Can You Recycle Toothpaste Tubes?
It depends
Newer HDPE tubes maybe — most older tubes no
Why
Traditional tubes are plastic-aluminum laminate, which is unrecyclable. Major brands have switched to recyclable HDPE tubes, but acceptance still varies by program.
How to dispose of toothpaste tubes
- Check the tube: if marked recyclable/HDPE, squeeze it empty, cap on, and recycle where accepted
- Older laminate tubes go in the trash
- Oral-care mail-in recycling programs accept tubes, brushes, and floss containers
Greener option
Toothpaste tablets in glass jars skip the tube entirely.
♻️ 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.