How to recycle bubble wrap
Clean flexible plastic bubble wrap used to protect parcels and household goods.
Other names include packing bubbles, plastic parcel wrap, protective plastic wrap.
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How to recycle bubble wrap
Reuse bubble wrap for storage or parcels when it is still sound. Some shop soft plastic points accept it, but you must check the label.
- Possible recycling routes
- Specialist recycling schemesSoft plastic collection points
Prepare bubble wrap for recycling
- Remove tape and paper labels
- Keep it clean and dry
- Deflate only if the collection point asks
What must stay out
Keep these items separate and check the site rules before you travel.
- Household recycling bins often exclude flexible plastic
- Foam packaging is a different material
- Shop schemes have different accepted lists
Types of site to check
These site types can list bubble wrap. Each provider sets its own limits and access rules.
- Specialist recycling schemes
Collection services for items that most household recycling bins cannot accept. Schemes can use shops, postal returns or limited public drop-off points.
- Soft plastic collection points
Shop collection points for clean plastic bags, wrapping and flexible packaging. Each scheme has its own accepted list.
Collection and take-back services
These services may offer another route when a local site does not list the item.
- Recycle Now
UK recycling guidance with an item directory and a postcode-based recycling locator.
Related item guides
- Cardboard
Clean corrugated boxes, cereal boxes, card sleeves and other dry household card.
- Plastic bags and film
Clean carrier bags, bread bags, produce bags, wrapping film and other flexible plastic packaging.
- Polystyrene
Expanded foam packaging, protective blocks, beads and rigid polystyrene household items.
Questions about recycling bubble wrap
- Where can I recycle bubble wrap?
- Enter your postcode in the local finder to search specialist recycling schemes and soft plastic collection points near you. Check the provider page before you travel because item lists and access rules can change.
- How should I prepare bubble wrap for recycling?
- Reuse bubble wrap for storage or parcels when it is still sound. Some shop soft plastic points accept it, but you must check the label.
Sources for this guide
- Simpler recycling: household recycling in England
Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs · Reviewed 14 August 2026
- Recycle an item
Recycle Now · Reviewed 14 August 2026