New to Recycling?

Recycling in Macomb, Oakland, and Wayne counties can be easily managed by following a few simple, universal rules known as the "Know It Before You Throw It" guidelines. 

The 4 Golden Rules for New Dumpster Users (Tri-Counties)

  1. Keep it Clean, Empty, and Dry: Rinse all food and liquid residue from containers (bottles, cans, jars, and plastic tubs). Food residue is the number one cause of contamination and can ruin an entire batch of recyclables.

  2. Keep it Loose (No Plastic Bags!): Place all recyclables directly into your curbside bin or drop-off container. Never put recyclables inside a plastic bag, as bags wrap around sorting equipment and cause facility shutdowns.

  3. Focus on the "Big 5" Materials: The items universally accepted across all programs are the safest bet:

  • Cardboard & Paper: Flatten all boxes. Get rid of any plastic, metal or other items attached to the cardboard or paper. Greasy pizza boxes must go in the trash (tear off the clean top half to recycle).

  • Metal Cans: Aluminum and steel/tin food cans and beverage cans.

  • Glass Jars & Bottles: All colors are accepted.

  • Rigid Plastics: Focus on bottles, jugs, and tubs (e.g., milk jugs, detergent bottles, yogurt containers).

    4. "When in Doubt, throw it out": The biggest mistake beginners make is "wishcycling"—putting items they hope are recyclable into the bin. If you are unsure whether an item is accepted, put it in the trash to avoid contaminating the whole load. 

What to AVOID Putting in Your Curbside RECYCLING Bin

Plastic Bags & Wrap: Must be taken to participating grocery stores.

  • Styrofoam: Styrofoam is not generally recyclable in standard curbside service.  Some counties have free drop off available for Styrofoam only.  www.earth911.com is a great online resource for recycling tips and locations.

  • Food Waste or Liquids: All containers must be clean of food waste and free of any liquids at all. 

  • "Tanglers": Hoses, ropes, cords, and metal hangers jam sorting machines. These items should be put in regular trash. 

  • Hazardous Waste & Electronics: Batteries, light bulbs, paint and more require special drop-off programs through your county or local municipality. 

Next Step: Check Your Local Rules

Always check your specific township or city's guidelines (often found on their website or your waste hauler's website), as rules for less common items may vary.