Can jiffylite mailers and other cushioned or bubble mailers be recycled?

Question

I have recently received items in the mail packaged in bubble-cushioned envelopes. Most state on the mailer that they are MADE with recycled materials but don't state whether or not they themselves can be recycled.

Answer 1

I do recycle these types of envelopes when shipping something that needs extra cushioning I'll often cut up the envelope and wrap the object with it and then put it in to a box for shipping.  If your worried about the address infomation side, just use the back side of them.  I've shipped with this method and there isn't a lot of extra weight added to the package and no one so far has complained.

Good Luck!

Answer 2

It depends on the recycling program. They don't take it at my home recycling program. At my work, they do accept it as long as it is entirely in plastic. They don't take the bubble mailers sandwiched with paper.

I understand your concern. My design company had recently proposed a voluntary recycling instruction seal to be placed by manufacturers. You know, like the health-check symbol. It has been done in Japan for years. Their packaging often labeled clearly which parts are recyclable and how. I hope our government will take this advice!