For the most part, metal can be recycled, but there some exceptions where it should be in the garbage. The following guidelines apply to the City of Kirkland and should apply broadly to other cities as well.

Aluminum and tin cans are recyclable, but only recycle metal lids that are larger than three inches.

Scrap metal needs to fit specific dimensions to be recycled. Scrap metal put in your blue recycling bin should be larger than three inches, but no longer than 2 feet. If your metal is too large, find a local scrap mill or US designated transfer station for the metal. For more specific guidelines, see the following page: Metal Guidelines

Tin foil / aluminum foil and pie trays are NOT recyclable in Kirkland, although they are recyclable in some larger cities like Seattle, so be sure to check local guidelines. Furthermore, thin food wrappers with a shiny/aluminium apperance should typically be thrown away.

If you live in a city other than Kirkland, these guidelines should still mostly apply (with the exception of tin foil and pie trays, which can be recyclable elsewhere).