Straw Curbside Trash Loose Hay Is Yard Waste Loose or leftover hay from a hay bale can be treated as yard waste. Find out what to do with yard waste. Straw Accessories Go in the Trash Straw accessories such as hats, baskets and bags are often not really straw, so donate them or toss them in the trash. Ways to Reduce Don't Just Toss It — Fix It If your basket or hat has a hole or few pieces missing, you can repair it instead of trading it in for a new item. Follow these instructions from SFGATE to learn how. Ways to Reuse Turn Old Baskets Into Planters Old baskets can be repurposed to make cute planters. Photo Props Straw hats, skirts and other accessories make great props! Consider donating them to a local theater program. Or, if you have a straw, raffia or grass skirt from an old costume or gift wrap, try using it as a cool photo backdrop at a luau-themed summer party!