A family can recycle a wide range of items, depending on local recycling programs and facilities. Here’s a general guide to recyclable items categorized by material:

Paper and Cardboard

• Newspapers, magazines, and catalogs
• Office paper and junk mail
• Cardboard boxes (flattened)
• Paperboard (e.g., cereal boxes)
• Books (check local guidelines; sometimes only softcover)
• Paper bags (e.g., from grocery stores)

Plastic

• Bottles and containers with recycling symbols (e.g., #1 PET, #2 HDPE)
• Milk jugs, soda bottles, and water bottles
• Detergent and shampoo bottles
• Yogurt cups, butter tubs, and similar containers (check local guidelines for #5 plastics)

Note: Plastic bags and film are often recycled separately at designated drop-off locations.

Glass

• Bottles and jars (e.g., wine, beer, food jars)
• Clear, green, or brown glass
• Avoid: Ceramics, Pyrex, mirrors, and light bulbs.

Metal

• Aluminum cans (e.g., soda, beer)
• Tin and steel cans (e.g., soup, pet food)
• Foil and aluminum trays (cleaned)

Electronics and Batteries

• Old phones, computers, and small electronics (via e-waste programs)
• Rechargeable batteries (at designated drop-offs)
• Household batteries (depending on local guidelines)

Textiles

• Clothes and linens in good condition (donate or recycle)
• Some programs accept damaged textiles for recycling.

Organics (in areas with composting facilities)

• Food scraps (e.g., fruit peels, vegetable trimmings)
• Yard waste (e.g., leaves, grass clippings)
• Compostable packaging labeled "certified compostable."

Other Materials

• Cartons (e.g., milk, juice) – check for local carton recycling programs.
• Certain plastic lids and caps (if allowed in your area)
• Wine corks (some specialty recycling programs or stores like Whole Foods accept them).

Tips for Recycling Effectively

• Clean and dry: Rinse containers to avoid contamination.
• Separate materials: Remove caps, lids, and labels if required.
• Check local guidelines: Recycling rules vary by location.
• Avoid contamination: Do not recycle greasy pizza boxes, wet paper, or non-recyclable plastics.

Items Usually Not Accepted in Curbside Recycling

• Plastic bags (take to specific collection points)
• Styrofoam (EPS foam)
• Electronics and large appliances
• Hazardous materials (e.g., paints, chemicals)
• Non-recyclable plastics (e.g., utensils, straws)

Understanding what your local facility accepts is crucial for maximizing recycling efforts!