What We Collect

Mixed Paper

Save That Stuff, Inc. collects mixed office paper from a variety of corporate and institutional settings. “Mixed office paper” refers to a broad mix of office papers…plain white paper, colored paper, glossy, newspapers, magazines or envelopes…we'll take it all.

Mixed Paper Recycling Guidelines:

At Save That Stuff, our motto is "if you rip it, you can recycle it."

PDF Download the Mixed Paper Recycling Guidelines poster

Recyclables

  • All paper, including white and colored (staples and paper clips are okay!)
  • Books and telephone books (paperback only)
  • Boxes (e.g. office supply boxes, cookie & cracker boxes, tissue boxes, etc.)
  • Writing tablet backs.
  • Brochures and flyers
  • Carbonless forms (NCR Paper)
  • Catalogs
  • Computer paper, shredded paper.
  • Envelopes (windows and labels are okay)
  • Fax paper
  • File folders
  • Junk mail
  • Magazines, newspapers and inserts.
  • Paper bags
  • Spiral notebooks

Non-recyclables

  • NO trash, paper cups or plates, plastic bags, tissue paper, paper towels.
  • NO recyclables containing food waste
  • NO foam packaging or Styrofoam
  • NO plastic bags, food liners, unmarked plastics( laundry baskets/chairs/toys)
  • NO hardcover books, labels or label backings, express delivery envelopes with bubble wrap (i.e. Fed Ex, etc.)
  • NO carbon paper
  • NO candy wrappers
  • NO photographs
  • NO hazardous material or universal waste

Frequently asked questions about mixed paper recycling:


Q: What can and cannot be recycled in a mixed paper recycling program?
A: The rule of thumb is that if you can rip it, you can recycle it.

Q: Can I throw paper towels, paper plates, or paper cups in the mixed paper recycling?
A: No. The mixed paper must be free of contaminants (e.g., food, drink). If you are using compostable dishware, you may explore setting up a composting program.

Q: Can I recycle paper with paper clips, staples or other metal clips on it?
A: Yes.

Q: Can I recycle paper with tape on it?
A: Yes.

Q: Can I recycle envelopes with windows?
A: Yes.

Q: Where do the materials go and what does it get made into?
A: Paper is sent to mills in Maine, Canada and overseas. Most office paper is remanufactured into tissue and toweling products, or new printing and writing paper.