How to Recycle Hard Plastic

Many recycling programs, including curbside recycling, accept hard plastics. Eligible hard plastics vary from program to program. For recycling purposes, plastics get sorted according to the type of resin the item contains. The number located in the center of the chasing-arrows recycling symbol refers to the plastic content. Many programs accept #1 bottles, such as soda bottles. Baby bottles, jugs and even yard furniture, milk crates, flower pots, buckets, toys and laundry baskets appear on the list of eligible hard plastics for recycling for some locations.

Things You'll Need

• Paper grocery bags

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Instructions

• 1

  Check the list of acceptable items for recycling for your curbside recycling program. If you don't have the list, go to the waste collection company's website or call them. Hard plastic is usually listed under plastic.

• 2

  Ask the waste management company where to recycle hard plastic if you don't have curbside recycling or hard plastics aren't eligible for that program. Alternatively, contact the county dump or nearest recycling facility or pick up station. Make a note of the hours and days of operation.

• 3

  Refer to the recycling symbol on the base of the hard plastic item. Check the list for the plastic's eligibility for recycling.

• 4

  Rinse the hard plastic items. Most recycling programs request that consumers remove bottle caps before putting bottles in the recycling container.

• 5

  Deposit eligible hard plastic items in the recycling bin if your waste collection company offers commingled recycling. Commingled means all the recyclable items get collected together, such as newspaper, bottles and cans. If plastics need to be separated, place the hard plastics in a paper bag.

• 6

  Drop off the hard plastics at a recycling facility or drop-off station, if necessary.