Maya Ellison
Plastic tubes, such as those used for hand cream, lotion, and toothpaste, can be recycled, but it's important to check with your local recycling program to confirm what specific types of plastic they accept. Some recycling programs may not accept small plastic tubes or those with a mix of materials, such as toothpaste tubes, which often contain different types of plastics and a thin layer of metal. However, pump-action toothpaste tubes are generally easier to recycle. To recycle plastic tubes, ensure they are empty and, if necessary, rinse them before placing them in the recycling bin. Some companies, such as Colgate, are transitioning to recyclable toothpaste tubes made of #2 HDPE plastic, which is one of the most recycled plastics.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Plastic tubes containing food or liquid | Not recyclable |
| Plastic tubes smaller than 2 inches or 40 x 40mm | Not recyclable |
| Plastic tubes with dark packaging | Not recyclable |
| Plastic tubes with mirrors, magnets, makeup brushes, sheet masks, packets, and squeezable tubes | Not recyclable |
| Toothpaste tubes | Not recyclable unless specified by the brand |
| Pump-action toothpaste tubes | Recyclable if your local authority collects plastic pots, tubs, and trays |
| Plastic tubes with the #2 (HDPE) recycling code | Recyclable |
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What You'll Learn
- Toothpaste tubes: Check for the #2 HDPE plastic symbol
- Local recycling: Confirm with your local authority or provider
- Small tubes: Items under 2 inches are often rejected by recycling plants
- DIY products: Residue can contaminate recycling, so put these in the bin
- Refillable products: Reduce waste by reusing packaging
Toothpaste tubes: Check for the #2 HDPE plastic symbol
Toothpaste tubes are often made from different types of plastics and contain a metal layer, so they are generally not recyclable. However, pump-action toothpaste tubes are easier to recycle and can be placed in recycling if your local authority collects plastic pots, tubs, and trays. Some companies, such as Colgate and Terracycle, offer recycling options for toothpaste tubes.
If you want to recycle your toothpaste tubes, start by checking the tube for the #2 HDPE plastic symbol. HDPE stands for high-density polyethylene, a durable, robust, and versatile plastic with many uses, especially in packaging. It has a low risk of leaching, is chemically resistant, and can withstand more extreme temperatures than PET. It is also easy to recycle and is accepted at most recycling centers.
To identify HDPE plastic, look for the plastic number #2 symbol, which will be a "2" inside a triangle of chasing arrows. This symbol will help you identify the type of plastic used for the product and determine the appropriate disposal route.
Once you have identified the HDPE plastic symbol on your toothpaste tube, make sure to clean out any remaining toothpaste from the tube. Then, check if your local authority or municipality accepts HDPE plastic for recycling. Most curbside recycling programs accept HDPE, but it is always good to double-check. If you do not have curbside recycling, look for a nearby container deposit depot.
Remember that recycling symbols can vary by region, so it is essential to check with your local programs to confirm what specific types of plastics they can recycle.
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Local recycling: Confirm with your local authority or provider
Local recycling programs and authorities are your best resource for determining how to recycle plastic tubes in your area. These programs can vary by region, so it's important to confirm their specific guidelines. Contact your local recycling provider or visit their website to understand their processes and any limitations they may have.
Some local authorities may collect plastic tubes as part of their recycling programs. This includes plastic tubes for hand cream, lotion, and, increasingly, toothpaste. However, it's important to check if your local program specifically accepts these items. Toothpaste tubes, in particular, often contain a mix of different plastics and a thin layer of metal, making them challenging to recycle through standard curbside programs.
If your local recycling program does not accept plastic tubes, there may be alternative recycling options available. Some companies, such as Colgate, are transitioning to recyclable toothpaste tubes made from #2 HDPE plastic. If your tubes have this symbol, they can be recycled, but it's still worth confirming with your local recycler that they can process this type of plastic. Additionally, some eco-conscious brands offer internal recycling programs within their facilities, so you can explore if the specific brand has any recycling initiatives.
To make the recycling process smoother, ensure that you follow any guidelines provided by your local authority or recycling program. For example, you may be instructed to empty and rinse your tubes before placing them in the recycling bin. Properly preparing your recyclables can help prevent contamination and ensure that your items can be effectively recycled.
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Small tubes: Items under 2 inches are often rejected by recycling plants
Plastic tubes, such as those used for hand cream and lotion, are increasingly being made from recyclable materials. However, small plastic tubes that are less than 40 x 40mm or 2 inches are often rejected by recycling plants as they can fall out of the recycling process and halt the entire process. This includes all travel and portable beauty products, such as lip gloss tubes, mascara tubes, and lip liner pencils.
To avoid this issue, it is recommended to use less packaging or opt for refillable beauty products to reduce waste. Some brands, like Brazilian NATURA, French Diptyque, and Los Angeles-based Bathing Culture, offer refillable beauty products. This allows for the reuse of packaging, keeping it out of landfills.
Additionally, it is important to check local recycling programs to confirm what is recyclable in your specific area. For example, pump-action toothpaste tubes are easier to recycle and can be placed in recycling if your local authority collects plastic pots, tubs, and trays. Some companies, like Colgate, are transitioning to recyclable toothpaste tubes, while others, like Preserve, offer mail-in recycling programs for their products.
To properly recycle small plastic tubes, it is recommended to check for the universal recycling symbol or the specific plastic type, such as #2 HDPE plastic, which is widely recycled. If your local recycler does not accept small plastic tubes, consider reusing them for other purposes or look for recycling options near you through online searches.
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DIY products: Residue can contaminate recycling, so put these in the bin
Plastic tubes that have contained DIY products like mastic should be placed in the waste bin. This is because the residue can contaminate the recycling process. Even a small amount of residue can cause an entire batch of recycling to be rejected, so it's important to ensure that all plastic tubes are properly cleaned before being placed in the recycling bin.
To prevent contamination, it is essential to remove all liquid and residue from the containers. This can be done by shaking, patting dry, or airing out the tubes. For more stubborn residue, a spoon, sponge, or flexible rubber spatula can be used to scrape and remove the residue. While it is not necessary to wash the tubes with soap, a quick rinse and swish can help to ensure that all residue is removed.
Once the tubes are clean, it is important to let them dry completely before placing them in the recycling bin. This can be done by placing them upside down in the sink or on a drying rack. Keeping the recycling bin lid closed will also help to prevent moisture from getting into the tubes and causing contamination.
It's also important to check with your local recycling program to confirm what specific materials they can and cannot recycle. Some areas may have different guidelines or restrictions, so it's always best to check before disposing of any plastic tubes.
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Refillable products: Reduce waste by reusing packaging
Plastic tubes, such as those used for hand cream and lotion, are often made from recyclable plastics. However, it's important to check with your local authority or recycling program, as some tubes, like toothpaste tubes, may not be recyclable due to the presence of a metal layer or different types of plastics. To reduce waste, consider reusing these tubes or opting for refillable products.
Refillable products offer a great way to reduce waste by reusing packaging. By refilling your own containers or purchasing refillable options, you can significantly cut down on packaging waste. Many brands are now offering refill programs that not only reduce plastic waste but also address consumer demands for more sustainable and economical packaging solutions. For example, Unilever's Cif eco-refills are designed to be concentrated formulas that customers can use to refill their spray bottles at home. This approach not only reduces the number of plastic bottles but also encourages the reuse of existing bottles.
Home delivery refill models have gained popularity, providing consumers with a convenient way to refill their favourite products without leaving their homes. For instance, Milk & More, a grocery doorstep delivery service, partnered with Coca-Cola to deliver and collect reusable glass bottles. This service not only offers convenience but also contributes to a more sustainable future.
Some other ways to reduce waste include buying used items, donating unused items for others to reuse, and purchasing products made with recycled content. Maintaining and repairing items can also extend their lifespan and reduce the need for frequent replacements. Embracing refillable products and adopting a reuse mindset are simple yet powerful ways to contribute to a more sustainable world.
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Frequently asked questions
If your local authority collects plastic pots, tubs, and trays, you can include plastic tubes in your recycling. However, there are some exceptions. For example, pump-action toothpaste tubes are easier to recycle than regular toothpaste tubes. Small plastic tubes that are less than 40 x 40mm are unlikely to be recycled because they will fall out of the recycling process.
Other plastic items that can be recycled include yoghurt pots, plastic trigger spray bottles, and paint pots.
It is important to wash out your plastic containers before recycling them. Any dirty or contaminated items are likely to be sent straight to landfill.
