Can I Compost Paper Towels?

Paper towels are generally compostable because they're made from plant fibers that readily break down, but only if they're free of contaminants.

Paper Towels
YES
Sourced & Cited

Overview

Overview
Paper towels are a common household item, and whether or not they belong in your compost bin is a frequent question. Knowing how to properly compost them can help you reduce waste and enrich your compost pile. Let's explore the best practices.

Compost Classification

Compost Type
Brown (Carbon-rich): Paper towels are primarily composed of cellulose fibers, a dry, carbon-rich material that provides structure to your compost pile. Their relatively low moisture content contributes to the carbon-to-nitrogen ratio crucial for efficient decomposition.

🏷️ Tags

Important characteristics to know about this item:

Breaks Down Quickly Use in Moderation Pest Attraction Risk Odor Risk Avoid if Treated/Coated

⚠️ Potential Risks

Risks
  • Attracting pests if heavily soiled with food residue.
  • Slow decomposition if excessively wet or clumped together.
  • Potential for unpleasant odors if not properly managed in the compost pile.

💡 Best Practices

Best Practices
  • Tear or shred heavily soiled paper towels into smaller pieces to increase surface area for faster decomposition.
  • Mix them thoroughly with other "brown" materials (like dried leaves or shredded cardboard) and "green" materials (like fruit and vegetable scraps) to maintain a balanced carbon-to-nitrogen ratio.
  • Avoid adding excessively greasy or heavily soiled paper towels to the compost pile.
  • Ensure adequate aeration of the compost pile to prevent anaerobic conditions which lead to foul odors and slowed decomposition.