What plastic is used for deodorant containers?

How can you properly recycle a plastic deodorant tube? This process is more intricate than it seems at first glance. A single deodorant tube can consist of multiple types of plastic.

Typically, deodorant containers are made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE, also referred to as #2 plastic) or low-density polyethylene (LDPE, or #4 plastic). However, various components of the tube might include polypropylene. There’s that small dial at the base designed to lift the stick—this component is often made from a different kind of plastic as well. The tray that contains the deodorant, the central rod that supports it, and even the cap may vary in plastic type from the main body of the tube. While recycling such items might make you feel responsible, in reality, identifying and separating these different plastics can feel like completing a puzzle without a picture. Disassembling the entire tube into its individual components, ensuring they are cleaned thoroughly, and only recycling the parts labeled with a recycling code becomes a complex affair. Often, after investing time and resources, one realizes that the probability of those parts being successfully recycled is minimal.

Fortunately, a simpler alternative exists. It is unnecessary to resort to a convoluted plastic tube for applying deodorant. This is one of the reasons why HiBAR offers a plastic-free deodorant encased in a unique, recyclable, and compostable cardboard tube. Moreover, what’s inside the container is equally important. HiBAR’s deodorant formulation is made from natural ingredients, eliminating the harmful elements commonly found in conventional deodorants. Our products are devoid of parabens, triclosan, phthalates, propylene glycol, and aluminum. We provide all-natural, all-day protection without any animal cruelty, and most importantly—zero plastic.

Deodorants are essential for staying fresh, yet disposing of the tubes can raise questions. What materials comprise these containers? Is recycling them an option? What strategies are available for disposal? Many consumers find themselves guessing regarding these issues.

Is Recycling of Deodorant Containers Possible?

The answer is yes, at least for some components. However, the recycling process is not straightforward.

What Goes Into Deodorant Tubes?

The difficulty in recycling deodorant tubes often stems from their entirely plastic construction. Yet, identifying the specific type of plastic used can be challenging for consumers, making it difficult to know if their local recycling programs accept such materials.

Diversity in Tube Materials

The majority of deodorant tubes consist of either high-density polyethylene (HDPE or #2), low-density polyethylene (LDPE or #4), or polypropylene (PP or plastic #5). Different brands may use variations in materials. Moreover, many containers have a mechanism at the bottom made from a distinct polymer compared to the rest of the tube. The cap and any internal pieces can also diverge in material composition.

At CPP Global, we specialize in providing high-quality packaging solutions.

Avoiding Recycling Contamination

The distinction in plastic components is crucial. Tossing non-recyclable items into curbside bins leads to contamination, resulting in increased costs and potentially ruining an entire batch of recyclable materials.

To minimize this risk, disassemble tubes and only recycle known materials. This includes removing any unidentified mechanisms on the bottom, potential plastic liners, caps, and other elements before submission to the recycling process. Additionally, residual product can compromise the value of material intended for recycling; therefore, rinsing containers thoroughly with warm water and soap is essential before disposal.

Recycling Through Alternative Methods

Organizations like TerraCycle have developed effective strategies for deodorant tube recycling by implementing innovative practices. These containers are processed in a particular method: they are shredded, washed, melted down, and transformed into new plastic pellets that are repurposed for creating various items.

For further details and inquiries on our Empty Deodorant Containers Wholesale offerings, please don’t hesitate to contact us for expert assistance.