Can envelopes be recycled?

Question

Like everyone else, I get a lot of envelopes in the mail. I am an avid recycler and try to recycle everything I can. It's a shame to throw away so many envelopes so I am wondering, can they be recycled like any other thing made of paper (yes I would rip the plastic windows off)? Or does the adhesive that holds most envelopes together prevent them from being recyclable?

Answer 1

Absolutely, they can be recycled! (Adhesives also hold together other types of paper like magazines, yet they can also be recycled.) But as you said, it's best to rip out the clear plastic section. (Some recyclers can handle that as well, but I prefer not to risk contamination with that.)

However, it is not advisable to recycle paper that has major food stains, that messes with the process, that is my understanding.

Answer 2

Yes! You can make your own stationary with recycled envelopes. All you need is a paper shredder, around $20 but you can shred the paper into smaller pieces by hand if you prefer.
Place the shredded paper in your blender with some water. Any amount to allow it to blend thoroughly. Then pour this mixture as evenly as you can over an old window screen and allow the water to drain off. Best to do it outside. It could get a little messy.

Once dry, you have a nice homemade paper that you can cut into any shape you want. You can even add food coloring to the mixture to make different color stationary.

Answer 3

I think if it paper it recyclable

Answer 4

recycle the whole thing, don't rip anything off

Answer 5

The envelopes can, the stamps can't

Answer 6

yes, they are recycleable

Answer 7

ya its paper ight

Answer 8

yes the can