When developing product packaging, the type of plastic you choose plays a major role in both function and consumer experience. Whether you’re launching a new skincare line, upgrading your supplement bottles, or creating food-safe containers, understanding the difference between LDPE, HDPE, and MDPE helps ensure your packaging performs, protects, and promotes sustainability.
These three types of polyethylene are widely used in the packaging industry, each with unique properties. At Weltrade Packaging, we guide brands daily in selecting the right plastic for their needs. Here’s a practical breakdown of how they compare.
LDPE – Soft and Squeezable
Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) is lightweight, highly flexible, and soft to the touch. Its molecular structure features wide spacing between polymer chains, allowing it to bend and compress without cracking.
Common uses:
- Squeeze tubes for skincare and personal care
- Soft, flexible bottles
- Films and liners
- Lids or dispensers requiring pliability
Key features:
- Excellent for products needing manual dispensing
- Smooth, clear appearance for premium shelf appeal
- Resistant to moisture and low-strength chemicals
Considerations:
- Prone to punctures under pressure
- Not commonly accepted in kerbside recycling for films or soft plastics (Resin Code #4)
HDPE – Strong, Stable, and pH-Friendly
High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) is rigid, dense, and highly durable. Its tight molecular structure gives it superior resistance to impact, chemicals, and moisture.
Common uses:
- Shampoo and conditioner bottles
- Supplement jars and rigid cosmetic containers
- Cleaning product packaging
- Food-grade tubs and bottles
Key features:
- Excellent for protecting products during transport and storage
- Withstands pH levels above 7, making it perfect for alkaline formulations
- Clean, opaque finish for a structured, premium look
Sustainability advantage:
- Widely recyclable across Australia (Resin Code #2)
- Compatible with PCR (post-consumer recycled) content for eco-friendly formats
MDPE – The Go-To for Cosmetic Tubes
Medium-Density Polyethylene (MDPE) blends the best of both worlds—offering more strength than LDPE with more flexibility than HDPE. It’s often created by blending LDPE and HDPE resins, or via controlled polymerisation.
Common uses:
- Most cosmetic tubes (creams, lotions, gels)
- Semi-flexible bottles
- Films requiring toughness and form retention
Key features:
- Perfect balance between squeeze and structure
- Excellent stress-crack and impact resistance
- Slightly translucent for high-end finishes
Recyclability note:
- Same as LDPE – Resin Code #4 at some recyclers
Sustainability and Recycling Overview
| Material | Resin Code | Recyclability in Australia | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| LDPE | #4 | Limited | Needs soft plastic recycling programs for films |
| MDPE | #4 | Limited | Often grouped with LDPE in recovery streams, however check with local recycler |
| HDPE | #2 | Widely accepted | Best recyclability of the three |
Material Comparison Cheat Sheet
| Feature | LDPE | MDPE | HDPE |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flexibility | Very flexible | Moderately flexible | Rigid |
| Strength | Moderate | High | Very high |
| Finish | Semi-translucent | Semi-translucent | Semi-translucent |
| Common formats | Bottles, Films | Cosmetic tubes | Bottles, jars |
| Recyclability code | #4 | #4 | #2 |
How to Choose for Your Brand
- Choose LDPE if:
- You want a soft, squeezable format
- Your product is low-viscosity and dispensed frequently
- You’re prioritising tactile appeal
- Choose HDPE if:
- Your product needs protection and rigidity
- It has alkaline properties or high pH
- You want the highest recyclability
- Choose MDPE if:
- You’re packaging skincare or cosmetics in tubes
- You need a balance between durability and user comfort
Each type of polyethylene brings something unique to the table. Whether you’re aiming for strength, softness, or something in between, the right material can improve product performance and reinforce your brand’s message.
At Weltrade Packaging, we specialise in helping you navigate these choices offering not just packaging, but strategic advice tailored to your industry, product, and sustainability goals.
Need help choosing the right material?
Let’s chat—Weltrade is your trusted local team with deep product knowledge and flexible manufacturing options.
📞 07 5597 0102
📧 hello@weltradepackaging.com.au