No
No. Thermal receipt paper is coated with chemicals and shouldn't go in your compost.
VerdictNo
Breaks down inDoesn't break down well
Counts asPaper
Why
Most store receipts are thermal paper coated with BPA or BPS and other chemicals. These chemicals can leach into the soil, so they should go in the trash or be recycled if your city takes them.
Quick facts
| Carbon to nitrogen | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Hot pile | Does not break down |
| Cold pile | Does not break down |
| Worm bin | No · Chemicals in thermal paper are toxic to worms. |
| Bokashi | No · Chemical coatings will contaminate the final compost product. |
| City green bin | Not accepted; place in trash bin. |
| Prep | Do not compost; dispose of in regular trash. |
| Mix with | Not applicable as this material should not be composted. |
| Pest risk | Low · Does not attract pests but introduces harmful chemicals to soil. |
How to get rid of receipts
- Put receipts in the trash.
- Keep receipts you don't need in a box for shredding.
- Ask for digital receipts when you can.
Watch out for
- Thermal paper looks like regular paper but turns black when heated.
- Don't add receipts to the compost, even in small amounts.
- Wash your hands after handling thermal paper if you're pregnant or concerned.
What to do instead
- Ask for email receipts.
- Use plain paper for notes and lists.
Common questions
Can I compost thermal receipts?
No. The coating has chemicals that shouldn't go into soil.
How can I tell if a receipt is thermal?
Scratch it with a fingernail. If it turns dark, it is thermal paper.
Are receipts recyclable?
Usually not, because of the coating.
Are receipts biodegradable?
The paper part is, but the coating isn't.
Rules vary by town and by composting method. When in doubt, check with your local composting or waste program.