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10 Everyday Items You Didn't Know You Could Recycle

Tabitha Stephens • Jul 25, 2024

We've all been there: tossing something in the trash and wondering if it could be recycled. Recycling is crucial to responsible waste management, helping conserve resources, reduce landfill waste, and create a healthier planet for everyone. But with ever-changing guidelines and confusing symbols, it's easy to get lost in the recycling shuffle. The good news? Many surprising everyday items can be recycled, often with just a little extra knowledge!


Surprising Everyday Items That Can Be Recycled

papers recycled

Is the confetti raining down after a party? Empty toothpaste tube lurking in the bathroom cabinet? Believe it or not, these and many other everyday items can be recycled! Recycling goes far beyond just paper, plastic bottles, and metal cans. Incorporating these surprising recyclables into your routine can significantly reduce your environmental impact. Let's explore ten everyday items you might not have known could be recycled:


1. Pizza Boxes (with a Twist)

We all love a delicious pizza night, but where does the box go afterward? The answer: it depends! Cardboard pizza boxes are typically recyclable but with a caveat. Heavy grease stains can contaminate the recycling stream, so it's best to remove any excess grease or leftover pizza before tossing the box in the recycling bin. Some communities require greasy pizza boxes to be composted instead. Always check your local recycling guidelines to be sure!


2. Egg Cartons

Eggs are a breakfast staple, but what about their cartons? Most paper egg cartons are recyclable alongside your paper products. However, some cartons might be made of plastic, so checking for recycling symbols and following your local sorting instructions is essential.


3. Aluminum Foil

Next time you reach for aluminum foil to wrap your leftovers, remember—it's a recyclable material! Clean aluminum foil can be recycled in most communities. Remove any food residue and crumple it loosely for better processing at the recycling facility.



4. Toothpaste Tubes

The future of toothpaste tubes looks bright – many brands are now switching to recyclable materials! However, checking the packaging for recycling symbols is always a good idea. Some toothpaste tube recycling programs might require you to rinse and flatten the tube before tossing it in the bin.

aluminum foil

5. Coffee Pods

Coffee pod popularity is soaring, but concerns about their environmental impact often linger. The good news is that, depending on the brand, some coffee pod materials are recyclable. Check the packaging for details, as some pods might require separating the coffee grounds and the plastic pod for proper recycling.


6. Greeting Cards and Envelopes

greeting card and envelope

Did you know that most greeting cards and envelopes (without glitter or foil) can be recycled with your paper products? This is a great way to give those heartfelt messages a second life! Just remove any plastic elements, like bows or ribbons, before tossing the card in the recycling bin.


7. Plastic Utensils

This one might surprise you! Hard plastic utensils, like those found in takeout containers, can be recycled in certain areas. Look for the recycling symbol on the utensil itself, and always check your local recycling guidelines to see if they accept this type of plastic.

8. Corks

Natural corks from wine bottles aren't destined for the landfill! Many communities have special cork recycling programs. Check with your local recycling center or search for cork recycling initiatives online to find a nearby drop-off location.


9. Empty Inkjet Cartridges

Empty inkjet cartridges often have designated recycling programs, keeping them out of landfills and recovering valuable materials. Electronics stores and printer manufacturers frequently have drop-off locations for used cartridges.


10. Old Clothes

Recycling goes beyond traditional materials! Instead of tossing out old clothes, consider donating them to charities or using textile recycling programs (if available). This extends the life of your clothes and keeps them out of landfills.

empty inkjet cartridges

Don't Trash Your Recycling Knowledge

Incorporating these surprising recyclables into your routine can significantly reduce your environmental impact. Remember, checking your local recycling guidelines is critical –  they'll provide specific instructions on how to sort and prepare your recyclables for collection.


Are you looking for more information on responsible waste disposal solutions?
Waste Cost Solutions is here to help! We offer various recycling services designed to meet your needs. From residential recycling programs to commercial waste management solutions, we're committed to helping you reduce your environmental footprint.

29 Oct, 2024
In today’s fast-paced business environment, unexpected events can arise at any time, requiring immediate attention. For many facilities and businesses, managing waste in an emergency is a critical component of maintaining safety, hygiene, and operational continuity. Waste Cost Solutions offers a 24/7 Emergency Dumpster Service to provide efficient, reliable solutions when time is of the essence. What Is a Dumpster Emergency? A dumpster emergency can arise from various situations, including: Natural Disasters: Hurricanes, floods, and other weather-related events can lead to unexpected amounts of debris. Facility Accidents: Fires, leaks, and structural damage can create large quantities of waste requiring swift removal. Construction or Renovation Surprises: Projects can occasionally yield more waste than anticipated, resulting in the need for additional or larger dumpsters. Event Cleanups: Large gatherings or events may generate more waste than initially planned. These scenarios require a prompt, dependable waste solution that can minimize disruption and restore normalcy as quickly as possible. Waste Cost Solutions' 24/7 Emergency Dumpster Service Our Emergency Dumpster Service is designed to provide immediate, flexible options to businesses and facilities in need. Here’s how Waste Cost Solutions supports your operations when an emergency strikes: Rapid Response: Our team is available around the clock to ensure you get a dumpster on-site quickly, minimizing downtime and allowing you to focus on other urgent tasks. Flexible Sizes: We offer dumpsters in a variety of sizes, so whether you’re dealing with a small-scale cleanup or a major debris haul, we have the right solution to fit your needs. Compliance and Safety: Waste Cost Solutions takes all necessary steps to dispose of waste safely and in full compliance with local regulations. Expert Assistance: Our trained professionals are equipped to handle complex emergency scenarios, ensuring efficient waste removal that prioritizes your facility’s safety and cleanliness. Steps to Handle a Dumpster Emergency When faced with an emergency that requires additional waste management support, here’s a quick guide to managing the situation: Assess the Scope: Determine the scale of the waste or debris. This will help in selecting the appropriate dumpster size and ensuring timely removal. Contact Waste Cost Solutions Immediately: Call us 24/7 to request a dumpster. Our team will guide you through the necessary steps and provide the best solution based on your needs. Coordinate Clear Access: Make sure that the delivery area is clear and accessible. This will help speed up the delivery and ensure safe placement of the dumpster. Follow Safety Protocols: Ensure your team adheres to safety guidelines during the cleanup to prevent injuries and other hazards. Plan for Waste Removal and Disposal: Coordinate with our team on pickup schedules to maintain a clean, safe environment throughout the emergency cleanup process. Why Choose Waste Cost Solutions for Emergency Waste Management? Emergency situations demand efficient, reliable, and experienced waste management partners. Waste Cost Solutions combines speed with professionalism, so you can rest assured that your waste management needs are met with care and expertise. Benefits of our 24/7 Emergency Service: Immediate Availability: Our team is on standby for emergency situations, ensuring that your waste management needs are met when it matters most. Professional Equipment: We provide well-maintained, durable dumpsters that are ready to handle even the toughest debris. Experienced Support: With years of experience in waste management, we’re prepared to address a wide range of emergency scenarios with effective solutions. Conclusion Dumpster emergencies can be challenging, but with Waste Cost Solutions as your partner, you have access to fast, professional support whenever you need it. Our 24/7 Emergency Dumpster Services ensures that your business or facility is prepared for the unexpected, with timely solutions that keep you on track. For more information or to request an emergency dumpster, contact Waste Cost Solutions today. We're here to support you in any situation, ensuring a safe and efficient resolution to your waste management needs.
08 Oct, 2024
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23 Sep, 2024
As the leaves change to vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, and the crispness in the air signals the start of autumn, all of us at Waste Cost Solutions would like to extend our warmest wishes for a wonderful season ahead. Autumn is a time of reflection, preparation, and renewal. Whether it’s cleaning up your home or getting your business ready for the coming months, this season offers a great opportunity to take care of your waste disposal needs efficiently. At Waste Cost Solutions, we are committed to providing you with top-tier waste management services, ensuring that your environment stays clean and your processes run smoothly. Preparing for Seasonal Cleanups With the falling leaves and increased outdoor activity, many homeowners and businesses find themselves facing larger amounts of yard and facility waste. Now is the perfect time to plan ahead for those seasonal cleanups. Whether you need roll-off dumpsters for big projects or regular waste disposal services, we’re here to help. Our wide range of solutions includes everything from luxury portable restrooms to temporary fencing and recycling options for businesses of all sizes. If you're preparing for a busy season of events, renovations, or other projects, Waste Cost Solutions can provide the right services to keep things running smoothly. Sustainable Waste Solutions for the Fall Autumn is also a great time to think about sustainability. As part of our commitment to environmental responsibility, we encourage you to consider eco-friendly waste management solutions. From recycling programs to onsite waste reduction strategies, there are many ways to make your waste management practices more sustainable this season. Let us help you take the next step toward a greener future. Stay Connected with Us We hope this season brings you all the warmth and beauty autumn has to offer. As always, if you need assistance or have questions about our services, our team is ready to support you. Reach out to us anytime to learn more about how we can tailor our solutions to your specific needs. Enjoy the colors and festivities of the season, and thank you for continuing to trust Waste Cost Solutions for all your waste management needs!
By Sam Morady 09 Sep, 2024
When it comes to tackling big projects like home renovations, landscaping, or large cleanouts, waste can quickly pile up and cause unnecessary stress. Fortunately, Waste Cost Solutions is here to help you streamline the cleanup process with our hassle-free dumpster rental services. Why Rent a Dumpster? Whether you're a homeowner or contractor, renting a dumpster ensures you have a convenient and efficient way to dispose of large amounts of waste. Here’s why you should consider a dumpster rental for your next project: 1. A Size for Every Project No two projects are alike, and that's why we offer a variety of dumpster sizes to meet your specific needs. From small cleanouts to large-scale construction, our dumpsters can handle it all. If you're unsure what size you need, our team is always available to guide you to the perfect fit. 2. Quick and Convenient Delivery At Waste Cost Solutions, we understand that timing is critical for your projects. That’s why we provide prompt delivery and pick-up services. Schedule the delivery at your convenience, and once your job is complete, we’ll take care of removing the waste—no extra steps or stress for you. 3. Eco-Friendly Disposal Taking care of the environment is a top priority for us. When you rent a dumpster from Waste Cost Solutions, you can rest easy knowing that your waste will be disposed of responsibly. We focus on recycling materials where possible to reduce landfill waste and promote sustainability. 4. Competitive, Transparent Pricing With Waste Cost Solutions, there are no surprises. We offer affordable and transparent pricing, so you know exactly what to expect. Plus, we pride ourselves on our customer-first approach, ensuring that you get great value without the hidden fees. How to Get Started Ready to make your next project easier? Renting a dumpster is just a phone call or click away. Simply contact us at 561-417-0415 or visit our website to learn more and schedule your dumpster rental today. Conclusion No matter the size or scope of your project, Waste Cost Solutions is here to help you manage your waste efficiently and affordably. Don’t let the debris slow you down—rent a dumpster today and keep your project moving forward!
By Sam Morady 06 Sep, 2024
Waste management can be tricky, especially when you're unsure about what you can and cannot dispose of. At Waste Cost Solutions, we aim to make waste disposal as easy and efficient as possible. This guide will help you understand the differences between general waste, recyclables, and items that require special disposal. Properly sorting your waste not only ensures that your waste management is smooth but also contributes to a healthier, eco-friendly environment. Let's break down what goes where: General Waste General waste includes items that cannot be recycled and do not require special handling. These are the most common types of waste you generate at home or in the office. Here are some examples: Food scraps: Leftover food, peels, and other organic materials. Non-recyclable paper: This includes napkins, tissues, and other paper products that cannot be cleaned or reused. Broken ceramics or glass: While whole glass can often be recycled, broken glass should be carefully wrapped and placed in general waste for safety reasons. Recycling Recycling is one of the easiest ways to reduce waste and support the environment. However, it’s crucial to know what items are recyclable to avoid contamination of your recycling bin. Here’s what can typically be recycled: Clean paper, cardboard, and magazines: Paper products should be free of food residue or grease. Plastic bottles and containers: Make sure to rinse them out to avoid contamination in the recycling process. Glass bottles and jars: Similar to plastics, ensure these are rinsed before tossing them into the recycling bin. By properly sorting recyclables, you help conserve energy and natural resources while reducing landfill waste. Special Disposal Some items cannot be thrown away in regular trash or recycling bins due to their hazardous nature or the need for special handling. These items include:  Electronics: Computers, phones, and other electronic devices often contain harmful materials and should be disposed of at a certified e-waste facility. Hazardous materials: Paint, batteries, chemicals, and other hazardous waste must be disposed of safely. Check with your local waste management provider for drop-off locations. Large appliances and furniture: These bulky items often require special pickup or drop-off arrangements. Contact your waste disposal provider to schedule a removal service. Unsure About an Item? If you’re ever in doubt about what can and cannot be thrown away, feel free to contact Waste Cost Solutions for guidance. We're here to help you manage your waste responsibly. You can also visit our website for a more detailed breakdown of disposal rules. At Waste Cost Solutions, we’re committed to keeping your waste management efficient and environmentally friendly. Thank you for choosing us to handle your waste disposal needs!
medical waste needs disposal
By Tabitha Stephens 03 Sep, 2024
Effective medical waste management ensures safety, compliance, and environmental protection through proper segregation, storage, and disposal practices.
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