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Guidelines as Clear as Colorado’s Skies

Recycling you can count on starts with clear instructions. This includes the materials accepted statewide on Colorado’s minimum recyclables list, along with additional items that may be recyclable in some communities.

Recycle with confidence
What Can I
Recycle?

EPR creates statewide guidelines, called the minimum recyclables list. Below is Colorado’s statewide guide for curbside, or mixed, recycling collection.

Please check with your local program for specifics because not all communities have access to the same services yet.

Recycling the right way gives your items a new use. And, closing the cart lid helps prevent litter in streets, parks and open spaces.

PlasticEmpty bottles, containers, and buckets
MetalEmpty metal cans & aluminum cans
Cardboard & CartonsCardboard (flattened), egg cartons, and food & beverage cartons
PaperPaper, newspaper, magazines, mail, and paper bagsNo paper towels or napkins
Glass Bottles & JarsCheck locally for details
All items must be empty and dry Pour liquids down the drain and, if possible, compost food waste.
No Bagged Recyclables Place loose recyclables directly into the bin, do not pre-bag.

This lookup tool only works for Colorado addresses. Please enter a Colorado location to see what’s accepted in your area.

Additional Materials & Drop-Off

Additional Materials & Drop-Off

Some communities accept additional recyclables beyond the statewide minimum. Because local programs differ, always check your local guidelines.

Keep these out
What Can’t I
Recycle?

Not sure what goes in your bin? Don’t guess! Check with your local recycling program for clear guidance. When the wrong items end up in the recycling, they can damage equipment and ruin other recyclables.

Below are items that should NEVER go in your curbside recycling bin. Check your local guidelines to see if specialty programs exist in your area.

Never in your bin Plastic bags and stretchy plastics These items tangle in recycling equipment. Find options for recycling these plastics at Plasticfilmrecycling.org
Never in your bin Diapers and medical waste These items create unsafe conditions for recycling workers and should never be placed in your mixed recycling bin. Contact your garbage company or local government for disposal options.
Never in your bin Food and liquids Dirty and wet containers can spoil other recyclables. Pour liquids down the drain and, if possible, compost food waste.
Never in your bin Hoses, cords and wires Items like these get caught in recycling machinery. Contact your garbage company or local government for disposal options.
Never in your bin Batteries Batteries can start fires at garbage and recycling facilities. Never put batteries inside your garbage or recycling bin. Contact your garbage company or local government for disposal options.
Never in your bin Compostable packaging Compostable packaging and paper is not built for recycling. Contact your garbage company or local government to see if programs for compostable packaging are available near you.
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