Check your local rules. Yes, I know it’s boring. But some places love #1 plastic (PET) and hate #2 (HDPE). Most water bottles are #1. Look for the little triangle with the “1” inside it.
If you toss a #6 bottle (like some takeout containers) into the #1 bin, you’ve committed a recycling faux pas. The whole batch can get rejected. You become the villain of the recycling center.
Don’t be a villain. Be a hero. Be the person who flips the bottle over and checks the bottom. Curiosity counts!
The Straw Situation
If your bottle has a built-in straw? Good luck. That straw is usually made of polypropylene (#5). It’s smaller than a bottle cap and loves to fall through screens. Your best bet? Pull the straw out and toss it in the trash.
Or, buy a reusable bottle. Then you never have to deal with a stupid straw again. But we’re talking about recycling here, not life choices. For now, just accept that some parts are destined for the fire pit.
Plastic Bottle Recycling
