Can you recycle wrapping paper?

How ever much you try it is hard to avoid Christmas paper. We used brown paper, reused old paper and newspaper last year but received the odd sheet of Christmas paper from friends and family.  If you can't reuse it, make sure you know what you can recycle and what is waste.

Can you recycle wrapping paper?

Wrapping paper is tough to recycle thanks to the glitter, shiny foils and shimmery add-ons, as well as layers of sticky tape and ribbons.

But, thanks to this clever tip, it's never been easier to find out how to dispose of wrapping paper properly.

The wrapping paper recycling test

Step 1: Scrunch the paper into a tight ball.

Step 2: Open your hand to see if the paper remains in a tight ball or bounces back open.

Step 3. If the paper stays scrunched in a ball, then you know it can be recycled. If, however, it open back up, then it cannot be recycled.

Is wrapping paper recyclable?

According to Recycle Now, some types of wrapping paper can be accepted in the recycling bin but it is best to check with your local council.

It's always recommended to check the condition of your paper before you place it in the recycling bin. Gift wrap can't be recycled if it is...

• dyed or laminated
• contains non-paper additives, such as gold and silver coloured shapes, glitter or plastics
• covered in sticky tape
• is very thin 

Before you place your wrapping paper in the recycling bin, ensure to remove any sticky tape, bows and ribbons, as these can't be recycled. If you can, avoid using these at all.