Shredding sensitive documents is a smart way to protect your privacy, but it leaves you with bags of shredded paper that can be tricky to recycle. While most people know that regular paper is recyclable, shredded paper often causes confusion. Not every recycling program accepts it, and incorrect disposal can lead to contamination. The good news is that there are safe, responsible, and even creative ways to recycle or dispose of shredded paper.
At 1-800-GOT-JUNK?, we’ve been helping homeowners and businesses responsibly recycle paper for decades. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to recycle shredded paper, why it can be challenging, and the best options for proper disposal.
How to dispose of shredded paper
Not all curbside recycling programs accept shredded paper, and the rules can vary by location. Check your local paper recycling codes to confirm eligibility. Here are some practical ways to recycle or responsibly dispose of shredded paper:
1. Take it to a recycling drop-off location
Some municipal or commercial recycling centers have dedicated bins for shredded paper. Bag your shredded paper in a clear, labeled paper bag or cardboard box to prevent it from blowing away.
Best for: Large amounts of paper or areas without curbside acceptance.
2. Mix it into your compost bin
Shredded paper is a great source of carbon (“brown material”) for compost. Make sure it’s plain, ink-free, and non-glossy. Mix it with food scraps, leaves, and other organic material for the best results.
Best for: Gardeners and homeowners with compost bins.
3. Use it as animal bedding
Clean, uncoated shredded paper makes excellent bedding for small pets, like hamsters or rabbits. Avoid using glossy or colored paper for this method.
Best for: Pet owners looking for an eco-friendly solution.
4. Repurpose as packing material
Shredded paper can cushion fragile items during a move or when shipping packages. Store it in dry containers until needed.
Best for: Home moves, office clean-outs, or frequent shippers.
5. Check for community shredding events
Many cities host free or low-cost shredding and recycling days. Bring your bags of shredded paper for secure recycling.
Best for: Residents with occasional paper shredding needs.
6. As a last resort: Bag it and trash it
If your area doesn’t accept shredded paper, bag it securely in paper or biodegradable bags before placing it in the trash. This helps prevent litter.
Best for: Areas without recycling options.
7. Use a junk removal service for maximum convenience
If you’ve got more shredded paper than you can handle or simply want it gone without the hassle, we can help.
How it works: Schedule a pickup with 1-800-GOT-JUNK?. Our team will collect your bagged shredded paper and handle recycling or responsible disposal for you.
Where to do it: We operate across the United States, Canada, and Australia. Call 1-800-468-5865 or schedule a junk pickup online.
Best for: Anyone with large volumes of shredded paper, limited recycling options, or not enough time to transport materials themselves.
What makes shredded paper recycling so challenging?
Shredded paper is difficult to recycle because the small pieces can jam sorting machinery at recycling facilities. They also have less fiber than whole sheets, which reduces their value in making new paper products. Loose shreds can contaminate other recyclables like glass and plastic.
Following proper preparation guidelines can help prevent these issues and make it easier for facilities to process your shredded paper responsibly.
How to prepare shredded paper for recycling
To give your shredded paper the best chance of being recycled:
- Collect shredded paper in a paper bag or small cardboard box.
- Label the bag or box as “Shredded Paper” for easy identification.
- Check local recycling rules—some programs require drop-off rather than curbside pickup.
- Only shred sensitive documents, like tax records or medical files. Recycle non-sensitive papers whole.
- Keep shredded paper dry to avoid mold or contamination.
By preparing your shredded paper correctly, you can reduce waste and help recycling programs process it more effectively.
We take all kinds of junk
Recycling shredded paper can be confusing, but you don’t have to do it alone. At 1-800-GOT-JUNK?, we make junk disappear—including shredded paper! All you have to do is point.
Our friendly truck teams handle pickup, recycling, and responsible disposal. Check our pricing for junk removal and schedule a junk pickup online whenever you’re ready. We recycle the recyclables and donate the donatables, so reusable items stay out of the landfill.
Call 1-800-468-5865 to book a pickup today!
