How to use your blue box better

Different types of containers

Make your blue box a top performer by keeping the following tips in mind before you head to the curb. Even simple changes will help make the job at recycling facilities easier, increase the number of recyclables we can use and reduce costs.

• Put recyclable items loose in your blue box. Do not place items in grocery bags.
• Remove the plastic wrap from cardboard flasts used for soft drinks and bottled water.
• Remove any plastic bags from flyers and magazines.
• Put shredded household paper in a clear plastic bag and set it out with your recycling for collection.
• Break down cereal, detergent, tissue and cracker boxes. Do not put plastic, glass or metal containers inside boxes.
• Keep different types of containers separate from one another (e.g. don't put a plastic bottle inside steel can).
• Put steel can lids inside the can and pinch closed.
• Rinse/romve as much food residue as possible from recyclable containers.
• Put plastic caps back on bottles and tighten.
• Remove lids from empty paint and aerosol cans.

Keep empty propane and other compressed gas cylinders (e.g. used for camping stoves and lanterns) out of your blue box. They are household hazardous wastes and should be disposed of safely. Call the Hazardous Waste Hotline at 416-392-4330, or visit www.toronto.ca/hhw for more information on household hazardous waste.