Almost Zero Waste
  • Home
  • Articles
    • Zero Waste For Beginners
      • Pros And Cons Of Safety Razors (2022)
      • 6 Best Menstrual Cup For Beginners (2022)
      • Best Menstrual Cup For Heavy Flow (List)
      • How Do I Know If My Menstrual Cup Is In Right
      • How To Remove Menstrual Cup Without Mess
      • I Can Feel My Menstrual Cup: Causes & Prevention
      • 22 Surprising Things That Contain Plastic (+Plastic-Free Alternatives)
      • 26 Environmental Documentaries On Netflix (And Beyond)
      • 90 Zero Waste Tips For Beginners (Impactful & Easy Habits)
      • 11 Ways To Reduce The Use Of Plastic (+Infographic)
      • How To Start A Zero Waste Life? Top 16 essentials
      • 5 Rs Of Zero Waste: Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Rot
    • Zero Waste Products
      • 21 Best Eco-Friendly Shampoo And Conditioner Bars (Plastic-Free Alternatives)
      • The Most Sustainable Protein Bars: numove (Review)
      • 13 Zero Waste Protein Powder Products
      • 18 Sustainable Snacks With Compostable Packaging
      • 21 Zero Waste Bathroom Swaps & Essentials (And Where To Find Them!)
      • Soyabella vs Almond Cow: Plant-Milk Machines For Nut Milk (Review)
      • Kipli Natural Latex Pillow (Review)
      • 32 Zero Waste Kitchen Products And Essentials
      • 15 Best Zero Waste Deodorant Brands That Work
      • 19 Zero Waste Vitamins & Plastic-Free Supplements (2022)
      • 6 Eco-Friendly Alternatives To Ziploc Bags
      • Toilet Paper Without Plastic Packaging: 19 Plastic-Free Options
      • 17 Best Zero Waste Books In 2022 (2 for FREE)
      • 9 Of The Healthiest Water Bottles In 2022
      • The 8 BEST Compost Bins For An Apartment
      • 10 Low Waste Products to Lower 70% of Your Waste
      • 142 Zero Waste Swaps And Essential Products
      • 46 Zero Waste Online Stores (The Ultimate List)
    • Zero Waste Tips
      • 28 Zero Waste Party Tips (Simple & Affordable)
      • 18 Awesome Apps To Reduce Food Waste, Save Money & The Planet
      • 11 Things I Still Buy In Plastic
      • 7 Easy Ways To Prevent Ocean Plastic Pollution
      • 8 Waste Disposal Problems And 8 Fantastic Solutions
      • 6 Zero Waste Alternatives to Trash Bags
      • 6 Ways To Reduce The Use Of Plastic Bags
      • How To Be Zero Waste When Living With Parents (Or Roommates)?
      • 9 Disadvantages Of Zero Waste (+Solutions)
      • How Can We Encourage People To Produce Less Waste?
      • 6 Easy Ways To Freeze Bread Without Plastic
      • 16 Surprising Benefits Of Going Zero Waste
      • Why Is Palm Oil Bad For The Environment?
    • Zero Waste FAQ’s
      • Are shampoo bars good for your hair?
      • Is Zero Waste REALLY Possible?
      • How Zero Waste Helps The Environment
      • Types Of Biodegradable Plastics
      • What Is Biodegradable Plastic Made Of?
      • Is Silicone Better Than Plastic?
      • Is Silicone Biodegradable Or Recyclable?
      • Can You Compost Pizza Boxes?
      • 4 Dangers Of Reusing Plastic Water Bottles
      • Why Should We Reduce The Use Of Plastic
      • Does Zero Waste Make a Difference?
    • Recycling Tips
      • 24 Things To Do With Plastic Containers (Repurposing Ideas)
      • How To Recycle Paper – The ultimate guide
      • 11 Types Of Paper That Cannot Be Recycled
      • How To Recycle Metal: Step-by-step process
      • Where To Recycle Old Clothes: 20 Textile Recycling Drop Off Locations
      • Can You Recycle Receipts
      • Things That Cannot Be Recycled
    • Zero Waste Guides
      • 7 Zero Waste Shampoo Alternatives
      • 15 Ways To Be More Sustainable In Everyday Life
      • 23 Best Places To Sell Used Clothes For Cash
      • 41 Best Consumable Gifts For Every Budget
      • 58 Zero Waste Gifts That Help The Environment
      • How To Organize A Clothing Swap (Guide + Tips)
      • How To Store Vegetables & Fruits Without Plastic (2022)
      • Greenwashing 101: All You Need To Know (2021)
      • Zero Waste Shaving With Eco-Friendly Razors
      • How To Save Money By Going Zero Waste ($5,337 A Year)
      • 10 Things That Pollute The Earth + Swaps
      • Apartment Composting: 7 Step-by-step guides
    • Ethical Fashion
      • 39 Best Online Thrift Stores
      • 26 Cheap Sustainable Clothing Brands
      • 15 Zero Waste Clothing Brands: Sustainable Fashion
      • What Are The Disadvantages Of Fast Fashion?
      • 29 Unethical Fast Fashion Clothing Brands To Avoid
    • Why Vegan
      • Are There Ethical Arguments for Eating Meat?
      • How To Become Vegan Slowly: A step-by-step beginner’s guide
      • 8 Environmental Benefits Of Reducing Meat Consumption
      • How Are Pigs Killed: The Brutality Of Animal Agriculture
    • Minimalism
      • Project 333: Rules & Template
      • 68 Things To Get Rid Of (Minimalism)
      • How To Become A Minimalist In 30 Days
      • 55 Things I Stopped Buying To Save Money And Waste
      • How To Be Ruthless When Decluttering Clothes: 9 Steps
      • 41 Non-Materialistic Gifts For Any Budget
  • DIY
    • 3-Ingredient Homemade Deodorant Without Coconut Oil
    • Non-Greasy Lotion Bar Recipe (Vegan & Without Beeswax)
    • The BEST Non-Greasy Whipped Body Butter Recipe For Dry Skin
    • DIY Coffee Scrub (Without Coconut Oil)
    • 7 DIY Beauty Products You Can Make At Home
    • How To Make Air Freshener with Essential Oils And Baking Soda
    • Remineralizing Tooth Powder Recipe
    • How to Make Aloe Vera Mouthwash
    • How To Make Dry Shampoo At Home: 3 Ways
    • DIY Deodorant For Smelly Armpits (4 Recipes)
    • 3 DIY Zero Waste Toothpaste Recipes
    • 36 Creative Ideas To Use Glass Jars (with pictures)
  • Zero Waste Recipes
    • Healthy Protein Sweets
      • Healthy Vegan Twix Bars (High-Protein Recipe)
      • Chickpea Cookie Dough Protein Bars (No Bake)
      • Vegan Protein Bounty Bars
      • Orange Chocolate Pea Protein Bars (Recipe)
      • Homemade Protein Bars (Low Calorie, Vegan, No Bake)
      • Healthy Vegan Fudge (5 Ingredients, No-Bake, Low Calorie)
      • Healthy Vegan Pumpkin Protein Muffins
      • Vanilla Protein Powder Muffins (Vegan)
      • Hemp Protein Powder Energy Balls (Vegan)
    • Sweet Snacks
      • Chocolate Chip Cookies In A Jar With Printable Tags (Recipe)
      • Ridiculously Healthy Banana Oatmeal Cookies
      • Cashew Pulp Cookies (Vegan, 4 Ingredients)
      • Old Fashioned Fig Bars Recipe (Vegan)
    • No Bake & Raw Sweets
      • No-Bake Double Chocolate Walnuts Bars
      • 4-Ingredient Date And Peanut Butter Energy Balls
      • Caramel Fudge Without Condensed Milk (Vegan)
      • Peanut Flour Energy Balls Recipe
    • Brownies & Cakes
      • Healthy Marbled Banana Bread (Vegan)
      • Flourless Healthy Pumpkin Brownies (Fudgy & Vegan)
      • Sweet Potato Protein Brownies (Vegan, Gf)
      • Healthy White Bean Blueberry Blondies (Vegan)
      • Fudgy Almond Butter Brownies (Vegan)
      • Vegan Pumpkin Protein Brownies
    • Cheesecake, Tart & Pies
      • Easy Chocolate Orange Tart (Vegan & No Bake)
      • Raw Lemon Cheesecake (Vegan, 9 Ingredients)
      • Easy Vegan Birthday Cake Recipe (No Bake)
      • Peanut Butter Pie From Scratch (Vegan, No Bake)
    • Salty Snacks & Food
      • Vegan Potato Stew (Grandma’s Recipe)
      • Avocado Spread Recipe (Raw, Vegan)
    • What I Eat In A Day (Zero Waste Vegan Recipes)
    • Nut Milk Maker: 3 Easy Ways To Make Plant-Based Milk
  • Zero Waste Swaps
  • About
  • Contact
No Result
View All Result
Almost Zero Waste
  • Home
  • Articles
    • Zero Waste For Beginners
      • Pros And Cons Of Safety Razors (2022)
      • 6 Best Menstrual Cup For Beginners (2022)
      • Best Menstrual Cup For Heavy Flow (List)
      • How Do I Know If My Menstrual Cup Is In Right
      • How To Remove Menstrual Cup Without Mess
      • I Can Feel My Menstrual Cup: Causes & Prevention
      • 22 Surprising Things That Contain Plastic (+Plastic-Free Alternatives)
      • 26 Environmental Documentaries On Netflix (And Beyond)
      • 90 Zero Waste Tips For Beginners (Impactful & Easy Habits)
      • 11 Ways To Reduce The Use Of Plastic (+Infographic)
      • How To Start A Zero Waste Life? Top 16 essentials
      • 5 Rs Of Zero Waste: Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Rot
    • Zero Waste Products
      • 21 Best Eco-Friendly Shampoo And Conditioner Bars (Plastic-Free Alternatives)
      • The Most Sustainable Protein Bars: numove (Review)
      • 13 Zero Waste Protein Powder Products
      • 18 Sustainable Snacks With Compostable Packaging
      • 21 Zero Waste Bathroom Swaps & Essentials (And Where To Find Them!)
      • Soyabella vs Almond Cow: Plant-Milk Machines For Nut Milk (Review)
      • Kipli Natural Latex Pillow (Review)
      • 32 Zero Waste Kitchen Products And Essentials
      • 15 Best Zero Waste Deodorant Brands That Work
      • 19 Zero Waste Vitamins & Plastic-Free Supplements (2022)
      • 6 Eco-Friendly Alternatives To Ziploc Bags
      • Toilet Paper Without Plastic Packaging: 19 Plastic-Free Options
      • 17 Best Zero Waste Books In 2022 (2 for FREE)
      • 9 Of The Healthiest Water Bottles In 2022
      • The 8 BEST Compost Bins For An Apartment
      • 10 Low Waste Products to Lower 70% of Your Waste
      • 142 Zero Waste Swaps And Essential Products
      • 46 Zero Waste Online Stores (The Ultimate List)
    • Zero Waste Tips
      • 28 Zero Waste Party Tips (Simple & Affordable)
      • 18 Awesome Apps To Reduce Food Waste, Save Money & The Planet
      • 11 Things I Still Buy In Plastic
      • 7 Easy Ways To Prevent Ocean Plastic Pollution
      • 8 Waste Disposal Problems And 8 Fantastic Solutions
      • 6 Zero Waste Alternatives to Trash Bags
      • 6 Ways To Reduce The Use Of Plastic Bags
      • How To Be Zero Waste When Living With Parents (Or Roommates)?
      • 9 Disadvantages Of Zero Waste (+Solutions)
      • How Can We Encourage People To Produce Less Waste?
      • 6 Easy Ways To Freeze Bread Without Plastic
      • 16 Surprising Benefits Of Going Zero Waste
      • Why Is Palm Oil Bad For The Environment?
    • Zero Waste FAQ’s
      • Are shampoo bars good for your hair?
      • Is Zero Waste REALLY Possible?
      • How Zero Waste Helps The Environment
      • Types Of Biodegradable Plastics
      • What Is Biodegradable Plastic Made Of?
      • Is Silicone Better Than Plastic?
      • Is Silicone Biodegradable Or Recyclable?
      • Can You Compost Pizza Boxes?
      • 4 Dangers Of Reusing Plastic Water Bottles
      • Why Should We Reduce The Use Of Plastic
      • Does Zero Waste Make a Difference?
    • Recycling Tips
      • 24 Things To Do With Plastic Containers (Repurposing Ideas)
      • How To Recycle Paper – The ultimate guide
      • 11 Types Of Paper That Cannot Be Recycled
      • How To Recycle Metal: Step-by-step process
      • Where To Recycle Old Clothes: 20 Textile Recycling Drop Off Locations
      • Can You Recycle Receipts
      • Things That Cannot Be Recycled
    • Zero Waste Guides
      • 7 Zero Waste Shampoo Alternatives
      • 15 Ways To Be More Sustainable In Everyday Life
      • 23 Best Places To Sell Used Clothes For Cash
      • 41 Best Consumable Gifts For Every Budget
      • 58 Zero Waste Gifts That Help The Environment
      • How To Organize A Clothing Swap (Guide + Tips)
      • How To Store Vegetables & Fruits Without Plastic (2022)
      • Greenwashing 101: All You Need To Know (2021)
      • Zero Waste Shaving With Eco-Friendly Razors
      • How To Save Money By Going Zero Waste ($5,337 A Year)
      • 10 Things That Pollute The Earth + Swaps
      • Apartment Composting: 7 Step-by-step guides
    • Ethical Fashion
      • 39 Best Online Thrift Stores
      • 26 Cheap Sustainable Clothing Brands
      • 15 Zero Waste Clothing Brands: Sustainable Fashion
      • What Are The Disadvantages Of Fast Fashion?
      • 29 Unethical Fast Fashion Clothing Brands To Avoid
    • Why Vegan
      • Are There Ethical Arguments for Eating Meat?
      • How To Become Vegan Slowly: A step-by-step beginner’s guide
      • 8 Environmental Benefits Of Reducing Meat Consumption
      • How Are Pigs Killed: The Brutality Of Animal Agriculture
    • Minimalism
      • Project 333: Rules & Template
      • 68 Things To Get Rid Of (Minimalism)
      • How To Become A Minimalist In 30 Days
      • 55 Things I Stopped Buying To Save Money And Waste
      • How To Be Ruthless When Decluttering Clothes: 9 Steps
      • 41 Non-Materialistic Gifts For Any Budget
  • DIY
    • 3-Ingredient Homemade Deodorant Without Coconut Oil
    • Non-Greasy Lotion Bar Recipe (Vegan & Without Beeswax)
    • The BEST Non-Greasy Whipped Body Butter Recipe For Dry Skin
    • DIY Coffee Scrub (Without Coconut Oil)
    • 7 DIY Beauty Products You Can Make At Home
    • How To Make Air Freshener with Essential Oils And Baking Soda
    • Remineralizing Tooth Powder Recipe
    • How to Make Aloe Vera Mouthwash
    • How To Make Dry Shampoo At Home: 3 Ways
    • DIY Deodorant For Smelly Armpits (4 Recipes)
    • 3 DIY Zero Waste Toothpaste Recipes
    • 36 Creative Ideas To Use Glass Jars (with pictures)
  • Zero Waste Recipes
    • Healthy Protein Sweets
      • Healthy Vegan Twix Bars (High-Protein Recipe)
      • Chickpea Cookie Dough Protein Bars (No Bake)
      • Vegan Protein Bounty Bars
      • Orange Chocolate Pea Protein Bars (Recipe)
      • Homemade Protein Bars (Low Calorie, Vegan, No Bake)
      • Healthy Vegan Fudge (5 Ingredients, No-Bake, Low Calorie)
      • Healthy Vegan Pumpkin Protein Muffins
      • Vanilla Protein Powder Muffins (Vegan)
      • Hemp Protein Powder Energy Balls (Vegan)
    • Sweet Snacks
      • Chocolate Chip Cookies In A Jar With Printable Tags (Recipe)
      • Ridiculously Healthy Banana Oatmeal Cookies
      • Cashew Pulp Cookies (Vegan, 4 Ingredients)
      • Old Fashioned Fig Bars Recipe (Vegan)
    • No Bake & Raw Sweets
      • No-Bake Double Chocolate Walnuts Bars
      • 4-Ingredient Date And Peanut Butter Energy Balls
      • Caramel Fudge Without Condensed Milk (Vegan)
      • Peanut Flour Energy Balls Recipe
    • Brownies & Cakes
      • Healthy Marbled Banana Bread (Vegan)
      • Flourless Healthy Pumpkin Brownies (Fudgy & Vegan)
      • Sweet Potato Protein Brownies (Vegan, Gf)
      • Healthy White Bean Blueberry Blondies (Vegan)
      • Fudgy Almond Butter Brownies (Vegan)
      • Vegan Pumpkin Protein Brownies
    • Cheesecake, Tart & Pies
      • Easy Chocolate Orange Tart (Vegan & No Bake)
      • Raw Lemon Cheesecake (Vegan, 9 Ingredients)
      • Easy Vegan Birthday Cake Recipe (No Bake)
      • Peanut Butter Pie From Scratch (Vegan, No Bake)
    • Salty Snacks & Food
      • Vegan Potato Stew (Grandma’s Recipe)
      • Avocado Spread Recipe (Raw, Vegan)
    • What I Eat In A Day (Zero Waste Vegan Recipes)
    • Nut Milk Maker: 3 Easy Ways To Make Plant-Based Milk
  • Zero Waste Swaps
  • About
  • Contact
No Result
View All Result
Almost Zero Waste
No Result
View All Result

Things That Cannot Be Recycled

by Merilin Vrachovska
in Articles, Recycling Tips
0
Things That Cannot Be Recycled - Almost Zero Waste
44
SHARES
Share on PinterestShare on FacebookShare or Reddit

This post and the photos within it may contain affiliate links. If you purchase something through the link, I may receive a commission at no extra charge to you.


Are you wondering which are the things that cannot be recycled?

In this article, you can find a list of 28 items that you can’t recycle.

Under each item, you will find a short explanation of why they aren’t recyclable and an idea of what you can do with the thing.

I will separate them into four groups:

  • Paper things that cannot be recycled
  • Plastic things that cannot be recycled
  • Other things that cannot be recycled

Now, let’s begin!


Paper things that cannot be recycled:


1. Paper plates, towels, or napkins

Such paper products can’t be recycled because:

  • they are usually dirty with food, grease, or other liquids
  • Most tissue paper is made from recycled paper already, and it can’t be recycled again, as the paper’s fibers are too short, resulting in low-quality pulp in the recycling process

2. Pizza boxes

But wait, pizza boxes are made from paper, so what’s the problem?

In short, the paper is often spoiled with oil, sauce, and food from the pizza.

When recycling, the machines cannot extract the oils, and in paper recycling, the paper is mixed with water.

When that happens, contaminants like food grease or crumbs will ruin the whole batch. That’s why it is best to compost greasy pizza boxes.

Related post: Can you compost pizza boxes? 

3. Shredded paper 

Collecting shredding paper can be a massive pain unless you contain it in a box.

Furthermore, once the paper is shredded, the fibers become shorter and less useful in recycling.

So what happens is that if you put shredded paper in your recycling bin, it usually ends up in a landfill.

4. Wet paper  

The fibers of the paper are essential in recycling, as we figured already. When wet, the paper breaks down rapidly, and the fibers become shorter; this makes it harder to recycle.

Additionally, damp paper and cardboard can create a massive mess in recycling facilities, as they can stick to recycling machinery and clog it up. (think of coffee filters)

5. Waxed paper 

Wax paper is not recyclable because it is coated with wax, and it is considered “mixed paper.” 

6. Receipts 

Receipts are printed on thermal paper, which usually contains BPA, and it resists decomposition. That makes receipts not recyclable or compostable.

If receipts end up in recycling facilities, they can contaminate the whole batch of recycled paper or end up in products like toilet paper, paper napkins, paper food storage, shopping bags, etc.

Related post: Issues with recycling receipts

7. Stickers

You can’t recycle stickers because of the adhesive that is used in them.

The main issue is the effect that the adhesive can have on recycling machines –  it can get caught in the recycling process. 

8. Books

Books are mainly paper, which makes them a highly recyclable material. However, hardback books can be an exception due to binding methods.

A typical binding method uses glue, which is not recyclable, and because of that, many recycling centers will restrict taking in any hardcovers.

It’s best to check with your local recycling center and to see what is allowed.

Things That Cannot Be Recycled - Almost Zero Waste

Plastic things that cannot be recycled:


9. Bubble wrap 

Bubble wrap is often a type of plastic #4 (low-density polyethylene – LDPE film).

It should NOT be added to your recycling container because the #2 and #4 plastic films can tangle with other recyclables, and they can damage the recycling equipment.

You can recycle bubble wrap with your other plastic bags in collection bins at grocery stores or other special locations. 

 10. Plastic bags

Most plastic bags are made from high-density polyethylene (#2 plastic), and the thinner-material bags, like produce bags – from low-density polyethylene (#4 plastic).

The recycling collection system is widely available, mostly through collection drop-off bins at grocery stores or other locations.  

Related post: 11 Ways To Reduce The Use Of Plastic Bags

11. Clothing hangers

Most clothing hangers are made of recyclable plastic or metal, which is recyclable. However, the issue of their shape makes it likely that they’ll cause problems during the recycling process. They get tangled up on equipment at recycling facilities. 

12. Plastic straws and utensils

Most times, plastic straws contain plastic #5 (polypropylene), and single-use utensils – plastic #6 (polystyrene).

Theoretically, they are recyclable, but that excludes drinking straws and utensils because of:

  • Their size – as plastic is sorted for recycling, small items like utensils and straws fall through the cracks and end up being sent to the landfill. 
  • They are inconvenient to process and not cost-effective per unit.

13. Packing peanuts 

Packing peanuts are made of expanded plastic, which means air is injected into plastic #6 (polystyrene).

It is also known as styrofoam, which is 98% air. You can’t recycle packing peanuts because it doesn’t break down well at the recycling plant. Additionally, there are limited uses to make new products.

Styrofoam is very light, but it takes a lot of space, which means that shipping it to a recycler does not provide much return on investment, too.

Things That Cannot Be Recycled - Almost Zero Waste

14. Bottle caps, lids

Plastic caps are so confusing.
Plastic bottles are made from plastic #1 (PET), and plastic caps – plastic #5 (polypropylene).

Some will ask you to leave the caps on the bottle, others want you to separate the cap, and the bottle, and third don’t accept caps at all. It is best to call your local recycling program and ask. 

15. Styrofoam 

Styrofoam is made of polystyrene, and it is one of the most commonly known non-recyclable materials.

Though some parts of the country accept styrofoam, recyclers refuse styrofoam, as often contaminated with food, and breaks easily into tiny pieces.  

16. Bioplastics 

Bioplastics are a tricky material. You cannot recycle it, often because it is dirty with food, but even if it’s clean, that type of material needs to be composted.

While you can compost some in your home, others require industrial compost that offers specific conditions.

If bioplastics enter a conventional plastic stream, it can cause problems in the recycling process. 

Related post: Bioplastics: All you need to know 

Other things that cannot be recycled:


17. Medical waste 

Medical needles, plastic syringes, and prescription containers are classified as biohazards.

They can’t be recycled for safety reasons, so you should dispose of such items in a hazardous waste box.

You can find collecting places at a doctor’s office, pharmacy, hospitals, and sometimes collection boxes inside government buildings. 

For safety reasons, that type of waste can’t be recycled, so it is often burned in special incinerators.  

18. Diapers

Disposable diapers can’t be recycled, as they contain mixed materials – often paper, plastic, and absorbent material.

Furthermore, they are contaminated, so they should go to the trash and not in your recycling bin.

Even though some new technologies and machines that can recycle diapers, the process is still quite complex and not cost-effective. 

Things That Cannot Be Recycled - Almost Zero Waste

19. Hazardous chemical containers

This includes household cleaning containers and chemicals, like bleach, motor oil, antifreeze, and other liquid coolants.

Some spray cans also contain propellants and chemicals, so most municipal systems treat them as hazardous material, too.

You can identify dangerous many waste items by these symbols on the packaging.

You can recycle some empty chemical containers, but not all.

No matter if it can or cannot be recycled, it needs to be disposed of following local or institutional guidelines.

Usually, you should clean the containers three times with a compatible solvent. Then it is recommended to air dry the box.

20. Treated/Scrap wood

You can’t recycle wood in things like ice pop sticks or bigger wooden things treated with any kind of finishing.

The chemicals found in wood treatments make it unsafe to burn for heat or energy. 

Untreated wood may be recyclable, depending on your city. You can also look for a composting program that accepts wood items.]

21. Household glass

While almost all glass jars and containers are recyclable, not all glass is created equal.

Window panes, mirrors, dishes, coffee mugs, ceramics, pottery, plates, vases, and tableware are impractical to recycle. 

Some are treated with chemicals to make them more durable, and they are heat resistant.

That’s why that type of glass should not end up in the recycling bin, as it can ruin recyclable material during the melting process and make the regular glass unstable.

You should place that type of glass in your household garbage container for disposal.

Bottles and jars are recyclable and compact fluorescent lightbulbs (CFLs); however, the lightbulbs contain a small amount of mercury and shouldn’t be treated as standard household bulbs.

Homeowners should think twice before trying to recycle window glass, light bulbs, 

Mirrors are hard to recycle due to the coating used on the glass to make it reflective. 

Things That Cannot Be Recycled - Almost Zero Waste

22. Broken glass 

You can’t recycle broken glass as it’s dangerous for the people who collect, sort, and melt them.

If you want to get rid of glass materials, donate them if they are in good condition.

If not, dispose of them safely by wrapping the glass in newspaper/old paper, or use it for DIY projects. 

23. Mattresses 

Throwing away mattresses should be a last resort as the vast majority goes straight to the landfill.

First, look for nearby mattress recycling facilities, or when you buy a new one, ask the store if they collect old mattresses and pick them when they deliver the new one. 

If that’s not possible, consider reselling it or donating it (Goodwill, Habitat for Humanity, or in shelters), or repurposing it.

24. Aluminum laminates 

Laminated packaging usually refers to plastic/aluminum laminates used in various packaging of consumer goods such as food, drinks, pet foods, toothpaste, and cosmetic products.

Anything that combines aluminum and plastic is usually hard to recycle because it needs to be separated.

The net revenue from recycling laminated packaging currently appears to be lower than the cost of separation, so it is not financially viable as a stand-alone activity.

You cannot recycle laminated pouches in your local council’s kerbside recycling bin – disposed of them in your local council’s kerbside residual waste bin. 

25. Electronics

Often, electronics aren’t processed at standard recycling facilities, and in many states, it’s illegal to dispose of these electronics in a regular recycling bin.  

Electronic products contain toxic substances such as mercury, lead, and cadmium that must be disposed of carefully and safely. The best way to dispose of old electronics is to: 

  1. Donate it to people in need, especially if the device is still working – find great ideas on where to donate electronics.
  2. Take it to a designated recycler yourself or find a pick-up service. There are pick-up services that handle electronic recycling, so take a look if you have something locally. 
  3. Giving them back to the company you purchased from as many tech firms and electronic retailers offer recycling programs to make it easier for the consumer. 
Things That Cannot Be Recycled - Almost Zero Waste

26. Containers contaminated with food

If you want to recycle a container/bag with food before, make sure the item is clear from food residue.

If it’s contaminated with food, there is a big chance to spoil the whole recycling batch.

Give a quick rinse to remove food residue, and then throw it into the recycling bin.

27. Old clothing

Never throw old clothing in the trash or your recycling bin. It is best to collect old clothing, towels, and bedding and donate it to local thrift stores or shelters if they are in good condition. 

For the pieces that are in bad condition, find specific recycling containers in stores like Patagonia, Levi’s, the North Side, etc. Find more recycling spots here. 

Unfortunately, very few recycled clothing items are turned into new clothing.

This is mainly because sorting textiles are usually intensive, slow labor and the growing use of multiple fabrics in clothing also make it hard to do it mechanically.  

Related post: What Are The Disadvantages Of Fast Fashion

28. Plastic toys

Just like clothes, there are plenty of thrift stores and shelters that would love to have old toys in good condition. 

Broken and unusable toys can be incredibly challenging to dispose of sustainably. The problem is that many toys are made with mixed plastic materials.

Broken toys maybe recyclable by your local recycling program, but only if it accepts the plastic resins will the toys be made. 

Conclusion (+ Important tip)

Recycling is a business, and usually, what you can and cannot recycle greatly depends on where you live.

Some municipalities may offer different recycling facilities that recycle some of the things from this list. 

So, it is highly recommendable to check with your city recyclers and see their suggestions on how to dispose of things safely.

Unfortunately, the rules aren’t always clear, and they depend on your local recycling services. 

Additionally, even if something is recyclable, the rate of recycling contamination more than doubled in the last decade.

If there is a small amount of contamination, it can quickly turn an entire batch of otherwise recyclable materials into NON-recyclable trash. 

That’s why it is usually recommendable to:

  • Throw things in the trash when you aren’t sure you can recycle it.
  • To avoid single use items that are hard to recycle.
  • Focus on long-lasting, plastic-free, recyclable products made sustainably. 

Let me know in the comments if I missed something that cannot be recycled, if the rules in your city are different, and you can recycle things from this list!

Things That Cannot Be Recycled - Almost Zero Waste
Pin13Share14Share
Previous Post

55 Things I Stopped Buying To Save Money And Waste

Next Post

Caramel Fudge Without Condensed Milk (Vegan)

Merilin Vrachovska

Merilin Vrachovska

I'm Meri, and my goal is to share my experiences and knowledge on how anyone can live more sustainably. I share tips, guides, and different ways of becoming *almost* zero waste! You can find other topics, such as how to recycle different materials, how to make your own products, where to find fantastic zero waste goods, etc. For more information, check the About page!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

About me

Almost Zero Waste

Hi there! My name is Meri and I'm behind Almost Zero Waste - a platform, where you can find how to live sustainably, where to find plastic-free goods, eco-friendly guides, and much more. To learn more, check my "About" page!

Popular Articles

  • Why Should We Reduce The Use Of Plastic - Almost Zero Waste

    Why Should We Reduce The Use Of Plastic

    788 shares
    Share 236 Tweet 148
  • 9 Of The Healthiest Water Bottles In 2022

    603 shares
    Share 217 Tweet 136
  • 39 Thrift Shops For Second Hand Clothes Online

    2436 shares
    Share 214 Tweet 134
  • 142 Zero Waste Swaps And Essential Products

    8943 shares
    Share 186 Tweet 116
  • The BEST Non-Greasy Whipped Body Butter Recipe For Dry Skin

    341 shares
    Share 114 Tweet 72
  • Home
  • Zero Waste Swaps
  • Zero Waste Guides
  • Zero Waste Living Tips
  • DIY
  • Zero Waste FAQ’s
  • Zero Waste Recipes
  • About
  • Contact
  • Privacy Policy

© 2019 Almost Zero Waste is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.”

No Result
View All Result
  • Home
  • Articles
    • Zero Waste For Beginners
      • Pros And Cons Of Safety Razors (2022)
      • 6 Best Menstrual Cup For Beginners (2022)
      • Best Menstrual Cup For Heavy Flow (List)
      • How Do I Know If My Menstrual Cup Is In Right
      • How To Remove Menstrual Cup Without Mess
      • I Can Feel My Menstrual Cup: Causes & Prevention
      • 22 Surprising Things That Contain Plastic (+Plastic-Free Alternatives)
      • 26 Environmental Documentaries On Netflix (And Beyond)
      • 90 Zero Waste Tips For Beginners (Impactful & Easy Habits)
      • 11 Ways To Reduce The Use Of Plastic (+Infographic)
      • How To Start A Zero Waste Life? Top 16 essentials
      • 5 Rs Of Zero Waste: Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Rot
    • Zero Waste Products
      • 21 Best Eco-Friendly Shampoo And Conditioner Bars (Plastic-Free Alternatives)
      • The Most Sustainable Protein Bars: numove (Review)
      • 13 Zero Waste Protein Powder Products
      • 18 Sustainable Snacks With Compostable Packaging
      • 21 Zero Waste Bathroom Swaps & Essentials (And Where To Find Them!)
      • Soyabella vs Almond Cow: Plant-Milk Machines For Nut Milk (Review)
      • Kipli Natural Latex Pillow (Review)
      • 32 Zero Waste Kitchen Products And Essentials
      • 15 Best Zero Waste Deodorant Brands That Work
      • 19 Zero Waste Vitamins & Plastic-Free Supplements (2022)
      • 6 Eco-Friendly Alternatives To Ziploc Bags
      • Toilet Paper Without Plastic Packaging: 19 Plastic-Free Options
      • 17 Best Zero Waste Books In 2022 (2 for FREE)
      • 9 Of The Healthiest Water Bottles In 2022
      • The 8 BEST Compost Bins For An Apartment
      • 10 Low Waste Products to Lower 70% of Your Waste
      • 142 Zero Waste Swaps And Essential Products
      • 46 Zero Waste Online Stores (The Ultimate List)
    • Zero Waste Tips
      • 28 Zero Waste Party Tips (Simple & Affordable)
      • 18 Awesome Apps To Reduce Food Waste, Save Money & The Planet
      • 11 Things I Still Buy In Plastic
      • 7 Easy Ways To Prevent Ocean Plastic Pollution
      • 8 Waste Disposal Problems And 8 Fantastic Solutions
      • 6 Zero Waste Alternatives to Trash Bags
      • 6 Ways To Reduce The Use Of Plastic Bags
      • How To Be Zero Waste When Living With Parents (Or Roommates)?
      • 9 Disadvantages Of Zero Waste (+Solutions)
      • How Can We Encourage People To Produce Less Waste?
      • 6 Easy Ways To Freeze Bread Without Plastic
      • 16 Surprising Benefits Of Going Zero Waste
      • Why Is Palm Oil Bad For The Environment?
    • Zero Waste FAQ’s
      • Are shampoo bars good for your hair?
      • Is Zero Waste REALLY Possible?
      • How Zero Waste Helps The Environment
      • Types Of Biodegradable Plastics
      • What Is Biodegradable Plastic Made Of?
      • Is Silicone Better Than Plastic?
      • Is Silicone Biodegradable Or Recyclable?
      • Can You Compost Pizza Boxes?
      • 4 Dangers Of Reusing Plastic Water Bottles
      • Why Should We Reduce The Use Of Plastic
      • Does Zero Waste Make a Difference?
    • Recycling Tips
      • 24 Things To Do With Plastic Containers (Repurposing Ideas)
      • How To Recycle Paper – The ultimate guide
      • 11 Types Of Paper That Cannot Be Recycled
      • How To Recycle Metal: Step-by-step process
      • Where To Recycle Old Clothes: 20 Textile Recycling Drop Off Locations
      • Can You Recycle Receipts
      • Things That Cannot Be Recycled
    • Zero Waste Guides
      • 7 Zero Waste Shampoo Alternatives
      • 15 Ways To Be More Sustainable In Everyday Life
      • 23 Best Places To Sell Used Clothes For Cash
      • 41 Best Consumable Gifts For Every Budget
      • 58 Zero Waste Gifts That Help The Environment
      • How To Organize A Clothing Swap (Guide + Tips)
      • How To Store Vegetables & Fruits Without Plastic (2022)
      • Greenwashing 101: All You Need To Know (2021)
      • Zero Waste Shaving With Eco-Friendly Razors
      • How To Save Money By Going Zero Waste ($5,337 A Year)
      • 10 Things That Pollute The Earth + Swaps
      • Apartment Composting: 7 Step-by-step guides
    • Ethical Fashion
      • 39 Best Online Thrift Stores
      • 26 Cheap Sustainable Clothing Brands
      • 15 Zero Waste Clothing Brands: Sustainable Fashion
      • What Are The Disadvantages Of Fast Fashion?
      • 29 Unethical Fast Fashion Clothing Brands To Avoid
    • Why Vegan
      • Are There Ethical Arguments for Eating Meat?
      • How To Become Vegan Slowly: A step-by-step beginner’s guide
      • 8 Environmental Benefits Of Reducing Meat Consumption
      • How Are Pigs Killed: The Brutality Of Animal Agriculture
    • Minimalism
      • Project 333: Rules & Template
      • 68 Things To Get Rid Of (Minimalism)
      • How To Become A Minimalist In 30 Days
      • 55 Things I Stopped Buying To Save Money And Waste
      • How To Be Ruthless When Decluttering Clothes: 9 Steps
      • 41 Non-Materialistic Gifts For Any Budget
  • DIY
    • 3-Ingredient Homemade Deodorant Without Coconut Oil
    • Non-Greasy Lotion Bar Recipe (Vegan & Without Beeswax)
    • The BEST Non-Greasy Whipped Body Butter Recipe For Dry Skin
    • DIY Coffee Scrub (Without Coconut Oil)
    • 7 DIY Beauty Products You Can Make At Home
    • How To Make Air Freshener with Essential Oils And Baking Soda
    • Remineralizing Tooth Powder Recipe
    • How to Make Aloe Vera Mouthwash
    • How To Make Dry Shampoo At Home: 3 Ways
    • DIY Deodorant For Smelly Armpits (4 Recipes)
    • 3 DIY Zero Waste Toothpaste Recipes
    • 36 Creative Ideas To Use Glass Jars (with pictures)
  • Zero Waste Recipes
    • Healthy Protein Sweets
      • Healthy Vegan Twix Bars (High-Protein Recipe)
      • Chickpea Cookie Dough Protein Bars (No Bake)
      • Vegan Protein Bounty Bars
      • Orange Chocolate Pea Protein Bars (Recipe)
      • Homemade Protein Bars (Low Calorie, Vegan, No Bake)
      • Healthy Vegan Fudge (5 Ingredients, No-Bake, Low Calorie)
      • Healthy Vegan Pumpkin Protein Muffins
      • Vanilla Protein Powder Muffins (Vegan)
      • Hemp Protein Powder Energy Balls (Vegan)
    • Sweet Snacks
      • Chocolate Chip Cookies In A Jar With Printable Tags (Recipe)
      • Ridiculously Healthy Banana Oatmeal Cookies
      • Cashew Pulp Cookies (Vegan, 4 Ingredients)
      • Old Fashioned Fig Bars Recipe (Vegan)
    • No Bake & Raw Sweets
      • No-Bake Double Chocolate Walnuts Bars
      • 4-Ingredient Date And Peanut Butter Energy Balls
      • Caramel Fudge Without Condensed Milk (Vegan)
      • Peanut Flour Energy Balls Recipe
    • Brownies & Cakes
      • Healthy Marbled Banana Bread (Vegan)
      • Flourless Healthy Pumpkin Brownies (Fudgy & Vegan)
      • Sweet Potato Protein Brownies (Vegan, Gf)
      • Healthy White Bean Blueberry Blondies (Vegan)
      • Fudgy Almond Butter Brownies (Vegan)
      • Vegan Pumpkin Protein Brownies
    • Cheesecake, Tart & Pies
      • Easy Chocolate Orange Tart (Vegan & No Bake)
      • Raw Lemon Cheesecake (Vegan, 9 Ingredients)
      • Easy Vegan Birthday Cake Recipe (No Bake)
      • Peanut Butter Pie From Scratch (Vegan, No Bake)
    • Salty Snacks & Food
      • Vegan Potato Stew (Grandma’s Recipe)
      • Avocado Spread Recipe (Raw, Vegan)
    • What I Eat In A Day (Zero Waste Vegan Recipes)
    • Nut Milk Maker: 3 Easy Ways To Make Plant-Based Milk
  • Zero Waste Swaps
  • About
  • Contact