Introduction

It’s easy to think that recycling is just about throwing things in a bin and dropping them off at the curb. But there are many different types of recyclable materials, and it can be tricky to know which ones you should be collecting and how best to do so. In this blog,  we’ll explain all aspects of recycling so you can make sure your items get properly disposed of by local governments (or private haulers) instead of ending up in landfills or being incinerated for energy production–or worse!

Things You Might Be Recycling Wrong

Rolling carts

Rolling carts are not recyclable. If you have a rolling cart in your home, don’t put it in the trash or recycling bin. Instead, take it to a local recycling center where they will pick up and sort out your trash items for you.

It’s important to know what can be recycled so that we all keep our resources going towards making life better for us all!

Plastic bin liners

Plastic bin liners are not recyclable. Use your own bin liners instead.  You can compost them if you separate them from other compostables, but it’s best to use paper or cardboard instead of plastic when possible.

Plastic bags

If you’re throwing away plastic bags, don’t throw them in the recycling bin. Plastic bags are not recyclable because they’re made from a petroleum-based product and contain toxic chemicals. They can be disposed of in your garbage or your neighborhood dumpster.

Aluminum cans and steel bottles

Aluminum cans and steel bottles are two of the most common items that you might be recycling wrong. Empty and rinse: Do not put aluminum cans or steel bottles in your regular trash bin or dumpster. Instead, empty them and rinse them out with water before putting them in the recycling bin. This will prevent any beer from getting into other materials, which could contaminate your recycling stream if it is destined for another use (like compost).

Stainless steel: Stainless steel can also be recycled by taking it to a scrap metal yard; however, this material should only be sold as raw material so there is no way for someone else to re-use it after they’ve cut it up!

Cardboard boxes

Cardboard boxes are recyclable, but if you have any food waste in them, it’s not. To recycle cardboard boxes, place them at the curb with your other recycling items. If there’s food waste inside of a box and you’re putting it out for curbside pickup or recycling, make sure that the packaging is sealed so that no water gets into your recyclable materials.

Waste metal

It’s tempting to recycle the metal lids from your containers, as they are often made from more environmentally friendly metals. But don’t! The plastic lids are what need to be recycled. If you’re able to get in your recycling bin, then no problem–recycle those! But if not, make sure that you take care of the plastic ones first by putting them in a separate bin or bag so that they don’t end up contaminating everything else with their smell (and yes, this really happens).

If any of these items happen upon your property: metal pots/pans/utensils; foil; pie tins; or anything containing an aluminum component–DO NOT THROW THEM IN THE RECYCLING BIN!! Instead, place them directly into one of three designated areas: yard waste/composting; trash collection/recycling center/transfer station; or landfill burn pile (which is where ALL recyclable materials go).

Light bulbs

Light bulbs are not recyclable, and they contain mercury. Mercury is a highly toxic metal that can cause severe health problems if you’re exposed to it in your daily life. Light bulbs aren’t accepted at curbside recycling programs, so you will have to take them to a hazardous waste facility instead.

Containers with food waste still in it

If you’re recycling containers with food waste still in it, you’re contributing to landfill waste. The best way to deal with this is to buy a new container and throw out what’s left of your old one.

VHS or cassette tape cases

The case is made of plastic, so it’s not recyclable. The same goes for VHS cassettes and tapes. These should be thrown away in the trash because they’re made of plastic and won’t break down in landfills.

Conclusion

If you’re worried about recycling, don’t be! There are a lot of things that can go into the wrong bin. But if you’re confused about what goes where and how to separate them from other recyclables, then it might be worth getting some help from someone who knows more than us here at Snappy Rubbish Removal – like your local waste company or even an expert (who is more than happy to answer any questions)!