Cosmetic Bottle & Pump
Wipe out remaining cosmetics into general trash and wash containers clean. Cut off pump heads containing metal springs for general trash, recycling only clean bottle bodies.
How to Dispose (5 Steps)
- 1
Wipe out leftover lotion or cream with paper towels and discard in general trash.
- 2
Rinse the inside of the bottle with warm soapy water and dry completely.
- 3
Cut off pump caps containing internal metal springs and throw pumps in general trash.
- 4
Clean glass cosmetic bottles can be recycled as glass; metallic/pearl-coated bottles go to general trash.
- 5
Containers labeled 'Difficult to Recycle' must go into general trash bags.
Real-World Examples
Lotion pump bottle: Cut off pump head for general trash, rinse plastic body for recycling
Glass foundation bottle: Wipe inside clean, recycle bottle body (separate plastic cap)
Makeup cushion compact & lipstick: Mixed material; throw whole item in general trash
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Is participating in cosmetic brand empty bottle recycling programs recommended?
A. Yes! Returning empty bottles to brand retail stores (such as Innisfree or Amorepacific) earns points and guarantees 100% specialized recycling.