How Long Does It Take to Decompose?

How Long to Decompose…Stuff That Are Bad for the Environment

Have you ever wondered how long it takes something to decompose after you toss it in the trash? How long does plastic take to decompose? How ’bout aluminum cans and disposable diapers?

Here is a breakdown of how long it takes an item to decompose. Hopefully this can help us think twice about what we purchase, what we discard, and what we recycle!

How Long Does It Take to Decompose?

(Environmental Footprint of Different Items)

• Paper Towel – 2-4 weeks

• Banana Peel – 3-4 weeks

• Newspaper – 1 month

• Apple Core – 2 months

• Cardboard – 2 months

• Cotton Glove – 3 months

• Orange Peels – 6 months

• Plywood – 1-3 years

• Wool Sock – 1-5 years

• Milk Cartons – 5 years

• Cigarette Butts – 10-12 years

• Leather Shoes – 25-40 years

• Tinned Steel Can – 50 years

• Foamed Plastic Cups – 50 years

• Rubber Boot Sole – 50-80 years

• Plastic Containers – 50-80 years

• Aluminum Can – 200-80 years

• Disposable Diapers – 550 years

• Monofilament Fishing Line – 600 years

• Plastic Bags 200-1000 years

Reduce your environmental footprint and save the environment by handling these items more responsibly.