Why You Shouldn’t Throw Your Swiffer Pads in the Recycling Bin
Swiffer pads are a popular and convenient cleaning tool, but what do you do with them when you’re finished cleaning? One common question is whether you can recycle these pads. The quick answer is no, you can’t just toss them into your home recycling bin.
Most cities are not able to recycle these pads properly. However, there is an environmentally friendly solution to recycle Swiffer pads through a specialty recycler, TerraCycle.
TerraCycle: The Solution for Recycling Your Swiffer Pads
Swiffer has partnered with TerraCycle, a specialty recycling company, to provide a free and easy solution for recycling your used Swiffer pads, including the normal ones, heavy-duty pads, and even the wet pads.
Signing Up for the Swiffer Free Recycling Program through TerraCycle
To start recycling your Swiffer pads, follow these simple steps:
1. Visit Terra Cycle (https://www.terracycle.com/en-US/) and type “Swiffer” in the search bar.
2. Click on the “Swiffer Free Recycling Program” option.
3. Sign up by clicking on “Sign Up and Join Now” and enter your contact information.
4. Download and print a free shipping label.
Packing Your Used Swiffer Pads for Recycling
The next step is to pack your used Swiffer pads for shipping. You can use any box you have lying around, like an empty Amazon box or another package – this helps to further reduce waste. Collect and save your used Swiffer pads over time to maximize the eco benefits since shipping can contribute to carbon emissions.
1. Fill your chosen box with used Swiffer pads.
2. Seal the box securely with packing tape.
3. Tape your printed shipping label onto the box and cover any existing labels to avoid incorrect routing.
It’s worth noting that TerraCycle uses UPS carbon-neutral shipping for this service, reducing the carbon footprint of the process. However, it’s still a good idea to send as many Swiffer pads as possible in one shipment.
Drop Off and Recycle Your Swiffer Pads
With your box packed, sealed, and labeled, you’re ready to recycle your Swiffer pads. Simply drop your box off at any UPS location, and it will be shipped to TerraCycle for responsible recycling. This collaboration between TerraCycle and Swiffer makes it easy to clean your home while ensuring that you’re minimizing waste and helping the environment.
By following this step-by-step guide, you can continue to enjoy the convenience of Swiffer products while ensuring that used pads are recycled responsibly.
Key Takeaways
- You cannot recycle Swiffer pads in your home recycling bin.
- Swiffer has partnered with TerraCycle to recycle Swiffer pads for free.
- Visit TerraCycle.com and search for Swiffer to join the free recycling program.
- You can recycle any type of Swiffer pad, including the dry pods, duster refills, and wet pads.
- You can use any box you have sitting around to store the used Swiffer pads.
- Print the shipping label from the TerraCycle website and attach it to the box.
- Drop off the box at a UPS location and the pads will be recycled responsibly.