Paper Towels Put in Garbage Cart Used paper towels are usually soiled in food or grease. Dispose of paper towels by placing them in the garbage cart. Recycle Cardboard Tubes Recycle theĀ tubes inside paper towel rolls with otherĀ cardboard. Find out more about cardboard tubes. Ways to Reduce Choose Unbleached Paper Products Most paper products that are white or decorative have been chemically bleached and dyed. Opt for undyed, unbleached paper products to reduce the chemical exposure for you and the environment. Switch to Unpaper Towels Cut down on waste by making the switch to unpaper towels, or reusable towels made from cotton or linen. You can even wrap them around a paper towel dispenser for easy access.