Plastic Recycling Numbers & codes Explained

Plastic recycling numbers help you know what kind of plastic is in things like bottles and packages. These codes are numbers inside a triangle. They tell you the resin type. They do not tell you if the item can be recycled. For example, #1 (PET) and #2 (HDPE) are seen most in recycling bins. Other numbers like #3–#7 are harder to recycle. You should always look at your local rules before recycling. Only 9% of plastic waste is recycled around the world. Knowing plastic recycling codes helps you make better choices.

Tip: Check the code on the bottom of containers to sort plastics the right way.

Key Takeaways

• Plastic recycling numbers show the kind of plastic. They do not mean the plastic can always be recycled. Look for the recycling code on the bottom of containers. This code tells you the resin type. Codes #1 (PET) and #2 (HDPE) are usually accepted in recycling programs. Plastics with codes #3 (PVC), #6 (PS), and #7 (Other) are hard to recycle. Always check your local recycling rules. This helps you know what plastics your area takes. Rinse containers before recycling. This stops contamination and helps with processing. Pick products with less packaging. Use reusable options to cut down on plastic waste. Teach others about recycling codes. This helps your community recycle better.

Plastic Recycling Numbers

Resin Identification Codes

When you see a triangle with a number on plastic, that is a resin identification code. The Society of the Plastics Industry made this system. It helps people and recycling centers know what kind of plastic is used. The number does not mean the item can be recycled. It only shows the type of plastic resin in the product.

Here are the seven main resin codes and what they mean:

1. PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) – Resin Code: 1
   This plastic is light and strong. You see it in water bottles and shampoo bottles. Most recycling programs take PET.
2. HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) – Resin Code: 2
   This plastic is tough and does not break easily. It is used for detergent bottles and lotion bottles. HDPE is often recycled.
3. PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) – Resin Code: 3
   This plastic is strong and can be used in many ways. It is found in pipes and medical tubes. PVC is not recycled much because it can release bad chemicals.
4. LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene) – Resin Code: 4
   This plastic bends easily and is strong. It is used for food bags and squeeze bottles. LDPE is not recycled as much.
5. PP (Polypropylene) – Resin Code: 5
   This plastic is strong and can handle heat. It is used in food containers and cream jars. PP is sometimes recycled.
6. PS (Polystyrene) – Resin Code: 6
   This plastic can be hard or foamy. It is used for cups and takeout boxes. PS is not recycled very often.
7. Other (Includes PC, PLA, etc.) – Resin Code: 7
   This group covers plastics with special features. Recycling for these plastics is different everywhere.

Note: The resin identification code helps you sort plastics, but your local recycling program may not accept every item.

Where to Find Plastic Codes

You can find plastic codes on most packages. Look for the recycling symbol, which is a triangle made of arrows. It is usually on the bottom or side of containers. The number inside the triangle is the resin code. You might see these codes on bottles, tubs, lids, and some plastic bags. Always check the code before you recycle plastic.

Why Plastic Recycling Numbers Matter

Plastic recycling numbers help you and recycling centers know what kind of plastic is in each item. This makes sorting easier and helps recycling programs work better. When you know the resin code, you can check if your local program takes that plastic. Many people think the recycling symbol means the item can be recycled, but that is not always true. Some plastics with a resin identification code are not recycled at all. Knowing plastic codes helps you make better choices and supports recycling in your community.

Plastic Codes Explained

Code #1 – PET or PETE

Uses

PET is a plastic you see every day. It is light and strong. You find PET in water bottles and soda bottles. PET is also used for food packaging and take-out containers. Clothes and carpets often use PET fibers. Sleeping bags and soft furnishings have PET fiberfill. Stores use PET for packaging. Polyester fabric for clothes is made from PET. Carpet fibers and pallet strapping come from PET too.

• Water bottles and soda bottles
• Food and non-food bottles
• Cups and take-out containers
• Clothing and carpet fibers
• Fiberfill for sleeping bags and soft furnishings
• Store packaging
• Polyester fabric and carpet fibers
• Pallet strapping

Recyclability

Most curbside programs let you recycle PET. PET is recycled more than other plastics in the United States. In 2023, 33% of PET was recycled. This is higher than 29% in 2022. It is the highest rate since 1996. Recycled PET can become new bottles, clothing fibers, or carpet. PETE is another name for PET. You see it on many bottles. Always check your local recycling rules before you recycle PET. Not all programs take every PET item.

Tip: Rinse PET bottles before recycling to help keep things clean.

Code #2 – HDPE

Uses

HDPE means high density polyethylene. You find HDPE in many strong products. This plastic does not break easily and resists chemicals. HDPE is used for food containers, detergent bottles, and milk jugs. Plastic lumber uses HDPE instead of wood. Decks and outdoor furniture use HDPE for strength. Pipes for water and industry are made from HDPE. Outdoor and marine decks use HDPE because it lasts long.

Recyclability

You can recycle HDPE in most community programs. HDPE is easy to recycle. Many recycling centers take HDPE bottles and containers. Recycled HDPE can become new bottles, pipes, or plastic lumber. Always check your local rules. Not every HDPE item is accepted. Recycling HDPE helps cut down waste and supports recycling.

Code #3 – PVC

Uses

PVC is a strong and flexible plastic. You find PVC in water pipes, vinyl siding, and window frames. PVC is used in clothes and shoes like raincoats and boots. Floors often use PVC because it lasts long. Builders use PVC for plumbing and siding. Cars use PVC for cable covers and wiring. Electric work uses PVC for safe connections. Signs, displays, yoga mats, sports gear, and pool floats use PVC too.

• Water pipes for drinking and waste
• Vinyl siding for houses
• Windows and frames
• Clothes and shoes (raincoats, boots, fake leather)
• Flooring
• Plumbing and siding in buildings
• Cable covers and wiring in cars
• Electric connections
• Signs and display stands
• Yoga mats and sports gear
• Inflatable things (bouncy castles, pool floats)

Recyclability

PVC is very hard to recycle. Most programs do not take PVC. Its chemicals make recycling tough. PVC may have things that are bad for health. Making or burning PVC can release harmful chemicals. These chemicals stay in PVC even after recycling. They can hurt people and the environment. Do not put PVC in your recycling bin unless your program takes it. Always check your local rules for PVC recycling.

Note: PVC recycling is rare because it can harm health and the environment. Try to use other materials when you can.

Code #4 – LDPE

Uses

Low density polyethylene (LDPE) is in many things you use. This plastic is soft and bends without breaking. LDPE is good for items that need to be strong and flexible. You see LDPE in these products:

• Plastic bags and shopping sacks
• Shrink wrap and stretch film
• Food packaging and cling films
• Squeeze bottles and caps
• Flexible toys and containers
• Wire and cable insulation
• Disposable labware
• Protective films
• Juice containers
• Grocery bags
• Trays
• Six-pack rings
• Bubble wrap for cushioning

LDPE wraps help keep food fresh. Stretch film and shrink wrap protect things when shipped. Squeeze bottles use LDPE because you can press them easily. Grocery stores give out LDPE bags for shopping. LDPE is also found in trays and six-pack rings for drinks.

Recyclability

Recycling LDPE is not always easy. Most curbside programs do not take LDPE bags or wraps. These items can jam recycling machines. Some stores collect LDPE bags for special recycling. Always check your local recycling rules before you recycle LDPE. Clean and dry LDPE bags are best for recycling. Recycled LDPE can become new bags, floor tiles, or garbage can liners. Try to reuse LDPE bags when you can. This helps cut down plastic waste.

Tip: Take clean LDPE bags to store drop-off bins for recycling.

Code #5 – PP

Uses

Polypropylene (PP) is a tough plastic that can handle heat. You find PP in many things at home and work. It is used for packaging and containers. Here is a table with common uses in different industries:

PP is also in yogurt cups, straws, bottle caps, and some car parts. PP is light and does not get damaged by chemicals. It helps keep food and medicine safe.

Recyclability

PP recycling is hard for some reasons. Many recycling programs do not take PP because it is complicated. Here are some reasons why:

• Limited access to recycling programs
• The recycling process is complicated
• Materials often get contaminated

Always check if your local recycling center takes PP. Clean PP containers are easier to recycle. Recycled PP can become signal lights, battery cables, or new containers. Try to reuse PP items when you can. This helps lower plastic waste and supports recycling.

Code #6 – PS

Uses

Polystyrene (PS) is a plastic found in many shapes. It can be hard or foamy. You see PS in packaging, food service, and electronics. Here are some things made from PS:

• Appliances and electronics
• Automobile parts
• Toys
• Gardening pots and equipment
• Food packaging (like meat trays and egg cartons)
• Laboratory equipment
• Expanded polystyrene (EPS) for foam packaging peanuts
• Foodservice packaging (cups, plates, takeout boxes)
• CD and DVD cases
• Construction insulation
• Medical products (test tubes, Petri dishes)
• Rigid silverware and containers

High impact polystyrene (HIPS) is used for toys and electronics. General purpose polystyrene (GPPS) is clear and used for cases. Expandable polystyrene (EPS) is light and used for packing and insulation.

Recyclability

PS recycling is very limited. In the United States, only about 3.6% of PS containers and packaging were recycled in 2018. In the UK, the rate is even lower, around 1-2%. Polystyrene is bulky and often gets dirty with food or other things. This makes recycling hard. Most curbside programs do not take PS. Do not put PS in your recycling bin unless your local program says yes. Try to use less PS when you can. Pick reusable or recyclable options instead.

Note: Polystyrene is hard to recycle and often ends up in landfills. Look for other choices when you can.

Code #7 – Other

Uses

Code #7 is for plastics that do not fit in the first six groups. This group has many kinds of plastic. Some have special features or are made for special jobs. You might see Code #7 on things that need to be strong, clear, or handle heat. Here are some ways Code #7 plastics are used:

You may see Code #7 on things made from polycarbonate, acrylic, or bioplastics. Some Code #7 plastics, like polycarbonate, can have BPA. The safety of these plastics is not always clear. This is because Code #7 covers many types. When you see Code #7, it means the item is made from a plastic that does not fit in other codes like pet, ldpe, or pp.

Recyclability

Code #7 plastics are hard to recycle. Most recycling programs do not take them. These plastics often go to landfills because they need special recycling steps. Many places do not have the right machines to recycle them. Here is a table that shows some types of Code #7 plastics and how they are handled:

You should always check your local recycling rules before putting Code #7 plastics in the bin. Some bioplastics need special composting. Most home compost bins cannot break them down. Only a few modern compost centers can handle these plastics. If you want to help recycling, try not to use Code #7 items. Pick products with higher recyclability, like pet, ldpe, or pp, to make recycling easier for your community.

Note: Code #7 plastics are hard to recycle. They often end up in landfills. Always check if your local recycling program takes them.

Sorting Plastics for Recycling

Reading Plastic Recycling Numbers

You can make smarter choices when you know how to read plastic recycling numbers. Look for the triangle symbol on the bottom of containers. Inside the triangle, you will see a number from 1 to 7. Each number stands for a different type of plastic. You should learn what each code means so you can tell which products are easier to recycle. Always check your local guidelines because not every program accepts all types of plastic. Some places only take certain numbers. If you want to help plastics recycling, start by checking the code before you toss anything in the bin.

Tip: The recycling number does not always mean the item is recyclable in your area. Always confirm with your local program.

Tips for Sorting

Sorting plastics at home helps your recycling center work better. You can follow these steps to make sure you sort your plastic waste the right way:

1. Buy products with less packaging and use reusable bags to cut down on waste.
2. Learn which plastics your local program accepts. Rules can change from place to place.
3. Rinse containers and separate materials to keep everything clean.
4. Join local recycling programs, such as curbside pickup or drop-off centers.
5. Check the recycling symbol and number to identify the type of plastic.
6. Prepare plastics by putting caps back on, rinsing away food or liquids, and flattening bottles to save space.

You can use a simple table to help you remember which plastics are accepted in your area:

Note: Always check with your local recycling center for the most up-to-date information.

Common Mistakes

You might make mistakes when sorting plastics for recycling. These mistakes can cause problems for recycling centers and reduce the amount of plastic that gets reused. Here are some common errors:

• Mixing different types of waste together. This can contaminate the recycling batch and make it harder to process.
• Putting items in the wrong bin. Some people think the yellow bin is only for plastics, but it may be for other recyclables too.
• Not taking part in recycling programs. If you think your actions do not matter, you may not sort your waste correctly.
• Believing that not recycling will not have any effect. Every person’s effort counts. If you do not recycle, it can lead to more waste and less plastics recycling.

Callout: You can make a big difference by sorting your plastic waste correctly. Every item you recycle helps your community and the environment.

After Recycling

The Recycling Process

You help start the recycling journey when you put plastic in the bin. The process has many steps before new products are made. Here is a simple table that shows each step:

Each step helps get the plastic ready to use again. Clean and sorted plastic makes recycling work better.

Tip: Rinse your containers before recycling. Clean plastic helps the process work better.

What Recycled Plastics Become

Recycled plastic can be used to make new things. You might use items every day made from recycled polyethylene terephthalate or other recycled plastics. Here are some common things made from recycled materials:

• Plastic water bottles
• Shampoo and toiletry bottles
• Laundry detergent bottles
• Toothbrushes
• Cups, plates, and dinnerware
• Grocery bags
• Trash bags
• Yoga mats
• Pens and pencils
• Mailers and packaging
• Diapers
• Shoes and clothing
• Backpacks
• Furniture
• Toys and gifts
• Rugs and carpets
• Car parts
• Fishing nets
• Swimwear
• Traffic cones
• Building materials

When you recycle, you help make these new products. Many companies use recycled plastics to make things for your home, school, and community.

Callout: Every time you recycle, you help turn waste into something valuable.

Challenges in Plastics Recycling

Plastics recycling has many problems. You can see some of the biggest issues in the table below:

You can help by learning about recycling and sharing what you know. When you sort your plastic and follow local rules, you help recycling work better in your area.

Note: Recycling works best when everyone helps and knows the process.

Local Recycling Guidelines

Why Guidelines Differ

Recycling rules are not the same everywhere. Each city or town makes its own rules. They do this to fit what works best for them. Many things affect these rules:

• Recycling centers use different machines. Some can recycle more types of plastic.
• Companies sometimes want certain plastics. If they do, your area may collect those plastics. If not, those plastics might not get recycled.
• Big cities have more people and money. They can offer more recycling choices. Small towns may have fewer recycling options.

Tip: Always look at your local rules before you recycle. Rules in one place may be different in another.

How to Check Local Rules

You can learn what your city recycles by checking online or calling. Many places put recycling details on their websites or answer questions by phone. Here is a table with places to find recycling rules for different areas:

You can visit these websites or call the numbers to ask questions. Many cities put signs at recycling centers. If you are not sure about an item, you can ask someone who works there.

Callout: If you move to a new city, check the recycling rules. This helps you recycle the right way.

What to Do with Non-Accepted Plastics

Sometimes you have plastics your recycling center does not take. You can do a few things to keep these plastics out of the trash:

1. Use containers again for storage or crafts.
2. Find special drop-off spots. Some stores collect bags or wraps for recycling.
3. Join clean-up events in your community. These programs sometimes collect plastics that are hard to recycle.
4. Try to use fewer single-use plastics. Pick reusable products when you shop.

Note: You help the earth when you reuse or use less plastic. Every small step matters.

You can help by learning your local rules and finding new ways to use plastics. Your choices make recycling better and keep your community cleaner.

Smarter Plastics Recycling Choices

Choosing Recyclable Plastics

You can help by picking products that are easy to recycle. When you shop, look for packaging with codes #1 or #2. These plastics are easier for recycling centers to handle. You see these codes on water bottles and milk jugs. Some food containers also use these plastics. If you spot codes #3, #6, or #7, try to choose something else. These plastics are tough to recycle and may go to landfills.

Tip: Always check the recycling symbol and number before you buy. This helps you support recycling and keeps more plastic out of the trash.

You can use this table to remember which codes are best:

Reducing Hard-to-Recycle Plastics

You can help the planet by using less packaging made from hard-to-recycle plastics. Many snacks, toys, and electronics use codes #3, #6, or #7. These plastics often end up in landfills because recycling centers cannot process them. Pick products with simple packaging or buy in bulk to cut down on waste. Reusable containers and bags help you avoid single-use plastic.

• Choose products with less packaging.
• Bring your own reusable bags and containers.
• Skip foam cups and trays.
• Pick items with packaging made from PET or HDPE.

Callout: Every time you avoid hard-to-recycle packaging, you help your community and the earth.

Supporting Plastics Recycling in Your Community

You can make recycling work better where you live. Start by learning your local recycling rules. Share what you know with friends and family. Join clean-up events or recycling drives. Ask stores and schools to use packaging that is easier to recycle. When you recycle at home, rinse containers and sort them by code. Support companies that use recycled plastic in their packaging.

• Learn and follow your local recycling rules.
• Teach others about sorting and recyclability.
• Take part in community recycling programs.
• Support brands that use recycled packaging.

Note: Your choices matter. You help make your community cleaner and smarter when you support plastics recycling.

Knowing plastic recycling numbers helps you sort trash correctly. These numbers tell you what resin is in the plastic. They do not say if you can recycle it. You should always look up your local recycling rules first. When you learn about these numbers, you make better choices. This also helps your community.

You help the earth when you use recycling numbers to decide what to do. Begin now and make good recycling habits.

• Look at the code before you recycle anything.
• Tell your friends and family what you learn.
• Pick things with numbers that are easier to recycle.

FAQ

What do plastic recycling numbers mean?

Plastic recycling numbers tell you what kind of plastic is in an item. They do not say if you can recycle it. Always check your local recycling rules before you put plastic in the bin.

Tip: Look for a triangle with a number on the bottom of containers.

Can you recycle all plastics with a recycling symbol?

No, not every plastic with a recycling symbol can be recycled. Some plastics are hard to recycle. Your local program may only take numbers like #1 and #2.

Why do recycling rules change from place to place?

Cities and towns use different machines and have different buyers for recycled plastics. You need to check your local guidelines because rules can change based on where you live.

Note: Always check your city’s website or call your recycling center for updates.

What should you do with plastics your center does not accept?

You can reuse containers for storage or crafts. Some stores collect bags and wraps for recycling. Try to use less single-use plastic to help the environment.

• Reuse at home
• Find store drop-off bins
• Choose reusable products

How can you tell if a plastic item is recyclable in your area?

Check the recycling symbol and number on the item. Look up your local recycling rules online or call your recycling center. You can also ask at drop-off locations.

Callout: Local rules decide what you can recycle. Always confirm before you sort.

Why is it important to rinse plastic containers before recycling?

Rinsing gets rid of food and liquid. Clean containers help recycling centers process plastics. Dirty items can spoil the whole batch and make recycling harder.

Tip: Rinse bottles and containers before putting them in the bin.

What happens to plastics after you recycle them?

Recycled plastics become new things like bottles, bags, clothes, or furniture. You help save resources and cut down on waste when you recycle.

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