As the popular saying goes, “reduce, reuse, recycle!”.
Although most of us have known that saying as long as we’ve known how to tie our shoes, the importance of recycling seems to be considered a choice instead of a way of life.
A big factor that can be easily overlooked is not knowing what exactly should or should not be recycled.
Now it’s time to play our part to help restore a healthy Earth and start by finding out what household items are recyclable.
Household Items You Should Be Recycling:
Of course, it’s always easier to just toss anything we no longer want into the trash.
However, every time we throw away even something small that should be recycled it becomes another piece tossed into a crowded landfill. The real issue is that you might not even realize when recyclables aren’t being properly disposed of.
For example, some of the most common household items that should be recycled are:
- Aerosol cans (must be empty!)
- Books
- Batteries
- Cans (beverage and food)
- Cardboard
- Coffee pods
- Glass and Plastic bottles
- Ink cartridges
One thing that is very important when it comes to recycling is to always make sure any recyclable containers, like food cans and glass bottles, are completely empty of their contents before being put into the recycling bin.
That means giving that empty can of corn a good rinse before it’s okay to recycle!
Recyclable Items that Should Not Go in Curbside Recycling:
In truth, there are some rules to recycling that make knowing the process even more important.
Although some items are recyclable that doesn’t mean they can be put into a curbside recycling bin but should be brought to a local junk yard to be properly recycled instead.
Not to mention, there’s a good chance that the scrap yard will even pay for your ferrous metals, non-ferrous metals, and electronic waste recycling.
Some recyclable items that should be taken to your local scrap yard include:
- Bed frames
- Bicycles
- Car parts
- Exercise equipment
- Household appliances
- Pots and pans
Sure, it might not be the most convenient use of time to have to make a trip to a scrap yard to get rid of recyclables, but the chance to get some quick money for doing the right thing is a great incentive.
Alternative Ways to Recycle:
When it comes to recyclable household items, going into a curbside bin or to the scrap yard isn’t your only choice. Two other options for some household recyclables are:
- Donate if in good condition
- Upcycle to reuse as something new
For donating recyclables, this pertains to anything that is in good condition that could be used by someone else in need. Some recyclable household items to consider donating are pans, pots, and small appliances like microwaves. For upcycling recyclables, the opportunities are endless!
Upcycle empty glass bottles into planters or turn an old washing machine drum into an outdoor firepit.
The main goal is to become familiar with recyclables and always dispose of items properly!
