The Do's And Don'ts Of Recycling Takeout Containers

Oscar Wong via Getty Images A lot of takeout containers are not recyclable, but you won't know unless you check your local guidelines. “Unlike items are wasteful and can be detrimental to workers and machinery.” Do: Look up your local recycling guidelines You should find out which takeout containers are recyclable in your specific area, Walters said. “The best advice, other than using fewer throw-away plastic containers, is to check with your local solid waste agency or waste hauler to see what kinds of plastics, if any, are accepted for recycling in their community, and to inquire whether those materials are in fact really recycled.” Xsandra via Getty Images Food or drink residue can contaminate recyclable materials. “Add in food residue, and you run the risk of ruining perfectly good recyclable materials if you toss these containers in your recycling.” Do: Empty and rinse packaging before recycling If you determine a container is recyclable in your area, make sure there’s no food or drink residue, which can potentially contaminate other fragile recyclable materials like paper or cardboard. Reusable wooden or plastic chopsticks make much more sense.” Don’t: Try to recycle those paper takeout containers Paper takeout containers, like the classic oyster pails from Chinese restaurants or those brown containers, are not recyclable due to the aforementioned “waterproof” coating that prevents food from leaking all over the place.