Can You Recycle Crayons?

Can You Recycle Crayons?

Last reviewed by James Hartley on 01 April 2026

Not in standard recycling. The National Crayon Recycle Program melts old crayons into new ones. You can also melt them at home into new shapes.

Crayons are made primarily of paraffin wax, which isn't commonly accepted by kerbside or curbside recycling programmes due to the specific nature of their composition and processing requirements. This means that when you're left with a box full of broken crayon bits, standard recycling isn't an option.

According to the European Parliament, less than 1% of rare earth elements in e-waste are currently recycled.

Why Crayons Isn't Easy to Recycle

Crayons are made from paraffin wax, which isn't easily recyclable through typical kerbside or curbside programs because these systems typically focus on plastics and paper products. Additionally, the dyes used in crayons can complicate recycling processes.

How to Recycle Crayons Properly

To recycle crayons properly, you have a few options. First, check if there are any local schools or art groups that would like to reuse them. Alternatively, you could send your old crayons to the National Crayon Recycling Program in Denver, Colorado. This organisation takes unwanted crayons and repurposes them into new ones. Another option is to melt down used crayons at home using simple kitchen tools-just be sure to follow safety guidelines.

Alternatives to Throwing Crayons Away

Instead of throwing away your old crayons, consider melting them down yourself or donating them. For instance, the National Crayon Recycle Program accepts used crayons and turns them into new ones, which helps reduce waste. Additionally, you could find local schools, art classes, or community centres that would appreciate donations of leftover crayons.

FAQ

Q: Can I put broken crayons in with my paper recycling? A: No, they shouldn't be mixed with paper as the wax and dye components make them unsuitable for standard paper recycling processes. Instead, look into specific programmes like The National Crayon Recycle Program or consider melting them at home.

Q: How do I melt crayons safely at home? A: To melt crayons safely, use a double boiler setup. Melt the wax in a heat-safe bowl placed over simmering water to avoid scorching. Once melted, pour into silicone moulds to create new shapes.

Q: Where can I find local drop-off points for used crayons? A: Check with your local schools or community centres as they may accept donations of old crayons. Additionally, websites like Earth911 offer searchable databases where you might find nearby recycling facilities that handle crayon waste.

Sources

• European Parliament
• WEEE Forum
• WHO