Recycling contamination checker
Not sure if something belongs in your recycling bin? Check items below to see if they can be recycled or if they'll contaminate your recycling stream.
Showing 82 items
Cardboard boxes
RecyclableCategory: Paper & Cardboard
Clean, flattened cardboard boxes are highly recyclable. Remove tape and labels if possible.
Pizza boxes
It DependsCategory: Paper & Cardboard
Clean boxes can be recycled. Greasy or food-soiled boxes should be composted or trashed.
Alternative: Tear off clean sections to recycle, compost or trash soiled parts.
Newspapers
RecyclableCategory: Paper & Cardboard
Newspapers and inserts are recyclable. No need to remove staples or glossy sections.
Office paper
RecyclableCategory: Paper & Cardboard
White and colored office paper is recyclable. Staples are okay but remove paper clips.
Shredded paper
It DependsCategory: Paper & Cardboard
Many facilities reject shredded paper as it clogs equipment. Check locally or compost instead.
Alternative: Use as packing material, compost, or check if your facility accepts it in clear bags.
Paper towels
Not RecyclableCategory: Paper & Cardboard
Used paper towels cannot be recycled. They're often contaminated and fibers are too short.
Alternative: Compost clean paper towels or dispose in trash.
Receipts
Not RecyclableCategory: Paper & Cardboard
Thermal receipts contain BPA coating that contaminates paper recycling.
Alternative: Request digital receipts when possible, otherwise trash them.
Plastic bottles (#1 PET)
RecyclableCategory: Plastic
Water, soda, and juice bottles made from PET plastic are highly recyclable. Empty and rinse.
Milk jugs (#2 HDPE)
RecyclableCategory: Plastic
Milk jugs, detergent bottles, and similar HDPE plastics are recyclable. Caps can stay on.
Plastic bags
Not RecyclableCategory: Plastic
Plastic bags jam recycling sorting machines. Never put them in curbside bins.
Alternative: Return to grocery store collection bins or reuse them.
Plastic wrap
Not RecyclableCategory: Plastic
Plastic wrap tangles in sorting equipment and cannot be processed at most facilities.
Alternative: Minimize use or check for store drop-off programs.
Yogurt containers
It DependsCategory: Plastic
Most yogurt containers (#5 PP) are recyclable if clean. Check your local program.
Alternative: Rinse thoroughly and check for recycling symbol with local acceptance.
Plastic straws
Not RecyclableCategory: Plastic
Too small to be sorted properly and often made from non-recyclable plastic.
Alternative: Use reusable metal, glass, or bamboo straws.
Plastic utensils
Not RecyclableCategory: Plastic
Single-use plastic utensils are too small and contaminated to recycle.
Alternative: Choose reusable utensils or compostable alternatives.
Styrofoam
Not RecyclableCategory: Plastic
Polystyrene foam is not accepted in most curbside programs. Special facilities required.
Alternative: Check for specialized foam recycling centers or minimize use.
Black plastic containers
Not RecyclableCategory: Plastic
Black plastic cannot be detected by optical sorters at recycling facilities.
Alternative: Choose clear or colored containers when possible.
Glass bottles and jars
RecyclableCategory: Glass
Clear, green, and brown glass containers are infinitely recyclable. Rinse before recycling.
Broken glass
It DependsCategory: Glass
Some programs accept it, others don't due to safety concerns. Check locally.
Alternative: Wrap safely in paper and label before disposing.
Window glass
Not RecyclableCategory: Glass
Window glass has different melting point than container glass and contaminates the process.
Alternative: Donate usable panes or dispose in trash carefully wrapped.
Drinking glasses
Not RecyclableCategory: Glass
Tempered glass (like drinking glasses) has different properties than bottle glass.
Alternative: Donate if intact or dispose in trash.
Light bulbs
It DependsCategory: Glass
LEDs and CFLs need special recycling. Incandescent bulbs go in trash.
Alternative: Take CFLs and LEDs to retail drop-off locations like Home Depot.
Aluminum cans
RecyclableCategory: Metal
Aluminum cans are highly valuable and infinitely recyclable. Empty and rinse.
Steel/tin cans
RecyclableCategory: Metal
Soup, vegetable, and other steel cans are recyclable. Rinse and labels can stay on.
Aluminum foil
It DependsCategory: Metal
Clean foil can be recycled if balled up to golf-ball size. Food-soiled foil cannot.
Alternative: Clean and ball up foil scraps together for recycling.
Aerosol cans
RecyclableCategory: Metal
Empty aerosol cans are recyclable. Must be completely empty but caps can stay on.
Metal hangers
Not RecyclableCategory: Metal
Wire hangers tangle in sorting equipment.
Alternative: Return to dry cleaners or donate to thrift stores.
Scrap metal
RecyclableCategory: Metal
Large metal items should go to scrap yards, not curbside bins.
Alternative: Take to local scrap metal recycling facility for cash.
Food waste
Not RecyclableCategory: Food & Organic
Food waste contaminates recyclables. Never put it in recycling bins.
Alternative: Compost at home or use municipal composting programs.
Greasy food containers
Not RecyclableCategory: Food & Organic
Grease and food residue contaminate paper and plastic recycling.
Alternative: Compost if uncoated paper, otherwise trash.
Coffee grounds
Not RecyclableCategory: Food & Organic
Organic waste, not recyclable material.
Alternative: Excellent for composting or use as garden fertilizer.
Batteries
It DependsCategory: Hazardous
Never put in regular recycling. Batteries require special recycling programs.
Alternative: Take to battery recycling drop-off or retail collection points.
Electronics
It DependsCategory: E-Waste
E-waste needs specialized recycling facilities, not curbside bins.
Alternative: Take to e-waste recycling events or retail drop-off programs.
Plastic plant pots
It DependsCategory: Plastic
Many facilities don't accept black plastic pots. Check locally or return to nurseries.
Alternative: Reuse for starting seeds or return to garden centers.
Bubble wrap
Not RecyclableCategory: Plastic
Not accepted in curbside recycling. Reuse or take to store drop-off.
Alternative: Save for shipping or check store collection programs.
To-go coffee cups
Not RecyclableCategory: Paper & Cardboard
Paper cups have plastic lining that prevents recycling at most facilities.
Alternative: Use reusable mugs or check for specialized recycling programs.
Juice boxes
It DependsCategory: Mixed Materials
Made of mixed materials (paper, plastic, foil). Some facilities accept them.
Alternative: Check local guidelines or choose recyclable alternatives.
Clothing
Not RecyclableCategory: Textiles
Clothing doesn't go in recycling bins but can be donated or textile-recycled.
Alternative: Donate wearable items or take to textile recycling programs.
Plastic toys
Not RecyclableCategory: Plastic
Toys are made from mixed materials and not accepted in recycling.
Alternative: Donate working toys or dispose in trash.
Egg cartons (cardboard)
RecyclableCategory: Paper & Cardboard
Cardboard egg cartons are recyclable if clean and dry. Remove any food residue first.
Egg cartons (styrofoam)
Not RecyclableCategory: Plastic
Styrofoam egg cartons are not accepted in most curbside programs.
Alternative: Reuse for crafts or seed starting, or check for styrofoam recycling centers.
Cereal boxes
RecyclableCategory: Paper & Cardboard
Cereal boxes and similar paperboard are recyclable. Remove plastic bag liners first.
Frozen food boxes
It DependsCategory: Paper & Cardboard
Many frozen food boxes have a wax or plastic coating that makes recycling difficult. Check locally.
Alternative: Look for 'recyclable' symbol or test - if it tears easily, likely recyclable.
Plastic bottle caps
RecyclableCategory: Plastic
Most programs now accept caps if left ON bottles. Check your local guidelines.
Plastic food containers (takeout)
It DependsCategory: Plastic
Check the number - #1, #2, and #5 are often accepted if clean. Greasy containers cannot be recycled.
Alternative: Wash thoroughly or trash if heavily soiled.
Plastic clamshell containers
It DependsCategory: Plastic
Clear clamshells (#1 PET) are often recyclable if clean. Check locally as acceptance varies.
Ziploc bags
Not RecyclableCategory: Plastic
Plastic bags jam sorting machines. Do not put in curbside bins.
Alternative: Return to grocery store collection bins or reuse many times.
Plastic grocery bags
Not RecyclableCategory: Plastic
Never in curbside recycling. They tangle in equipment and shut down facilities.
Alternative: Return to store drop-off bins or use reusable bags.
Produce bags (plastic)
Not RecyclableCategory: Plastic
Thin plastic bags are not accepted in curbside recycling.
Alternative: Return to store collection or use reusable produce bags.
Bread bags
Not RecyclableCategory: Plastic
Plastic film bags jam sorting equipment.
Alternative: Return to store bins or reuse for food storage.
Chip bags
Not RecyclableCategory: Mixed Materials
Made of mixed plastic and metal layers that cannot be separated for recycling.
Alternative: They cannot go in curbside bins or grocery-store film drop-off.
Candy wrappers
Not RecyclableCategory: Mixed Materials
Too small and made of mixed materials. Not recyclable in standard programs.
Alternative: They cannot go in curbside bins. Keep them out of store film drop-off too.
Paper coffee cups (disposable)
Not RecyclableCategory: Paper & Cardboard
Lined with plastic film that prevents recycling. Lids may be recyclable separately.
Alternative: Use reusable mugs or look for certified compostable cups.
Plastic coffee cup lids
It DependsCategory: Plastic
Most are #6 plastic (PS) which many facilities don't accept. Check locally.
Alternative: Use reusable mugs with no lids needed.
Aluminum pie tins
RecyclableCategory: Metal
Clean aluminum pie tins and trays are recyclable. Wash off food residue first.
Wine corks (natural)
Not RecyclableCategory: Other
Natural cork is not recyclable in standard bins but some stores collect them.
Alternative: Look for cork recycling programs at Whole Foods or use for crafts.
Wine corks (synthetic)
Not RecyclableCategory: Plastic
Synthetic/plastic corks are not recyclable.
Alternative: Reuse for crafts or dispose in trash.
Plastic wrap on products
Not RecyclableCategory: Plastic
Shrink wrap and plastic film on products tangles in machinery.
Alternative: Return to store collection bins if clean.
Paper towel tubes
RecyclableCategory: Paper & Cardboard
Toilet paper and paper towel tubes are recyclable. Can also be composted.
Toilet paper tubes
RecyclableCategory: Paper & Cardboard
Cardboard tubes from toilet paper are recyclable or compostable.
Tissue boxes
RecyclableCategory: Paper & Cardboard
The cardboard box is recyclable. Remove and trash the plastic film window if present.
Gift wrap (paper)
It DependsCategory: Paper & Cardboard
Plain paper gift wrap is recyclable. Foil, glitter, or plastic-coated wrap is not.
Alternative: Use newspaper, kraft paper, or fabric wraps instead.
Greeting cards
It DependsCategory: Paper & Cardboard
Plain paper cards are recyclable. Remove ribbons, bows, and music chips first.
Envelopes (with windows)
RecyclableCategory: Paper & Cardboard
Envelopes with plastic windows are recyclable. No need to remove the window.
Junk mail
RecyclableCategory: Paper & Cardboard
All paper mail is recyclable including glossy flyers. Staples are okay.
Magazines
RecyclableCategory: Paper & Cardboard
Glossy magazines and catalogs are recyclable. Staples can stay in.
Phone books
RecyclableCategory: Paper & Cardboard
Old phone books can be recycled with mixed paper. Some areas have special collection.
Books (hardcover)
Not RecyclableCategory: Mixed Materials
Hardcover books have glue and mixed materials. Remove cover and recycle pages only.
Alternative: Donate to libraries, thrift stores, or Little Free Libraries.
Books (paperback)
It DependsCategory: Paper & Cardboard
Paperbacks can often be recycled if binding is removed. Donation is better.
Alternative: Donate to libraries, schools, or book exchange programs.
Paint cans (empty)
It DependsCategory: Metal
Completely dry, empty metal paint cans may be recyclable. Latex paint only.
Alternative: Check local hazardous waste programs for wet paint.
Spray paint cans (empty)
It DependsCategory: Metal
Must be completely empty with no pressure. Many facilities require hazardous waste disposal.
Alternative: Take to household hazardous waste collection.
Pots and pans
It DependsCategory: Metal
Metal cookware is recyclable but too large for curbside. Take to scrap metal facility.
Alternative: Donate usable items or take to metal recyclers.
Metal coat hangers
Not RecyclableCategory: Metal
Wire hangers tangle in sorting equipment.
Alternative: Return to dry cleaners or donate to thrift stores.
Small appliances
It DependsCategory: E-Waste
Electronics need special e-waste recycling, not curbside bins.
Alternative: Take to e-waste collection or retailer take-back programs.
Lightbulbs (LED)
It DependsCategory: E-Waste
LEDs contain electronics and should be recycled at hardware stores, not curbside.
Alternative: Take to Home Depot, Lowe's, or e-waste collection.
Lightbulbs (CFL)
It DependsCategory: Hazardous
CFLs contain mercury and require special recycling. Never in trash or curbside bins.
Alternative: Take to hardware store drop-off or hazardous waste collection.
Lightbulbs (incandescent)
Not RecyclableCategory: Glass
Incandescent bulbs are not recyclable due to metal base and thin glass.
Alternative: Wrap in paper and dispose in trash. Switch to LEDs.
Mirrors
Not RecyclableCategory: Glass
Mirror glass has coating that contaminates bottle glass recycling.
Alternative: Donate if intact or dispose in trash wrapped safely.
Ceramic dishes
Not RecyclableCategory: Other
Ceramics have different melting point than glass and contaminate recycling.
Alternative: Donate intact dishes or dispose in trash.
Coffee mugs (ceramic)
Not RecyclableCategory: Other
Ceramic mugs cannot be recycled with glass or other materials.
Alternative: Donate to thrift stores or repurpose.
Pyrex/glassware
Not RecyclableCategory: Glass
Heat-resistant glass (Pyrex) has different composition than bottle glass.
Alternative: Donate usable items or dispose in trash.
Mason jars
RecyclableCategory: Glass
Mason jars and canning jars are recyclable glass. Lids can be recycled separately.
Bottle caps (metal)
RecyclableCategory: Metal
Metal bottle caps are recyclable. Place loose in bin or inside a steel can.
Status Guide:
What contamination does to a recycling load
When non-recyclable items end up in recycling bins, they can contaminate entire batches of recyclables, sending them to landfills instead. A single contaminated item can ruin a whole truckload of otherwise recyclable materials.
Common contaminants include food waste, plastic bags, greasy pizza boxes, and items labeled as "biodegradable" plastic. Following your local guidelines helps ensure your recyclables actually get recycled.
How to keep a recycling load clean
- ✓Empty, clean, and dry: Rinse containers and let them dry before recycling
- ✓When in doubt, throw it out: If unsure, it's better to trash it than contaminate
- ✓No bagging: Never put recyclables in plastic bags - they jam sorting machines
- ✓Check locally: Rules vary by location - verify with your local recycling program
Related resources
Contamination Prevention Guide
Deep-dive guide on preventing recycling contamination at home.
Is It Recyclable?
Search any item to see if it's accepted in curbside recycling.
Materials Database
Browse recycling guidance by material type from plastic to electronics.
Recycling Guides
In-depth guides on home recycling, sorting, and proper disposal.
Recycling contamination: frequently asked questions
What is recycling contamination?
Contamination is anything in the recycling stream that does not belong there, either a material the program does not accept or an accepted material fouled by food, liquid, or grease. It matters because recycling is sold as a commodity: a bale of cardboard with food waste in it is worth less, and past a certain point a buyer will reject it outright. The habit of tossing something in and hoping it gets recycled has a name in the industry, wishcycling, and it is the single biggest source of contamination.
What are the most common recycling contaminants?
Plastic bags and film top almost every list, followed by food and liquid left in containers, greasy cardboard, disposable coffee cups, and items made of mixed materials that cannot be separated. Garden hoses, cables, and holiday lights cause a specific problem: sorting crews call them tanglers because they wrap around the spinning screens at a sorting facility and shut the line down until someone cuts them free by hand.
Do I need to wash containers before recycling them?
Empty, clean, and dry is the standard, but clean means a quick rinse, not spotless. A jar with a film of residue is fine; a jar half full of sauce is not. Let containers dry before they go in the bin, because moisture is what transfers to paper and cardboard and ruins those materials. Do not run the dishwasher for your recycling, since the water and energy cost outweighs the benefit.
Does one greasy pizza box ruin the whole batch?
One box will not condemn a truckload, but grease is a genuine problem for paper recycling because oil cannot be separated from paper fibers during pulping. The practical answer is to tear the box: the clean top usually goes in recycling, and the grease-soaked bottom goes in the trash or, if you have collection, the compost. Some programs now accept lightly soiled boxes outright, so check your local rules.
Why can't plastic bags go in curbside recycling?
Plastic film is recyclable, just not through the equipment that sorts curbside material. Bags wrap around the rotating screens that separate paper from containers, and facilities stop the line to cut them out, sometimes several times a shift. Take clean, dry bags and film to a store drop-off bin instead, which feeds a different recycling stream built to handle them.
What happens when a load of recycling is contaminated?
It depends how bad it is. Sorting facilities pull obvious contaminants by hand and by machine, which costs money and slows throughput. When contamination is high enough that a load cannot be sold, the whole truck can be redirected to a landfill. Some haulers also charge cities or individual customers a contamination fee, and repeat problems at a single address can mean a warning tag or a removed bin.
Are receipts and shredded paper recyclable?
Usually not, for two different reasons. Most receipts are thermal paper coated with chemicals such as BPA or BPS, and that coating contaminates recycled paper pulp, so they belong in the trash. Shredding is a separate issue: it cuts paper fibers too short to be made into new paper, and loose shreds blow around and fall through sorting screens. If your program takes shredded paper at all, it will normally ask you to bag it in paper first.