The Recycling Confusion Problem
"Wish-cycling"—tossing items in the recycling bin hoping they'll be recycled—is one of the biggest problems facing recycling programs today. When non-recyclable items contaminate recycling streams, entire loads can be sent to landfills instead of being processed.
This guide will help you understand what actually belongs in your recycling bin and what doesn't, so you can recycle right and avoid contamination.
✅ Generally Recyclable Items
These items are accepted by most curbside recycling programs, though rules vary by location:
Paper and Cardboard
- Newspapers and magazines
- Office paper and mail
- Cardboard boxes (flattened)
- Cereal and food boxes (empty)
- Paper bags
- Phone books and catalogs
Plastics (Check the Number)
- #1 PET/PETE - Water bottles, soda bottles
- #2 HDPE - Milk jugs, detergent bottles, shampoo bottles
- #5 PP - Yogurt containers, some food containers
Important: Always check with your local program. Not all plastics with recycling symbols are actually recyclable in your area.
Metals
- Aluminum cans (soda, beer)
- Steel/tin cans (soup, vegetables)
- Aluminum foil (clean)
- Empty aerosol cans
Glass
- Glass bottles (clear, green, brown)
- Glass jars
Note: Some programs don't accept glass curbside. Check your local rules.
❌ Items That Should NOT Go in Recycling
These common items are NOT recyclable in most curbside programs and can contaminate entire loads:
Plastic Bags and Film
- Grocery bags
- Bread bags
- Plastic wrap
- Bubble wrap
- Ziploc bags
Alternative: Many grocery stores have drop-off bins for plastic bag recycling.
Food-Contaminated Items
- Greasy pizza boxes
- Used paper plates and napkins
- Food-soiled containers
- Dirty aluminum foil
Styrofoam
- Foam cups and plates
- Foam takeout containers
- Packing peanuts
- Foam packaging
Other Non-Recyclables
- Ceramics and pottery
- Mirrors and window glass
- Light bulbs
- Electronics
- Batteries
- Clothing and textiles
- Garden hoses
- Hangers
- Diapers
- Medical waste
Items That Require Special Recycling
These items can be recycled but need to go to specialized facilities:
| Item | Where to Recycle |
|---|---|
| Electronics | E-waste recyclers, Best Buy, Staples |
| Batteries | Battery drop-offs, hardware stores |
| Light bulbs | Hardware stores, hazardous waste |
| Textiles | Donation centers, textile recyclers |
| Paint | Hazardous waste facilities, PaintCare |
| Motor oil | Auto parts stores, service stations |
🔍 Use our National Recycling Directory to find specialized recycling facilities for items that can't go in your curbside bin.
The "Empty, Clean, Dry" Rule
For items that ARE recyclable, follow this simple rule:
- Empty - Remove all contents from containers
- Clean - Rinse out food residue (doesn't need to be spotless)
- Dry - Let items dry before placing in the bin
You don't need to remove labels or caps in most programs, but check your local guidelines.
When in Doubt, Throw It Out
If you're unsure whether something is recyclable, it's better to put it in the trash than to contaminate the recycling. One contaminated item can cause an entire load to be rejected and sent to a landfill.
The best approach is to check your local recycling program's website or call them directly. Rules vary significantly by location.
Conclusion
Recycling right is more important than recycling everything. By understanding what actually belongs in your recycling bin and properly disposing of items that don't, you're helping ensure that recyclable materials actually get recycled. When in doubt, check with your local program or use our directory to find specialized recycling facilities near you.