Can You Recycle Styrofoam?
No
Not recyclable curbside almost anywhere
Why
Styrofoam (expanded polystyrene, #6) is mostly air, making it uneconomical to collect and transport. It also breaks into small beads that contaminate other recyclables.
How to dispose of styrofoam
- Put it in the trash unless your area has a special foam densifier drop-off
- Search for a local EPS drop-off site — some shipping stores and county facilities accept clean blocks
- Never put foam in your curbside bin
Greener option
Reuse clean foam coolers and packing blocks, or ask shipping stores if they will take them.
♻️ 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.