Read on what you should look out for the next trash day, straight from a recycling pro.
Meet the Expert
Ryan Metzgeris the CEO and co-founder of subscription-based waste collection service Ridwell.
Similarly, to-go styrofoam and compostable beverage cups shouldn’t go in the recycling bin.
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Want more cleaning and organizing tips?
Consider switching over toreusable grocery bagsto avoid the hassle in the future.
Plastic Straws
Plastic straws are another surprising item Metzger says you should never recycle.
The reason is that they are too lightweight and therefore can’t make it through the recycling machinery.
Additionally, he notes that plastic straws are also too small and only end up contaminating recycling containers.
Some recycling centers may accept plastic straws, but they are not intended for regular curbside recycling pickup.
In other words, some of the most commonly used items you probably come across on a daily basis.
While they help keep food fresh, they form a surprising group of items you should never recycle.
To prevent them from ending up in a landfill, he recommends reusing or donating plasticclothes hangers.
