Washing Out Cosmetics Bottles

23 Apr, 2023

Do You Need to Wash Out Cosmetic Bottles Before Sending Them Back?

Recycling isn’t just for kitchen products. From MAC to The Ordinary, many cosmetic companies are investing in resource recovery due to consumer demand. Incentives and rewards help customers take the extra step and help brands on their journey to become more environmentally friendly. 

But unfortunately, it can be inconvenient to dispose of cosmetics properly. We’re here to make it easier for you and your customers. 

What to Do With Old Makeup?

Makeup containers are historically hard to recycle, which is why we’re seeing a rise in take-back programs. When cosmetic products have run their course, either they are empty or expired, you want to offer customers the potential to recycle or return their makeup containers. Not only is it good for brand protection, but it’s also good for your bottom line because you can create less packaging.  

Did you know: 91% of the plastic produced since the 1950s has not been recycled, and the beauty industry makes up a significant portion of that amount. In fact, the beauty industry creates 120 billion packaging units across the globe annually! And while more people are recycling in their kitchens, communication remains to be done in extending this mentality to other rooms in the house.

So, Do Cosmetic Bottles Need to Be Washed Out Before Sending Them Back? 

Generally speaking, beauty product containers need to be washed out before they make their way to a recycling or recovery facility. Leftover product and residue can attract bugs and other pests and hamper the facility’s effectiveness. It can also lead to cross-contamination, which means the products in question cannot be recycled but instead wind up in a landfill. 

Note: You also want to make sure your bottles are dry. Wet bottles can ruin paper and cardboard, which also means they cannot be recycled. 

But what if there was a better way to handle cosmetic waste disposal? 

Closing the Loop on Cosmetics 

At Close the Loop, we have the power to handle cosmetics differently, making the process more convenient for you and your customers. 

Our innovative machines can handle hard plastics that contain powder contaminate. This means customers do not need to clean bottles before they send them back, making the process more convenient for all involved. And the more convenient a recovery process is, the more people will be willing to do it. 

Related Reading: Recycling Solutions for Cosmetic Products

Paving the Way for Brand Protection

At Close the Loop, we help brands help themselves, their customers, and the planet. Furthermore, we understand the increased importance of brand protection. You want customers to trust your products before, during, and after they use them. Our processes can help you do that. 

Our cosmetic waste disposal program makes makeup container recycling easier, giving them new life to use resources more wisely.

Learn more about our cosmetics recycling. Then, if you’re curious about exploring a partnership, reach out to our passionate team. We’d love to collaborate with you.