When shipping orders online, many use bubble mailers – padded envelopes containing plastic bubbles – to deliver products. But many ask, “Are bubble mailers recyclable?” The answer lies within certain conditions outlined here.
What Are Bubble Mailers Made of?
Knowing bubble mailers’ composition can explain whether they can be recycled. There are two common types of bubble mailers, paper and plastic.
- Plastic bubble mailers: Made completely out of polyethylene plastic.
- Paper/plastic hybrid mailers: paper exterior with plastic bubble lining on the interior of this mailer.
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Do You Recycle Plastic Bubble Mailers?
Yes, plastic bubble mailers made of polyethylene can be recycled – just not through curbside collection bins! Instead, they must go into special film drop-off bins at grocery stores, retail chains like Target or Walmart, where there is usually one available.
When recycling plastic mailers, look for the #2 or #4 recycling symbol; packages with numbers 2 or 4 may be eligible for recycling plastic film. Represent your brand to the best of your abilities with Custom Paper Bags – eco-friendly and practical!
Why Paper and Plastic Mailers Can Be Difficult
Many bubble mailers look similar to paper, but if their interior contains plastic, it counts as multi-material and cannot be recycled without first being separated, something which may prove challenging or impossible for consumers. Unfortunately, they usually end up in the trash as they contaminate recycling streams, therefore not be recycled.
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The Correct Ways of Getting Rid of Bubble Mailers
- Inspection of the material: Is it entirely made of plastic, or both kinds of material (paper-plastic combination)?
- Recycling codes: #2 (HDPE) and #4 (LDPE) plastics can be simply dropped off in the stores.
- Remove labels or stickers: To effectively eliminate labels or adhesives, it may be advantageous to peel away address labels or adhesives as much as possible.
- Submit Plastic-Only Mailers: Visit recycling locations near you and drop off plastic-only mailers at these facilities.
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Alternatives to Bubble Mailers for Sustainable Mail Delivery
Consider these alternatives if you are eco-conscious or operate a small business:
- 100% recycled padded mailers
- Corrugated cardboard mailers
- Compostable mailers made from cornstarch or PLA are available.
- Reusable fabric mailers for internal logistics purposes
These materials reduce waste while being more likely to be recycled or composted responsibly. Ship heavy items safely using a durable STE box, built for strength and reliability during transit.
Why It Matters
Recycling bubble mailers incorrectly is potentially dangerous: it could contain hazardous material that poses significant environmental threats; for instance:
- Block recycling machinery
- Contaminate paper recycling batches
- Redirect greater waste out of landfills
Final Thoughts
Can bubble mailers be recycled? In summary, plastic bubble mailers are recyclable when put back in the right containers; paper-plastic hybrids are not. Thus, eco-conscious consumers should seek alternatives and never discard materials without looking for recycling marks.Protect your products and secure them using our cardboard inserts that perfectly fit in your boxes!
