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Most lids -

Most lids and caps on water bottles, soda bottles, and detergent bottles are made from polypropylene, which can't be recycled.

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Plastic straws and utensils -

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.

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Plastic bags -

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.

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Shopping receipts -

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.

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Aerosol cans -

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.

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Waxed paper and cartons -

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.

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Bubble wrap -

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.

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Tissue boxes -

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!

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Greasy takeaway pizza boxes -

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.

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Specialized paper -

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!

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Hardcover books -

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.

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Wire hangers -

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.

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Used paper towels and paper napkins -

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.

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Soft plastic packaging -

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.

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Styrofoam and polystyrene containers -

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.

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Plastic toys -

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.

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Cords -

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.

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Packing peanuts -

Packing peanuts are made of expanded polystyrene and therefore can't be recycled. Rather than throwing them away, consider reusing them.

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Ceramic or oven-safe serving pieces -

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.

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Windows and mirrors -

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. 

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Plastic shower curtains and liners -

Most plastic shower curtains and liners are constructed with polyvinyl chloride (PVC), which contains chemicals that can't be broken down and recycled.

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Medical waste -

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.

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Cleaning products -

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.

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Treated wood -

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.

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Batteries -

Single-use batteries, car batteries, and rechargeable batteries can be recycled at many locations, but not in your curbside bin.

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Old TVs and electronics -

For your unwanted electronics, head to your city's collection point or elsewhere where they accept e-waste.

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Mattresses -

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.

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Expired and unused medicines -

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

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