Gift wrapping is an art, but disposal is a science. Not all wrapping materials are created equal—and some are downright disastrous for recycling facilities. Here’s a guide to help you wrap smarter and toss wiser.
The Winners (Recyclable or Reusable)
Kraft Paper
Brown, uncoated, simple, and fully recyclable.
Newspaper or Book Pages
Creative, vintage, and totally recyclable.
Fabric Wraps (Furoshiki Style)
Reusable for years and stylish.
Gift Bags (Plain Paper Only)
Remove the string handles and reuse repeatedly.
The Mixed Category: Reusable but Not Recyclable
Cellophane
Technically not recyclable curbside, but great for reuse.
Washi Tape
Paper-based but still not recyclable due to adhesives.
The “Please Don’t” Pile
Foil Wrap
Non-recyclable due to metallic coating.
Glitter Wrap
A recycler’s worst nightmare—tiny plastic contamination.
Plastic-Coated Gift Bags
Look like paper but contain plastic film.
Ribbons & Bows
Tanglers that can damage equipment.
How to Do It Right
If you’re unsure, try the scrunch test:
- Scrunch the paper in your hand.
- If it stays crumpled, it’s likely recyclable.
- If it springs back, it probably contains plastic.