Silicone Products
What Should I Do With It?
Silicone is a highly durable, heat-resistant polymer synthesized from silicon and hydrocarbons, but it is not accepted in standard residential curbside recycling programs. Because silicone rubber is chemically distinct from both traditional rubber and generic plastic, local sorting facilities lack the machinery to process it. To dispose of worn-out silicone responsibly, you can search for specialty mail-in take-back programs or creatively repurpose damaged bakeware into heat-resistant potholders, trivets, and jar grips. While silicone is a more eco-friendly choice than single-use plastic, choosing endlessly recyclable materials like glass or stainless steel remains the most sustainable option.
Before throwing this away, see if it can be fixed up, given to a friend, or donated to a local thrift shop. Keeping items in use is the best way to stop waste before it starts!
The recycling guidelines shown here are for general reference and educational purposes. Every city and town has different rules, sorting equipment, and recycling programs.
Please check your local town website or ask your local garbage collection program to make sure you are following your neighborhood's rules.