Recycling Myths: What’s True and What’s Not?
Recycling sounds simple—toss your cans and cardboard into the right bin and feel good about doing your part. But with so much confusing information out there, it’s easy to get things wrong. From pizza boxes to plastic bags, we’re here to clear the air. Let’s break down some of the most common recycling myths so you can feel confident about what goes where.
Myth #1: If It Has a Recycling Symbol, It’s Recyclable
Not always. That little triangle with arrows doesn’t guarantee an item is accepted in your local recycling program. Many items — like certain plastics, takeout containers, or plastic utensils — may have the symbol but still aren’t recyclable curbside. When in doubt, check your local guidelines or keep it out of the bin.
Myth #2: You Have to Wash Everything Perfectly
Good news: a quick rinse is enough. You don’t need to scrub every jar or can spotless. Just remove leftover food or liquids to avoid contamination. A peanut butter jar doesn’t need to be squeaky clean, but make sure there’s no big glob of peanut butter left inside.
Myth #3: All Glass Is Created Equal
While glass bottles and jars are usually recyclable, items like drinking glasses, mirrors, and window panes are not. These are made from treated glass that doesn’t melt the same way and can mess up the recycling process. Stick to food and beverage containers when recycling glass.
Myth #4: Pizza Boxes Are Always Trash
Here’s the deal: if the top of the box is clean, rip it off and recycle it. The greasy bottom? That part goes in the trash. Some cities accept the whole box, grease and all, but to play it safe, recycle only the clean parts. A few paper napkins left behind? Trash those too.
Myth #5: Plastic Bags Are Fine in the Recycling Bin
Nope! Plastic bags tangle up sorting machines and cause major headaches at recycling facilities. They don’t belong in your curbside bin. If you want to recycle them, drop them off at designated bins usually found at grocery stores. Better yet, reuse them when you can.
Myth #6: If You’re Not Sure, Toss It In Anyway
This one’s a big problem. Wishful recycling — throwing something in the bin just in case — can do more harm than good. Items that don’t belong contaminate the entire batch and can cause loads to be rejected. When in doubt, it’s better to leave it out.
Making Recycling Easier at Home
At V’s Waste Services, we make recycling simple. With bi-weekly pickups and a dedicated cart provided, it’s easy to develop good habits. Start by designating a space inside your home just for recyclables, and make sure everyone in the household knows what goes in and what stays out.
A Small Effort with a Big Impact
Recycling isn’t about perfection — it’s about being mindful. The more you know, the better choices you can make. And every correct item in the bin counts. From reducing landfill waste to keeping neighborhoods cleaner, your efforts matter.
Want to know more about how our recycling service works or need help figuring out what can be recycled? Reach out to us at (616) 229-1098 or [email protected] — we’re here to help you keep it clean and green.