How to Recycle Aerosol Aluminium Cans Properly: A Manufacturer's Guide

As a core material in our products, we at GUANGZHOU MIJIA​ have a deep appreciation for aluminium. It's not just lightweight and robust; it's also infinitely recyclable. This means the aluminium aerosol can we produce today could be part of a new product forever. A common question we get from consumers and brands alike is: "Are aerosol cans recyclable?" The answer is a resounding yes, but it must be done correctly. This guide will walk you through the simple steps to ensure your empty aerosol cans​ are recycled safely and efficiently, closing the loop on this valuable material.

The Golden Rule: Is It Completely Empty?

The single most important step is ensuring the can is completely empty. Recycling facilities consider any container with residual pressure or product to be hazardous. Here’s how to check:

Use it up:​ The easiest way is to use the product until it’s gone and the spray nozzle no longer releases any propellant.

Listen for the hiss:​ Shake the can. If you don't hear liquid sloshing and pressing the nozzle doesn't produce any sound or spray, it's ready.

Never puncture or crush:​ This is extremely dangerous and unnecessary. Modern recycling systems are designed to handle intact cans safely.

An empty aluminium aerosol can​ is essentially just a piece of metal scrap, which is exactly what recycling plants want.

Do You Need to Remove the Plastic Cap?

This is a frequent point of confusion. The best practice is to check with your local recycling program. Rules can vary.

Generally, yes:​ Most programs request that you remove the plastic cap​ before recycling. The cap is often made from a different type of plastic (like polypropylene, #5) and must be processed separately. If the cap is left on, it might lead to the entire can being rejected.

When in doubt, take it off:​ Separating the cap is a simple action that significantly increases the chance of your can being recycled. You can usually toss the plastic cap into your general recycling bin if your municipality accepts #5 plastic.

This small step demonstrates how proper aerosol can disposal​ relies on consumer participation.

Step By Step Guide On How To Recycle Aerosol Cans

Once you've done your part, the professional recycling process takes over. It's a fascinating journey that underscores why aluminium aerosol cans​ are a prime example of sustainable packaging.

1. Collection & Sorting:​ Cans are collected and sent to a Material Recovery Facility (MRF), where they are sorted from other materials.

2. Safety Shredding:​ The intact cans are fed into a shredder. This is done in a controlled environment. Any minuscule amount of remaining propellant is safely released and captured.

3. Decoating:​ The shredded fragments are heated in a special oven to burn off any remaining labels, coatings, and inks.

4. Melting & Purification:​ The clean aluminium shreds are melted in a furnace at high temperatures. The molten aluminium is purified to remove any impurities.

5. New Life:​ The purified aluminium is cast into large ingots, which are then rolled into sheets. These sheets become new aluminium cans​ or other aluminium products, completing the circular economy.

This process saves up to 95% of the energy required to create new aluminium from raw materials.

Why Choosing Aluminium Matters for a Sustainable Future

The recyclability of our primary material is a key part of our commitment at GUANGZHOU MIJIA. When you choose aluminium aerosol cans​ for your products, you are not just selecting a high-performance package; you are investing in a sustainable future.

100% Recyclable:​ Unlike many composite packages, aluminium is universally accepted by recycling programs.

Permanent Material:​ Aluminium does not degrade in quality during recycling, so it can be recycled indefinitely.

Consumer Appeal:​ Eco-conscious consumers actively seek out products in recyclable packaging, enhancing your brand's image.

By partnering with a manufacturer that prioritizes recyclable materials, you make a responsible choice that resonates with the market.

Partner with a Manufacturer Committed to the Circular Economy

At GUANGZHOU MIJIA, we are proud to produce high-quality, infinitely recyclable aluminium aerosol cans. We believe that our responsibility extends beyond manufacturing to educating consumers and brands on proper end-of-life handling. If you are a brand looking for sustainable packaging solutions​ that align with modern environmental values, we are your ideal partner. Ready to make a sustainable choice for your product line?

Contact us today​ to learn more about our aluminium aerosol cans​ and request a quote. Let's work together to create products that are not only effective but also kinder to our planet.