Christmas Wrapping Paper
The average household will get through 4 rolls of wrapping paper over the Christmas period. We collectively throw away 226,800 miles of wrapping paper, which is enough to stretch nine times around the world!
Is all wrapping paper recyclable?
The key is to avoid foil and glittery wrapping paper. Look for paper-based products (brown kraft paper is a great option), or find recyclable wrapping paper made from recycled paper! If you’re unsure, some shops will state whether their wrapping paper is recyclable.
According to Recycle Now wrapping paper can only be recycled if it passes the scrunch test. Take a look on their website for a demonstration.
We’ve added a few recycled and recyclable options below to help your Christmas be a little more eco-friendly when it comes to Christmas wrapping paper.
Updated: November 2020
Prices correct at time of review, and in no particular order…
Here are some of our favourites…
Brown Kraft Paper
A large roll of recycled and recyclable kraft paper can be beautifully decorated with twine, ribbon, pine cones and Christmas ink stamps.
I still want festive print but I want to be more eco-friendly…
&Keep
&Keep have a lovely range of 100% unbleached, recycled wrapping paper printed with eco-friendly vegetable inks. Also check out their kraft gift tags, twine and recyclable paper tape.
Dunelm Mill
Dunelm Mill’s full range of wrapping paper and tags are now recyclable. Their range caters for recipients of all ages.
RSPB Wrapping paper
RSPB have a great range of wrapping paper, all made from recycled paper, recyclable and printed on water-based ink to reduce toxins in the environment.
Paperchase
Paperchase has a wonderful range of recycled and recyclable wrapping paper. We think kids and adults alike will love unwrapping this lovely Kraft Snowy Trees Christmas Wrapping Paper.
Natural Collection
Natural Collection has a gorgeous range which is produced and printed in the UK using environmentally friendly vegetable-based inks. The manufacturer also donates 5% of profits to charitable organisations. It is also packaged in compostable materials.
Wearth Reusable Wrap Fabric
These reusable Christmas fabric gift wraps are the ideal zero-waste alternative to wrapping paper. They are made in Britain using organic cotton and can be used over and over again, passed around family and friends and can even be thrown in the washing machine if needed.
Wilko
From Santa to snowflakes, Wilko has a great range of budget-friendly recyclable wrapping paper.
What about the tape?
Paper Tape
Sellotape and many other tapes cannot be recycled. If you want to make sure your tape is eco-friendly then try recyclable paper tape.
Washi Tape
Christmas Biodegradable and Recyclable Washi Tape.
This plastic-free tape is made with natural rubber adhesive.
Or give Twine a try!
This strong, reusable twine is made from 100% recycled yarn and housed in a handy recycled paper dispenser to make life easier.
Are there any more tips to help creativity?
If you want more creative eco-friendly gift wrapping tips then check out this blog by The Ethical Superstore.
What else can I do?
Before recycling, remove any sticky tape and decorations such as ribbons and bows as these cannot be recycled (unless recyclable options are hand made/purchased).
Also, check first with your local council if they do accept wrapping paper. Enter the name of your local council in a search engine and include ‘recycling Christmas wrapping paper’ to find out.
We love these options and they are an easy swap to help you to be more eco-friendly and reduce waste.
Keep an eye on our Seasonal category for more great tips and options.