Recycling is a necessity to protect the planet, and you should find out what you can and can’t recycle. All recyclables need to be organized before they’re taken to a facility. Sorting paper, plastic, and other materials is a critical and often ignored part of the process. This guide explains everything you need to know about sorting recyclables.

The Complete Guide to Proper Recycling

Why Is It Important to Sort Recyclables?

Separating your recyclables at home keeps sorting at the processing facility quick, safe, and low-cost. Some materials can’t be recycled or are too dangerous to transport and process. Pressurized containers, like aerosol cans, can explode in trucks and machinery, creating a safety hazard for employees and slowing down operations.

Contaminants can also ruin the recyclability of an item. For instance, the grease in a used pizza box can’t be separated from the cardboard, rendering the material unfit for recycling. If too many contaminants or non-recyclable items are mixed with a collection, everything will likely be dumped in a landfill.

How Should I Sort Them?

Gather all the recyclables in one place, and use separate containers for glass, paper, metal, and plastic to make the process easier. Here’s how to sort each group:

• Plastics: Find the recycling icon on your item—it should have a 1 or 2 in the middle of the triangle. Separate the 1s and 2s as they’re different types of plastics. Throw away the caps and rinse the containers thoroughly.

• Glass: Clear, brown, and green bottles and jars can be recycled. Leave the labels, but clean the receptacle thoroughly and remove the lid. Mirrors, light bulbs, and ceramics shouldn’t be recycled with this category.

• Paper & Cardboard: Anything printed on shiny paper should be sorted together, and newspapers need to be put into their own stack. Break down and flatten boxes, and keep corrugated cardboard dry. Group office paper, like printer paper, note cards, and envelopes into one pile.

• Metals: Aluminum cans and foil can be recycled, but make sure they’re clean and remove all labels from the cans. Separate the cans into their own category.

If you need reliable waste management and recycling assistance, contact the team at Rainbow Waste Services. Serving residential, commercial, and industrial clients across Oahu, HI,  this garbage collection company is dedicated to the efficient removal and proper handling of waste. Their helpful staff will work with you to create an affordable pickup schedule that meets your needs. Call (808) 682-4797 to arrange a pickup, or learn more about their recycling services online.