How Do You Recycle Ornaments?

According to guidance, most common ornaments, including tinsel and baubles, are not recyclable.

When it comes to disposing of or handling your tree ornaments, the key takeaway from guidance is that recycling is generally not an option for most types. Instead of putting them in your recycling bin, focus on alternatives.

Why Ornaments Aren't Typically Recyclable

• Material Composition: Many ornaments are made from mixed materials (plastic, glass, metal, glitter, etc.) which are difficult or impossible for standard recycling facilities to separate and process.
• Specific Types: The reference specifically states that tinsel, baubles and most tree ornaments aren't recyclable. This covers a large portion of typical holiday decorations.
• Glass Ornaments: Even glass baubles are noted as not recyclable in standard processes.

What To Do Instead: Reuse and Responsible Disposal

Since recycling isn't viable for most ornaments, the focus shifts to extending their life and disposing of them correctly when they are no longer usable.

• Reuse: The reference highlights that many ornaments are reusable if you take care of them. This is the most environmentally friendly option.
  • Practical Tips for Reuse:
    • Carefully pack ornaments away at the end of the season.
    • Use appropriate storage containers (plastic bins, cardboard boxes with dividers) to prevent damage.
    • Wrap delicate items individually.
    • Store them in a safe, dry place until the next time you need them.
• Disposal of Broken Ornaments: For ornaments that are broken or cannot be reused:
  • Dispose of them with your general waste.
  • If dealing with broken glass baubles, take extra caution:
    • You should dispose of broken ones by wrapping them securely to prevent injury to waste handlers.
    • Put them in with your general waste, not recycling.

Ornament Handling Summary

To clarify the best approach based on the ornament's condition:

Ornament Condition	Recyclable?	Recommended Action
Usable & Intact	No	Reuse; Store carefully for next season.
Broken (Non-Glass)	No	Dispose with general waste.
Broken Glass	No	Wrap carefully and dispose with general waste.

By prioritizing reuse and following proper disposal methods for damaged items, you can manage your ornaments responsibly.