Recycling is one of the easiest ways to reduce waste and protect the environment. However, many people unknowingly make mistakes that can contaminate recyclables or send them to landfills. Here’s a complete guide on how to recycle correctly and avoid common mistakes.
1. Learn Your Local Recycling Rules
Recycling programs vary by location. Some cities accept all plastics, while others have strict limitations. Check with your local waste management service to understand:
✔ Which materials are accepted
✔ How items should be sorted
✔ Collection schedules and drop-off locations
2. Clean and Dry Recyclables Before Disposal
Food residue can contaminate entire batches of recyclables, sending them to landfills. Before tossing items into the recycling bin:
✅ Rinse out containers (cans, bottles, jars, etc.)
✅ Let them dry completely
✅ Avoid putting greasy items (like pizza boxes) in the recycling bin
3. Know What Can and Cannot Be Recycled
Many people wish-cycle, meaning they throw items in the recycling bin hoping they will be recycled. However, certain materials should never be included:
✅ Common recyclable items:
♻️ Paper (newspapers, magazines, cardboard)
♻️ Glass bottles and jars
♻️ Aluminum cans and clean foil
♻️ Plastic bottles and containers (check local guidelines)
❌ Items that should NOT be recycled:
🚫 Plastic bags (return to grocery stores instead)
🚫 Styrofoam (not widely recyclable)
🚫 Food-soiled containers (greasy pizza boxes, dirty takeout boxes)
🚫 Broken glass, mirrors, and ceramics
4. Don’t Bag Your Recyclables
Plastic bags clog recycling machines and can cause entire loads to be discarded. Instead, place recyclables loose in the bin. If you need to bag them for transport, empty them into the bin and reuse the bag.
5. Avoid Mixing Different Types of Materials
Some materials need to be separated for proper recycling. For example:
- Glass should not be mixed with other materials
- Paper and cardboard should stay dry to be recyclable
- Plastic bottle caps should be removed before recycling (check local rules)
6. Recycle Electronics and Hazardous Waste Separately
Electronics, batteries, and hazardous waste require special disposal methods. Many cities have designated drop-off centers for:
🔋 Batteries
📱 Old cell phones and computers
🛢 Paint and motor oil
💡 Fluorescent bulbs