How to Recycle Aseptic Cartons (Tetra Pak)
Multi-layer cartons for shelf-stable and refrigerated beverages, soup, and broth. Made of paper, plastic, and (for shelf-stable cartons) a thin aluminum layer - not wax, despite a common myth. Access has grown fast, but actual recycling participation still lags well behind.
Quick answer
Cartons are recyclable through programs serving 61% of U.S. households, but access is not universal and the national carton recycling rate is about 20%. Empty the carton; rinsing is optional. Current Carton Council guidance says to put the cap back on or push the straw inside so they follow the same recycling process. Follow your local program if it gives different preparation instructions. Before you go, confirm that a local recycling center accepts the material in its current condition.
- Recycling route
- Check locally
- Recycling code
- CARTON
How to Prepare
- 1Empty completely
- 2Rinse if needed to remove residue or prevent odor
- 3Follow your local program's directions about flattening cartons
- 4Put the cap back on or push the straw inside, following Carton Council guidance unless your local program directs otherwise
- 5Remove other loose extras only as your local program instructs
Where to Recycle
- Curbside recycling (61% of US households)
- Carton Council drop-off locator
- Municipal recycling programs
Special Instructions
Access varies a lot by state. In California, 72% of households can recycle aseptic cartons and 74% can recycle gable-top cartons, with 68% of counties served by a sorting facility as of mid-2025. Nationally, though, the actual carton recycling rate is only about 20%, so check the Carton Council's locator or your hauler directly rather than assuming.
Environmental Impact
Cartons are mostly high-quality paper fiber (about 70% in shelf-stable cartons, 80% in refrigerated ones), which mills value for its strength. Recovered cartons become new paper products or, increasingly, building materials like roof cover board.
Official guidance and resources
Accepted items and drop-off rules can vary by location. Check the destination before you go.
FAQs
Are cartons wax-coated?
No, and they haven't been for decades. Modern cartons are made mostly of paper with a thin plastic layer, plus a thin aluminum layer in shelf-stable (aseptic) cartons for broth, soup, and juice. Refrigerated gable-top cartons, like traditional milk cartons, skip the aluminum.
If cartons are recyclable, why is the actual recycling rate so low?
Access and participation are different numbers. About 61% of US households can recycle cartons locally, but the actual national carton recycling rate is only around 20%. Many people either don't realize cartons are accepted in their area or assume they aren't, since carton programs are newer and less consistent than programs for cardboard or cans.
Should I leave the cap on a carton before recycling it?
Carton Council currently advises putting the cap back on or pushing the straw inside so they follow the carton's recycling process. Follow your local program if it gives different directions.
Related recycling guides
- How to recycle Paperboard
- How to recycle Paper Cups
- How to recycle Padded Mailers (Paper)
- How to recycle Corrugated Cardboard Boxes
- How to recycle Bubble Mailers (Plastic)
- How to recycle Bottle Caps & Lids
- How to recycle Coffee Pods & Capsules
- How to recycle Blister Packs
- How to recycle Disposable Utensils & Straws
- How to recycle Toothpaste Tubes
Recycle aseptic cartons (tetra pak)
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