What Can I Recycle?
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.
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.
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Plastic
Empty bottles, containers, and buckets
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Metal
Empty metal cans & aluminum cans
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Cardboard & Cartons
Cardboard (flattened), egg cartons, and food & beverage cartons
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Paper
Paper, newspaper, magazines, mail, and paper bags
No paper towels or napkins -
Glass Bottles & Jars
Check locally for details
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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.
Browse the Local Recycling Directory for local information where available.
Additional Materials & Drop-Off
Some communities accept additional recyclables beyond the statewide minimum. Because local programs differ, always check your local guidelines.
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.
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Plastic bags and stretchy plastics
These items tangle in recycling equipment. Find options for recycling these plastics at Plasticfilmrecycling.org
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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.
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Food and liquids
Dirty and wet containers can spoil other recyclables. Pour liquids down the drain and, if possible, compost food waste.
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Hoses, cords and wires
Items like these get caught in recycling machinery. Contact your garbage company or local government for disposal options.
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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.
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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.