Plastics
Plastic food containers
plastic tubs, food containers, margarine tubs, takeaway containers, plastic pots
Can you recycle?
Sometimes
Sometimes — rigid plastic tubs are recyclable in many areas. Empty and rinse them, keep the lid on, and check your local plastics rules.
How to prepare
1. Empty the tub and give it a quick rinse. 2. Keep the lid on so it's captured at sorting. 3. Remove any film lids or paper sleeves. 4. Place it in your curbside recycling where rigid plastics are accepted.
Common mistakes
Recycling tubs with food still inside. Assuming every plastic tub is accepted — programs vary by plastic type. Including black plastic trays, which many sorting machines can't detect.
What happens after you recycle it?
Recycled plastic tubs become new containers, plant pots, buckets, and outdoor furniture.
Drop-off guidance
Many curbside programs take rigid plastic tubs and pots; where they don't, some recycling centers accept mixed rigid plastics. Check the recycling label and your local guidance.
FAQs
Can I recycle plastic food containers?
In many areas, yes. Empty and rinse rigid tubs, keep the lid on, and put them in your curbside recycling where plastics are accepted.
Where can I recycle plastic food containers near me?
Use the lookup above to check which plastics your local collection takes and where to drop off the rest.
Is it free to recycle plastic food containers?
Yes. Curbside recycling is free to use.
Can I get paid to recycle plastic food containers?
No. There's no payment for plastic tubs, but recycling them is free where they're accepted.
