Can You Recycle Ink & Toner Cartridges?
No
Not curbside — office stores take them back
Why
Cartridges are mixed plastic, metal, and ink residue. Manufacturers and office-supply stores run robust take-back programs, often with rewards.
How to dispose of ink & toner cartridges
- Return cartridges to office-supply stores — many pay rewards per cartridge
- Use the prepaid mail-back envelope included with many new cartridges
- Never bin them — leaking ink contaminates paper recycling
Greener option
Refillable tank printers cut cartridge waste dramatically.
♻️ Recycling rules vary by city and hauler — when in doubt, check your local program. You can look up your area on our trash & recycling schedules page.