And the difference in wages between male and female cops
Like most consumers, you're probably super willing to recycle. But the problem is that there are some things that you likely think are recyclable, but actually aren’t. For example, common mistakes include putting tissue boxes in the recycling bin without first removing the plastic insert, or trying to recycle an old, greasy pizza box. The issue is that these items will contaminate the rest of the recyclables, resulting in a lot of stuff being thrown away at the recycling plant!
So to avoid any further damage, click on to discover the surprising things you think are recyclable but actually aren’t.
Most lids and caps on water bottles, soda bottles, and detergent bottles are made from polypropylene, which can't be recycled.
Plastic utensils and straws are some of the worst products you can buy. Made from polystyrene, a type of plastic, you can't recycle them. Plus, they can also hurt wildlife when discarded in the trash.
These aren't accepted for recycling because the lightweight material can tangle, clog, and potentially damage the machinery used in recycling centers. So when you go shopping, stick to your reusable tote bag.
Receipts are made from thermal paper, which contains bisphenol A, an industrial chemical that has been used to make certain plastics. It’s better to just ask for no receipt, or look for an electronic receipt where possible.
Although aerosol cans are made of metal, the pressurized contents could damage recycling machinery. For this reason, these items should be thrown out with the regular trash.
Do you buy juice and milk in cartons? This convenient packaging shouldn't be recycled, because the wax fibers on the coating won't break down properly. Other products with wax coatings, such as waxed paper, silicone baking paper, and most frozen food boxes should also be tossed in the trash.
The kind of plastic that bubble wrap is made from can't be recycled. This is because the thin film can tangle in recycling machines.
Tissue boxes are made out of cardboard, so they can be recycled alongside larger cardboard packages. But don't forget to remove the plastic insert!
If the box is too greasy or contaminated with food waste, such as cheese stuck to the lid, then it can’t be recycled. That’s because the grease and food particles might damage the recycling equipment or contaminate other materials in the bin.
Specialized paper is any paper that has a metallic, glittery, or velvet feel to it. These include wrapping paper, gift bags, or greeting cards. Save them for some cool art projects instead!
Because books are made of paper, many people assume they're fully recyclable. But the sturdy covers of hardcover books contain non-paper components, which must be removed if recycled.
Most recycling centers don't have the capability to recycle wire. However, most dry cleaners and thrift stores will gladly take them off your hands.
Used paper towels and paper napkins can't be recycled because they typically hold too much residue. Food particles and other substances on them will contaminate the recycling process.
Soft plastic packaging is usually found on bagged salads, snack wrappers, and candy wrappers. As they're not recyclable, it's better to just toss them in the trash.
Styrofoam and polystyrene containers, such as certain egg cartons, fast food takeout boxes, and coffee cups, aren't recyclable. And worse, they don't biodegrade in landfills.
Plastic toys are made of a variety of plastics, so recycling them is a no-no. Instead, consider handing them over to thrift stores, shelters, and daycare centers.
While all parts of the power cord are recyclable, it will be difficult to separate those parts. You can, however, find somewhere that recycles electronics and cords.
Packing peanuts are made of expanded polystyrene and therefore can't be recycled. Rather than throwing them away, consider reusing them.
Ceramic and oven-safe dishes are designed to withstand high heat, so they have a higher melting point than conventional glass. For this reason, most recycling centers won't accept them.
While almost all glass jars and containers are recyclable, not all glass is created equal. The coating used to make these reflective isn't recyclable.
Most plastic shower curtains and liners are constructed with polyvinyl chloride (PVC), which contains chemicals that can't be broken down and recycled.
Needles, plastic syringes, and prescription containers are classified as biohazards and therefore can’t be recycled. Contact your pharmacy or local hospital to learn how to dispose of them.
Check the label before disposing of cleaning products. Water-soluble formulas can be mixed with water and poured down the drain. Scrubbing pads, sponges, and disposable dusters can be thrown out. And anything containing bleach or ammonia should be flushed down the toilet, but in small quantities, of course.
You can’t recycle wood treated with any kind of finish. This is because the chemicals used in these products can contaminate water supplies. If you need to dispose of treated wood, call your city’s waste management team first.
Single-use batteries, car batteries, and rechargeable batteries can be recycled at many locations, but not in your curbside bin.
For your unwanted electronics, head to your city's collection point or elsewhere where they accept e-waste.
Mattresses clog up landfills, so throwing them away should be a last resort. And because curbside services typically won't pick up an old mattress, contact your local waste disposal services to help you out.
These are another big recycling no-no. Your best bet is going to a pharmacy to safely dispose of prescription and over-the-counter drugs.
See also: This is how long it takes for common items to decompose
Things you thought you could recycle, but actually can't
Are you guilty of chucking these things in the recycling?
LIFESTYLE Recycling
Like most consumers, you're probably super willing to recycle. But the problem is that there are some things that you likely think are recyclable, but actually aren’t. For example, common mistakes include putting tissue boxes in the recycling bin without first removing the plastic insert, or trying to recycle an old, greasy pizza box. The issue is that these items will contaminate the rest of the recyclables, resulting in a lot of stuff being thrown away at the recycling plant!
So to avoid any further damage, click on to discover the surprising things you think are recyclable but actually aren’t.