Please browse our Recycling FAQs. If you do not see your questions, please send them to recycleright@slocity.org and your question may end up online!

Since recyclables have to be clean, how do I support water conservation efforts? Isn’t this a waste of water?

Major washing is not necessary. A light rinse to remove food is enough. Using water meant for other purposes such as dish water before you drain it out is a great way to conserve. Remember, recycling saves water and energy and reduces pollution in the manufacturing process. *Sustainable City tip: To really conserve, you might consider purchasing durable goods which can continually be reused instead of recyclables/disposables!

My recycling bin lid won’t shut because I have too many recyclables. Can I leave it partially open?

No. According to the City’s Municipal Code Section 8.04.020(A), all solid waste receptacles must have close-fitting lids that are completely shut up until the moment of service. Open containers allow litter to fly out of, or moisture to come into the load of recyclables. *Sustainable City tip: Hold onto recyclables for the next service and make sure to breakdown boxes to maximize bin capacity.

Although I know what is being collected, sometimes I have items that may or may not fall under one of the acceptable categories. How can I tell for sure whether something is acceptable?

Call the IWMA at 782-8530 or visit iwma.com and use their Recycling Guide tool to look up specific items and updated recycling information. You may also contact the Utilities Department at recycleright@slocity.org.

I’m still not sure if my item is recyclable, should I just throw it in the blue bin and hope for the best?

No. When in doubt, throw it out. Do not dispose of non-recyclable items in the blue bin unless you are certain they can be recycled. Wishful recycling comes from a good place, but can be damaging to the recycling system.

Thanks for recycling!