This paper examines the field of playful design as a tool to affect and enhance the reception of a mundane activity. The management of swapping reusable household goods between neighbors is explored by designing playful components to enhance the experience. A pilot field study was carried out to observe recycling areas, in conjunction to 20 interviews being conducted regarding their point of views on recycling habits and their perception on their own local recycling area. The results show a clear indifferent attitude towards recycling and the environment surrounding the recycling area. However the interviewees were predominantly optimistic to the idea of swapping reusable goods with neighbors for its well-known advantages. Concerns were expressed on the practical efficiency and organization of such an activity, as well as on the shameful label perceived by using pre-used goods. A hybrid mobile application prototype was developed as one suggestion on how to incorporate playful design in a way that takes into consideration the needs and concerns of the users for swapping goods. Future research includes carrying out case studies on such playful applications for the current intended uses to gather insight on how they are utilized by potential users. Relevant are also empirical studies on how playful design as a tool may be used and its impact on users to get rid of perceived negative labels.