How to Recycle

Information about accepted items, collection schedule, and cart placement.

Accepted Items

Here's what goes in the blue cart:

• Paper and cardboard (please flatten)
• Plastic bottles, jugs, tubs, and cups (lids accepted, remove straws)
• Glass bottles and jars (all colors accepted)
• Metal cans and cups (remove aerosol tips)
• Cartons (rinse and remove lids)

Here's what doesn't:

• Plastic bags, wrap, or film
• Batteries, propane tanks, or other flammables
• Tanglers (hoses, wires, chains, clothing, or electronics)
• Plastic or foam (plates, food containers)

Tips

• No sorting required. Put all recyclables in the blue cart.
• Lids, caps and labels can be kept on recyclable containers.
• Do not place dirty recyclables, like un-rinsed jars, in the cart.

Collection Schedule

To check your collection date, download the PickUp CBUS app on the Apple App Store or Google Play for free, call (614) 645-3111, or, look up your collection date on the 311 page.

Cart Placement

Recycling is collected in the same location your trash is collected. Containers must be placed within 1 foot of the curb or alley, with the arrow facing outward for collection, and at least 3 feet from trash or recycling carts, or any other obstructions; for alley collection place container at the alley behind your own property; Recycling must be placed out for collection by 6:00 am on your collection day. After collection, containers must be removed and stored within 24 hours. If your collection is missed or to report a damaged or stolen cart, contact the 311 Service Center.

Waste and Reuse Convenience Centers

The City of Columbus Waste and Reuse Convenience Centers will aid the public in the recovery of recyclables and other hard-to-recycle materials such as clothing, furniture, electronics, yard waste, used cooking oil and food waste. The drive-up, self-service centers provide a convenient and accessible location for central Ohio residents to recycle a wide range of materials, free of charge to residents. Learn more here.