What Cardboard Can Be Recycled Clean Dry and Flattened Guide
Cardboard always looks so simple - until it hits the recycling bin. A clean shipping box is usually welcomed, as it's dry and clean. A greasy pizza box may not be. A waxy produce carton can cause problems. For busy restaurant kitchens, warehouses, job/construction sites, and shipping areas, knowing the difference keeps loads cleaner and reduces rejected material.
The short version is easy to remember: recycle clean, dry, flattened cardboard. If it is greasy, wax-coated, food-soaked, or soggy, discard it unless your local recycling program says otherwise. Call us at (901) 690-3003 to discuss -we can create a recycling plan unique to your Memphis-area business!
The main types of cardboard that can usually be recycled
Most recycling programs accept two common types of cardboard. They show up in nearly every business, from restaurant supply deliveries to construction material packaging.
Corrugated cardboard
Corrugated cardboard is the thick, sturdy material used for:
Moving boxes
Shipping boxes
Appliance packaging
Bulk supply cartons
E-commerce packaging
Many warehouse and distribution boxes
You can usually spot corrugated cardboard by looking at the edge. Corrugated cardboard has a wavy middle layer sandwiched between two flat liner sheets. That structure gives the cardboard strength and makes it valuable in the recycling process.
For cardboard recycling, corrugated boxes should be emptied, flattened, and kept dry. Remove plastic wrap, foam inserts, straps, and loose packing materials before placing boxes in the recycling pile.
Paperboard
Paperboard is thinner than corrugated cardboard. This is most common in retail and food packaging, including:
Cereal boxes
Shoe boxes
Tissue boxes
Dry food boxes
Small product cartons
Beverage can sleeves
Light packaging used for parts or supplies
Paperboard is usually recyclable when it is clean and dry. Flatten it when possible, especially if large volumes collect in prep areas, stockrooms, or receiving bays. Learn more by reading our cardboard FAQ's.
Clean and dry matters more than people think
Recycling facilities play a vital role in transforming materials into new paper products! However, food residue, grease, and moisture can diminish fiber quality. If contamination occurs, it could lead to an entire batch being discarded. Let’s do our part to keep recyclables clean and valuable!
That is why the rule is simple: if cardboard is wet, oily, or covered in food, keep it out of the recycling stream.
Items to watch closely include:
Produce boxes with waxy coatings
Refrigerated or frozen food cartons with plastic or wax layers
Drink cartons made with mixed materials
Cardboard soaked by rain near a dumpster
Boxes contaminated with paint, mortar, chemicals, or construction debris
If a box feels slick, shiny, waxy, or water-resistant, treat it with caution. Many coated cartons are not handled the same way as plain cardboard.
Flattening saves space and improves collection
Flattening boxes is not just a neatness habit. It makes cardboard easier to store, bale, haul, and process.
For high-volume sites, flat boxes help prevent overflowing containers and windblown material. They also make it easier to keep recycling separate from trash, pallets, plastic film, and food waste.
On construction sites, the same rule applies. Packaging from fixtures, tile, tools, and materials can often be recycled if it stays clean. Cardboard mixed with drywall dust, wet cement, adhesives, or job-site trash may not be accepted.
Items that should usually stay out of the cardboard bin
Some packaging looks like cardboard but belongs somewhere else. When in doubt, check local guidance before adding it to the recycling container.
Common problem items include:
Usually recyclable | Usually not recyclable |
Clean corrugated shipping boxes | Greasy pizza boxes |
Dry moving boxes | Waxy produce cartons |
Clean paperboard cereal boxes | Soggy cardboard |
Shoe boxes and dry goods packaging | Food-soaked takeout packaging |
Flattened bulk supply cartons | Cardboard coated with chemicals, paint, or oil |
Local rules matter. A recycling company in Memphis, faq's about recycling pages from local haulers, or city guidance can help clarify what is accepted in your area. This is especially useful for businesses that generate large amounts of cardboard every week.
If guidelines differ, follow the local rule. Recycling systems vary based on sorting equipment, end markets, and collection methods.
FAQ's
Can wet cardboard be recycled?
Usually no. Why? Because wet cardboard can break down, grow mold, and lower fiber quality. Letting it dry may help if it is only slightly damp and still clean but discard soggy cardboard unless local rules say otherwise.
Are pizza boxes recyclable?
When it comes to recycling, it's all about making smart choices! If the top of your container is clean and your local guidelines permit, separate it from the greasy bottom. Every little effort counts towards keeping our planet green!
Can wax-coated cardboard be recycled?
Most waxy cartons and coated boxes are not accepted with regular cardboard. This is because the coating makes the paper fibers harder to process. Check local guidelines for any special instructions, or as a customer, we can assist you with this.
Do boxes need to be flattened?
Yes. Flattening will save space, keep bins from filling too quickly, and make collection easier.
Can paperboard go in the same bin as cardboard?
Many programs accept clean paperboard with cardboard or mixed paper, but rules vary. Check the instructions for your location or hauling service.
The takeaway is simple: recycle corrugated cardboard and paperboard when they are clean, dry, and flattened. Keep greasy, waxy, and soggy material out unless your local program gives different instructions. A clean bin makes the whole recycling process work better.
Interested in learning more about recycling in the Memphis area? We invite you to read our FAQ's: cardboard recycling FAQ's, plastic recycling FAQ's, metal recycling FAQ's, salvage and non-hazardous FAQ's and recycling consulting FAQ's.
Serving Memphis, TN, and Surrounding Areas
Waste Solutions Inc. proudly serves:
Memphis, TN
Germantown, TN
Collierville, TN
Bartlett, TN
Cordova, TN
Southaven, MS
West Memphis, AR
And surrounding Mid-South communities
Waste Solutions, Inc.
Memphis Recycling & Waste Disposal
5565 E Raines Rd
Memphis, TN 38115
Open: Mon - Fri: 6am - 2pm
Telephone : (901)690-3003
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