Can You Compost Packing Paper? Ultimate Guide to Recycling Shipping Materials (2023)

The Packaging Waste Problem: Why Composting Packing Paper Matters

If you've ordered anything online recently, you've likely faced that familiar pile of packing paper, wondering what to do with it all. You're not alone. The average American home now receives 21 packages annually, generating over 30 pounds of packaging waste per household. Even more concerning, about 40% of these materials end up in landfills despite readily available sustainable alternatives.

As gardeners and sustainability enthusiasts, we have a unique opportunity to transform this waste stream into something beneficial. Instead of contributing to overflowing landfills, much of this paper can nourish your garden through composting.

In this comprehensive guide, you'll discover clear, actionable solutions for handling packing paper sustainably—some taking as little as two weeks to implement. What's more, diverting just 5 pounds of paper from landfills can reduce your carbon footprint by approximately 15%, a significant impact from such a simple change in habits.

Whether you're working with a sprawling backyard compost system or a small apartment-friendly setup, this guide will help you make informed decisions about what can safely return to the soil and what's better handled through other means.

Quick Reference Guide: Composting Packing Materials

Material	Compostable?	Carbon:Nitrogen Ratio	Breakdown Time	Benefits
Kraft paper (brown)	Yes	150:1 (high carbon)	2-4 weeks (shredded)	Excellent "brown" material, helps aeration
Natural tissue paper	Yes (if undyed)	125:1	1-3 weeks	Fast-decomposing carbon source
Newsprint	Yes (with caution)	175:1	3-5 weeks	Good carbon source, may contain trace metals
Waxed paper	No	N/A	Doesn't decompose properly	Should be recycled instead
Glossy paper	Usually no	N/A	N/A	May contain plastic coatings
Starch packing peanuts	Yes	35:1	1-3 months	Dissolve in water first
Paper with plastic tape	No (remove tape first)	N/A	N/A	Separate components before composting

4 Types of Packing Paper: What Can You Actually Compost?

Not all packing paper is created equal when it comes to composting. Here's a breakdown of the most common types and their compostability:

Kraft Paper (Brown Shipping Paper)

This sturdy brown paper is the sustainability star of shipping materials. It's 100% compostable and breaks down in just 2-4 weeks when properly shredded. As a bonus, kraft paper is high in carbon, making it an excellent "brown" addition to balance nitrogen-rich kitchen scraps in your compost pile.

"I shred all my Amazon kraft paper and add it to my compost bin," says Michelle Garcia, an urban gardener from Portland. "It breaks down completely by the time I'm ready to use the finished compost on my vegetable beds."

Tissue Paper

The delicate tissue paper often wrapped around fragile items is compostable, but with conditions. Undyed, uncoated tissue paper breaks down in just 1-3 weeks and integrates beautifully into your compost. However, tissue paper with metallic finishes or heavy dyes should be avoided.

Newsprint/Newspaper

While technically compostable and often used as bedding in worm bins, newsprint deserves some caution. Modern newspaper inks are typically soy-based and safe, but some older or specialty publications may contain heavy metals in their inks. Use in moderation, and if you're concerned, recycling might be the better option.

Specialized Papers

This category includes glossy inserts, coated papers, and specialty wrapping papers that often contain hidden plastic coatings or treatments that prevent proper decomposition. These materials can contaminate your compost and should generally be recycled instead.

Quick Identification Test: The "Tear and Soak" Method

Not sure if your packing paper is compostable? Try this 30-second test:

Tear a small piece of the paper
Place it in a cup of water
Stir occasionally for 30 seconds
If it begins to soften and break apart, it's likely compostable
If it remains intact or feels waxy/plastic-like, it's probably not suitable for composting

Is Your Packing Paper Compost-Safe? 3 Essential Tests

Beyond the quick identification test, there are three more thorough ways to determine if your packing paper belongs in your compost bin:

The Treatment Test

Many packing materials have invisible treatments that make them less suitable for composting. Here's how to check:

Wet the paper thoroughly
Try to tear it when wet
If it tears easily, it's likely untreated
If it resists tearing or feels slick, it likely contains waxes or plastics that won't break down properly

The Color Question

While some colored papers are perfectly compostable, others contain dyes with heavy metals or other contaminants:

Natural brown, beige, and gray papers are typically safe
Vibrant, fluorescent colors often contain problematic dyes
Black inks on modern papers are usually soy-based and safe
If the paper bleeds color when wet, use caution and consider recycling instead

The Contamination Check

Even compostable paper can be rendered unsuitable by what's attached to it:

Remove all plastic tape, staples, and labels before composting
Check for oil stains, chemical residues, or other contaminants
Tear away and discard any heavily contaminated sections

DIY Compostability Test: The Mason Jar Method

For the truly dedicated, this test gives definitive results:

Shred a sample of your packing paper
Place it in a mason jar with some finished compost and a sprinkle of soil
Moisten thoroughly but don't saturate
Close the jar loosely and place in a warm location
Check after 7-10 days—significant breakdown indicates compostability

Common Misconceptions

Many people assume shiny paper always contains plastic, but some modern papers use clay coatings that are compostable. Conversely, some matte papers have invisible plastic treatments. When in doubt, perform one of the tests above rather than judging by appearance alone.

How to Compost Packing Paper: 5-Step Process for Faster Decomposition

Once you've determined your packing paper is compostable, follow these steps to ensure it breaks down efficiently:

Preparation Technique: The "Soak and Shred" Method

Paper breaks down much faster when properly prepared:

Tear or cut paper into strips about 1-2 inches wide
Soak in water for 15-30 minutes
Shred by hand or with a paper shredder (if using before soaking)
Squeeze out excess water (but leave damp)

This method can cut decomposition time by up to 50% compared to adding whole sheets directly to your compost.

Balancing Your Compost

Paper is a carbon-rich ("brown") material. For optimal decomposition, aim for a 30:1 carbon-to-nitrogen ratio in your overall compost pile:

For every 5 gallons of shredded paper, add approximately 1 gallon of nitrogen-rich materials like kitchen scraps, coffee grounds, or fresh grass clippings
If your compost starts to smell like ammonia, add more paper to increase carbon
If decomposition seems slow, add more nitrogen-rich materials

Quantity Guidelines

Even with proper preparation, too much paper can cause problems:

Limit paper to about 20% of your total compost volume
Add paper gradually rather than all at once
Mix thoroughly with other compost ingredients

Exceeding these guidelines can create dense mats that block air circulation and slow decomposition.

Troubleshooting Wet Paper Mats

If you notice paper clumping together in wet sheets, try the "sandwich technique":

Break up existing paper mats with a garden fork
Layer materials in this order: coarse browns (sticks, leaves), shredded paper, nitrogen-rich materials, more coarse browns
This creates air pockets that prevent paper from matting together

Small-Space Solution: 5-Gallon Bucket Composting

No backyard? No problem:

Drill 10-15 small drainage holes in the bottom of a 5-gallon bucket
Add 2 inches of soil at the bottom
Mix shredded, dampened packing paper with kitchen scraps (3:1 ratio)
Cover with 1 inch of soil
Keep slightly moist but not wet
Turn contents weekly with a small garden fork
Harvest finished compost in 4-6 weeks

7 Sustainable Alternatives When Packing Paper Isn't Compostable

When you encounter non-compostable packing paper, consider these alternatives:

Garden Repurposing: Weed Barriers

Layer non-glossy packing paper around established plants as a weed barrier:

Moisten the soil thoroughly
Lay 2-3 sheets of paper around plants, avoiding direct contact with stems
Cover with 1-2 inches of mulch
The paper will naturally decompose by fall while suppressing weeds

Seed-Starting Pots

Kraft paper makes excellent biodegradable seed-starting containers:

Fold paper into small pots using origami techniques (templates available online)
Fill with seed-starting mix
Plant seeds as usual
When seedlings are ready, plant the entire pot, allowing the paper to biodegrade while nurturing roots

When Recycling Beats Composting

For papers with plastic coatings or heavy inks, recycling is often the better option:

Clean, dry paper can usually be included with regular paper recycling
Check local regulations, as some facilities have specific requirements for mixed materials

Creative Upcycling: Gift Wrap

Clean packing paper makes excellent gift wrap, potentially saving over $15 annually:

Iron on low heat to remove creases
Decorate with stamps, markers, or pressed leaves for a personal touch
Finish with natural twine or fabric ribbon

Household Uses

Keep some packing paper on hand for:

Protecting surfaces during painting projects
Cleaning windows (crumpled kraft paper works surprisingly well)
Lining pet cages during cleaning
Craft projects and children's art activities

Community Options

Many organizations welcome clean packing materials:

Local small businesses often reuse shipping materials
Art teachers frequently need paper for projects
Community gardens may use paper for weed suppression
Package-free shops sometimes accept clean materials for reuse

Storage Solution

When in doubt, neatly fold and store clean packing paper for future shipping needs. A small dedicated box in a closet can save both money and resources when you need to ship something yourself.

How to Handle Special Packing Materials: Beyond Basic Paper

Can You Compost Glossy Catalogs?

Surprisingly, some modern glossy papers are compostable. The key is determining what creates the glossy finish:

Clay-coated papers (which tear easily and feel smooth, not plastic-like) can be composted in moderation
Plastic-coated papers (which resist tearing when wet) should be recycled instead
When in doubt, recycling is the safer option for glossy materials

Colored Packing Paper

The compostability depends on the dyes used:

Natural vegetable dyes (often found in kraft papers with subtle colors) are compostable
Look for papers labeled with "vegetable-based inks" or "compostable dyes"
Bright, fluorescent colors typically contain synthetic dyes and should be recycled

Food-Contaminated Paper

Contrary to popular belief, some food contamination doesn't ruin compostability:

Paper with small grease spots from natural foods can still be composted
Heavily soiled paper or those with chemical residues should be avoided
Paper contaminated with raw meat juices should be discarded due to pathogen concerns

Mixed Materials

Many packages contain multiple materials that require separation:

Carefully peel paper backing from bubble wrap (paper can be composted, bubble wrap recycled)
Remove paper labels from plastic envelopes
Separate cardboard from plastic windows in packaging

Compostable Packing Peanuts

Not all packing peanuts are created equal:

Place a suspect peanut in water
If it begins to dissolve, it's likely starch-based and compostable
If it floats unchanged, it's Styrofoam and should be recycled at specialty facilities

Creating Your Sustainable Packaging Waste System in 3 Steps

The 10-Minute Sorting Station

Set up a simple system that makes sustainable disposal easy:

Designate three containers: Compostable, Recyclable, and Reusable
Place near where you typically open packages
Add a small container for non-recyclable items to track waste
Process each container weekly (compost, recycle, or store items)

Family-Friendly Labels

Make it easy for everyone in your household to participate:

Create visual guides with pictures of common items
Use color coding (green for compost, blue for recycling)
Include simple decision trees for questionable items
Review and celebrate progress monthly as a family

Reducing Incoming Waste

Take proactive steps to minimize packaging before it arrives:

Amazon: Use the "Frustration-Free Packaging" option when available
Etsy: Message sellers requesting minimal or plastic-free packaging
Target: Choose the "Ship items together" option at checkout
Walmart: Select "No rush shipping" which often uses fewer boxes
Direct requests: Many companies honor specific packaging requests in order notes

The "Packaging Feedback" Email Template

For excessive packaging, send this simple template to customer service:

"Hello, I recently received order #[number] and appreciated the products. However, I noticed excessive packaging, particularly [describe issue]. As an environmentally conscious consumer, I'd prefer minimal, recyclable packaging in future orders. Do you offer sustainable packaging options? Thank you for considering this feedback."

Your 48-Hour Action Plan for That Pile of Packing Paper

Quick-Decision Flowchart

For that stack of paper waiting for attention:

Is it plain brown or white paper without coatings? → Compost
Does it have minimal printing with soy-based inks? → Compost
Is it glossy, plastic-coated, or heavily dyed? → Recycle
Is it clean and reusable? → Store for future use
Is it contaminated with non-compostable materials? → Separate if possible, then sort accordingly

Environmental Calculator

Your efforts make a real difference:

Every pound of paper composted instead of landfilled prevents about 0.5 pounds of CO2 equivalent emissions
Composting 10 pounds of paper can provide nutrients for approximately 5 square feet of garden space
Reusing just 5 pounds of packing paper saves the equivalent of 25 gallons of water that would be used in new paper production

First Steps: 48-Hour Plan

Today:

Sort existing packaging pile using the flowchart above
Shred compostable paper and add to compost bin or start a new collection

Tomorrow:

Set up your sorting station with designated containers
Remove any non-compostable elements from paper destined for compost

This weekend:

Add prepared paper to your compost system
Email one company whose packaging could be improved
Share your system with household members

Long-Term Impact

By implementing these practices consistently, your household can:

Divert 100+ pounds of paper annually from landfills
Create approximately 25 gallons of nutrient-rich compost
Reduce your carbon footprint by the equivalent of not driving 100 miles
Inspire others through your example of practical sustainability

FAQ: Common Questions About Composting Packing Paper

Can I compost paper with colored ink printing?

Most modern inks are soy-based and safe for composting in moderate amounts. Avoid paper with metallic inks, extremely bright colors, or heavy coverage. When in doubt, limit colored inks to less than 30% of your paper additions.

How long does kraft packing paper take to break down in my compost bin?

Properly shredded and moistened kraft paper typically breaks down in 2-4 weeks in an active compost pile. Whole sheets may take 2-3 months. Factors affecting decomposition include temperature, moisture, and how well the paper is mixed with nitrogen-rich materials.

What's the easiest way to remove tape and staples before composting?

For tape, freezing the paper for 30 minutes often makes adhesives brittle and easier to peel off. For staples, use a flat-head screwdriver to gently pry them up, or tear around them and discard the small stapled sections.

Is it better to compost or recycle clean packing paper?

Both are environmentally sound choices. Composting returns nutrients directly to your soil and reduces transportation impacts. Recycling conserves manufacturing resources and may be better for heavily printed papers. When possible, reusing is even better than either option.

Will adding packing paper make my compost too dry?

It can, if added in large quantities. Pre-moisten paper before adding, and maintain a balance with "green" nitrogen-rich materials. If your compost seems too dry after adding paper, sprinkle with water until it has the moisture level of a wrung-out sponge.

Can I put packing paper in my city's green waste bin?

Policies vary widely. Many municipal composting programs accept small amounts of plain paper, but restrictions on quantity and types differ. Check your local guidelines or call your waste management department for specific rules.

Does shredding paper really make it compost faster?

Absolutely. Shredding increases the surface area exposed to moisture and microorganisms. In tests, shredded paper can decompose up to 50% faster than whole sheets. For best results, shred paper into strips no wider than ½ inch.

By incorporating these practices into your routine, you'll transform packaging waste from an environmental burden into a valuable resource for your garden. With each package that arrives at your door, you'll now see not just products, but potential for sustainable living.