After the COVID-19 pandemic, you may have an abundance of extra masks sitting around. Do you want to know if you can recycle disposable masks and how? Well, we’ve got the answers for you!
Typically, disposable masks should never be recycled. They are made up of different types of plastic so they should be thrown in the trash. Although masks usually shouldn’t be recycled, there are some exceptions. Locations in the UK have collections where they allow masks to be recycled.
We have done the research and know the best ways you should deal with your disposable masks. If you keep reading, you can find out just how you should take care of those masks you don’t need.
Why Not Recycle Them?
We have all put our used facemasks in our dresser drawer, on a shelf in your kitchen, or have just let them sit around. Are you wanting to get them all out of your house, but aren’t sure if they should be recycled or thrown in the trash? We have done the research and know exactly what you should do with your unwanted disposable masks.
Disposable masks are made up of “mixed materials and cannot be recycled.” Napa Recycling and Waste Services explains that you should not recycle your disposable masks. The masks have fabric, plastic, and other materials that make it difficult to recycle. Just toss your disposable mask in the trash and help keep our environment clean and healthy!
UK Recycling of Disposable Masks
The United States does not have very many options at all for recycling masks. But the UK does have different ways of doing things. A company called Wilko creates a way for people to place the disposable masks they no longer wanted into bins at different locations in the UK. Once the bins are full of masks, they will take them to their factory. With machinery, they will wash, break down, and reuse the materials for furniture, building materials, or PPE bins.
If you live in the UK, this option might be a perfect way for you to recycle your disposable masks.
A Solution for Everyone
Are you in the U.S. or the UK and want an easy way to dispose of your mask? This next option is perfect for wherever you live. TerroCycle created a zero-waste box that is available to anyone who orders it. How it works, is that you order the box, fill it with recyclable objects (including disposable masks), then ship it back and order a new one! This is a very easy, efficient way to recycle your disposable masks. Order today and help save the environment!
Staying Healthy While Disposing of Masks
With the COVID-19 pandemic, we all want to make sure we stay happy and healthy. The best way to do that is to make sure you dispose of your masks the correct way. If you or a household member is sick, you have to dispose of your mask in an extra careful, certain way. Make sure to wash your hands well before and after you remove the mask. Next, you should place the masks in a garbage bag and tie them. Throw the bag away immediately. Sanitize anything that may have touched the masks.
This is the best, and safest way to dispose of masks if you or someone in your home is sick.
How Can I Help the Environment with Masks?
There are so many ways in which you can help our environment when it comes to masks. Instead of buying disposable masks, consider buying or making reusable masks. Reusable masks can be washed and then used over and over again, helping to break down the amount of plastic that disposable masks create. Using these disposable masks will only add a tiny bit of laundry to your load, but will help save the environment in big ways.
Another way you can help save the environment is to donate any unused, unboxed masks. This could really help some people in need and is a perfect example of how you can help our world be a better place.
The last way in which you can help our environment is to pick up any masks you see on the ground and to make sure you don’t drop your masks. Millions of masks are being found on streets, in rivers, and in other places where masks should not be. We need to do our part and help clean the streets whenever we see masks just sitting there. If you don’t want to touch them with your bare hands, consider carrying gloves or a plastic grocery bag around that you can use to pick the masks up.
These are just some of the ways you can help our environment stay clean!
Masks Available for Purchase
Are you wanting to buy face masks that are better for the environment than disposable ones? Here are some amazing options available for you today!
EcoMask
EcoMask is selling a filtering face mask that you would love! Once you are done using it, the company allows you to send the mask back to them, and they will recycle it for you themselves! The mask is made out of post-consumer recycled materials and has five layers of filtration! This mask isn’t just eco-friendly, it’s also safe!
Rothy’s The Mask
This company sells machine-washable masks that would be so perfect for you if you are looking for an eco-friendly mask. These masks are made out of materials from single-use plastic water bottles and microfiber fabric on the inside for comfortable wear. They come in tons of sizes and colors and even are available for kids!
Avocado
Avocado Organic Cotton Face Masks are available to serve your environmentally safe needs! These masks have two layers of organic cotton and are made with organic fibers that are perfect for the environment. These masks have a filter pocket which will help keep you safe! The masks have elastic ear loops or head tie straps, making it easy to pick whichever mask is best for you!
These masks are great options if you want to help our environment. Stay healthy and remember not to recycle your disposable masks!
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