Tips for being a better recycler

By using Ridwell, you’re already doing a lot to help the recycling work system better by avoiding “wishcycling” things like plastic film and preventing recycling contamination. Want to do even more? In celebration of America Recycles Day today, we want to honor the important work our municipal recyclers do by empowering all of us to get better at recycling. Here are 3 impactful tips for being a better recycler.

1. Larger than 3 inches

Items smaller than 3 inches will be sorted incorrectly or fall through the cracks in the machinery!

Pro tip: 3 inches is about the size of your index finger!

2. Clean, dry, and empty

Make sure anything you recycle is totally clean of food, liquids, and anything else that can mold.

3. Made of one material

To be recyclable, items have to be made of a single material. Recyclers can’t process combined materials like this plastic bubble wrap & paper mailer.

And, of course, don’t forget to keep your plastic film from clogging up municipal recycling machinery by recycling it with Ridwell! :)

Happy America Recycles Day, everyone!