7 Facts about Plastics Recycling that May Surprise You

1. Recyclers want your plastic caps and lids

That’s right—plastic caps and lids typically are made with the same recyclable plastic as milk jugs (high-density polyethylene or HDPE). Thanks to advances in plastics recycling, you can simply put those plastic caps and lids back on their bottles and containers before you toss them in the recycling bin—they’ll be separated for recycling later.

2. You can find recyclable plastics in pretty much every part of your home

Like most people, you probably focus most of your recycling efforts on the kitchen. But those plastic containers for detergent, bleach, toiletries, and gardening products typically are made with the same plastics as food packaging—and they’re just as easy to toss in your curbside bin. NOTE: Check with your local recycling program to find out exactly what plastics are accepted at curbside; or enter your zip code at iwanttoberecycled.org.

Read more: 7 Facts about Plastics Recycling that May Surprise You