Gift Bags

Recycle Curbside
NOreuse

Don't Recycle If Glossy

Gift bags often appear glossy if they are made from a paper-plastic mix. This type of material can’t be recycled because the paper and plastic can’t be separated.

Gift Bow

No Ribbons, Bows, Glitter

Generally, gift bags can’t be recycled if they have ribbons, bows or glitter. If your gift bag is 100 percent paper, it is OK to recycle, but remove all of the adornments first.

Ways to Reduce

Opt for Durable Wrapping Material

Invest in reusable cloth gift bags (you can make your own or find some on Etsy), or try using festive fabric scraps to wrap gifts.

Ways to Reuse

Pile of Gift Bags

Regift the Bag

As long as the gift bag is in good condition, reuse it when giving someone a gift.

Repurpose Gift Bags

Gift bags make handy storage containers for items around the house, for car errands, or for lending and returning items to friends and family.

Did You Know?

Gift Wrapping Waste

How much gift wrapping waste do Americans generate on a yearly basis? About two pounds per person, or 40 million pounds in total, which includes paper products used to wrap, package and decorate gifts. A whopping 38 million miles of ribbon is discarded per year, which is enough to wrap around the Earth.