E-commerce businesses are under growing pressure to reduce their environmental impact—especially when it comes to packaging. Two popular options are paper mailers and compostable mailers. But which one is truly better for your brand, your customers, and the planet?
Let’s break it down.
1. What Are They Made Of?
📦 Paper Mailers:
- Typically made from kraft paper
- Often include a protective inner layer (sometimes plastic)
- Recyclable, but not always compostable
🌱 Compostable Mailers:
- Made from plant-based materials like PLA, PBAT, or cornstarch
- Fully compostable under home or industrial compost conditions
- Leave no toxic residue behind
2. Environmental Impact
| Feature | Paper Mailers | Compostable Mailers |
|---|---|---|
| Raw Material | Wood (trees) | Renewable plants (corn, sugarcane, etc.) |
| End-of-Life | Recyclable | Compostable (home or industrial) |
| Energy to Produce | High | Lower (in most cases) |
| Decomposition | Can take long, especially with coatings | Breaks down in ~6 months |
🧠 Insight: Paper sounds eco-friendly, but paper production is energy- and water-intensive, and laminated paper mailers often can’t be recycled. Compostable mailers offer a more circular, low-impact alternative.
3. Performance & Customer Experience
| Feature | Paper | Compostable |
|---|---|---|
| Water Resistance | ❌ Poor | ✅ Good |
| Tear Resistance | Moderate | Stronger for soft goods |
| Printability | ✅ Easy | ✅ Easy |
| Appearance | Plain brown (often) | Sleek, modern, customizable |
🎯 For e-commerce brands, especially fashion, skincare, or lifestyle products, compostable mailers offer a more premium unboxing experience while being eco-conscious.
4. Shipping Cost & Storage
- Paper mailers are heavier and bulkier, increasing shipping cost over time.
- Compostable mailers are lightweight and space-saving, which helps reduce logistics cost and carbon footprint.
5. What Do Consumers Prefer?
According to a 2024 survey by Shopify:
67% of online shoppers said they prefer brands that use compostable or reusable packaging over paper or plastic.
This means your packaging is no longer just a cost—it’s a marketing tool and a brand statement.
6. So… Which One Is Better?
| Verdict | Best For |
|---|---|
| Paper Mailers | Books, rigid products, low-moisture items |
| Compostable Mailers | Apparel, soft goods, cosmetics, health & wellness, DTC brands |
If your product doesn’t require high rigidity, compostable mailers win on sustainability, customer perception, and modern branding.
Ready to Switch to Compostable?
At Hemcbags, we help brands across the US, UK, and Europe transition to certified home compostable mailers. Our bags are leak-proof, tear-resistant, and fully customizable.
📦 Need samples or a bulk quote?
📩 Contact us now or email chris@hemcbags.com
Let’s make your packaging part of your brand story.
