Top 10 Everyday Items You Didn't Know You Could Recycle

Recycling is an essential part of sustainable living, but many people don’t realize that several common household items can also be recycled. Going beyond bottles and paper, here are 10 surprising items you probably didn’t know could be recycled—helping you contribute more to a circular economy and reduce waste.

1. Toothbrushes

How to Recycle Toothbrushes

Most toothbrushes are made from plastic and nylon, which makes them difficult to recycle through regular curbside services. However, specialized recycling programs now accept used toothbrushes and toothpaste tubes.

2. Eyeglasses

Give the Gift of Sight

Organizations around the world collect old eyeglasses and redistribute them to people in need. Rather than letting them sit in drawers, donate or recycle them at optical stores or vision centers.

3. Wine Corks

Natural Cork Is Recyclable

Wine corks made from natural cork can be turned into flooring, bulletin boards, and even shoes. Check if local stores participate in cork recycling programs.

4. CDs and DVDs

Digital Past, Recycled Future

Obsolete CDs, DVDs, and their cases can be recycled into automotive parts or office equipment. Specialized e-waste centers often accept them.

5. Crayons

Wax That Doesn’t Go to Waste

Broken or unwanted crayons can be melted and remolded into new ones. Programs like The Crayon Initiative collect used crayons for children's hospitals.

6. Running Shoes

Step Into Sustainability

Worn-out sneakers can be turned into playground surfaces or track materials. Brands like Nike offer shoe recycling programs at select outlets.

7. Brita Water Filters

Filter Out Waste

Brands like Brita accept used water filters through mail-in recycling programs. The plastic casings and filtration materials are repurposed into new products.

8. Light Bulbs

Bright Idea: Recycle Them

Compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) contain mercury and should never be thrown in the trash. Many hardware stores offer safe recycling services for light bulbs.

9. Disposable Razors

Shave Off Waste

Disposable razors and their blades can be recycled through mail-back programs offered by some brands. It's a small item with a big environmental footprint.

10. Chip Bags and Snack Wrappers

Foil-Lined, Not Trash-Bound

Most people assume these go straight to landfill, but companies like TerraCycle accept snack wrappers for specialized recycling.

Understanding the Role of EPR in Recycling

What is the EPR Certificate?

The EPR certificate full form is Extended Producer Responsibility Certificate. It’s a regulatory document that ensures producers, importers, and brand owners are responsible for the collection and recycling of the products they manufacture or sell.

How the EPR Certificate Supports Recycling

Items like toothbrushes, chip bags, and electronics fall under the category of products often covered by EPR regulations. An EPR Certificate mandates companies to take accountability for post-consumer waste, thereby promoting sustainable recycling practices for even the most unexpected everyday items.

Final Thoughts

Recycling goes beyond just paper and plastic. From toothbrushes to razors, many items we use daily can find new life through proper recycling channels. As awareness grows and regulations like the EPR Certificate take hold, it's easier than ever to reduce your waste footprint. So next time you’re about to toss something, pause and check—you just might be able to recycle it!