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?

PR 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.

Plastic

Empty bottles, containers, and buckets
Metal

Empty metal cans & aluminum cans
Cardboard & Cartons

Cardboard (flattened), egg cartons, and food & beverage cartons
Paper

Paper, newspaper, magazines, mail, and paper bags
No paper towels or napkins
Glass Bottles & Jars

Check 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.

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.

View Local Recycling Directory

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.

Plastic bags and stretchy plastics

These items tangle in recycling equipment. Find options for recycling these plastics at Plasticfilmrecycling.org
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.
Food and liquids

Dirty and wet containers can spoil other recyclables. Pour liquids down the drain and, if possible, compost food waste.
Hoses, cords and wires

Items like these get caught in recycling machinery. Contact your garbage company or local government for disposal options.
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.
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.