wood and metal lamps at your local thrift. The main thing to look out for when shopping for secondhand (particularly antique or vintage) lamps is the wiring, as old electrical wiring can be faulty or prone to fire—but you can always rewire it yourself or take it to a professional for a charming lighting fixture that’s as good as new.

About The Experts

• Sarah Bailey owns Alt Space Curated, a vintage store with an online storefront and booth at a local vintage mall. With a background in interior design, five years of experience selling vintage wares, and a lifetime of shopping secondhand, she brings a keen eye and deep passion to every piece she curates. Keep up with her latest finds, tips, and random musings at @altspace.curated.
• Kailee McKenzie is a designer, curator, and content creator with a love for vintage and secondhand interiors. She shares tips for finding high-quality furniture and decor from estate sales and other auctions on her social channels and Substack.

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How to Dispose of Cooking Oil Right Way

I love frying up chile rellenos, but it leaves me with a pan full of spent oil. Occasionally, I’ve dumped it down the drain, especially when I didn’t have easy access to a junk can or jar to pour it in. However, I’ve now amended my ways. Even though it isn’t as toxic as motor oil or gasoline, improperly disposing of cooking oil can still damage your home and the environment, plus it costs cities millions a year in sewer cleaning.

“Used cooking oil never vanishes down a drain; it congeals like cholesterol,” says cooking oil recycler Jorge Argota. “Whatever the volume, it invites clogs, rancid odors and basement backups for you and everyone downhill.”

Whether you have just a few tablespoons or a whole turkey fryer full, here’s how and where to safely dispose of cooking oil.

Why Proper Cooking Oil Disposal Is Important

When you pour oil down the drain, some of it will cling to the inside of your pipes. Once there, it will continue to trap other debris for months or even years. “Even small amounts poured down the drain can cause big problems,” says recipe developer Marissa Stevens. “Over time, that can lead to clogs you can’t see until they cause damage.”

Local Laws & Regulations on Cooking Oil Disposal

Because of the damage and expense it creates for town sewer systems, most municipalities have fats, oils and grease ordinances (aka FOGs) against disposing of large amounts of oil in home sinks. Those regulations also require grease traps in restaurants. To find the FOGs in your area:

• Search online for your city + FOG;
• Call 311 to talk to the local public works department; or
• Call your city or county’s recycling or solid waste department, or check their website.

How To Dispose of Cooking Oil Safely

“At home the rule is simple: cool, contain, recycle,” says Argota.

For small quantities, like a half cup or less: Let the oil cool down, then wipe it up with a paper towel and toss it in the trash. To decrease the mess, mix it with baking powder, kitty litter or another plant-based solidifier.

For a few cups: Put it into a sealed container, like a jar or milk carton, before putting it in the trash. “If the oil is still clean, I often strain and reuse it,” says Stevens.

For larger amounts, like a deep fryer or Dutch oven’s worth: Strain it back into the oil jug or another sturdy container, then take it to a cooking oil recycler or household hazardous waste center.

How To Find Where to Dispose of Cooking Oil Near Me

Earth911’s cooking oil recycler locator keeps an updated list of drop-offs nationwide, or try an internet search for “cooking oil disposal near me.”

In some areas, there are collection companies that specialize in recycling, disposing and picking up used cooking oil.
Check your country’s solid waste or public works department website, or with your local recycling or waste management services company. Around the holidays, fire stations and transfer stations will also often set up collection points.

For example, in Outagamie County, Wisconsin, residents are allowed to drop off up to 25 gallons of used cooking oil per day at the county’s Resource Recovery Park, says waste removal expert Jordan Grissman. Many other municipalities offer similar options for getting rid of used cooking oil, too.

FAQ

Can you pour cooking oil down the drain?

No, it’s not a good idea, and depending on the amount and your location, it might also be illegal. “It’s important to dispose of cooking oil properly because pouring it down the drain can clog pipes and harm the environment,” says Grissman.

About the Experts

• Jorge Argota is co-founder of Grease Connections, a company that recycles used cooking oil, audits commercial kitchens across the Southeast and helps cities turn fryer waste into biodiesel. He has guided more than 400 restaurants since 2024.
• Marissa Stevens is a recipe developer and founder of Pinch and Swirl, where she shares well-tested recipes for everyday meals, along with advice about what to do with food waste.
• Jordan Grissman is owner of Grissman Dumpsters in Wisconsin.

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If You See a Big “L” on Someone’s Car, Here’s What It Means

Learning to drive is one of those life milestones that brings equal parts excitement and sheer terror. It means freedom, adulting, and (hopefully) not running into your neighbor’s mailbox. But before you’re allowed to cruise around town solo, most countries have a way of letting everyone else on the road know: this person is still learning. That’s where the L plate comes in.

What Is an L Plate?

An “L plate” (short for learner plate) is a sticker, sign, or magnet that drivers must display on their car when they are learning to drive. It’s usually a white background with a bold red or black “L” on it—pretty hard to miss when you’re stuck behind someone doing 20 in a 40. And that’s kind of the point. It’s a visual cue to say, “Hey, give me a break—I’m new at this!”

Where Are Learner Plates Used?

In the United Kingdom, probably the most well-known example, learner drivers are required to display L plates on both the front and back of the car at all times while driving. Similarly, Australia also uses L plates widely, though the rules vary by state. Some use the familiar red and white, while others opt for yellow and black versions.

In New Zealand, learner drivers must not only display L plates but also be accompanied by a fully licensed driver. India also requires L plates for learner drivers.

Ireland follows a system similar to the UK’s, where L plates are mandatory for learners, and drivers graduate to “N” plates (for “novice”) once they’ve passed their test.

The system is different in the United States and Canada. Learners are usually identified by their type of license rather than a physical sticker on the car (though some learner drivers still elect to put a “Student Driver” sticker on their car anyway because drivers around the world can appreciate the idea of showing that someone’s still learning).

Who Uses a Learner Plate?

In most places, you can’t just use an L plate for fun or to make excuses for bad driving. Only learner drivers with the proper permit are allowed to use them legally. If you’re displaying an L plate, you’re probably in one of these categories:

New drivers on a learner’s permit

This is the most obvious group. You’ve started lessons, passed the written test, and now you’re learning how to actually drive.

Driving instructors

Many instructors’ cars have built-in L plates (sometimes even signs on the roof), so it’s clear that there’s a learner behind the wheel.

Parents or guardians supervising practice drives

If you’re helping someone practice outside of formal lessons, you’ll need to slap on those L plates so other drivers know what’s up.

Are Traffic Rules Different for New Drivers?

Yes and no. Learner drivers are expected to follow all the same traffic laws as everyone else, but they often face additional restrictions designed to help them ease into the responsibility of driving. These extra rules vary depending on the country—or even the region—but there are some common themes.

For example, most learner drivers must be supervised by someone who has held a full license for a set number of years. In some countries, learners are also subject to reduced speed limits to help them build confidence without the pressure of keeping up with fast-moving traffic. In places like the UK, learner drivers aren’t allowed on motorways unless they’re with an approved instructor in a dual-control vehicle.

Zero-tolerance alcohol policies are another typical restriction. Learners are often not allowed to have any alcohol in their system while driving. Some regions even limit when learners can be on the road, placing restrictions on night driving.

All of these rules serve one purpose: to help new drivers gain experience gradually and safely. Let’s face it—driving involves a lot of multitasking, quick decision-making, and awareness. These added rules give learners the breathing room they need to focus on the fundamentals without being overwhelmed.

What Happens If You Don’t Display an L Plate?

Skipping the L plate when you’re supposed to display one? That’s a big no-no.

In the U.S., L plates are not required, but in many other countries where they are required, not having on is considered a traffic offense. You could get fined, get points on your license, or even have your learner’s permit revoked. That would mean going back to square one. So, it’s not worth the risk.

Plus, from a safety standpoint, it just makes sense to be honest about your level of experience. Most seasoned drivers will give you a little extra room if they see an L plate (emphasis on most—there’s always that one guy tailgating no matter what).

Related

• Do You Know What That Little Button on Your Seat Belt Is For? 
• What Those Lines on Your Backup Camera Really Tell You 
• Here’s What The Small Panel On Your Car’s Front Bumper Is For 

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Volvo Just Fixed a Problem You Didn’t Know Seatbelts Had

Volvo, recognized for their uncompromising dedication to vehicle safety, has broken new ground with their new smart seatbelt design that adapts to whoever’s sitting in the seat. Volvo introduced the revolutionary three-point seatbelt that’s credited with saving over a million lives in 1959. They followed that up with their side impact protection system in 1991 and whiplash protection system in 1998, which protect vehicle occupants during a collision. All are now standard features on all cars and trucks.

The Swedish carmaker’s new 2026 Volvo EX60 Crossover will come with a smart seatbelt system that customizes protection for the driver and each individual passenger compartment occupant. Follow along as a Volvo expert describes how this new amazing new seatbelt system functions.

How Is Volvo’s Smart Seatbelt Different?

Conventional seatbelts apply the same amount of force to all occupants to protect vehicle occupants during a crash. According to Francois Meucci, Service Manager at Faulkner Volvo, “the new innovative smart seatbelt system uses numerous sensors to evaluate passenger and driver height, weight, body shape, and seating posture.” Meucci adds, “Sensors also measure crash severity in real time to increase passenger and driver protection.”

The smart seatbelt system will incorporate 11 different passenger profiles for better customization. Volvo’s adaptive seatbelt technology also uses machine learning and real-time sensor data to enhance the system. For example, it increases seatbelt tension pressure for larger passengers to lower the risk of head injuries. Seatbelt tension for smaller occupants will be significantly less to protect against fractured ribs. The new seatbelt system will download software updates to improve and refine overall performance and keep the system up-to-date.

What Can Volvo’s Smart Seatbelt Detect?

In addition to its own dedicated driver monitoring and occupant detection sensors, “smart seatbelts are linked to the Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS),” says Meucci. This provides better crash detection and triggers safety measures through a vehicle-coordinated systemwide response.

In real time, using ADAS GPS data, cameras, radar, ultrasonic, impact, laser, deceleration and crash sensors help the smart seatbelt system identify a potential crash and then will individually adjust for each passenger airbag deployment and seatbelt pretensioners and tensioners based on crash severity—if there is a collision. Other sensors include:

• Pressure sensors: Detect rapid changes in the passenger compartment air pressure, usually meaning the doors have popped opened in a side crash.
• Accelerometer sensors: Measure sudden acceleration caused by a front or rear collision.
• Acoustic sensors: Detect the sound waves created during an impact.

How Does the Smart Belt Keep Drivers Safer?

Volvo’s smart belt system is an active system that uses real-time interior and exterior sensor data to customize crash protection for each occupant in the vehicle in case of a collision. In addition to occupant sensors, “crash sensors can determine impact direction, speed, and severity to make custom adjustments to the seatbelt tension, and airbag deployment during a collision,” says Meucci. Airbag deployment takes place 20–50 milliseconds after a crash has been detected. The smart seatbelt system instantly adjusts and produces just the correct amount of restraint for each occupant before the airbag completely inflates. Reacting faster than humans prevents injuries and deaths. Meucci adds, “ADAS helps reduce the number of accidents while smart seatbelt technology enhances safety systems.”

FAQ

Will Volvo share the patent for their new smart belt?

It’s unclear if Volvo will share the patent for its new smart belt. In 1959, Volvo freely shared the patent on its pioneering new three-point seatbelt—acknowledged as an act of corporate responsibility—which has been credited with saving over one million lives. However, smart seatbelt technology is a partnership between Volvo and ZF Lifetec. With the patent owned by both companies, as of this writing, neither has committed to an open patent.

Experts

Francois Meucci has spent over 40 years working in every sector of the automotive repair industry. He is a Volvo certified body and automotive repair technician and currently is the Service Manager at Faulkner Volvo Cars, located in Trevose, PA. (Phone interview June 16, 2025)

Resources

• Car and Driver: “2026 Volvo EX60 Debuts New Seatbelt Design That Adapts to You“
• Forbes: “Volvo’s Gift To The World, Modern Seat Belts Have Saved Millions Of Lives“
• Patent Pandas: “Open vs. Closed Patents“
• TechStory: “Volvo Reinvents the Seatbelt Again: Smart Safety Tech Debuts on EX60“
• Volvo Buses: “The three-point seat belt – an innovation that saved over 1 million lives“
• Volvo Cars: “Safety is in our DNA“
• WardsAuto: “Volvo Launches AI-Driven Seat-Belt system“

Related

• Do You Know What That Little Button on Your Seat Belt Is For? 
• What Those Lines on Your Backup Camera Really Tell You 
• Here’s What The Small Panel On Your Car’s Front Bumper Is For 

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Never Toss Old License Plates in the Trash — Here’s Why

Whether your license plate recently expired, you’re selling a car, or perhaps need to cancel your car’s license and registration, these are all instances where you might be wondering how to dispose of license plates. People don’t often throw license plates away, but there are occasions when it might happen, so you want to make sure it’s done properly so you’re kept safe in the process.

Ahead, we spoke with car experts about how to dispose of license plates the right way and what you can do to prevent someone else from using your license plate and perhaps racking up tickets or conducting fraudulent activities with your name attached to them.

Can You Throw License Plates Out in the Trash?

According to Amelia Dalgaard, QBIC at Motorhead Mama, you can generally throw license plates out in the trash, but it is not advised.

“Putting your plates in the trash can expose you to security issues,” Dalgaard tells Family Handyman. “For example, if the plates were to fall into the wrong hands, they could be used either for identity theft or specifically on another vehicle for illegal activities, which could be traced back to you.”

Ben Michael, an attorney at Michael & Associates, adds that a person with a stolen car can use your old license plate they found in the trash, and then their actions can trace back to you, like if they run a red light, and nobody wants to deal with that.

Should I Throw My License Plates in the Trash?

Although you are technically allowed to throw your plates in the trash, as mentioned above, you should not do it because it may lead to stolen plates. “Most states offer recycling options directly at the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV),” says Dalgaard. “Given that modern license plates are made of aluminum, a highly recyclable material, this is a great option.”

If you don’t feel comfortable disposing of your license plate, then one idea is to save it for DIY crafts. “There are plenty of fun, crafty projects where you can reuse your plates,” says Dalgaard. “Think garage decorations or driveway ornaments — look at Pinterest, car magazines, or do an internet search for inspiration.”

How To Properly Dispose of License Plates

Some states have certain protocols that should be followed to help ensure your information stays safe when learning how to dispose of license plates. You’ll want to check with your local governing board for guidance on what is recommended.

For example, according to the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles, you aren’t supposed to return your old plate unless you’re required to. One of the events you are required to do is if you want to end your vehicle’s liability insurance coverage or want to register your vehicle in another state.

With your old plates, they recommend marking each plate with a permanent marker and cutting them into pieces and putting them into the recycling bin a little bit each week to prevent the information from being able to be put together.

“One of the best things you can do to get rid of your plates properly is surrender them to the Department Of Labor. They will invalidate them and dispose of them (correctly) for you,” Michael says.

About The Experts

• Amelia Dalgaard, QBIC at Motorhead Mama.

• Ben Michael, an attorney at Michael & Associates

Sources

• New York State – Department of Motor Vehicles: Surrender (Return or Turn-in) Your Vehicle Plates and Registration

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