Deodorants help us maintain freshness and hygiene, but the question remains: how do we responsibly dispose of those applicators? What materials go into deodorant tubes? Are they recyclable? Where can we do that? And what alternatives exist? Earth911 delves into these queries and more in this recycling investigation.
Editor’s note: This article was initially published on September 4, 2012, and was most recently revised in October 2025.
Are Deodorant Tubes Recyclable?
Short answer: Yes, but only certain components. However, it can be quite complicated.
What is the Recycling Process for Deodorant Tubes?
Why is recycling deodorant tubes a challenge? Essentially, most of these containers are made solely from plastic. Unfortunately, it’s not always clear what type of plastic is used, making it difficult for users to know if their local recycling facility will accept them.
Variability in Tube Materials
Deodorant tubes generally consist of high-density polyethylene (HDPE or #2 plastic), low-density polyethylene (LDPE or #4 plastic), or polypropylene (PP or #5 plastic), but brands may differ in their materials. To complicate matters, many designs include a turn dial at the base made from a different type of polymer, not to mention the cap and any protective components that may also vary in material.
Avoiding Recycling Contamination
Why is it important that different components are made from various plastics? Submitting items that your local recycling program does not handle can lead to recycling contamination, which can result in hefty costs for municipalities and spoil an entire batch of recyclables.
To keep the recycling stream clean, disassemble any parts that lack a recycling code unless your local processing facility specifies otherwise. This includes the dial at the bottom, the piece that helps raise the deodorant stick, the cap, and any protective insert removed before first use.
It’s also essential to eliminate leftover product within the tubes. Residual product can lower the quality and value of materials recycled. Be sure to rinse the tubes with warm, soapy water before dropping them for recycling.
Understanding the Recycling Process
The recycling specialists at TerraCycle, which processes deodorant containers through multiple brand-supported initiatives, have an innovative approach to managing deodorant tube recycling issues.
“They undergo shredding,” explains Ernie Simpson, lead scientist at TerraCycle. “The entire procedure involves shredding the material, washing it, melting it, and then shaping it into new pellets. These pellets become the foundation for producing new items and applications.”
Before accepting deodorant tube packaging for recycling, TerraCycle’s team conducts thorough research on the materials involved and customizes recycling practices to fit each specific type.
