Is Hot Glue Recyclable?

It shouldn’t be surprising that many people who subscribe to sustainable living practices are also fans of DIYs and crafts – these usually go hand in hand.

It’s therefore common for such people to be concerned about the recyclability of the crafting products they use.

Hot glue is particularly a product of concern, especially since it is used in a lot of crafts. So is hot glue recyclable?

Well, that’s what we’re going to discuss today.

Unused hot glue can be recycled to make similar products. And hot glue that has been applied on a surface can also be removed from it and recycled to make similar products – this is not always practical though.

How do you recycle hot glue?

Unfortunately, if you want to recycle hot glue, you’re going to have to do it yourself.

The only other place where this process is done is in hot glue manufacturing companies like Beardow Adams. But even in these companies, they just recycle the glue that remains unused in their factories.

If you’re okay with recycling your own hot glue though, you can melt it using a torch as shown in the YouTube video below.

There’s one thing you should keep in mind though – the resulting glue is black and not as aesthetically pleasing as pure hot glue.

Is glue gun glue biodegradable?

For the most part, glue gun glue isn’t biodegradable. However, companies have recently started manufacturing biodegradable options. These are usually made from natural ingredients like starch.

How do you properly dispose of old hot glue?

If you can’t recycle your old hot glue, the only option you have is to throw it in your trash can.

Is hot glue environmentally friendly?

No, hot glue isn’t eco-friendly – most types of hot glue are derived from plastic.

Is hot glue toxic to animals?

No, hot glue isn’t toxic to animals. It doesn’t release any toxic fumes and can even be ingested by animals without causing harm.

That being said, it’s not a good idea to let any pets or other animals consistently ingest hot glue. And if your pet does so, ensure they drink a lot of fluids to flush the glue out of their system.

What can be used instead of hot glue?

If you’re looking to switch to something more environmentally friendly than hot glue, here are some alternatives you can try out:

Gelatin-based glue
This type of glue is derived from biodegradable and sustainable sources. Also, it requires lower application temperatures and can easily be removed using warm water, making it safer and more convenient to use.
Eco-friendly scotch tape
This consists of over 65% plant-based or recycled material. Also, it comes in a refillable container that is made of recyclable/renewable materials. Since it works just as well as normal scotch tape, it can be a good hot glue alternative when it comes to crafting.

The less hot glue you use the better!

Ultimately, when it comes to sustainability, the less hot glue you use the better.

So try to use as little hot glue as possible, avoid wastage, and try using more sustainable options – your planet will thank you for it!