Paper towels belong in mixed waste, not recycling: A common mistake

Paper towels are an indispensable product in our kitchens and bathrooms, especially when we need to wipe something dry quickly. However, we often make mistakes when disposing of them after use.

Many years ago, paper towels made a breakthrough in our kitchens and bathrooms. They provide a quick and hassle-free way to clean up spilled juice on the kitchen counter or liquid in the bathroom.

The question arises: what should we do with used towels that have liquid substances on them? Although the initial thought might be to throw them in the paper bin, this is a mistake.

Used paper towels do not count as paper waste, so they should only be placed in one bin when sorting waste: mixed waste. The same applies to tissues and coated paper.

Throwing a soaked paper towel into the paper waste bin can contaminate the other recyclables, making them non-recyclable.

So, what products can you throw into the paper waste bin? Acceptable items include old books and notebooks, newspapers, catalogues, leaflets, office paper, cartons, paper bags, and cardboard.

Before disposing of these items, remove any remaining adhesive tape and coated labels.