what to do with shredded paper

Quick Scoop

Shredded paper can be reused, recycled, composted, or donated depending on what kind it is and how much you have. For most people, the easiest options are packing filler, compost browns, pet bedding, or paper-craft material.

Best Uses

• Use it as packing material for boxes, gifts, or storage.

• Add plain, non-glossy shredded paper to compost as a brown material.

• Use it as mulch around plants, but avoid coated or glossy paper.

• Give it to animal shelters for bedding or spill absorption.

• Use it for paper mâché, paper clay, or fire starters.

What to Avoid

• Don’t compost glossy, plastic-coated, or windowed-envelope paper.

• Don’t assume every recycling program accepts shredded paper; many treat it differently because the small pieces are hard to sort.

• If the shredded paper contains sensitive information, keep it secured until you decide whether to reuse, compost, or dispose of it.

Simple Rule

If it’s plain paper , reuse or compost it; if it’s coated, glossy, or mixed with plastic, keep it out of compost and check local recycling rules.

Practical Picks

1. Home offices: Use shredded paper to cushion packages or fill shipping boxes.

2. Gardeners: Mix plain shredded paper into compost or use it as weed-suppressing mulch.

3. Pet owners: Offer clean shredded paper to shelters or use it for bedding.

TL;DR: The most useful answer is to reuse shredded paper first, compost plain paper second, and only recycle it if your local program accepts shredded material.