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How to Recycle Packing Peanuts
Loose-fill cushioning used in shipping boxes. Most peanuts are expanded polystyrene, while newer biodegradable versions are made from corn or wheat starch.
Special handling#6 PS (polystyrene peanuts)Last reviewed October 14, 2026
Quick answer
Packing peanuts do not belong in curbside recycling. Reuse is the best route: many pack-and-ship stores, including participating The UPS Store locations, take clean peanuts for reuse. Starch-based peanuts dissolve in water and can go in the compost. Before you go, confirm that a local recycling center accepts the material in its current condition.
- Recycling route
- Special handling
- Recycling code
- #6 PS (polystyrene peanuts)
How to Prepare
- 1Run a water test: put one peanut under the tap, and if it dissolves it is starch-based
- 2Compost starch peanuts or dissolve them in water
- 3Bag polystyrene peanuts in a clean, sealed bag so they do not scatter
- 4Call a nearby pack-and-ship store to confirm it accepts peanuts for reuse
- 5Keep peanuts out of the curbside cart, where they jam equipment and blow away
Where to Recycle
- Pack-and-ship stores
- Participating The UPS Store locations
- Polystyrene drop-off sites
- Backyard compost for starch peanuts
Special Instructions
Polystyrene peanuts are light and bulky, so few recyclers will process them. Reuse through shipping stores keeps them in service. Starch peanuts look similar but melt in water, which is the fastest way to tell them apart.
Environmental Impact
Polystyrene peanuts persist for centuries and break into small pieces that wildlife eat. Reusing them avoids new foam production, and starch peanuts break down in compost.
Sustainable Alternatives
- Keep a bag for your own shipping
- Offer them free on a local buy-nothing group
- Use crumpled paper or air pillows when you ship
Official guidance and resources
Accepted items and drop-off rules can vary by location. Check the destination before you go.
What’s Accepted
Accepted
- Clean, dry polystyrene peanuts at shipping stores
- Starch-based peanuts in compost
Not Accepted
- Peanuts in curbside recycling carts
- Dirty or wet polystyrene peanuts at reuse sites
FAQs
Can I put packing peanuts in my recycling bin?
No. Curbside programs reject loose foam peanuts. Take clean ones to a shipping store for reuse instead.
How can I tell if packing peanuts are biodegradable?
Hold one under running water. Starch peanuts dissolve within a minute, while polystyrene peanuts do not change.
Does The UPS Store take packing peanuts?
Many locations do. Each store is independently owned, so call ahead to confirm.
Related recycling guides
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- How to recycle Multi-Layer Food Pouches
- How to recycle Blister Packs
- How to recycle Paper Cups
- How to recycle Bottle Caps & Lids
- How to recycle Chip Bags & Snack Wrappers
- How to recycle Corrugated Cardboard Boxes
- How to recycle Plastic Clamshell Containers
- How to recycle Aseptic Cartons (Tetra Pak)
- How to recycle Aluminum Foil & Trays
Recycle packing peanuts
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