Plastic is very often a tricky thing to recycle. The most important thing to remember is that the recycling symbol does not always mean you can recycle it in your cart. Guidelines for that can be found here: Visit site.

In short, #1 (PETE) or #2 (HDPE) are the most recycled plastics and accepted everywhere. Plastics #3 , #4, #5, #6 and #7 are usually not acceptable at recycling plants. The number is shown in recycling triangle.

For the city of Kirkland specifically, the following applies:

Ensure that the item does not contain substantial residue from its contents, and then recycle the bottle. Make sure to screw the cap back on before recycling.

Plastic tubs follow a similar protocol as bottles and jugs, but they do not contain recyclable lids. Even if the lid fits tightly ensure that you throw it away in the trash before recycling the container. Rinse if necessary to remove residue.

Plastic cups are recyclable.

Wrappers, chip bags, takeout bags, plastic utensils, straws, and hygiene items (tissues, protective gloves, face masks) are NOT recyclable, and should be put in the garbage.

Dirty items containing food or liquid, dirty paper, and plastic trays/clamshells are also not recyclable.

Please note that you don’t need to scrub with soap and water! Just a rinse is usually enough to have your plastics accepted at a recycling plant.

If you live in a city other than Kirkland, the recycling guidelines should stay similar with only slight variations. For the most part, bigger cities have more recycling capabilities. Check with the guidelines linked above if you are confused.