Proper disposal of used paper towels: Common mistakes and solutions

Paper towels are indispensable products in our kitchens and bathrooms, especially when we need to quickly wipe something dry. However, we often make mistakes when disposing of them after use.

Many years ago, paper towels significantly improved our kitchens and bathrooms. They allow for quick and hassle-free removal of spilled juice on the kitchen counter or liquid in the bathroom.

The question arises: what should be done with the used towel that has absorbed liquid substances? Although the original inclination might be to throw it in the paper bin, this is a mistake.

Used paper towels do not qualify as paper waste, so they can only go into one bin when sorting waste—mixed waste. The same goes for tissues and coated paper.

Throwing a soaked piece of a towel into the paper waste bin will contaminate the other waste, making it non-recyclable.

So, what products can you throw into the paper waste bin? They include old books and notebooks, newspapers, catalogues, leaflets, office paper, cartons, paper bags, and cardboard.

Before disposing of these wastes, any remaining adhesive tape and coated labels should be removed.