Cardboard & Paper Recycling in Illinois
11 drop-off locations that take cardboard & paper across Illinois — compare addresses, phone numbers and hours, and open any listing for its full details.
Cardboard and paper are among the most valuable and recyclable materials. Keep them clean and dry; grease-soaked boxes and wet paper are contaminants.
In Illinois we list 11 cardboard & paper drop-off locations across 10 cities, with the most in Chicago, Carbondale, Chillicothe, Decatur and Elgin. Each links to its full page with address, phone and hours.
Cardboard & Paper Drop-Off Locations in Illinois
Recycling Cardboard & Paper in Illinois: What to Know
How to Prepare Cardboard & Paper
- Flatten and break down boxes.
- Keep paper and cardboard dry — wet fiber is a contaminant.
- Remove food-soaked sections (like greasy pizza-box bottoms).
Cardboard & Paper Recycling FAQ — Illinois
Which Illinois cities have the most cardboard & paper drop-off locations?
The most cardboard & paper drop-offs are in Chicago (2), Carbondale (1), Chillicothe (1), Decatur (1) and Elgin (1). In total we list 11 locations across 10 Illinois cities — all listed above with addresses and hours.
Where can I recycle cardboard and paper in Illinois?
Start with the facilities listed on this page and the full Illinois directory. Most curbside programs take clean cardboard and paper; drop-off sites handle large volumes and shredding. Always call ahead to confirm the item is accepted and whether a fee applies.
Is there a fee to drop off cardboard and paper?
Some sites accept it free; others charge a per-item or per-pound fee because of processing or disposal costs. Fees change, so confirm with the facility before your visit.
Can I put cardboard and paper in my curbside bin?
Usually no — cardboard and paper typically needs a dedicated drop-off rather than the curbside recycling cart. Check your city or county program for its specific rules.
See all cardboard & paper recycling locations by city, the full Illinois recycling directory, or cardboard & paper recycling in Texas, New Jersey, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Georgia.