Can You Recycle Milk Cartons?
It depends
Accepted by many programs — rinse first
Why
Cartons are paper layered with plastic (and sometimes aluminum). Most larger programs now accept them, but they require specialized mills, so smaller programs may not.
How to dispose of milk cartons
- Empty and rinse, then let it drain
- Caps can usually stay on; straws go in the trash
- Check whether your program lists 'cartons' as accepted
Greener option
Cartons make easy seed-starting pots — cut, fill with soil, plant.
♻️ 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.