D.C. Trash & Recycling Tips

From bags to batteries, figuring out what goes in the garbage and what goes in the recycling bin can be confusing. Here’s what you need to know about trash collection in D.C.

Skip the Bag

According to the EPA, as much as 25% of recycling contains non-recyclable items. Here in D.C., the contamination rate was around 33% back in 2017. Recycling contamination can render entire loads unrecyclable, which means it can end up in landfills. Here are some items you should keep out of the recycling bin:

• 🚮 Garbage bags, food wrappers, or film of any kind.
• 🧦 Clothing
• 🤏 Items smaller than 2 inches — plastic utensils, portion cups, straws.
• 🥤 Styrofoam
• 🥑 Food waste — we’ve got tips on how to compost in D.C.

Keep These Out of the Trash

Do you have leftover medication? According to Marlon Wright, the city’s solid waste administrator, you can throw it in the trash, as long as you remove all identification labels and mix the medication with coffee grounds, dirt, or kitty litter. You can also check the DEA’s prescription takeback program. These are some of the items you should avoid throwing in the trash:

• 🪫 Batteries — these can potentially cause fires and should never be put in the trash. Drop off batteries and other hazardous household materials at one of the Department of Public Works’ rolling events. You can also find battery drop off locations at Call2Recycle.
• Motor oil
• Paint
• Needles and sharp objects

Avoid a Fine

The city has several solid waste guidelines, and violations can result in a fine of up to $1,500. Firstly, residents should be setting trash out between 6:30 p.m. the evening before collection day and no later than 6 a.m. the day of collection. Bins should also be cleared out of public spaces no later than 8 p.m. on collection days.

And if you’ve ever had your trash can stolen, we dispel the myth of the gang of trash can thieves and share tips on how to avoid having your bin stolen.