How Clean Does Recycling Need to Be?

Recycling is easy—but only if we do it right! Leftover food, liquids, and chemicals don’t belong in the recycling bin.

But don’t worry—you don’t need to scrub everything spotless! Here’s a simple guide to how clean your recyclables really need to be…

1. The Empty & Clean Rule

Before tossing something in the recycling bin, follow this rule:

1. Dump out all liquids (a dry container is best!).
2. Scrape out food using a spatula, napkin, or spoon.
3. Give it a quick rinse if needed—a swish of water is usually enough.

*Pro Tip: If a container has so much peanut butter left that you could make another sandwich, it’s too dirty to recycle!

See the full list of what’s accepted in Sioux Falls recycling bins here

What About Food Waste?

Food belongs in compost or the trash—not in your recycling bin! Here’s how to reduce waste at home:

• Compost Your Scraps – Start a backyard compost bin or check out the City of Sioux Falls compost guide.
• Store Leftovers Right – Freeze extra food so it doesn’t go bad.
• Donate Unused Food – Organizations like Feeding South Dakota accept nonperishable and fresh food donations.

What About Cleaning & Chemical Bottles?

Many cleaning product Bottles can be recycled, but hazardous chemicals CANNOT.

If you’re recycling a chemical container, please protect our team:

1. Triple rinse it (fill with water, shake, empty—repeat 3 times).
2. Remove the cap and let it air dry.
3. Make sure it’s completely empty before recycling.
4. If still unsure, check out our rinse guide here.

Any remaining chemicals or hazardous waste should be taken to the Sioux Falls Household Hazardous Waste Facility. See what they accept here.

4. Why Does Clean Recycling Matter?

Keeping your recycling clean isn’t just about following rules—it actually helps the whole system work better!

• Messy recycling can ruin good materials. A dirty peanut butter jar can contaminate clean paper or cardboard, making it unrecyclable.
• It prevents smells and pests. Dirty recyclables attract flies, maggots, and rodents.
• It keeps machines running. Food and sticky residue can gum up recycling equipment, slowing down the process.
• It’s respectful to the workers. If you toss in messy or incorrect items, real people have to pull them out by hand. Think of them before you toss it in!

5. Still Unsure? Ask Us!

Recycling doesn’t have to be confusing. If you’re not sure how to recycle something, check out BINfluencer’s waste diversion directory or reach out to us!

By following these simple steps, you’ll be helping Sioux Falls recycle more and waste less. Thanks for doing your part!