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Recycling holiday giftwrap

A box wrapped in brown packing paper with a cornflower blue velvet ribbon, with assorted giftwrapping supplies such as wrapping paper, scissors, boxes, etc. scattered across the table
Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy

Recycling holiday giftwrap

The excitement of receiving a beautifully wrapped gift is part of the joy of the holiday season or any special occasion. However, once the wrapping paper is torn off and the presents are unwrapped, many people are left wondering: What should I do with all that leftover gift wrap? 

Americans create 25% more trash between Thanksgiving and New Year's Day than any other time of year -- that's a lot! The good news is that while some holiday-related wrappings should go directly in the trash, much can be recycled.

With a few simple steps, we can all make a positive environmental impact while still celebrating in style.

What giftwrap can I recycle?

Recycling gift wrap can be easy, but it's important to know which types can and cannot be recycled. If you're unsure whether your gift wrap is recyclable, check with your local recycling program, as some areas have special guidelines or accept specific materials.

A gift box wrapped in brown recyclable paper, adorned with a sprig of spruce

Plain wrapping paper

Plain brown craft paper is always recyclable and makes a great blank canvas to spruce up with natural embellishments

An array of red, white, and brown holiday gift bags with tissue paper peeking out

Simple tissue paper

Simple and plain tissue paper is typically recyclable with other mixed paper in curbside programs

An open cardboard box with an orange cat peeking out

Cardboard & boxboard

Cardboard is almost universally accepted by curbside recycling programs - just be sure to break them down first!

What kinds of giftwrap is NOT recyclable?

These materials are almost always not accepted by local recycling programs. When in doubt, check with your local recycling program before throwing items away.

  • Peach wrapping paper with gold glitter snowflakes

    Glittered giftwrap

    Glitter can contaminate the recycling process - do not recycle wrapping paper, tissue paper, cards, or other materials with glitter

  • A metallic gold cardboard gift box with red ribbon

    Metallic giftwrap

    Often made with a foil-like finish, most curbside recycling programs will not accept metallic wrapping paper

  • A spool of metallic gold ribbon

    Ribbons & bows

    Plastic and fabric ribbons or bows cannot be recycled -- consider reusing or upcycling them instead!

  • A gift box wrapped with excessive tape

    Lots of tape

    Gift wrap that is covered with excessive tape can not be processed in standard recycling facilities

Sustainable tips for next year

While recycling is important, reducing the use of single-use gift wrap is even better. Here are some eco-friendly alternatives for wrapping presents:

  • A plain white cloth gift bag resting on a brown tabletop

    Reusable gift bags

    Fabric bags or pouches can be reused for years and can be used for more than just giftwrap!

  • Four gifts wrapped in reusable cloth giftwrap, adorned with sprigs of spruce

    Cloth wraps

    Some cultures use square pieces of fabric to wrap and tie gifts instead of paper - use napkins or make your own!

  • A green metallic gift bow

    Upcycle ribbons and bows

    Use ribbons or bows for other giftwrap purposes, or use them in craft projects to give them a new life

Thank you for celebrating sustainably!

Recycling gift wrap is a simple and effective way to reduce waste and contribute to a greener planet. By following some easy steps and being mindful of the materials we use, we can keep the holiday season—and all special occasions—both festive and eco-friendly.

So, next time you unwrap that beautiful gift, take a moment to recycle responsibly and help spread joy to the planet as well as to your loved ones.