How Long Does It Take to Decompose?

Contains plastics and gels. One baby uses 5,000+ diapers. Consider cloth diapers to reduce waste.

Contains plastics and super-absorbent gels. One of the worst waste items. Consider cloth diapers.

Contain plastic and synthetic materials. Consider reusable or biodegradable alternatives.

Too small to recycle, often ends up in oceans. Switch to reusable metal, glass, or bamboo straws.

Plastic hangers persist for centuries. Choose wood or metal hangers, or return plastic ones to stores.

Most carpets are made from synthetic fibers (nylon, polyester). Takes centuries to break down.

Polyester and other synthetic fabrics are essentially plastic. Choose natural fibers when possible.

Tires contain steel, chemicals, and synthetic rubber. Can be recycled into new products.

Contains foam, springs, fabric. Very slow to decompose. Many parts are recyclable if separated.

Contain rubber, plastic, and various chemicals. Major pollution source in water bodies.

Synthetic rubber is extremely durable and takes generations to break down. Repair shoes when possible.

Most kitchen sponges are plastic foam that never fully decomposes. Switch to natural alternatives.

Plastic automotive parts are very durable. Many can be recycled at auto dismantlers.

Black plastic pots can't be detected by recycling sorters. Return to nurseries for reuse.

Breaks into microplastics but never truly disappears. Use reusable bags instead. Return to store collection bins.

Monofilament line is extremely persistent and deadly to wildlife. Dispose at fishing line recycling stations.

Polystyrene foam may never fully decompose. Breaks into tiny pieces that harm wildlife. Avoid entirely.

Most toys are made from various plastics and chemicals. Takes centuries to break down.

Metallic balloons are made of plastic with metal coating. Extremely persistent in environment.

PVC flooring is extremely persistent and can release toxins. Consider natural alternatives.

Polystyrene packing peanuts may never decompose. Use biodegradable peanuts or paper alternatives.

One of the most common litter items. Takes centuries to break down into microplastics. Always recycle.

HDPE plastic bottles persist for centuries. Must be completely empty and clean to recycle.

Single-use plastics are a major pollution source. Keep reusable utensils in your bag or car.

Infamous for harming marine life. Cut them up before disposal. Better yet, buy cans in cardboard boxes.

Billion+ toothbrushes discarded annually. Switch to bamboo brushes with replaceable heads.

Mixed plastic and metal makes decomposition slow. Consider safety razors with replaceable blades.

Contains toxic heavy metals that leach into soil. Never trash batteries - take to collection centers.

Most contain plastic fibers despite 'flushable' claims. Cause major sewer blockages.