Recycling is an important step in reducing waste and protecting the environment, but did you know that not properly cleaning your recyclables can lead to contamination? Ensuring your items are clean helps recycling facilities process materials effectively. Here are three practical examples of how to clean recyclables before recycling them.
When you finish a jar of pasta sauce or pickles, it’s easy to toss it in the recycling bin without a second thought. However, leftover food particles can contaminate the recycling stream.
Start by rinsing the jar with warm water. Fill the jar about a quarter of the way with water, put the lid on, and shake it vigorously. This will help dislodge any stuck-on food. After shaking, pour out the water and give the jar a final rinse. If there are still stubborn bits of food, a gentle scrub with a sponge can help. Once it’s clean, let the jar air dry or wipe it down with a cloth before placing it in the recycling bin.
Notes: If you have a lot of glass jars to clean, consider filling your sink with warm soapy water and letting them soak for a few minutes before rinsing. This can make the process quicker.
Plastic containers, like those used for yogurt or takeout, often have residues that can lead to recycling rejection. Begin by scraping out any remaining food with a spatula or spoon. Next, rinse the container under running water to remove any residual food.
For containers that are particularly greasy, a drop of dish soap can be used. Apply soap directly to the container, scrub it with a sponge, and rinse thoroughly. Make sure to remove the lid and clean it separately, as many recycling programs require lids to be removed. Let the containers dry upside down in a dish rack to ensure they’re completely clean before recycling.
Notes: If you have several plastic containers, consider washing them in a dishwasher on the top rack for a more thorough clean. Just make sure they are dishwasher-safe!
Metal cans, like those used for soup or vegetables, also need a quick clean before recycling. Start by removing the lid completely and throwing it away in the trash or recycling it separately if your program allows.
Next, rinse the can under warm water to remove any leftover food. If there are bits of food stuck inside, fill the can with water, put the lid back on, and shake it just like you did with the glass jar. Pour out the water and give it a final rinse. Let the can air dry completely before placing it in the recycling bin.
Notes: For those who want to make the process even easier, consider preparing a designated cleaning station in your kitchen sink with a sponge, soap, and a drying rack specifically for recyclables. This can streamline your recycling prep routine.
By taking these simple steps to clean your recyclables, you help ensure that they are properly processed and contribute to a more sustainable future. Happy recycling!