Parchment paper is an unassuming secret weapon of the kitchen world. It can serve as a non-stick sheet liner for baking cookies, the perfect surface for rolling out dough, coverage for reheating food, and as DIY piping bags. But can you reuse parchment paper?

In an ever eco-conscious world, reusing kitchen materials has become increasingly common. Of course, cleanliness and health considerations should come first. So before reusing your parchment paper, you will want to acquaint yourself with some basic safety guidelines.

We consulted a certified food scientist and food safety expert to find out how to best manage the lifespan of this versatile kitchen must-have. Here’s what they have to say about whether or not you can reuse parchment paper safely.

Is It Safe to Reuse Parchment Paper?

According to food safety expert Darin Detwiler, parchment paper can be reused safely in some situations—but with limitations. “The safety of reusing parchment paper depends on how it was originally used and whether it has absorbed oils, food residues, or contaminants that could pose a food safety risk,” he explains. 

While reusing parchment paper can reduce waste, Detwiler emphasizes that it should only be done under safe, controlled conditions. “Prioritizing food safety over waste reduction ensures that sustainability efforts do not inadvertently lead to health risks,” he says.

When You Can Reuse Parchment Paper

Cleanliness: Generally speaking, as long as it’s visibly unsullied, parchment paper can be reused up to three times, especially for low-grease tasks like baking cookies. “Parchment paper can be reused in some instances, depending on its condition,” confirms certified food scientist, Jesica Gavin. “If the paper remains clean and intact, it’s okay to reuse.”

Exposure to High Heat: In addition to visible grease, brittleness, and darkening, another factor to consider before reusing parchment paper is the level of heat to which it was previously exposed to. “Parchment paper can be reused after baking foods at 250 degrees Fahrenheit or higher,” explains Gavin. “This temperature kills most bacteria from milk, eggs, and butter, making it safe for low-grease baking like cookies, biscuits and rolls.”

How to Clean Used Parchment Paper

When preparing your parchment paper for future reuse, follow these simple steps to ensure that it is safely maintained:

1. Gently wipe off crumbs or debris with a dry cloth or soft brush.
2. If it’s slightly greasy, blot with a clean towel. Avoid using water, as it can weaken the paper.
3. If slightly damp, allow the parchment paper to air dry completely before storing to prevent mold growth.
4. Store it flat in a dry, cool place—preferably between two sheets of paper or in an airtight container to keep it free from dust and odors. It can also be rolled up to prevent creasing.

When Not to Reuse Parchment Paper

Contact With Fats: Never reuse parchment paper when it poses safety risks. “Parchment paper is often used in baking and roasting where it absorbs grease, moisture, and food particles,” says Detwiler. “If reused, residual fats can oxidize and become rancid, potentially introducing off-flavors and health concerns.” 

Contact With Raw Protein: Detwiler advises against reusing parchment paper that has been in contact with raw proteins, such as meats, poultry, or seafood, due to the risk of bacterial contamination. “Even if used for baking, residual moisture can become a breeding ground for bacteria if not properly stored,” he warns.

Non-Stick Coatings: An additional safety consideration when it comes to the reuse of parchment paper is its coating. Detwiler points out that some parchment papers are coated with silicone or other non-stick substances. “Repeated exposure to high temperatures may degrade the coating, potentially leading to chemical leaching into food over time.”

Can Parchment Paper Be Recycled or Composted?

Most curbside recycling programs do not accept parchment paper, largely because of its silicone coating and exposure to food oils—though it is worth checking with your local waste management to be sure.

If your parchment paper has touched raw meat, seafood or unbaked dough, is greasy, soggy, or sticky, or is silicone-coated, it is best to simply toss it. However, there are certain circumstances in which composting is acceptable. “Uncoated, untreated parchment paper (not waxed or silicone-coated) can often be composted,” offers Detwiler. “If free from grease and food residues, it can be shredded and added to a home compost bin.”

Reusable Alternatives to Parchment Paper

For those looking for more sustainability in their kitchen, Detwiler says to consider fully reusable or eco-friendlier options as an alternative to parchment paper.

These include silicone baking mats, which are both washable and reusable, and unbleached compostable parchment paper which offers safer disposal options. Glass and ceramic bakeware can also cut down on the need for parchment paper’s non-stick baking applications.