Recycling is an excellent way to clean out your home of unwanted items in a sustainable way. However, your local pickup service probably can’t process every type of waste. So, you may need to seek out another type of recycling or trash removal service for specific items. Here’s a list of some items that shouldn’t go in your recycling bin.

Why You Shouldn’t Put These Items in Your Recycling Bin

1. Medical Waste

Biohazardous waste like bandages, syringes, or vaccines can contain infectious agents. They can potentially contaminate other materials if mixed throughout the recycling process, which would prevent them from being usable in the future.

2. Wood

Wood can certainly be repurposed and used again. However, it is not processed in the same way as other materials like plastic and glass. So, instead of putting it in the same bin as those other items, you may have to take it to a facility that specifically processes wood.

3. Styrofoam™

Recycling Styrofoam is possible, but it requires a specific type of technology that has only been recently developed. Most standard recycling centers can’t process it with other plastics, so you may need to recycle it separately.

4. Clothing

There are several ways to recycle clothing. Some can be reused as-is, some can be turned into other textile products, and others must be shredded. A specialized sorting facility can sort through the items to determine the best use for different textile products, but most neighborhood recycling centers do not offer this.

5. CDs & DVDs

CDs and DVDs are made mostly of recyclable materials like plastic and aluminum. However, because the materials are combined, they cannot be recycled using the same processes as the items in your recycling bin. Instead, you can find a free drop-off at stores that sell these items or work with a specialized recycling company.

 

If you’re looking for a more specialized recycling company in Eastern Connecticut, look no further than Sterling Superior Services. The company has been providing full-service waste removal, dumpster rentals, and recycling to area residents and businesses for over 18 years. The fully licensed and insured company is prepared to handle various materials and give you the tools you need to complete a DIY or demolition project. Call (860) 642-7351 or check out the website to choose the service that’s right for you.