How to Recycle Cans in Illinois
- 1). Contact your municipality or town waste disposal company to inquire about curbside recycling pick up or the nearest municipal bin. Many communities in Illinois provide municipal recycling bins at schools, grocery stores and community centers that accept aluminum and steel cans. Local waste disposal information is available in the telephone book government pages or through an online recycling center search. If you will be utilizing curbside recycling pick up, ask if they provide the container for you.
- 2). Place a metal can recycling bin in a location where it will be readily utilized. A smaller container may be placed in areas where food is consumed as a reminder to recycle all cans.
- 3). Rinse cans before recycling if they are excessively dirty. Many recycling centers in Illinois will not accept cans full of dirt and debris.
- 4). Sort cans into separate bins for steel and aluminum. Most beverage containers, such as those used for soda pop, are made from aluminum. Soup and food cans are often made of steel. Test cans with a small magnet if you're uncertain of the metal. Magnets only stick to steel, not aluminum.
- 5). Bring your recycling container to the curb on recycling day. If you do not have curb side recycling, bring the cans to the local recycling center at your convenience. Many Illinois municipal recycling bins are available to use 24 hours a day, but others at schools or community centers may only be open during business hours.