How to Recycle Mailers the Right Way

Posted by: Chris September 5, 2023 No Comments
How to Recycle Mailers the Right Way

In today’s world, where environmental concerns are on everyone’s minds, it’s crucial to find sustainable solutions for everyday activities. One area that often goes overlooked is how to recycle mailers.

From paper envelopes to plastic bubble mailers, they can end up in landfills if not properly handled. Here’s how to recycle different types of mailers, ensuring a more sustainable approach to your packaging choices.

Paper Mailers

Let’s start with the most common type of mailer: paper. Most paper mailers are recyclable and can be processed alongside other paper materials. Here’s how you can recycle them properly:

  • Remove any plastic windows or non-paper components.
  • Check for adhesive labels and remove them if you can.
  • Flatten the mailers to optimize space in your recycling bin.
  • Place them in the recycling bin used for paper products.
  • Follow your local recycling guidelines for specific instructions.

Cardboard Mailers

Cardboard mailers, also called corrugated mailers, are made from paperboard. They’re simple to recycle, and here’s how you can do it easily:

  • Remove any bubble wrap or void fill.
  • Flatten the mailer to save space.
  • Check for and remove any leftover labels or tape.
  • Place the flattened mailer in the recycling bin used for cardboard.
  • If the mailer’s too large to fit, break it down into smaller pieces.

Bubble Mailers

Bubble mailers are popular due to their protective cushioning properties. However, the plastic used in these mailers can be challenging to recycle. Here’s how to recycle as much of a kraft bubble mailer or poly bubble mailer as possible:

  • Reuse it for another shipment if it’s in good condition.
  • Separate the liner and bubble materials. If the separated liner is paper, you can simply toss it in the recycling bin. If the separated liner is poly film, check out the next bullet point.
  • Recycle it using special programs. Some regions and organizations have special recycling programs for plastic film, including bubble mailers. If they do, follow their specific instructions for recycling.

Padded Mailers

Padded mailers can sometimes pose a recycling challenge due to their mixed materials. But, like bubble mailers, here’s how to make them as recyclable as possible:

  • Reuse it for another shipment if it’s in good condition.
  • Separate the liner and padding materials. If the liner or padding is paper, you can simply toss it in the recycling bin. If the liner or padding is film or foam, check out the next bullet point.
  • Check with special recycling programs as some accept mixed material packaging. If they do, follow their specific instructions for recycling.

Find Easy-to-Recycle Paper-Padded Mailers at MailerShop.ca

Recycling mailers is an essential step towards reducing waste and promoting sustainability. If you’re looking to make things extra simple for you and your customers, consider using paper-padded or eco-friendly mailers from MailerShop.ca. You’ll find the styles and sizes you need on the site now.