Most Common Recycling Myths

Junk.com Clears Up Recycling Confusion

Do you know what belongs in the recycling bin? In honor of America Recycles Day, Junk.com sheds light on some of the most misunderstood recycling rules.

Many well-intentioned people are getting it wrong when they try to recycle bulky household items, mixed materials, and e-waste. Mistakes in recycling can cause entire batches of salvageable materials to get discarded.

“Most people want to do the right thing, but recycling can be confusing,” says Nicole Turturici, CEO of Junk.com. “We see items every day that people assume can be recycled curbside, when in fact they require special handling. Our goal is to make it easier for people to understand what really goes where. America Recycles Day is a reminder that small changes at home make a big difference. Knowing what not to recycle can be just as important as knowing what you can.”

Here are 10 common recycling myths, according to Junk.com.

The Most Common Recycling Myths

1. Myth: Mattresses can go out with curbside recycling.

   Fact: They’re made of mixed materials and require special recycling facilities.

2. Myth: Small electronics like phones and chargers can go in the blue bin.

   Fact: E-waste must be handled separately to avoid environmental harm.

3. Myth: All glass can be recycled.

   Fact: Not true for tempered glass, mirrors, or certain cookware — these melt differently and can damage recycling equipment.

4. Myth: Greasy pizza boxes belong in paper recycling.

   Fact: Food residue contaminates the process. Tear off the clean part only.

5. Myth: Aerosol cans are always recyclable.

   Fact: Only empty cans are — those containing leftover chemicals are considered hazardous waste.

6. Myth: Clothes and textiles can be recycled curbside.

   Fact: They should be donated or taken to textile recycling drop-offs instead.

7. Myth: Batteries can be tossed with recyclables.

   Fact: They pose a fire risk and must go to designated battery collection points.

8. Myth: Plastic bags belong in household recycling bins.

   Fact: They tangle machinery — drop them at participating grocery stores instead.

9. Myth: Broken furniture or mixed-material items are recyclable.

   Fact: Items combining wood, fabric, and metal often can’t be processed without separation.

10. Myth: If it has a recycling symbol, it’s recyclable.

    Fact: The number only identifies the plastic type — not whether local programs can accept it.

About Junk.com

Junk.com makes decluttering easy for families and businesses by clearing out unwanted junk safely and responsibly. With a growing fleet of signature trucks, Junk.com helps communities stay clean while recycling and donating unwanted items whenever possible. Visit www.Junk.com for more information.