Surprising Things You Can’t Recycle in Michigan

My wife Susie and I are ardent recyclers. We want to keep as much "stuff" out of the landfill as possible. So we recycle a lot.

However, I'm learning that we are a bit overzealous in our recycling since there are some surprising things you should not recycle.

 👇 BELOW: THESE STATES HAVE MOST LANDFILLS PER CAPITA IN THE U.S.👇

With a little help from our sister station, WRRV in New York, here are some of the surprises.

Beer, Soda and Boxes

Who knew that these can't be recycled? They contain a special chemical that makes the cardboard water-resistant. Throw them in the trash!

Paper and Plastic Plates

They can’t be recycled because they’re often coated with plastic or wax and contaminated with food.

Frozen Food and Microwave Cartons

Do not recycle because they have a plastic or wax coating that keeps them from falling apart when exposed to moisture or heat. Throw them in the trash.

Tyvek Shipping Envelopes

Why not recycle? We have thought they were safe to recycle. Turns out they’re  not paper. While they look like paper, they won’t break down the same way and can jam recycling machinery.

Prescription Medicine Bottles

I recycle these all the time, but maybe not anymore. Be sure to check with your recycler to be clear.

Snack Bags

They are made with many layers of plastic and cannot be separated.

Drinking Glasses

They’re made from tempered or heat-resistant glass, and recycling is a no-no.

There are so many other items that should not go into the recycling bin, so be sure to check with your recycler to get a total clarification.