Hard Ice Packs Go in the Garbage
If your ice pack has a thick plastic shell, toss it in the garbage.
Empty Flexible Ice Packs
If your ice pack has a flexible plastic shell, thaw the ice pack and then cut it open and squeeze the gel into the garbage. Afterward, rinse out the plastic film, dry it and recycle it with plastic bags.
Do Not Pour Down Drains
Do not pour ice pack contents down the drain. If you accidentally puncture an ice pack, or cut it open to empty it, dispose of the mixture in the garbage. It can clog sinks and toilets.
Alternative Ways to Recycle
Give Them Away
If your cooler packs are still in usable condition, save them from the landfill by giving them away. You can list them on sites and apps such as Craigslist, Freecycle, OfferUpand Nextdoor. You can also try donating them to a food bank.
Ways to Reuse
Keep for Future Use
Ice packs come in handy to pack coolers for sports games and camping trips. They can also be used as a cold compress for injuries and sore muscles.
