The question may actually be more correctly posed as "What cannot be recycled?" because nearly everything we use can now be put back into use somehow. The following tips offer insight into what you can separate in your disposables for future recycling.
1. Paper. Most paper is made from organic materials to begin with, so nearly all of it can be recycled. Old newspapers, books, wrapping paper, envelopes, cardboard, telephone directories and more can all be put back into the process and used again. Paper is usually free from food debris, so it's not so messy to collect in your household and will not attract unwelcome pests. Make sure to adopt the habit of paper-recycling wherever you work as well.
2. Batteries. All batteries, even the rechargeable ones, are considered to be hazardous waste once you are through with them, so recycling isn't a legal option, it's mandatory. Look online to find out where you can deposit your used batteries or even investigate possible buy-backs from retailers. Whatever you do, don't just drop old batteries in the trash!
3. Electronics. From cell phones to microwaves, all electronic products have at least some recycling value. Most states in fact, prohibit the practice of disposing of electronic goods into household trash and local government agencies post public notices of collection times and places.
4. Beverage containers. Aluminum cans, plastic soda bottles, milk jugs and cartons are all fit for recycling, and some can even earn you cash. These items are easy to separate right in your kitchen and easily identified and categorized. If you consider the sheer volume with which Americans consume soda and bottled water, you can appreciate the value of recycling beverage containers.
5. Metal. Any kind of metal your family may use, like canned food, aluminum foil and even TV dinner trays, can all be slated for the recycle bin. The components of these products are very easy for industries to re-use, so you might do well to look for a plant in your area that will buy the material in bulk. If waiting for it to accumulate to profitable amounts isn't an option, consider asking your neighbors or family members to pitch in with the effort.
6. Clothing. Unless the fabric is severely torn or soiled, mostly all clothes can be donated to a good cause. The next time you clean out your closet or face the fact that your kids grow faster than weeds, give the clothing to a worthy charity that will either sell it for profit or donate it to those needy. Winter coats are especially helpful if you are near a homeless shelter and other things in your home like blankets, sheets and curtains in good shape can also be recycled directly to other people.
Stop throwing the future in the garbage; the environment is not replaceable! Adopt these tips as household habits and research more ways that you can become a part of the solution, rather than contributing to the problem. Recycling is a relatively new, un-and-coming industry so take the time to support it as you help to preserve the environment that sustains us!