Recyclopedia: Can I recycle it?
In The Bin
Every recycling program in Massachusetts accepts the items below.
Make sure they are empty and clean.
![Image shows different types of metal cans](https://recyclesmartma.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Metal_Cans.png)
Metal Food & Beverage Cans
Empty and rinse
![Image shows different types of plastic bottles](https://recyclesmartma.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Plastic_Bottles.png)
Plastic Bottles, Jars, Jugs & Tubs
Empty and replace cap
![Image shows different types of glass bottles and jars](https://recyclesmartma.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Glass_Bottles.png)
Glass Bottles & Jars
Empty and rinse
![Image shows different types of paper and cardboard](https://recyclesmartma.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Paper_Cardboard.png)
Paper & Cardboard
Empty and flatten
Not In The Bin
Many items you’d think belong in your recycling bin don’t.
Putting them in does more harm than good. Not sure? Check the Recyclopedia.
![Image shows recyclables in a plastic bag](https://recyclesmartma.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Recyclables_Plastic_Bag-300x300.png)
Do Not Bag Recyclables
No garbage
![](https://recyclesmartma.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Plastic_Bags-300x300.png)
No Plastic Bags or Plastic Wrap
Return to retail store collection bins
![](https://recyclesmartma.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Dirty_Containers-300x300.png)
No Food or Liquid
Empty all containers
![](https://recyclesmartma.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Clothes-300x300.png)
No Clothing or Linens
Use donation programs
![Image shows tangled wires](https://recyclesmartma.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Tanglers-300x300.png)
No Tanglers
No hoses, wires, chains
or electronics
![](https://recyclesmartma.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/srg-no-hazardous-items-300x300.png)
No Hazardous Items
No propane tanks, batteries,
sharps, or chemicals