Can You Recycle Aluminum Foil?
Yes, Reynolds Wrap® Aluminum Foil is recyclable, but its acceptance in recycling programs is limited. First, check to see if aluminum foil recycling is available in your community.
Is aluminum foil recyclable?
Most aluminum foil is recyclable, but few communities accept aluminum foil in their recycling programs. Verify that your local recycling program accepts aluminum foil at drop-off or curbside before you put it in a bin. Learn how to check locally from our recycling partner, How2Recycle.
How to recycle aluminum foil
If your community accepts aluminum foil, follow the following steps to recycle:
- Rinse or wipe off any food residue from the aluminum foil. Any food residue will be considered contaminated and not recyclable.
- Crumple clean pieces of foil together into a ball (at least 2 inches in diameter) so small pieces do not get lost in the sorting process
- Check with your local recycling program for specific aluminum foil guidelines, as rules can vary by municipality
- Place the foil ball(s) in your curbside recycling bin with other aluminum and metal items
Foil recycling mistakes to avoid
- Placing heavily soiled or grease-covered foil in the recycling bin
- Recycling foil that is mixed with other materials (such as foil-lined paper or plastic)
- Tossing small pieces of foil that may blow away or jam the sorting equipment
Submit your own question to the product experts at Reynolds.