How to Recycle Glass
Bottles and jars only. Glass is endlessly recyclable in theory, but EPA measured 31.3 percent of containers recycled, and a growing number of US programs have dropped glass from curbside entirely.
Glass Bottles
Glass Jars
Window Glass
Light Bulbs (Incandescent)
Drinking Glasses
Mirrors
Pyrex/Heat-Resistant Glass
Glass Light Fixtures
Find glass recycling centers
Browse recycling listings for glass, then contact a facility to confirm what it accepts.
Complete Glass Recycling Guide
Infinitely Recyclable
Glass is one of the few materials that can be recycled infinitely without losing purity or quality. A glass bottle can go from a recycling bin to a store shelf in as little as 30 days.
- • Clear Glass: Most valuable, used for food and beverages
- • Brown/Amber Glass: Protects products from sunlight
- • Green Glass: Often used for wine and imports
- • Cullet: Crushed glass ready for melting
Environmental Impact
Cullet melts at a lower temperature than raw sand, soda ash, and limestone, so a furnace running on recycled glass burns less gas. Every ton recycled displaces just over a ton of mined raw material.
Key Stats:
- • Saves 1,300 lbs of sand per ton recycled
- • Cuts furnace energy use
- • Prolongs furnace life by melting at lower temps
- • Glass never breaks down in a landfill
Glass Recycling FAQ
Do I need to separate glass by color?
It depends on your local program. Many curbside programs allow mixed glass (single-stream), but drop-off centers often require sorting into clear, brown, and green. Separating by color significantly increases the recycling value.
Can I recycle broken glass?
Broken bottles and jars may be accepted, but policies vary. Window glass, mirrors, and Pyrex-type glass are not accepted with container glass because they melt differently. Check your local program before placing broken glass in a bin.
Do I need to clean glass jars?
A quick rinse is sufficient. You don't need to scrub perfectly clean, but removing major food residue prevents mold and odors. Labels can stay on - they burn off in the furnace.
Can I recycle light bulbs?
NO! Light bulbs (incandescent, LED, CFL) cannot go in glass recycling. They contain different glass compositions and hazardous mercury (CFLs). Take them to specialized lighting drop-off locations.