Every day, we throw away items that could actually be recycled. While most people are familiar with recycling paper, plastic, and glass, there are plenty of unexpected objects that can be given a second life. By properly recycling these items, you help reduce landfill waste, conserve resources, and contribute to a healthier environment.
At 432-Yuck Garbage Removal & Bin Rental, we are committed to providing expert garbage removal and bin rental services, ensuring efficient and responsible waste management for our customers. Unlike traditional waste management companies, we focus solely on garbage pickup and reliable bin rental, offering competitive rates and top-notch customer service. For more helpful fints read here https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/other/think-it-s-trash-13-surprising-items-you-can-recycle-seriously/ss-AA1Bkj1m.
If you’re looking to reduce waste, here are 17 surprising items that you might not have realized are recyclable:
1. Worn-Out Clothing and Shoes
Even if your clothes and shoes are too damaged to donate, they can still be recycled. Many retailers and organizations have textile recycle programs that transform old fabrics into insulation, industrial rags, or carpeting materials.
2. Recycling Old Mattresses
Did you know that over 80% of a mattress can be recycled? The metal springs, foam, wood, and fabric can all be repurposed. Check if your city has designated mattress recycle facilities or pickup services.
3. Holiday Decorations and String Lights
Instead of discarding old, tangled string lights, recycle them! Many home improvement stores and recycle centers accept holiday lights and strip them down for copper wiring, glass, and plastic components.
4. Carpets and Rugs
Many carpets and rugs are made from recyclable materials like nylon and polypropylene. These materials can be processed into new flooring, plastic parts, or even car interiors. Some carpet manufacturers even have take-back programs.
5. Recycling Broken Ceramics and Dishes
While broken ceramics and dishes can’t go in curbside recycle bins, specialized recycling facilities accept them. They grind the materials down to be used in construction projects like roadbeds and tiles.
6. Batteries
Batteries contain harmful chemicals that can damage the environment if not disposed of properly. Many retailers and recycle centers accept used batteries..
7. Electronics
Old phones, computers, and other electronic devices contain valuable materials that can be repurposed. Many electronics stores and recycle centers offer electronic waste recycling programs.
8. Cooking Oil
Used cooking oil can be recycled into biodiesel. Check if your community has a collection program, or see if a local restaurant accepts used oil for eco-friendly disposal.
9. Recycling Crayons
Organizations like The Crayon Initiative collect used crayons and recycle them into new ones, keeping wax out of landfills and repurposing materials for children in need.
10. Recycling Roofing Shingles
Roofing shingles can be recycled into materials for paving roads and other construction projects.
11. Prescription Drugs
Unused or expired prescription drugs shouldn’t be thrown in the trash or flushed down the toilet. Many pharmacies and law enforcement agencies offer take-back programs for safe disposal.
12. Recycling Wine Corks
Natural corks can be recycled into various products, including flooring tiles, bulletin boards, and even sports equipment. Some wineries accept cork donations.
13. Sports Equipment
Old sports equipment doesn’t have to go to waste. Some organizations refurbish and donate used sports gear to schools and community programs.
14. Recycling Toothbrushes
Some companies offer toothbrush recycling programs, repurposing the plastic handles into lumber and other products.
15. CDs and DVDs
These items can be recycled into plastics for automotive and building materials. Some e-waste recycling centers accept them.
16. Fluorescent Light Bulbs
Fluorescent bulbs contain small amounts of mercury and should be recycled properly. Many hardware stores and recycling centers accept them for safe disposal.
17. Recycling Pizza Boxes (With a Twist!)
While cardboard pizza boxes are recyclable, greasy ones can contaminate the recycling process. Make sure to remove any excess grease or leftover food before recycling.
Make Recycling Easy with 432-Yuck Garbage Removal & Bin Rental
Recycling goes beyond just paper and plastic—many common household items can be given a second life. At 432-Yuck Garbage Removal & Bin Rental, we make waste disposal easy and stress-free. Our trustworthy pickup services, competitive pricing, and no hidden fees ensure that you get the best recycling and garbage removal solutions.
If you’re ready to improve your waste management habits, contact us today at info@432yuck.com or call 780-432-9825 for expert garbage removal and bin rental services. Let’s work together to create a cleaner, greener future!