Which plastics can (and can’t) be recycled curbside

by Michael Taylor

Recycling plastic helps reduce landfill waste and supports Austin’s zero waste goals. However, not all plastics belong in your blue recycling cart. This guide explains what is accepted curbside and how to properly handle items that are not.

Accepted curbside plastic items

These items can be recycled in your blue recycling cart:

• Bottles (water, soda, juice, hand sanitizer, shampoo, detergent) 

• Jugs (milk, water, laundry detergent, bleach) 

• Cups 

• Tubs (yogurt, sour cream) 

• Food containers 

• Jars (peanut butter, mayo, etc.)

• Attached bottle caps

• Coat hangers 

• Outdoor furniture 

• Non-battery plastic toy

Please rinse food containers, bottles, and jugs to avoid contamination. Make sure lids are attached to all containers.

Hard-to-recycle items

These items are recyclable, but not in your blue cart. Instead, recycle them at store drop-off locations or schedule a drop-off at the Recycle and Reuse Center:

• Plastic bags

• Film plastic (wrap and zip-top bags)

• Bubble wrap

• Styrofoam (no packing peanuts)

• Battery-operated toys (Recycle and Reuse Center only

Reuse or donate items

Reusing or donating these items is always the better option over recycling, when possible:

• Bubble wrap

• Clean film plastics

• Coat hangers

• Outdoor furniture

• Non-battery toys

Visit the Austin Reuse Directory website to find local businesses and charities that accept donations of these items.

Keep trash out of the recycling

These plastic items can’t be recycled and must go in the trash: 

• Straws

• Loose bottle caps

• Plastic items smaller than 3 inches

• Plasticware

Get additional guidance on curbside recycling or use the “What Do I Do With…” tool to find zero waste disposal options for items you no longer need. Thanks for doing your part in helping Austin reach zero waste.