Tissue Boxes
What Should I Do With It?
Paperboard tissue boxes are fully accepted as mixed paper through most curbside recycling programs. Just remember to flatten the boxes before tossing them into your bin. While it is technically okay to include the small strip of thin plastic film where the tissues pop out, taking a moment to tear that plastic liner out is even better for reducing contamination. As for the tissues themselves, whether they are clean or used, they should never go into your recycling. You should also avoid flushing tissues down the toilet; unlike toilet paper, they do not dissolve easily and will end up clogging the screens at the local wastewater facility. Instead, always dispose of tissues in your regular household trash.
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.