Written by Joshua Sosin

As vaping continues to grow in popularity, so does the number of empty vape cartridges being discarded daily. Whether you're a casual vaper or a dedicated enthusiast, knowing how to properly dispose of or repurpose empty vape carts is a must for both environmental sustainability and responsible vaping.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about handling empty vape cartridges in 2025, including eco-friendly disposal methods, recycling options, creative reuse ideas, and tips for reducing waste.

If you’ve ever wondered, “Can you recycle vape cartridges?” or “What should I do with used vape carts?" you’re in the right place. Let’s explore the best practices for disposing of and repurposing empty vape carts.

Table of Contents

• What Are Vape Cartridges?

  • Why Proper Vape Cartridge Disposal Matters in 2025

• How To Get Rid of Empty Vape Cartridges

  • Make Sure Your Cartridge Is Completely Empty

  • Recycling Empty Carts

  • Safe Disposal If You Can't Recycle

• Ways To Repurpose Empty Vape Carts

• Preventing Disposable Cart Waste in the Future

• Grab a High-Quality Disposable Vape Pen From Mood

• FAQs

What Are Vape Cartridges?

A vape cartridge (or vape cart) is a small container filled with vape oil or e-liquid, typically used with vape pens or batteries. These cartridges contain glass, plastic, ceramic and metal components, as well as a heating coil that vaporizes the liquid.

When the oil runs out, many vapers just throw their cartridges away without considering the environmental impact. It's important to know, though, that incorrect disposal of vape carts contributes to plastic pollution, hazardous waste buildup, and extra landfill waste.

Of course, you want to avoid all of the above for the sake of the planet.

Why Proper Vape Cartridge Disposal Matters in 2025

Here are some of the biggest reasons why you should care about getting rid of vape cartridges the right way:

• The Environmental Impact: Vape cartridges are sometimes made with materials that don’t easily decompose, which makes landfills an unsustainable place for them to go.

• Leftover Chemical Residue: Leftover oil and coil materials may contain contaminants that can hurt the environment if they aren't disposed of properly.

• Recycling Potential: On a positive note, some of the parts of vape carts can be recycled. Giving these materials a shot at a second life will lower the need for new materials and minimize waste.

How To Get Rid of Empty Vape Carts

So, what should you do with your empty vape carts? Let's take a look at the tips below for safe, sustainable disposal.

Make Sure Your Vape Cartridge is Completely Empty

Before you recycle, dispose of, or repurpose a vape cart, always make sure that it's 100% empty. Here's how:

• Check for leftover oil: If your vape cartridge still has oil in it, it’s best to use it up before disposal. Even a clogged or malfunctioning cart might still have usable liquid in it. You can always try gently warming the cart or using a small syringe to get the leftover oil out of the cart.

• Clean the cartridge: If you plan to recycle or repurpose your vape cart, wipe out any oil residue using a cotton swab. This step makes recycling easier.

Recycling Empty Vape Cartridges (The Best Eco-Friendly Option)

Many vape cartridges can be recycled, but not through regular curbside recycling programs. Because they contain multiple materials, vape carts need to be shipped or dropped off to be processed at special facilities.

How To Recycle Vape Cartridges in 2025

Follow these steps to sustainably get rid of used-up vape cartridges:

• Check Local Vape Shop Recycling Programs: Some vape shops offer cartridge recycling programs where you can drop off used carts for safe disposal. This is a fantastic option for multiple reasons: it supports local businesses and gives the parts of your vape pen a second shot at life.

• Find a Specialized E-Waste Recycling Center: Vape cartridges count as electronic waste because of their metal heating elements. For another sustainable disposal option, look for an E-waste facility near you that accepts vaping components.

• Use a Mail-In Recycling Program: If you can't find a vape pen disposal service near you, you're not out of options. There are also online services that let you mail in empty vape carts for recycling. These programs help you guarantee that your empty carts are safely disposed of — even if you can't get rid of them on your own.

Something to bear in mind: Always, always avoid throwing vape carts into regular recycling bins. They can contaminate other products and end up in a landfill, which is the opposite of what you want.

Safe Disposal If Recycling Isn’t an Option

If recycling isn’t available in your area, you can still get rid of empty carts responsibly and safely. Follow these steps:

• Remove Any Residual Vape Oil: Clean the cart with a dry paper towel to prevent leaks.

• Seal the Cartridge in a Bag or Container: This step will help you keep the different materials in the vape cartridge from leaching out.

• Dispose of in Regular Trash (If Necessary): This isn't ideal, but it is a viable option for getting rid of empty carts when all else fails. Don't forget to seal the cart up before throwing it away.

Ways To Repurpose Empty Vape Cartridges

If you're into upcycling, you can try repurposing your old vape carts for a range of DIY projects and storage solutions. This is one of our favorite ways to get more out of your empty carts and avoid throwing them out.

• Refill and Reuse: Some vape cartridges can be cleaned out and refilled with THC oil or distillate. If you have a refillable cartridge, save it and reuse it with premium concentrates from the Mood Shop.

• Make Micro Storage Containers: You can repurpose a vape cartridge to store quite a few different little items — especially if you think outside of the box. Save them for holding small craft supplies or hardware instead of going out and buying something new.

Preventing Vape Cartridge Waste in the Future

The best way to manage vape cart waste is to reduce it in the first place. One of the best ways to do this is to invest in a dry herb vaporizer, nectar collector, or another non-disposable vape pen.

You can still use disposable pens and get rid of them responsibly when you're done, but a longer-lasting option can be just as enjoyable to use.

In addition, if you're going to use disposables, do some research first to find a high-quality option.

The disposable, rechargeable vapes in the Mood Shop feature premium coils and other high-quality materials that make them last longer, and they can be sustainably disposed of when they run out. With hundreds of five-star reviews, customers say these THCa disposable vape pens are some of the best picks for 2025.

Sustainable Vaping Practices for 2025

• Try Refillable Vape Pens: Disposable cartridges can be fun and convenient, but like we said, they're not the only option. A dry herb vaporizer, for example, is compatible with the THCa flower in the Mood Shop and can be used over and over again.

• Choose High-Quality Cartridges – Low-quality vape carts break easily. They're not worth your time, and they can lead to more waste in the long run. Focus on quality whenever you're buying cannabis products and gear; you'll find plenty of premium options in the Mood Shop.

FAQs About Getting Rid of Empty Vape Carts

Q: Can you recycle vape cartridges?

A: Yes, but not in regular curbside bins. Vape cartridges need to be recycled through E-waste programs, vape shop take-back initiatives, or mail-in recycling services.

Q: How do you dispose of empty vape carts safely?

A: If recycling isn’t an option, clean out the cartridge, seal it in a bag or container, and dispose of it in regular trash to prevent leaks and environmental contamination.

Q: Can you refill and reuse empty vape cartridges?

A: Some cartridges are refillable and can be used multiple times, but disposable carts are not designed for reuse and might leak or clog if refilled.

Q: Are there creative ways to reuse empty vape cartridges?

A: Yes! You can repurpose them for small storage, DIY crafts, jewelry, or science projects instead of throwing them away.

Grab a High-Quality Disposable Vape Pen From Mood

When you visit the Mood Shop, you'll find plenty of options that can help you upgrade and customize your vaping experience.

Our THCa vapes provide a powerful high and an immersive experience thanks to their high cannabinoid and terpene content. With scents and flavors like Sour Diesel, Purple Afghani, and many more, you can't go wrong.

Grab a THCa vape from Mood and use the code "FIRST20" to save 20% on your order.