Recycle Guide

Waste Connections supports recycling in the USA and Canada. We understand its impact on the health of our planet. That’s why we recycle whenever we can and encourage everyone to do so. Together, we can all make a difference in sustaining a healthy environment today and into the future.

Acceptable and unacceptable items vary by location.  Please contact your local office for details.
Waste Connections

Know What to Throw

Waste Connections is your dedicated partner for recycling nationwide. We offer single or multiple-dumpster collection, recyclables programs, green waste recycling, and more. Check out our handy guide below to learn what you can recycle and how it works.

Waste Wizard

Waste Connections Recycling Services

Check Out Our Recycling Solutions

Single or multiple-dumpster collection service
Separated or combined recyclables collection programs
Green waste recycling programs
Recycling cardboard, newspaper, plastic bottles, aluminum cans, glass containers, and electronics service
Residential Recycling Services

Plastic Recycling

At Waste Connections, we help turn discarded plastic bottles into storm water systems, and other useful products, in your community. This signifies us doing our part in building a cleaner environment for years to come.

Waste Connections Disposal Guide

Know What to Throw before You Leave it at the Curb

Residential recycling options may vary by location, so it's important to check with your local office for additional details.

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Unacceptable Items

Items

  • Propane canisters
  • Flares
  • Needles
  • Electronics
  • Flammable liquids
  • Batteries for e-cigarettes
  • Helium tanks
  • Lighters and matches
  • Knives
  • Household batteries
  • Butane canisters
  • Ceramic plant pots
  • Bear spray
  • Paint
  • Ammunition
  • Straws

Plastic containers

  • Containers for motor oil, vehicle lubricant or antifreeze products
  • Garden hoses
  • Packaging labeled biodegradable or compostable
  • Plastic string or rope
  • Microwavable bowls with metal rims
  • Plastic paint cans
  • Plastic wrap
  • Pails for lubricants and oils
  • Plastic or foil lids from coffee and tea pods
  • Liquid-absorbing pads, e.g., in trays of meat, poultry, fish, etc.
  • Lawn edging, tarps, plastic furniture or toys
  • Plastic blister packs e.g. plastic/foil protective packaging for chewing gum and pills


Steel containers

  • Steel paint cans
  • Coat hangers (return to dry cleaners)
  • Pots, pans and baking trays
  • Propane cylinders
  • Metal toys
  • Appliances
  • Metal hardware or other scrap metal
  • Wiring or metal cords, extension cords

Misc. flexible plastic packaging

  • Plastic squeeze tubes
  • Plastic-lined paper
  • Cellophane wrap
  • Plastic strapping
  • 6-pack ring
  • Biodegradable plastic
  • PVC/vinyl
  • Squishy foam
  • Plastic blister packs e.g. plastic/foil protective packaging for chewing gum and pills

Paper packaging/cardboard

  • Cardboard boxes with wax coating
  • Paper bags with multiple layers that include a foil layer
  • Paper bags with a plastic layer
  • Paper towels, napkins
  • Tissues

Aluminum containers

  • Spray paint cans
  • Aerosol cans with any contents remaining
  • Propane cylinders
  • Foil-lined cardboard take-out containers and lids

Glass bottles & jars

  • Drinking glasses or dishes, cookware
  • Whole or broken window glass or mirrors
  • Ceramic products
  • Light bulbs and light fixtures

Foam packaging

  • Liquid-absorbing pads used in trays for meat, poultry, fish, etc.
  • Labels, tape, paper and cardboard on foam packaging
  • Foam peanuts, packing chips, or noodles
  • Blue or pink foam board insulation
  • Squishy or flexible foam
  • Furniture cushions

Plastic bags/Overwrap

  • Kitchen stretch wrap
  • Packaging labeled biodegradable or compostable
  • Lumber or construction wrap
  • Garbage bags

Paper

  • Hardcover or paperback books (donate or sell)
  • Ribbons or bows
  • Musical greeting cards with batteries
  • Rubber bands
Waste Connections Process of Recycling

How Does Recycling Work?

Waste Connections collects your recyclables in dumpsters at a curbside, multi-family building, or business. We transport these recyclables to our local sorting facility, known as a Materials Recovery Facility (MRF), where they are sorted, cleaned, compressed, and prepared for sale to be repurposed and reused – all the while keeping them out of the landfill.

Clean every item

Clean items are crucial to avoid contamination during transportation.

Waste collection

When recycle dumpsters are full, they are then collected by Waste Connections at a curbside, multi-family dwelling, or business.

Recycling facility (MRF)

Materials are sorted and organized by material types, then inspected for final quality control clean-up before being baled (compressed) together and staged for sale to end markets.

Battery Disposal

Incorrect Battery Disposal Can Cause Fires

Common household items are typically safe and convenient for use. However, the batteries within them can pose significant risks due to their highly flammable nature if they are disposed of in regular garbage or recycling containers.

  • Remove the batteries

    Check the electronic devices you need to dispose of. If possible, remove the batteries. If not, bring the whole device to the drop off location.
  • Store batteries in a safe place

    Store batteries in non-metallic containers (plastic, cardboard, or glass) that do not conduct electricity if there is a spark.
  • Find your local drop off

    Find a local electronic disposal store, or find a drop off location near you.

Ask The Can!

What can I recycle?
Why is recycling important?
How do I recycle glass/plastic/paper/metal?
What happens to recycled materials?
How can I reduce waste and increase recycling at home?

Are you still uncertain about sizing, pricing, or other details? Contact one of our professionals to get more information regarding which option is the best for you.

Call us today
844-708-7274
Residential Services

Check Out These Residential Services

Waste Connections offers convenient pickup times and consistent, reliable service. Residential garbage recycling is available in many places where we offer garbage pickup. Click on a box below to find out more about a service that meets your needs.