For printable guides that show what to put in recycle bins, and what to leave out, please visit: springfieldmrf.org/whats-recyclable-at-the-mrf
= Items that are hazardous or require special handling.
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AEROSOL CANS
Empty aerosol cans belong in the trash, unless they contain hazardous material (e.g. paint, insecticide), in which case they are household hazardous waste (see the Household Hazardous Waste Event page in this guide). A handful of transfer stations/recycling centers accept completely empty, non-hazardous aerosol cans in scrap metal dumpsters (empty cans are completely silent when the button is pushed). See the Community Recycling Information table in this guide for local disposal information. More info: mass.gov/info-details/safely-manage-hazardous-household-products.
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ALUMINUM FOIL, CANS & “DISPOSABLE” PANS
Rinse clean & recycle with bottles & cans. Acceptable items include aluminum pie pans and take-out containers, disposable roasting pans, and clean aluminum foil (form it into a loose ball no smaller than 3”). The “foil” lids from yogurt containers should not be included, as they contain a layer of plastic that causes issues when the aluminum is melted down.
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ALUMINUM SIDING (see “Scrap metal”)
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AMMUNITION, EXPLOSIVES
Call your Police Department for proper disposal instructions.
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ANTIFREEZE (see “Automotive products”)
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APPLIANCES (see “Scrap metal”)
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ARTS, CRAFTS & HOBBY ITEMS
Some paints, solvents and related materials are hazardous and should be brought to a hazardous waste collection. Always check the label before tossing in the trash. See the “Household Hazardous Waste” entry and the Household Hazardous Waste Event page in this guide for information on local hazardous waste collections. Crazycrayons.com offers a crayon recycling program.
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ASBESTOS
There are strict removal & disposal requirements for asbestos. Contact the Western Region of the Mass Department of Environmental Protection: John Moriarty: john.moriarty@mass.gov, 413-784-1100. To find licensed asbestos contractors, go to mass.gov and type “Asbestos Contractors” into the search bar.
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AUTOMOBILES (see “Vehicles”)
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AUTOMOTIVE PRODUCTS
Automotive products contain hazardous materials & must be handled with care. Do not dispose of in the trash, on the ground or down the drain. Plastic automotive product jugs that are empty and well drained belong in the trash (replace caps first).. Do not recycle them.
Many towns accept automotive products at transfer stations or hazardous waste collections. See the Community Recycling Information table and Household Hazardous Waste Event pages in this guide.
- Motor oil
Even a small amount of improperly disposed of motor oil will contaminate water & soil. In Massachusetts, retailers that sell motor oil are required by law to accept up to two gallons of used oil at no charge with an original sales receipt. Many auto supply stores, auto repair shops and quick oil change chains will accept used oil even if you didn’t buy it from them. Many towns accept motor oil at transfer stations or hazardous waste collections. For more assistance, call the MassDEP Used Oil Hotline at 617-556-1022. - Motor oil filters
Some auto supply stores (e.g. AutoZone) or auto repair shops accept oil filters for free recycling. Some municipal transfer stations accept motor oil filters. Oil filters may be thrown away or recycled in scrap metal collections only when the oil has been completely drained (while filter is still warm, puncture the dome top & drain into a collection container. Collect oil drips and dispose of properly as used motor oil; see above entry). - Antifreeze
Antifreeze is not only hazardous; its deceiving color & sweet taste may attract children, pets & wild animals. Consider having your vehicle’s radiator flushed at a service station to avoid the responsibility associated with proper storage & disposal. Some auto supply stores accept antifreeze for free recycling. Antifreeze should be brought to a household hazardous waste collection; see the Household Hazardous Waste Event page in this guide. - Brake fluid
Brake fluid is hazardous and must be brought to a household hazardous waste collection.
BABY FOOD POUCHES (see “Plastic Pouches“)
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BAGS (see “Plastics”)
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BALLASTS (See “Mercury & mercury-containing products”)
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BATTERIES
Never put batteries of any type in a regular recycle bin. Common single-use household batteries (alkaline, carbon zinc and zinc chloride in sizes A, AA, AAA, C & D, 9 volt, lantern size) manufactured after 1996 don’t contain mercury or other hazardous/recyclable materials & can be thrown away as trash. (Before disposal or storage, put plastic packing or electrical tape on the contacts of 9-volts and lantern batteries.) Check labels carefully; some batteries requiring special handling resemble alkaline batteries.
ALL other battery varieties contain hazardous materials and require special disposal. Never put these batteries in recycling or trash bins.
There are many convenient drop-off options for batteries, such as municipal transfer stations, Staples, Home Depot, and Lowe’s Stores. See the Community Recycling Information table in this guide or search online with your zip code at earth911.com. Some hazardous waste collections accept batteries; see the Household Hazardous Waste Event page in this guide.
More options for specific batteries:
- Button batteries (found in watches, hearing aids, electronics and some toys):
are accepted free of charge at watch/jewelry shops or audiologist offices. - Lead acid batteries (found in vehicles, boats, motorcycles, kids’ ride-on toys, lawn mowers, exit lights and UPS power backups) will be accepted by the retailer from whom you buy a new one (they are required to take one back at no charge). Scrap metal recyclers typically pay for lead acid batteries. Many transfer stations accept them.
- Lithium batteries (single use battery often used for cameras) can resemble alkaline batteries, but these should be recycled properly: some municipalities accept them. Check all batteries carefully before disposal; look for “Lithium” on the label.
- Rechargeable batteries contain heavy metals and can start fires; they should never be put in trash or recycling bins. Rechargeable batteries are found in rechargeable electronics such as cell phones, cordless phones, power tools, laptops, tablets, UPS battery back-ups, rechargeable toys, baby monitors, solar lights, robotic vacuum cleaners, emergency medical equipment, e-bikes, digital cameras, camcorders, rechargeable devices such as toothbrushes, razors, cordless drills, flashlights and hand-held vacuum cleaners, plus batteries that can be recharged with a battery charger. Most transfer stations have special pails or boxes for rechargeable batteries, as do Home Depot, Lowes, and Staples stores. Rechargeable battery chemistries include Nickel Cadmium (Ni-Cd), Nickel Metal Hydride (Ni-MH), Lithium Ion (Li-ion), Nickel-Zinc (Ni-Zn), and small Sealed Lead Acid (Pb) batteries (up to 11 pounds). Rechargeable batteries are sometimes labeled “mAh” or “RECYCLE – RBRC” in a circular logo. For more information and options for recycling rechargeable batteries, visit: call2recycle.org.
BEER AND SODA PACKAGING
It may look recyclable, but beer and soda cartons or cases contain plastic or bonding chemicals so that they stay strong when wet. The plastic and chemicals contaminate recyclable paper. Please place all “paper” beer and soda packaging in the trash.
Plastic six-pack rings and four-pack “snap top” can carriers are not accepted in household recycling. Flexible plastic six-pack rings get wrapped around sorting equipment at recycling facilities and pose a danger to wildlife. Cut up rings and put in the trash or collect and mail six-pack rings to the RingRecycleMe program (ringrecycleme.com).
“Snap top” six or four-pack can carriers are often made with 100% recycled plastic, which provides a market for recycled plastic. However, snap tops are not acceptable in recycling because their size and shape make them challenging to sort. Mass Brew Bros has established a can carrier reuse program; save your snap tops and find a drop off location near you at: massbrewbros.com/can-carrier-recycling and paktech-opi.com.
BICYCLES
Working bicycles in good condition may be gifted to individuals via an online sharing group (e.g. a “Buy Nothing” Facebook group or Freecycle.org), or offered to charities (search online via “bicycle donation”) and other organizations that will use them. For recycling options, see “scrap metal.”
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BOATS
See disposal suggestions for “Vehicles.” Metal boats are accepted at scrap metal dealers, while other varieties are sometimes accepted as bulky waste at municipal transfer stations (call to inquire, see local contact info in the Community Recycling Information table in this guide). All engine-type fluids must first be drained and properly disposed of.
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BOOKS
Books in good condition may be sold (used bookstores, tag sales), donated (public libraries, fund-raising sales, drop boxes at transfer stations), or shared (book exchanges, swap shop). “Little free libraries” have grown in popularity; find one near you at: littlefreelibrary.org/map. Roundabout Books, a Greenfield-based bookstore accepts dry books in any condition and can recycle unsalable hardcover books (roundaboutbookstore.com). If not suitable for reuse, paperback books & phonebooks are accepted in household recycling programs, in small quantities. Hardcover books are not accepted in household recycling programs; rip out the pages and recycle those. Covers and spines from hardcover books must be placed in the trash. back to top
BOTTLE CAPS & LIDS
Plastic caps & lids are recyclable only when fastened to a plastic bottle/jar/jug/tub. Loose plastic tops should be placed in the trash as they can create safety hazards and shutdowns at recycling facilities. Metal screw-top lids from glass jars (e.g. pasta sauce, pickle jar) should be attached to the container. Loose metal can lids are acceptable, but it is best to push them inside the can prior to recycling.
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BOXES
Clean cardboard, boxboard, and paperboard boxes are recyclable (e.g., boxes from cereal, crackers, tissues, shoes, gifts, etc.) Attached plastic windows may stay, but discard all plastic liners. Flatten.
Pizza Boxes are recyclable, as long as they are empty. A 2020 study found that greasy pizza boxes do NOT cause problems for recycled paper manufacturers. It is now OK to put the entire empty pizza box into recycling (remove all crusts, food, foil, plastic, or waxed paper). Link to the study: tinyurl.com/pizzaboxes2020
Frozen food boxes, ice cream cartons, case boxes from soda or beer, and kitty litter boxes should be placed in the trash as they are not acceptable in recycling or composting. These boxes are made with “wet strength paper,” which contains plastic or bonding chemicals that help the boxes to stay strong when wet. The plastic and chemicals contaminate recyclable paper. Do not put wet strength paper items in home compost bins or municipal or commercial compost programs.
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BUBBLE WRAP & INFLATED PLASTIC PACKAGING (Air Pillows) (see “Plastics”)
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BUILDING & REMODELING MATERIALS
Construction & demolition (“C&D”) waste includes asphalt, asphalt shingles, bricks, cement, cinder blocks, clapboard, concrete, doors, flooring, insulation, lumber, mortar, plaster, plywood, roofing, sheetrock, tiles, windows & wood. Fee-based disposal options are available at many recycling/transfer stations; for more information, call the phone number listed for your town in the Community Recycling Information table in this guide. Vehicles with a capacity greater than 5 cubic yards are subject to strict disposal requirements for C&D wastes in MA. For more information: www.mass.gov/lists/managing-construction-demolition-cd-wastes.
Used building materials in good condition can be donated to a reuse store such as Eco Building Bargains. Call prior to delivery to confirm that your materials will be accepted, or to arrange for free pickup. Items might be tax-deductible. EcoBuilding Bargains, 83 Warwick St., Springfield, MA (413-788-6900; ecobuildingbargains.org)
Wooden pallets can be reused or recycled as “clean wood waste.” Disposal options for large quantities include (but are not limited to) Martin’s Farm (Greenfield: 413-774-5631), 360 Recycling (Westfield: 413-562-0193).
Note: pressure-treated wood should only be disposed of in a landfill. Do not put it in a backyard compost pile, a brush or chipping pile; do not burn it or send it to a waste incinerator for disposal. For bulky waste disposal at local transfer stations, see the Community Recycling Information table in this guide.
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CAMERAS
Staples stores, Best Buy stores, and many electronic waste (e-waste) recycling programs accept digital cameras for free recycling.
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CAR SEATS
Car seats are not accepted in household recycling programs. Used car seats should not be accepted (or purchased) for reuse at second-hand stores or swap shops at municipal transfer stations, as it’s impossible to know if they have been recalled or were previously damaged in an accident.
Once a year (typically in April) Target hosts a car seat trade-in event (tinyurl.com/TargetCarSeatRecycle). Target accepts all types of car seats for recycling, including: infant car seats, convertible car seats, car seat bases, harness or booster car seats, as well as car seats that are expired or damaged. Materials from the old car seats are recycled by Waste Management (WM) to create new products such as pallets, plastic buckets, steel beams, and carpet padding. Target will reward those who bring in a car seat with a 20% off coupon good towards a new car seat, travel system or similar.
CARPET
Flor® offers a free mail-back recycling program for carpet squares (flor.com/recycle). Some nonprofit organizations accept relatively clean carpet for reuse. For local disposal information, see the Community Recycling Information table in this guide.
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CARTONS & DRINK BOXES
This category includes “gable top” refrigerated cartons for milk and orange juice, plus shelf-stable “aseptic packaging” for almond milk, soup, and juice boxes. Cartons are acceptable in single stream recycling programs in western Mass. In dual stream recycling programs, cartons should be recycled along with bottles, cans, and containers. Rinse cartons. Discard straws; plastic caps & spouts may remain on carton. Do not flatten.
“Paper” Ice cream cartons are not accepted in recycling. Don’t include foil drink pouches (e.g., Capri Sun, Honest Kids) in municipal recycling. See “Plastic Pouches” in this guide for recycling options.
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CARTRIDGES (see “Ink, printer and toner cartridges”)
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CELL PHONES
Cell phones should not be put in the trash due to their reuse value & hazardous/recyclable components. Never put cell phones in recycling bins. Numerous charitable & for-profit organizations accept cell phone donations. Search online using “cell phone donation.” Stores that sell cell phones also accept them for free recycling, and many cell phone manufacturers offer buy-back programs through the mail. Many municipal transfer stations also accept them for special recycling programs, as do Lowes and Staples stores. For locations, search with your zip code at call2recycle.org/locator or earth911.com.
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CHRISTMAS TREES (see “Yard waste”)
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CIGARETTE BUTTS
Terracycle’s Free Cigarette Waste Recycling Program accepts extinguished cigarettes, filters, loose tobacco pouches, outer plastic and inner foil packaging for recycling into plastic lumber and other products. Go to Terracycle.com and type “cigarette” in the search bar.
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CLAMSHELLS & CLEAR MOLDED PLASTICS (see “Plastics”)
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CLEANERS (see “Household Hazardous Waste”)
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CLOTHING & TEXTILES
As of November 1st 2022, textiles are banned from the trash in Massachusetts. There are many local reuse & donation opportunities for all textiles & shoes. Deliver CLEAN & DRY textiles & clothing to drop-off boxes serviced by organizations such as the Salvation Army (easternusa.salvationarmy.org) and Bay State Textiles (baystatetextiles.com/locations) & donation centers such as Goodwill Industries (goodwill.org). Many municipal transfer stations host textile drop boxes. DO include items that are torn, stained, with missing buttons or broken zippers, as these organizations sell damaged textiles to recyclers to be made into insulation. Acceptable items include these CLEAN & DRY items: mismatched socks, shoes and gloves; all clothing and accessories including belts, ties, underwear & purses; and linens such as curtains, toss pillows, light comforters, sheets, towels, and stuffed animals in any condition. Some animal shelters also accept old sheets, blankets, pillowcases, bedspreads, throw rugs & towels for reuse (call first).
To find local clothing consignment stores or quality used clothing, go to thethriftshopper.com. See also thredUP.com, swap.com, poshmark.com and wornwear.patagonia.com.
Bras can be donated to Salvation Army; any items that are not in good condition will be baled and sold for textile recycling. New & gently used bras can be mailed to The Bra Recyclers for distribution to women in transition around the world: www.brarecycling.com; 480-988-2283.
Some non-profit organizations target specific types of clothing to benefit those in need, such as professional clothing (see https://westernmass.dressforsuccess.org).
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COAT HANGERS
Do not put hangers of any type in recycling bins: hangers get caught in machinery at recycling facilities. Metal hangers are accepted for reuse by some dry cleaners & are also accepted in scrap metal recycling dumpsters at most recycling/transfer stations. Unfortunately, plastic hangers are not recyclable and should be put in trash when they are no longer useable. Hangers are reusable; offer via an online sharing group (e.g. Freecycle.org, “Buy Nothing” Facebook group). Some charitable organizations accept hangers for reuse or resale.
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COMPACT FLUORESCENT LAMPS (see “Mercury & mercury-containing products”)
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COMPUTERS & TV’s (see “Electronics”)
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CONSTRUCTION & DEMOLITION WASTE (see “Building & remodeling materials”)
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COOKING OIL
Never pour cooking oil down the drain. Liquids should be kept out of trash, recycling, and municipal compost bins. Lifecycle Renewables accepts vegetable oil by appointment from individuals. It also provides containers and pays for the oil at food service providers: 888-461-9831, lifecyclerenewables.com. Lifecycle Renewables transforms used cooking oil into replacements for fossil fuels. Western Mass Rendering provides dumpsters for large collections: westernmassrendering.com; 413-569-6265.
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CORKS
Corks should never be put in recycling bins, carts, or dumpsters; remove corks from bottles before recycling. Natural corks can be composted via municipal/commercial composting programs or chopped up & added to a backyard compost bin. ReCORK recycles natural wine & champagne corks (no plastic corks or screw caps); multiple local drop off sites are listed at recork.org, including Ryan & Casey Liquors in Greenfield. River Valley Co-op stores in Northampton and Easthampton host “Cork ReHarvest” drop boxes for natural corks (no plastic). There are no local recycling options for plastic corks. Terracycle offers a fee-based recycling program for corks of any type: terracycle.com. Reuse is an option; wine corks can be reused in many creative ways (search online for “cork art”).
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COSMETICS CONTAINERS
Not recyclable in municipal recycling programs. Mail-in recycling programs for empty cosmetics containers can be found at terracycle.com and maccosmetics.com/back-to-mac
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CUPS
Clear plastic cups are the only type of cups accepted in household recycling (rinse; lids and straws go in the trash). Other types of plastic cups are NOT acceptable for recycling: “Styrofoam”/polystyrene (#6 plastic), colored keg cups, and opaque plastic cups. Mail-in recycling programs for #6 cups can be found at terracycle.com.
If a clear cup is labeled “compostable,” it should NOT go in recycling. Compostable cups may go in municipal or commercial compost programs. “Compostable plastic” products are not designed to compost in home compost bins or piles.
Paper cups, including traditional paper coffee cups, are not recyclable and must be placed in the trash. Coffee cup lids are too small to be recycled. Cardboard sleeves are recyclable. Some paper coffee cups (and some lids) are designed to be compostable in municipal or commercial compost programs; check for text that says “BPI certified” or “compostable.”
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EGG CARTONS
Clear plastic egg cartons are recyclable. Paper & Styrofoam™ egg cartons are not accepted in recycling, but are often reused by backyard chicken farmers. Paper cartons may be composted in municipal compost collections or in home compost bins, if ripped into pieces.
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ELECTRONICS
State regulations prohibit disposal of screen-based electronics such as laptops, tablets, iPads, Kindles, flat screen TVs, monitors and CRTs (cathode ray tubes) in the trash. Most municipal transfer stations offer electronics recycling programs, although disposal fees may apply; see your town’s website or call town hall for pricing. Electronics that are mostly metal, such as computer towers, DVD players, and stereo components can also go in scrap metal recycling at transfer stations and recycle centers.
Staples stores accept computer-related electronic waste for free recycling; call your local store for details. Staples does not accept TVs. Best Buy accepts TVs for a fee, and also accepts a wide range of electronic waste for free recycling. For more information, call your local store or visit their website and search for “recycling.” Computer manufacturers sometimes offer electronics recycling or trade-in programs; visit their websites for details. Various charities and non-profits accept donations of working electronics, including local Salvation Army and Goodwill stores. Always call ahead to ask if they can accept your item.
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ELECTRONIC MEDIA (CDs, DVDs, VHS, Cassette Tapes)
Do not put electronic media or cases in your household recycling, put them in the trash. CD cases easily shatter, and the glass-like shards create hazards at the recycling facility. Roundabout Books in Greenfield accepts CDs, DVDs, and vinyl records (roundaboutbookstore.com). If selling or donating used media is not an option (some communities accept certain types via book donation programs), greendisk.com and terracycle.com (enter “media” into search bar) offer fee-based, mail-in recycling options.
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EYEGLASSES
Contact your local Lion’s Club (lionsclubs.org) for the nearest collection box or mail eyeglass frames and prescription lenses to: Lions Clubs International Headquarters, 300 W. 22nd Street, Oak Brook, IL 60523. In addition, eyeglasses may be dropped in a collection box at a participating Walmart Vision Center. If eyeglasses can’t be reused, put in the household trash as they are not recyclable.
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FERTILIZERS & PESTICIDES (see “Household Hazardous Waste”)
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FIRE EXTINGUISHERS
Fire extinguishers are considered hazardous because their contents are under pressure and units manufactured prior to 1984 may contain dangerous chemicals. For disposal and recycling:
- Businesses and property managers can contact their fire control service provider.
- Some municipal transfer stations accept newer fire extinguishers for special recycling along with propane tanks; see the Community Recycling Information table in this guide for local contact information.
- Some municipal hazardous waste collections may accept older fire extinguishers: ask before bringing them to a collection.
- MA Fire Technologies (West Springfield, MA) accepts all types of fire extinguishers for a fee (massfire.com; 800-244-6769).
- New England Disposal Technologies (Westfield, MA) accepts fire extinguishers for a fee (nedt.org; 866-769-1621).
FIREWORKS
Live fireworks are extremely dangerous, and must be disposed of with great caution; call your local Fire Department. Do not throw unused fireworks in the trash or household recycling.
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FLAGS
To properly dispose of U.S. flags no longer in usable condition, contact the American Legion, the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), your town hall, or scout troops. Other flags may be recycled in textile recycling programs.
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FLUORESCENT BULBS & LAMPS (see “Mercury & mercury-containing products”)
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FOOD SCRAPS (also see “Cooking Oil”)
Food scraps and leftovers are heavy to transport and contribute to climate change when they decompose in landfills; composting food waste locally makes better environmental and economic sense. Local composting options include home composting, curbside pick-up by a private waste hauler, and municipal transfer station compost programs (in Amherst, Bernardston, Charlemont, Colrain, Conway, Deerfield, Greenfield, Hadley, Leverett, Montague, New Salem, Northampton, Northfield, Orange, Shelburne, Warwick, Wendell & Whately). Find a private hauler near you at: recyclingworksma.com. Many municipalities offer discounted purchase programs for countertop collection pails and home compost bins; see the Community Recycling Information table in this guide for local contact information. For home composting instructions, visit mass.gov and search for “home compost”.
As of November 2022, Massachusetts businesses, organizations and institutions that create ½ ton of food waste per week will be required to keep it out of the trash and instead reduce it, donate it, or send it out for animal feed, composting, or anaerobic digestion. RecyclingWorks in Massachusetts provides free assistance, food waste estimation tools, hauler lists, and more at: recyclingworksma.com
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FRUIT SNACK POUCHES (see “Plastic Pouches”)
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FURNITURE
Furniture in good condition can be sold, donated for reuse, or offered via an online sharing group (e.g. Freecycle.org or a “Buy Nothing” Facebook group). If not reusable, see the Community Recycling Information table in this guide for disposal information (“bulky waste”). As of November 2022, mattresses and box springs may no longer go in the trash. See “Mattresses” for more information.
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GLASS
Acceptable items include glass bottles and jars from food & beverage, household cleaning, or personal care products. Rinse & recycle with containers. Lids can be placed back on item. (Loose lids fall through the sorting machinery.) Do not include corks. Labels need not be removed. These glass items are NOT accepted in recycling: drinking glasses, mugs, plates, vases, candle jars, light bulbs, window glass, mirrors, or Pyrex. Broken glass is also not accepted; wrap and place in trash. Bottle pumps (hand soap, etc.) should go in the trash.
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GOLF BALLS AND CLUBS
Golf balls can’t be recycled, but they may be reused. Contact local golf courses or driving ranges to see if they will accept them or donate them, along with clubs, to First Tee-Massachusetts programs to empower kids and teens through golf. (firstteemass.org; click on “donate”). Some thrift stores will accept clubs for resale.
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GREETING CARDS
Cards are recyclable with paper if they do not contain metallic inks, glitter, foil, or batteries. Remove electronics from singing greeting cards & recycle button batteries in battery recycling programs (see “Batteries”). St. Jude’s Ranch for Children runs a greeting card reuse program; note restrictions on certain brands: stjudesranch.org/recycled-card-program.
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HEARING AIDS
The National Hearing Aid Project accepts used hearing aids for refurbishment and distribution to those that need them: hearingaiddonations.org, 816-895-2410. Also check with your hearing aid specialist for reuse options. If your hearing aid is not worth salvaging, remove the button battery and recycle it in a battery recycling program (see “Batteries”), then place the hearing aid in the trash.
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HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE
First, consider using up the product according to package directions, or giving it away to someone who will. Products with label warnings & words like caustic, toxic, corrosive, poison, flammable, danger & “keep out of reach of children” all require special handling. See the Household Hazardous Waste Event page in this guide for information about local household hazardous waste collections in western MA. New England Disposal Technologies (Westfield, MA) accepts many household hazardous wastes year-round for modest fees (nedt.org; 866-769-1621). Empty containers that once contained hazardous wastes are NOT accepted in recycling; replace cap and put empty containers in trash. For safer alternatives to hazardous household products visit: lesstoxicguide.ca, or turi.org/Our_Work/Community.
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INK, PRINTER & TONER CARTRIDGES
Staples and Best Buy stores accept used cartridges for reuse or recycling (and possibly earn store rewards). Other options may be found via a search on earth911.com or find mail-in donation programs online by searching “cartridge donations.” Many manufactures have their own take back programs with free mailing labels. Search online for “(name of manufacturer) cartridge recycling program.”
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JUNK MAIL & CATALOGS
Unwanted mail and catalogs are recyclable, but it makes more sense to reduce them at the source. Here are three free services to do so:
- Remove your name from commercial mailing lists: directmail.com/mail_preference
- Stop delivery of unwanted catalogs, enter catalog name at catalogchoice.org
- End pre-approved credit card & insurance offers: optoutprescreen.com
KEYS
Unwanted keys can be recycled via a scrap metal dumpster at a municipal transfer station (see the Community Recycling Information table in this guide,) or brought to a local scrap metal dealer.
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LATEX PAINT (see “Paint & Paint-related Products”)
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LIGHT BULBS
Light bulbs of all types should be kept out of recycling bins. Fluorescent bulbs, including “CFLs” should be kept out of trash.
- Fluorescent bulbs, including compact fluorescent bulbs (“CFLs”) and the green tipped “low mercury” type contain mercury vapor and require special disposal. See “mercury & mercury-containing products” in this guide for more information. Handle carefully to avoid breakage.
- LED light bulbs can go in the trash but contain valuable materials and may be recycled with CFLs, if a collection site accepts them (see “mercury & mercury-containing products”).
- Incandescent light bulbs and halogen light bulbs are not recyclable. Wrap incandescent light bulbs in used paper or plastic before placing them in the trash.
LIGHT STRINGS
Holiday light strings are NOT accepted in municipal recycling programs because they get wrapped around sorting equipment at recycling facilities, causing hazards for workers. Light strings are usually accepted at scrap metal dealers and in scrap metal dumpsters at transfer stations. Light strings can be mailed to Holiday LEDs (holidayleds.com/free-light-recycling) for recycling; receive coupon for a discount on a future order.
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MARDI GRAS BEADS
Mail unwanted Mardi Gras beads and trinkets to the Arc of Greater New Orleans’ reuse program: ArcGNO, 925 Labarre Road, Metairie, LA 70001 (arcgno.org; 504-369-4033). Or consider donating to local nursing homes for activities; call first to make sure they can accept.
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MATTRESSES & BOX SPRINGS
As of November 2022, mattresses and box springs may no longer go in trash or Bulky Waste. Mattress recycling is now mandatory in MA, except for mattresses that are contaminated. Some charities will accept mattresses & box springs in very good condition; call first. When you purchase a new mattress, ask the retailer to take back and recycle the old one. Some transfer stations in western MA accept mattresses for recycling; fees may apply. For local recycling information, including regional drop off sites, search on your town’s website or call your town’s contact number in the Community Recycling Information table in this guide. If your municipality does not have a collection program, call a private hauler to pick up your mattress. For a map of towns and cities with recycling programs, visit mass.gov and search for “mattress.”
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MEDICATIONS & PHARMACEUTICALS
Disposal of unwanted medication must be done carefully for several important reasons. Medications should NOT be poured down the drain or flushed down the toilet. Wastewater treatment plants & septic systems are not designed to remove pharmaceuticals from wastewater. Medications should not be thrown in the trash; see below for disposal options.
Help protect the environment and stop prescription drug misuse and abuse. Bring your unwanted, expired, or unused medications to one of the sites below for safe disposal.
| Many area police departments offer permanent drop-off boxes for free disposal of prescription and nonprescription drugs, vitamins, and veterinary medications: Agawam, Amherst, Ashfield, Athol, Belchertown, Bernardston, Chicopee, Cummington, Deerfield, Easthampton, East Longmeadow, Erving, Goshen, Granby, Hadley, Hampden, Hatfield, Holyoke, Leverett, Longmeadow, Ludlow, Monson, Montague, Northampton, Orange, Palmer, Pelham, Shelburne, South Hadley, Southampton, Southwick, Sunderland, Ware, West Springfield, Westfield, Whately, Wilbraham, and Williamsburg. You do not need to be a resident to use the drop boxes in any of these towns.
Accepted items: prescription and non-prescription drugs, vitamins and veterinary meds. NO liquids, syringes (see ”Needles & Sharps” below), IV equipment or chemotherapy drugs. For more information visit northwesternda.org/addiction-recovery/pages/drug-drop-boxes. National chain pharmacies host free drop boxes for prescription medications. Call your local store for availability or search a DEA listing of disposal sites at tinyurl.com/deadisp. For acceptable items, see signage on the drop boxes, call stores or visit pharmacy websites. Some stores that do not have drop boxes offer the DisposeRX program: disposerx.com |
National Prescription Drug Take-Back Days are held every April and October. DEA’s next National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is October 26, 2024 from 10 am to 2 pm. Find dates and locations for upcoming collections by visiting deadiversion.usdoj.gov/drug_disposal/takeback/takeback.html. Take-Back Days accept prescription and non-prescription drugs, vitamins, veterinary medications, and vape cartridges (batteries not accepted; see “Batteries” in this guide). Unacceptable items include liquids, syringes, IV equipment or chemotherapy drugs.
Due to their small size and other factors, empty pill bottles are not recyclable. Be creative with reuse! For example, some animal shelters collect washed, empty pill bottles to send medicines home with adoptees.
MERCURY & MERCURY CONTAINING PRODUCTS
Mercury is highly toxic and requires special disposal. It is not hazardous when contained in a sealed device. Reduce exposure by placing items in sealed plastic bags & handling them carefully to avoid breakage. Never put mercury (or items containing mercury) in trash or recycling bins, on the ground, or down a drain. Don’t vacuum even the smallest spill. Instructions for handling mercury exposure can be found at: mass.gov; enter “mercury” in the search bar or search the web for “broken CFL” or “mercury spill.” If a mercury spill does occur, follow the MassDEP’s guide on safely cleaning it up: mass.gov/guides/massdep-mercury-information. Call the Mass DEP Mercury Hotline if you have questions about mercury or managing it safely: 866-9MERCURY (866-963-7287).
For local disposal information for the following mercury items, check your town website, see the Community Recycling Information table and the Western Mass Household Hazardous Waste Event pages in this guide.
- Fluorescent Light Bulbs
All fluorescent light bulbs (even the low-mercury bulbs with green tips) contain mercury vapor; never put fluorescent light bulbs in trash or recycling. For local disposal information see the Community Recycling Information table in this guide.
In addition:
• Businesses can see a list of vendors who can pick up larger quantities at recyclingworksma.com.
• Residents can refer to the MassDEP’s Mercury Disposal Map: tinyurl.com/MassMercuryMap
• For assistance with disposal outlets, dial the MassDEP Mercury Hotline at: (866) 9-MERCURY
Recycling options vary based on the type of bulb:
Compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) fit in standard screw-type light sockets & are made of a glass tube. They come in a variety of shapes and styles and can be encased by an outer glass bulb. CFLs are accepted at most municipal transfer stations (handle carefully and hand to attendant) and some Hazardous Waste Collections. For local disposal information see the Community Recycling Information table and the Household Hazardous Waste Event pages in this guide. Free recycling for CFL bulbs is offered at Home Depot and Lowe’s Stores. New England Disposal Technologies (Westfield, MA) accepts fluorescent bulbs year-round for various fees (nedt.org; 866-769-1621).
Larger fluorescent tubes are the types that do not fit in standard screw-type sockets. These include long straight tubes, circular or U-shaped tubes, tanning bed lamps, High Intensity Discharge (HIDs), & neon light tubing. Accepted at most municipal transfer stations and some Hazardous Waste Collections; see the Community Recycling Information table in this guide for local disposal information. Straight lamps and all others are accepted free of charge at Lowe’s Stores. Handle carefully to avoid breakage; do not tape bulbs together. New England Disposal Technologies (Westfield, MA) accepts fluorescent bulbs year-round for various fees (nedt.org; 866-769-1621). - Thermometers
Many older household thermometers (fever, candy, meat, deep fry, oven, temperature) can contain liquid mercury. A mercury thermometer can be identified by the presence of a silver bulb at the end of a glass tube. Accepted in special programs at many municipal transfer stations and some Hazardous Waste Collections; see the Community Recycling Information table in this guide for local disposal information. Handle carefully and seal in a plastic bag. If the thermometer liquid and bulb is red, blue, purple or green, it is not a mercury thermometer and it can go in the trash. - Thermostats
Updating to a programmable thermostat? Don’t throw away your old wall-mounted thermostats: they contain a significant amount of liquid mercury. Leave thermostats in one piece, place in a sealed plastic bag, and handle carefully to avoid breakage. In addition to special municipal collection programs (see the Community Recycling Information table in this guide), mercury thermostats are accepted for free recycling by some plumbers and plumbing retail stores. For local drop-off locations, go to thermostat-recycle.org. - Ballasts
Most fluorescent light fixtures produced before 1979 contained ballasts with PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls), a highly toxic substance. PCB-free ballasts are marked “No PCBs.” PCB ballasts are typically collected in special programs at transfer stations or other sites that collect larger fluorescent tube-type bulbs. Electronic and other non-PCB ballasts are safe to go into trash or bulky waste, but are often not accepted in scrap metal recycling bins. See the Community Recycling Information table in this guide for local disposal information.
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MICROWAVES (see “Scrap Metal”)
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MOTH BALLS (see “Household hazardous waste”)
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MOTOR OIL & FILTERS (see “Automotive products”)
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MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS
Hungry for Music (hungryformusic.org) accepts used musical instruments. They distribute instruments to underserved children in the US & abroad. Buy reused instruments locally by searching online.
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NEEDLES & SHARPS
MA Sanitary Code states that it is illegal to dispose of sharps (hypodermic needles, syringes, lancets, & all other medical “sharps”) as trash. Never put a container of sharps in your recycling bin. Collection programs are available in many towns; call your Health Department or see a listing of all the sharps programs in the state, go to mass.gov and type “needle disposal” in the search bar. Sharps containers are available for purchase at pharmacies, and they often include disposal options. Several mail-in disposal programs are available; search online for “sharps mail-in programs.” Stericycle is an example of a company that picks up sharps for safe disposal from businesses that generate sharps: stericycle.com or 866-783-7422.
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PACKAGING MATERIALS (also see “Plastics”)
Online purchasing has increased the amount of packaging in the residential waste stream. Most of these materials are reusable; some are also recyclable:
- Cardboard boxes can be reused. Cardboard boxes should be recycled in municipal recycling programs; flatten if possible.
- Packing paper is reusable as well as recyclable.
- Amazon’s paper mailer that says “Recycle this mailer just like a box” is recyclable in municipal recycling programs.
- Amazon’s plastic mailer and other plastic envelope mailers (single layer or bubble wrap) are recyclable with plastic bags in grocery/retail store recycling programs only (see “Plastic Bag Recycling at Retail Stores” in this guide). Do not put any plastic mailers, bags, films, or other “soft plastics” in household recycling.
- Plastic sealed air packaging and bubble wrap are reusable and are accepted for reuse by some pack & ship stores (such as UPS Stores). Deflated air pillows and bubble wrap can be recycled with plastic bags in grocery store recycling programs (see “Plastic Bag Recycling at Retail Stores” in this guide). Do not put in household recycling programs.
- Paper envelopes with bubble wrap on the inside are not accepted in recycling programs. Reuse or put in the trash.
- Meal delivery kits use thermal box liners (e.g. “Renewliner,” “QLiner,” “Climacell”) to keep food fresh. This packaging might claim recyclability, but it is not accepted in household recycling programs. Reuse, refuse (send back to company), or put in the trash.
- StyrofoamTM blocks and shapes:not accepted in recycling; see “Plastics”for special recycling collections.
- Foam peanuts: not accepted in recycling; see “Plastics”
- Cornstarch peanuts may be composted in a backyard bin, reused, or placed in the trash. However, these are not accepted by commercial composting facilities or at packing shipping stores.
PAINT & PAINT RELATED PRODUCTS
If your unwanted paint was purchased recently & it’s in good condition, consider donating it for reuse. Many school or community theatre groups will accept quality paint products. You may also offer useable paint via an online sharing group (e.g. Freecycle.org or a “Buy Nothing” Facebook group).
- Petroleum (oil-based) paints, stains, thinners, & varnishes are considered hazardous materials, requiring proper disposal. See the Community Recycling Information table and Household Hazardous Waste Event pages in this guide.
- New England Disposal Technologies (Westfield, MA) accepts all types of paint year-round for modest fees (nedt.org; 866-769-1621).
- Latex paint & water-based stains can be thrown away when completely hardened. Speed up the process by adding latex paint hardener (available in hardware stores) or by stirring in clean kitty litter to the consistency of thick oatmeal & allowing the mix to harden. When the contents are no longer liquid, you can put the open paint can (without the lid) in your household trash.
PALLETS (see wood under “Building & Remodeling Materials”)
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PANTYHOSE
Recycled Crafts recycles pantyhose, nylon knee-highs, and tights into pet toys, rugs, placemats, and table runners. They accept clean hosiery in any condition, even those with rips and snags. Email recycledcrafts@live.com for donation information, or visit: savemyhosiery.yolasite.com. Hosiery is also accepted in textile recycling programs, see “Clothing & Textiles.”
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PAPER & CARDBOARD
Place clean and dry cardboard boxes, newspaper, office paper, school papers, magazines & junk mail, cereal boxes, and empty pizza boxes in your recycling bin. Avoid items with material that is not wood based, such as greeting cards with glitter, embellishments, metallic ink, or batteries, or items mixed/coated with plastic or glued to plastic (e.g. paper shipping envelopes lined with bubble wrap). Details about paper items that cannot be recycled are provided as individual entries in this Guide, including shredded paper, hardcover books (see “Books”) and items coated/mixed with plastic. Examples include paper cups (see “Cups”), beer/soda packaging, and frozen/refrigerated food boxes (see “Boxes”). In dual stream recycling, milk cartons and soup/almond milk boxes should be recycled with containers (see “Cartons”).
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PELLET STOVE FUEL BAGS
Plastic bags should never go into household recycling programs. Some retail and grocery stores will accept EMPTY pellet bags in their plastic bag recycling programs (call first). Pellet bags must be dry and completely EMPTY. Turn inside out, shake out, flatten and stack empty bags, roll up the stack and place the roll in an empty pellet bag. Ask your pellet supplier about bulk delivery (avoids bags), recycling programs, or bag take back programs.
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PET FOOD BAGS, BIRD SEED BAGS, ANIMAL FEED BAGS
Plastic bags that contained pet food, animal feed, or bird seed are not recyclable in municipal recycling or in plastic bag recycling programs at retail stores. Unfortunately, neither are paper feed bags because they are lined with plastic to keep moisture out of the feed. Terracycle offers a few pet food bag recycling programs, some of which have local drop-off sites; go to terracycle.com and type “pet food” in the search bar. The Bag Share Project, a local group, may accept certain types of feed bags for reuse, and provides instructions on how to make bags: thebagshare.org
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PHOTOGRAPHS
Traditional, glossy photographs are not acceptable in recycling because of the photographic chemical coatings in the paper. Old photographs are safe to throw in the trash. More modern photographs may or may not be recyclable depending on the printing process and the type of paper used. Home-printed photographs that are printed on regular paper are acceptable in recycling.
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PIZZA BOXES
Pizza Boxes: A 2020 study by West Rock (a major US corrugated cardboard manufacturer) found that grease on pizza boxes does NOT cause problems for recycled paper manufacturers, as previously thought. It is now OK to put the ENTIRE pizza box into recycling…but it MUST be empty (no crusts, food, foil, plastic, or waxed paper). Link to the study: https://tinyurl.com/pizzaboxes2020
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PLASTICS
Many people assume that all plastic items are accepted in recycling, but recycling is demand-based; only those plastics that can be made cost-effectively into new products are on the “yes” list. Please note that plastic containers from food, beverage, soap and personal care products are the ONLY type of plastic suitable for your household recycling bin. All other forms of plastic must go in the trash or, when available, to a separate special recycling program. See the box “Keep These Plastics out of the Recycling Bin” for additional details.
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Keep These Plastics Out of Your Recycling Bin! Some plastic items cause problems at recycling facilities, cost too much to recycle, are unwanted by manufacturers, or are recyclable only through separate recycling programs. Please do not add these to your household or municipal recycling mix:
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Containers from food, soap and personal products:
The following items are welcome in your household recycling bin: plastic containers from food, beverage, soap or personal care products in the form of bottles, jars, jugs, and tubs. Plastic bottle caps & plastic tub lids are recyclable, if attached to the container (not loose). Plastic items that are smaller than a credit card or larger than 2.5 gallons are not acceptable because they cannot be sorted effectively. Bottle pumps should go in the trash. Please note that black plastics are not currently accepted because they can’t be sorted with the optical sorting technology used at most recycling facilities. Some facilities are starting to accept black plastics.
Other items on the recycling “yes” list are clear plastic cups, clear plastic clamshells, and clear plastic egg cartons. Cups should ideally be rinsed before recycling; put lids and straws in the trash. If a clear cup is labeled compostable, do not put it in a recycling bin. Visit springfieldmrf.org for details and graphics about household container recycling.
Bags & wrap (Do NOT place in household recycling bin):
Plastic bags, plastic films, and plastic wrap (“soft plastics”) create safety hazards, machinery malfunctions, and environmental problems at recycling facilities. Some of these materials are accepted in retail and grocery store collection programs (e.g. Big Y, Stop & Shop, Lowe’s, Staples). In general, clean and dry plastic bags and wraps are recyclable if they are: 1.) clear or translucent; 2.) moderately stretchy; 3.) marked #2 or #4; and 4.) empty and free of food residue. Two important exceptions are household food or “cling” wrap, which must be placed in the trash, and bags labeled “Compostable,” which can be placed in commercial or municipal composting or trash. See the accompanying table, “Plastic Bag Recycling” or visit https://nextrex.com/view/educate#materials1 for additional details.
Bulky, rigid plastic objects (Do NOT place in household recycling bin):
Many rigid plastic items are reusable until broken or damaged; offer them for free on an online sharing group (e.g. Freecycle.org or a “Buy Nothing” Facebook group).
Some communities offer specialized bulky rigid plastic (BRP) collection programs. Ask your community representative (see the Community Recycling Information table in this guide) about opportunities near you. BRP collections are highly selective and accept only clean, molded, rigid plastic pails, bins, crates, baskets, totes, barrels, wheeled trash toters (metal and wheels removed), and plastic lawn furniture.
Foam (Do NOT place in household recycling bin):
The recycling market for rigid foam material (aka Styrofoam™ or expanded polystyrene/EPS) is growing, but only certain blocky foams are accepted for special recycling programs. These rigid-type foam products are divided into three general categories of 1) Shipping peanuts, 2) Blocky packing material, and 3) Food-related serve ware (cups, plates, trays):
- Foam shipping peanuts:
Foam peanuts are not recyclable, but they are highly reusable. Some local retail shipping outlets accept clean & dry peanuts (call first; search for a store near you at theupsstore.com). Or offer them for local reuse via an online sharing group such as Freecycle.org or a “Buy Nothing” Facebook group.
- Large, rigid foam blocks and sheets:
Clean and dry pieces of foam packing materials and coolers are only recyclable through a separate collection. Some communities collect this foam at municipal transfer stations or at special collection events and transport it to a foam recycling facility. Gold Circuit E-Cycling in Agawam (413- 328-3187, goldcircuit.io; recycleyourfoam.com) accepts various types of foam from the public for a fee.
- Foam cups, plates, and trays:Place these in the trash. Even if they have a recycling symbol, food-related Styrofoam™ materials are not currently accepted at any recycling facilities.
PLASTIC POUCHES
Flexible plastic pouches that contained fruit purees (i.e. applesauce), kids drinks, yogurt, baby food, and health/beauty products, are NOT recyclable in municipal recycling programs. Terracycle has several different mail-in recycling programs for pouches and caps; go to: terracycle.com and type “pouches” in the search bar. Please remove all residual food and liquid.
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PRESSURE-TREATED LUMBER (see “Building & Remodeling Materials”)
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PROPANE TANKS
Most propane tanks can be refilled; many businesses that sell propane will accept tanks for reuse under specific conditions. Do not put tanks in household recycling, trash, or scrap metal dumpsters. Tanks are recyclable in special, separate programs at transfer stations or recycling centers. Do not puncture propane tanks. Close the valves on barbeque grill size tanks. Some recyclers also accept small camping-style tanks. Local municipal recycling info is found in the Community Recycling Information table in this guide; find more options at earth911.com.
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PYREX TM, CERAMIC AND PORCELAIN PRODUCTS
Offer these items for reuse. They are not accepted in recycling; dispose of these in the trash (wrap up broken pieces). Colorful ceramic/porcelain items (even broken ones) are sometimes used by local arts centers or craftspeople, so a phone call or a post to an online sharing group (e.g. Freecycle.org or a “Buy Nothing” Facebook group) may help extend their usefulness.
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SCRAP METAL
Many metal items (like bicycles or BBQ grills) can be repaired, sold or donated to extend their useful life. Because of the usefulness and value of metal, state regulations prohibit throwing aluminum, steel, iron, lead, stainless steel, copper, brass, or bronze scrap in the trash. Some metal items require special handling due to toxic or pressurized materials and should not be put directly into scrap metal dumpsters: this includes lead acid batteries, propane tanks, helium tanks, fluorescent light ballasts, air conditioners, refrigerators, and automotive parts. Many municipal transfer stations and recycling centers have scrap metal recycling dumpsters; see the Community Recycling Information table in this guide. Some scrap metal dealers will pay for metal items. Search online under “metal recycling” for the scrap yard nearest you and its requirements. Suitable scrap items should be mostly metal by weight; when possible, plastic parts should be removed.
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SHOES
Shoes, along with other textiles, are now a banned waste item in MA trash (as of November 2022). Bring CLEAN & DRY textiles & shoes to drop-off boxes serviced by organizations such as the Salvation Army (easternusa.salvationarmy.org), Bay State Textiles (baystatetextiles.com/locations) & donation centers such as Goodwill Industries (goodwill.org). Many municipal transfer stations host textile drop boxes. DO include clean & dry shoes that are well worn or with missing mates. Shoes that are contaminated with mold, bodily fluids, insects, oil, or hazardous substances are exempt from the waste ban and may go in the trash.
In addition, several organizations, such as One World Running (oneworldrunning.com), specialize in shoe reuse. Rerun Shoes accepts used running shoes at a Pioneer Valley drop spot, and can coordinate shoe drive fundraisers, visit www.rerunshoes.com or call (508) 944-2518. DSW Warehouse shoe stores have Soles4souls donation boxes: soles4souls.org. Got Sneakers (gotsneakers.com) offers a free sneaker recycling program for individuals and organizations.
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SHREDDED PAPER
Shredded paper is no longer accepted in household/municipal recycling programs. To have confidential documents shredded and recycled, bring them to area businesses (e.g. copy shops, office supply, and shipping stores). Local banks often sponsor free shredding events in the spring and fall. The material that is shredded in these programs is delivered directly to paper mills, which avoids the scattering and contamination that ensues at a household recycling facility. Otherwise, dispose of shredded paper as trash. Paper shreds that are free of plastic and receipts can go in municipal compost programs, where allowed.
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SMOKE & CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTORS
Remove all non-alkaline batteries and dispose of them appropriately (see ”Batteries”). Most household smoke detectors contain a small amount of a radioactive element, Americium-241. The quantity in each unit is considered harmless, but its presence is worrisome enough that retailer and manufacturer take-back programs exist. Google the manufacturer’s name with “smoke detector recycling” for program and shipping details. . Curie Environmental Services offers a fee-based, mail-in smoke alarm recycling program, see curieservices.com. Some communities allow smoke detectors to be thrown away in the bulky waste container at a recycling/transfer station, inquire at your town’s transfer station or town hall.
Carbon monoxide detectors are not considered hazardous waste, and can be safely disposed of in the trash after removing (and recycling) all non-alkaline batteries.
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SPORTS EQUIPMENT
Sporting equipment exchange/donation options are found locally via charitable organizations such as schools, Scout troops, or the Lion’s Club. Consider sharing via online groups (e.g. Freecycle.org or a “Buy Nothing” Facebook group).
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STEEL/TIN CANS
Rinse & recycle with containers. Acceptable items include cans from food & beverage (e.g. soup, beans, pet food, etc.), household, and personal products. Detached lids can be placed inside rinsed can. Labels need not be removed. Empty tin containers (e.g. popcorn, cookies, tea, mints, etc.) are also accepted in recycling.
STYROFOAM (see “Plastics: Foam”)
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TELEVISIONS (see “Electronics”)
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TENNIS BALLS
Check with your local animal shelter or elementary school to see if they accept tennis ball donation (schools use them to reduce the noise and impact of chairs/desks on floors). A mail-in recycling program is available at tennisballrecycling.com.
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TEXTILES (see “Clothing & Textiles”)
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THERMOMETERS & THERMOSTATS (see “Mercury & mercury-containing products”)
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TOOTHPASTE TUBES, TOOTHBRUSHES
These items are not accepted in household recycling. Terracycle runs mail-in recycling programs for oral care items (terracycle.com). Preserve® brand toothbrushes can be mailed for recycling (preserve.eco).
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TROPHIES
Contact your local trophy shop to see if they can reuse your old trophies. A Wisconsin-based trophy organization offers a fee-based, mail-in reuse program; go to awardsmall.com and search for “recycling”. A Massachusetts company accepts only metal sports or academic medals/medallions for recycling; see sportsmedalrecycling.com.
Lamb Awards (lambawards.com) reuses or recycles trophies for parts. Before you send your trophies in, drop them an email at internet@lambawards.com and put “recycling” in the subject line.
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TYVEK™ ENVELOPES
Tyvek™ envelopes (large, white envelopes that won’t rip, often from express shipments) are not accepted in municipal/household recycling, or in the plastic bag recycling programs at grocery and retail stores. Tyvek™ envelopes can be stuffed into a box labeled “Tyvek Recycling” and mailed to: CFS Meridian Recycling, 337 A Industrial Drive, Petersburg, VA 23803. For more information: (804) 732 1907 ext. 7327.
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VASES
Glass vases are not recyclable. Post unwanted vases on Freecycle: Front Door, a Facebook “Buy Nothing” group, or donate to a local garden club, swap shop, or local florist(s) for reuse (call first).
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VEGETABLE OIL (see “Cooking oil”)
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VEHICLES
Old vehicles, even inoperable ones, are valued for spare parts and metal. Consider donating them to a charitable organization (might be tax deductible). Contact your favorite charity or search online for “auto (or vehicle/truck/motorcycle/boat) donation.” Alternatively, search the Internet under “Auto Wreckers & Salvage.”
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WOOD (see “Building & remodeling materials”)
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X-RAY FILM
There are no special disposal requirements, but x-rays do contain a small amount of silver. Some hospital radiology departments will accept them for recycling. B.W. Recycling, Inc. accepts mailed x-rays for recycling: xrayfilmsrecycling.com.
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YARD WASTE (Leaves, Grass, Brush, Christmas Trees)
Throwing away leaf & yard waste as trash is prohibited by state waste bans. Some communities collect yard waste seasonally for wood chip production or composting; for local contact information, see the Community Recycling Information table in this guide. Goat farmers often accept bare Christmas trees as food. Visit www.mass.gov/composting-organics to learn about composting yard waste in your backyard.
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YOGA MATS
Yoga mats are not recyclable but can be repurposed. Search online for “yoga mat reuse,” or offer via an online sharing group (e.g. Freecycle.org or a “Buy Nothing” Facebook group).
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Looking for something that is not on this list? Here are two local resources with more information:
Springfield MRF’s “What’s Recyclable at the MRF” page.
MassDEP’s Recycle Smart Recyclopedia: recyclesmartma.org
Please help us to improve this guide for the next edition! If you encounter errors or have suggestions for changes or additions, contact us at PioneerValleyRRR@gmail.com. Thank you!