Can You Recycle Bubble Wrap?

Can You Recycle Bubble Wrap?

Last reviewed by Sarah Chen on 01 April 2026

Not in curbside bins, but many grocery stores accept bubble wrap alongside plastic bags at film recycling drop-offs.

Bubble wrap is made of polyethylene, a type of plastic that's not easily recyclable through kerbside or curbside collections. It's too thin and flexible for standard recycling machinery to process efficiently.

According to the UN Global E-Waste Monitor 2024, only 22.3% of e-waste was properly collected and recycled in 2022.

Why Bubble Wrap Isn't Easy to Recycle

Polyethylene films like bubble wrap are challenging to recycle due to their lightweight nature and flexibility. Unlike rigid plastics, these materials don't sort well in automated recycling systems, often getting caught or rejected by the machinery.

Plastic film recyclers need specific equipment to handle thin, flexible items. Most local waste management facilities lack this technology, making it difficult for them to accept bubble wrap at kerbside collections.

How to Recycle Bubble Wrap Properly

To recycle bubble wrap, start by cleaning and removing any tape or labels from the material. Next, take it to a participating store. In the UK, Tesco offers film recycling bins in stores, while in the US, Walmart has partnered with the Plastic Film Recycling Program.

The Plastic Film Recycling Program collects used plastic bags and wraps at more than 18,000 grocery and retail locations across America (source: American Chemistry Council). These programmes ensure that bubble wrap gets processed correctly and reused effectively.

Alternatives to Throwing Bubble Wrap Away

Consider reusing bubble wrap for future packaging needs. You can also donate it to local schools or art studios for craft projects. If you have a lot of bubble wrap, reach out to community recycling events or drop-off centres specifically set up for plastic film recycling.

For those looking to reduce waste altogether, swap bubble wrap with biodegradable packing peanuts made from cornstarch or paper-based cushioning materials when packaging items.

According to the Consumer Technology Association, The average US household has 21 unused electronic devices.

FAQ

Q: Can I put bubble wrap in my kerbside bin? A: No, you can't. Most kerbside collections don't accept bubble wrap due to its thin and flexible nature, which makes it hard for recycling facilities to process.

Q: Where can I find a film recycling drop-off near me? A: Check with local stores like Tesco in the UK or Walmart in the US. These chains often have designated bins for plastic bags and wraps at their entrances.

According to the Counterpoint Research, The global refurbished smartphone market was worth $49.3 billion in 2023.

Q: Is there an alternative to bubble wrap that's easier to recycle? A: Yes, consider using paper-based cushioning materials or biodegradable packing peanuts made from cornstarch instead of traditional bubble wrap. These alternatives break down more easily in the environment and are less problematic for recycling facilities.

Sources

• UN Global E-Waste Monitor 2024
• Consumer Technology Association
• Counterpoint Research