From the food we bring home to the garbage bins we dispose of them in, plastics are a part of our daily lives. While we can’t eliminate their use completely, we can prioritize their recycling to benefit the planet. If you’re wondering what plastics are around your house, and whether or not they can be recycled, take a look at the following guide.

4 Common Plastic Types & If They're Recyclable

1. PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate)

This plastic is also found in drink packaging, such as for sodas, as it's capable of containing carbonation. PET plastic is accepted by most recycling centers, but it needs to be carefully treated to remove a carcinogen (cancer-causing matter) called antimony trioxide.

2. HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene)

This safe plastic is commonly recycled as laundry detergent containers, yogurt tubs, and milk jugs. High-density polyethylene is a safe plastic that can be easily recycled into building supplies, plastic furniture, and more bottles.

3. V or PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)

You’re probably most familiar with PVC plumbing pipes, but this material can also be found in other building supplies like windows, as well as plastic wrap. Unfortunately, this material is one of the most toxic plastics, and is thought to cause everything from cancer to developmental issues. When recycled, it’s restricted to specific uses, such as outdoor gutters.

4. LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene)

Whenever you carry your groceries home from the store, you're carrying them in a bag of LDPE. This light plastic is considered safe, which is why it's often used in food service items like plastic wrap and TV dinner containers. This plastic is difficult to recycle, but it may be used to make bubble wrap, garbage bins, and building supplies.

With so many other plastics on the market, you might still have questions about how to handle your goods. Luckily, Sterling Superior Services in New London County, CT, is here to answer them. This trash removal company has a separate recycling center, Superior Recycling, which sorts and recycles plastics. To learn more about their dumpster rentals and trash pick-up services, visit the website. You can also call (860) 642-7351 to speak with a staff member.