If you’re wondering what is recycling or how to recycle properly, check below to learn everything from recycling basics to expert tips.
Recycling 101
Stick to these three rules to recycle more efficiently and help ensure that everything in your recycling bin finds a second life.
Recycling Guide
What Can Be Recycled
Always check local programs to confirm what's recyclable in your area. For a quick overview of the basics, download What's Recyclable.
Accepted in Your Bin*
These items can go in your recycling bin, as long as they're clean and dry.

Plastic Bottles & Containers
Clean and dry containers, then put the cap back on before tossing in the bin.

Food & Beverage Cans

Paper

Flattened Cardboard & Paperboard
Cardboard pizza delivery boxes without leftovers or liners should be recycled; but leftover crusts, cheese and other food should not.

Food & Beverage Containers

Glass Bottles & Containers
Not Accepted in Your Bin
Try to reduce and reuse these items instead of putting them in the trash.

No Bagged Recyclables
If you collect your recyclables in a bag, empty them directly into your cart and reuse the bag!

No Plastic Bags
Do not bag recyclables as materials inside may not get recycled. Reuse plastic bags, or learn where you can recycle them at plasticfilmrecycling.org.

No Plastic Wrap & Film

No Flexible Packaging
This type of packaging is made from multiple materials preventing it from being recycled.

No Cups with Wax or Plastic Coatings
Invest in and carry a reusable cup instead.

No Polystyrene Foam & Plastic
Other Materials
Typically not accepted for curbside pickup. Check local programs for disposal options.

No Tangling Items
"Tanglers" can wrap around equipment, endanger MRF workers and shut down entire recycling centers. If they are still in good condition, donate them.

No Dirty Diapers
These materials will spoil all of the recyclables, turning the load to trash. Trash these instead and keep recyclables clean and dry.

No Household Items
Check local programs for reuse and recycling options first. Put them in the trash bin if no other options are available.

No Medical Waste

No Garage Waste
* Recyclable items can vary based on your location. Check local programs to find out what is recyclable in your area.
Accepted in Your Bin*
These items can go in your recycling bin, as long as they're clean and dry.

Plastic Bottles & Containers
Clean and dry containers, then put the cap back on before tossing in the bin.

Food & Beverage Cans

Paper

Flattened Cardboard & Paperboard
Cardboard pizza delivery boxes without leftovers or liners should be recycled; but leftover crusts, cheese and other food should not.

Food & Beverage Containers

Glass Bottles & Containers
Not Accepted in Your Bin
Try to reduce and reuse these items instead of putting them in the trash.

No Bagged Recyclables
If you collect your recyclables in a bag, empty them directly into your cart and reuse the bag!

No Plastic Bags
Do not bag recyclables as materials inside may not get recycled. Reuse plastic bags, or learn where you can recycle them at plasticfilmrecycling.org.

No Plastic Wrap & Film

No Flexible Packaging
This type of packaging is made from multiple materials preventing it from being recycled.

No Cups with Wax or Plastic Coatings
Invest in and carry a reusable cup instead.

No Polystyrene Foam & Plastic
Other Materials
Typically not accepted for curbside pickup. Check local programs for disposal options.

No Tangling Items
"Tanglers" can wrap around equipment, endanger MRF workers and shut down entire recycling centers. If they are still in good condition, donate them.

No Dirty Diapers
These materials will spoil all of the recyclables, turning the load to trash. Trash these instead and keep recyclables clean and dry.

No Household Items
Check local programs for reuse and recycling options first. Put them in the trash bin if no other options are available.

No Medical Waste

No Garage Waste
* Recyclable items can vary based on your location. Check local programs to find out what is recyclable in your area.
Accepted in Your Bin*
These items can go in your recycling bin, as long as they're clean and dry.

Plastic Bottles & Containers
Clean and dry containers, then put the cap back on before tossing in the bin.

Food & Beverage Cans

Paper

Flattened Cardboard & Paperboard
Cardboard pizza delivery boxes without leftovers or liners should be recycled; but leftover crusts, cheese and other food should not.

Food & Beverage Containers

Glass Bottles & Containers
Not Accepted in Your Bin
Try to reduce and reuse these items instead of putting them in the trash.

No Bagged Recyclables
If you collect your recyclables in a bag, empty them directly into your cart and reuse the bag!

No Plastic Bags
Do not bag recyclables as materials inside may not get recycled. Reuse plastic bags, or learn where you can recycle them at plasticfilmrecycling.org.

No Plastic Wrap & Film

No Flexible Packaging
This type of packaging is made from multiple materials preventing it from being recycled.

No Cups with Wax or Plastic Coatings
Invest in and carry a reusable cup instead.

No Polystyrene Foam & Plastic
Other Materials
Typically not accepted for curbside pickup. Check local programs for disposal options.

No Tangling Items
"Tanglers" can wrap around equipment, endanger MRF workers and shut down entire recycling centers. If they are still in good condition, donate them.

No Dirty Diapers
These materials will spoil all of the recyclables, turning the load to trash. Trash these instead and keep recyclables clean and dry.

No Household Items
Check local programs for reuse and recycling options first. Put them in the trash bin if no other options are available.

No Medical Waste

No Garage Waste
* Recyclable items can vary based on your location. Check local programs to find out what is recyclable in your area.
Common Recycling Myths
Learn the truth behind the myths that contribute most to recycling contamination. Download our Recycling Myths guide to spread the word.
Recycling & Sustainability Services
See how WM can help you contribute to a sustainable planet.