Recycling basics: many common materials can be recycled, but what’s accepted depends on local programs. Here’s a practical overview to get you started. What you can typically recycle
- Paper and cardboard: office paper, newspapers, magazines, cardboard boxes. Remove plastic windows if present on some mailers.
- Glass: bottles and jars; rinse first.
- Metals: aluminum and steel cans; rinse and keep lids separate if required.
- Plastics: most labeled bottles, jugs, and containers (check local rules for resin codes and whether rigid plastics, tubs, or clamshells are accepted). Remove caps where required if your program asks for it.
- Cartons and aseptic packaging: such as cereal cartons or milk cartons, depending on program.
- Electronics, batteries, and hazardous items: many programs offer special collection for electronics, light bulbs, and batteries; do not place these in curbside recycling unless your local guidelines explicitly allow it.
What’s often not recyclable curbside
- Plastic bags, wrap, and films (these usually need drop-off at grocery or store-recycling points).
- Styrofoam and certain plastic films that aren’t accepted by the curbside program.
- Soiled, greasy, or wet paper and cardboard (e.g., used pizza boxes with grease).
- Food-contaminated items (like a rancid container or soiled take-out cartons) unless a program explicitly accepts them.
- Hazardous waste (paints, solvents, pesticides) and some electronics; handle via designated collection events or facilities.
How to prepare items for recycling
- Rinse containers to remove food residue; this helps prevent contamination.
- Keep caps on or off as required by your local program (some want caps on plastic bottles; others want them off).
- Flatten cardboard and break down boxes to save space.
- Do not mix recyclables with trash; keep streams separate if your program requires it.
Tips to maximize recycling success
- Check your local municipality’s website or recycling app for a definitive list of what’s accepted and how to prepare items.
- Use the “recycling right” mindset: when in doubt, leave it out rather than risk contaminating the entire bale.
- Consider reducing waste at the source: reuse containers when possible and opt for packaging with higher recyclability.
If you’d like, share your city or the name of your curbside program, and the exact items you’re unsure about, and the guidance can be tailored to your local rules.
