Recycling different types of plastic
Plastic is one of the most popular and useful materials of modern times. We use about 20 times more plastic than we did 50 years ago.
It's important that we handle it responsibly and correctly when it becomes waste. This is because of how popular and widespread it is.
We can optimise the lifespan of plastics by reusing and recycling items as many times as possible.
Types of plastic that can be recycled
You can recycle plastic bottles, pots, tubs and trays at home in the recycling bin.
To check other types of plastics, use the Waste Wizard to find out which other plastic items can be recycled at home.
The numbering system for types of plastic
Many plastic items have numbers on, which identifies the type of plastic it is and whether it can be recycled. View the different types in the dropdown sections below.
Type 1 plastics can be recycled.
Examples of PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) include:
- drinks bottles
- mouthwash bottles
- clear plastic jars
- some yoghurt pots
This category also includes PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol).
Type 2 plastics can be recycled.
Examples of HDPE (High-density Polyethylene) include:
- milk bottles
- bleach and detergent bottles
- shampoo bottles
- margarine tubs
Type 3 plastics cannot be recycled.
Examples of PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) include:
- plastic pipes
- lawn chairs
- children's toys
- electrical insulators
- table covers hoses
Type 4 plastics cannot be recycled.
Examples of LDPE (Low Density Polyethylene) include:
- bread bags
- frozen food bags
- squeezable bottles
- carrier bags (mainly recycled at supermarkets)
Type 5 plastics can be recycled.
Examples of PP (Polypropylene) include:
- plastic pots
- tubs
- trays
Type 6 plastics cannot be recycled.
Examples of PS (Polystyrene) include:
- takeaway packaging
- disposable cutlery
- some meat trays
- styrofoam
Type 7 plastics cannot be recycled.
The category includes all other types of plastics, for example:
- compostable plastic
- crisp packets
- CD cases