How to Recycle Wrapping Paper
Paper used for wrapping gifts - recyclable when it's plain paper, not when it's foil, glitter, or plastic-coated.
Quick answer
It depends on the wrap. Plain paper gift wrap is recyclable, but foil, glitter, plastic coating, or metallic finishes are not and should be trashed. Use the scrunch test: if it tears easily and stays crumpled in a tight ball, it's paper-based and recyclable. Remove tape, ribbon, and bows first.
- Recyclable
- Yes
- 1Scrunch a piece in your hand - if it stays in a tight ball, it's paper-based and recyclable; if it springs back open, it's likely foil or plastic-coated
- 2Remove tape, ribbons, and bows
- 3Trash any wrap that's glittery, metallic, or foil-coated
- 4Keep dry and clean
- Curbside recycling
- Recycling centers
Recycling plain paper wrap saves trees and landfill space, though the seasonal spike in gift wrap and packaging adds roughly 25% more waste to the US waste stream between Thanksgiving and New Year's.
- Use reusable gift bags
- Wrap gifts in fabric (furoshiki-style)
- Save and reuse plain paper wrap
How do I know if wrapping paper is recyclable?
Scrunch it up in your fist. If it stays crumpled in a tight ball, it's paper-based and recyclable. If it springs back open or feels slick, it's likely foil, plastic-coated, or laminated, and should be trashed instead.
Is decorative gift tissue paper the same as wrapping paper?
No, and it's a common mix-up. Decorative gift tissue - the thin colored paper used inside gift bags - is recyclable if it isn't glittery or metallic, similar to wrapping paper. That's a completely different product from facial tissue or paper towels, which aren't recyclable anywhere.
Recycling centers that accept Wrapping Paper
RecycleFind lists recycling centers that accept wrapping paper. Open a listing for hours, contact info, and directions.