Decoding the Numbers on Plastics: What They Really Mean for Recycling
Have you ever flipped over a plastic container and seen a number inside the little triangle? It looks like a recycling symbol, but unfortunately (and confusingly) that number doesn’t mean the item is recyclable. It’s actually a resin identification code that tells you what kind of plastic the item is made from - and not all plastics are created equal when it comes to recycling. Lame, I know.
Let’s break it down (no need to remember the complicated names, just try to note the #’s!):
#1 – PET or PETE (Polyethylene Terephthalate)
✅ Curbside recyclable in most programs
Common examples: Water bottles, soda bottles, salad dressing containers
PET is lightweight and often recycled into fibers for clothing, carpeting, or new containers.
#2 – HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene)
✅ Curbside recyclable
Common examples: Milk jugs, detergent bottles, shampoo containers
This sturdy plastic is widely accepted and often turned into things like piping, plastic lumber, or new bottles.
#3 – PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)
❌ Not accepted in curbside recycling
Common examples: Plastic pipes, shrink wrap, some clear food containers
PVC contains harmful additives and is difficult to recycle — best to avoid this one when possible.
#4 – LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene)
➖ Sometimes accepted — check local guidelines
Common examples: Bread bags, grocery bags, squeezable bottles, Saran wrap
Often excluded from curbside recycling, but many grocery stores offer drop-off bins for clean plastic bags and film. Or better yet, join Ridwell if offered in your area - their transparency is amazing! Most of their plastic film goes to Trex to be turned into decking material!
#5 – PP (Polypropylene)
➖ Increasingly accepted — check with your recycler
Common examples: Yogurt cups, butter tubs, takeout containers, straws
PP is gaining ground in recycling programs and can be turned into items like storage bins, brooms, or car parts.
#6 – PS (Polystyrene)
❌ Not accepted in curbside recycling
Common examples: Foam takeout containers, disposable cutlery, packing peanuts
Polystyrene (aka Styrofoam) breaks apart easily and is rarely recyclable — it’s best to avoid when possible. Another tricky one that Ridwell accepts! Some city recycling centers also will take Styrofoam.
#7 – Other (Mixed or layered plastics)
❌ Not accepted in curbside recycling
Common examples: Baby bottles, snack bags, coffee pods, biodegradable plastics
This category is a catch-all for everything that doesn’t fit into the first six. Most of these plastics are not recyclable. Some of these items are multi-layered plastics which Ridwell accepts as well. Think food storage bags, pet food bags, frozen food bags, and more layered packaging.
So what can you do?
✅ Check with your local recycling program. Every city is a little different.
✅ When in doubt, throw it out — contamination can ruin whole batches of recycling. #wishcycling
✅ Always rinse before tossing it in the bin!
✅ DON’T bag your recyclables - toss them loose in the bin! Bags jam sorting machinery and tend to get thrown out if staff can’t see what’s inside. Bummer!
✅ Reduce where you can by opting for reusable, refillable, or package-free options when available.
Bottom line: Just because it has a triangle with a number doesn’t mean it belongs in your blue bin. By understanding what these codes mean, you can recycle smarter — and help reduce contamination in the recycling stream.
With less waste and lots of love,
Ali