Recycling Guide: What You Can & Can’t Recycle (U.S.)
A clear, up-to-date guide to U.S. recycling. Learn what goes in the blue cart, how to prep items, and where to take batteries, electronics, and hazardous waste.
Why Recycling Matters
Recycling saves energy, reduces landfill use, and supports a cleaner community. Rules vary by city, but the basics below apply in most U.S. programs.
Tip: Always check local guidelines—some cities accept glass or #5 plastics, others don’t. Start here, then verify on your city page.
What Goes in the Blue Cart?
✅ Recyclable (Common)
- Paper & cardboard (clean/dry)
- Aluminum & steel cans
- Plastic bottles & jugs (#1–#2 widely; #5 varies)
- Glass bottles & jars (city-dependent)
🚫 Not Recyclable Curbside
- Plastic bags & film wrap
- Styrofoam (EPS) & clamshells (varies)
- Greasy/food-soiled paper
- Hoses, cords, tanglers
⚠️ Special Drop-Off Only
- Batteries & light bulbs
- Electronics (e-waste)
- Paint, chemicals, HHW
- Appliances (often bulky pickup)
✨ Prep Items Right
- Rinse containers—no food residue
- Flatten cardboard
- Keep items loose (no bagging)
- Caps on bottles (if your city allows)
Set-Out Tips That Prevent Contamination
- Keep food/liquids out of the recycling cart.
- Rinse bottles/cans; let them dry briefly.
- Bundle cardboard neatly (flattened).
- Never bag recyclables—place them loose.
Unsure about an item? Check your local rules:
Find Your City →
Plastics by Number (Quick Reference)
| # | Name | Common Items | Curbside? |
|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | PET(E) | Beverage bottles | Widely accepted |
| #2 | HDPE | Milk jugs, detergent | Widely accepted |
| #3 | PVC | Pipe, packaging | Rarely curbside |
| #4 | LDPE | Plastic film/bags | Store drop-off |
| #5 | PP | Yogurt tubs | Varies by city |
| #6 | PS (foam) | Foam food boxes | Usually not curbside |
| #7 | Other | Mixed plastics | Not curbside |
Always verify locally—acceptance can differ.
Where to Take Batteries, Electronics & HHW
Don’t place batteries, electronics, paint, or chemicals in your curbside carts. Many cities offer dedicated drop-off events or permanent facilities.
- Open your city page: Find Your City
- Look for “Household Hazardous Waste (HHW)” or “Electronics Recycling”.
- Confirm location, fees (if any), and ID requirements.
Common Recycling Myths
“Everything with the arrows is recyclable.”
No. The ♻️ symbol doesn’t guarantee curbside acceptance. Check local rules and plastic numbers.
“If unsure, toss it in recycling.”
Wish-cycling causes contamination. When in doubt, look up your city or dispose in trash.
“Items must be spotless.”
Lightly rinsed is fine—just remove food residue and liquids.
Check Local Rules & Pickup Days
Rules vary by city. Find exact do’s/don’ts, holiday changes, and bulk pickup options for your area.
Recycling FAQs
Do I need to remove bottle caps?
Many programs accept bottles with caps on. Check your city’s guidance.
Can I recycle plastic bags at the curb?
No. Take clean bags/film to retail drop-offs. Don’t place them in your blue cart.
Is glass accepted everywhere?
Glass acceptance varies widely. Confirm on your city page.
Where do batteries and electronics go?
Use city HHW/e-waste drop-offs. Never put them in curbside carts.
This guide provides general best practices. Always verify details with your local Public Works or official city website.