Fibre drums are paper-based, which makes them easier to recycle than many alternatives. A little planning helps you get the most out of every drum.
Reuse where it is safe
Clean, undamaged drums can often be reused for compatible products within your operations. Never reuse drums that contained hazardous materials for unrelated products.
Separate components
Remove metal rings, plastic lids and liners before recycling. Each material can then go into the right recycling stream.
Work with recyclers
Local paper recyclers and waste partners can collect fibre drums in volume. Keep them dry and flattened or nested where possible.
Track your impact
Recording reuse and recycling volumes helps you report progress on packaging sustainability goals.
Building a simple drum recovery process
A recovery process does not need to be complicated. Set aside a clean, dry area for empty drums, train staff to remove liners and separate metal or plastic parts, and keep drums nested or stacked neatly. Agree a regular collection with a paper recycler or waste partner. Some customers return drums to suppliers or reuse them internally for compatible materials. Recording volumes each month shows your progress and helps you report on sustainability goals.
Practical checklist
- Create a clean, dry collection area
- Remove liners and separate components
- Decide which drums can be reused internally
- Arrange regular recycling collections
- Track volumes each month
Key takeaways
- Reuse clean drums for compatible products
- Separate metal, plastic and paper
- Track volumes for sustainability reporting
Frequently asked questions
Are fibre drums recyclable?
The kraft paper body is recyclable once metal and plastic parts are removed.
Can I reuse drums for different products?
Only if they are clean, undamaged and compatible. Avoid reuse after hazardous contents.
Can liners be recycled?
Clean polyethylene liners can often be recycled through plastic recycling streams, but contaminated liners may need different handling. Check with your local waste partner and keep liners separate from paper and metal components.
Need help choosing?
OM Packaging has manufactured fibre drums and paper cores in Sonipat, Haryana since 1999. See sustainable packaging solutions, environmental policy, or get a quote and our team will recommend the right specification.
