How to Dispose of Paper Towels Responsibly

A stack of paper towels, tissue, and toilet paper.

Paper towels are a common household item that often end up in the landfill. However, there are better options for disposing of paper towels responsibly.

If the paper towels have only been used for cleaning up non-hazardous spills or messes, they can be composted. Simply tear the paper towels into smaller pieces and add them to your compost pile or bin. The paper material will break down and contribute to the nutrient-rich compost that can be used in your garden.

Alternatively, you can also recycle paper towels if they are made from recyclable materials and have not come into contact with any hazardous substances. Check the packaging or contact your local recycling facility to determine if paper towels are accepted in your recycling program. If they are, make sure to remove any plastic wrappers or packaging before recycling.

It's important to note that if paper towels have been used to clean up hazardous materials, such as chemicals or oil, they should be disposed of as hazardous waste. Contact your local waste management facility for guidance on proper disposal methods for hazardous paper towels.