Symbols
What do plastic recycling numbers 1 to 7 mean?
Numbers 1 to 7 are resin identification codes. They identify the plastic family; they do not tell you, by themselves, whether the exact product belongs in your local recycling bin.
Complete answer
The answer
The code is useful because it distinguishes common resin families such as PET, HDPE, PVC, LDPE, PP and PS. Code 7 is a broader “other” category. Local programmes may accept some formats made from a resin while rejecting other formats made from the same resin.
For example, a rigid bottle and a flexible film can share a plastic family but behave very differently in sorting and reprocessing equipment. Shape, colour, additives, labels, food contamination and whether the item is packaging can all affect acceptance.
What to do
- Read the number and abbreviation.
- Check the item format, not only the resin.
- Use the local rule or a dedicated drop-off route when household acceptance is unclear.
Related WasteSpot resources
These links are optional follow-up resources. The complete answer is provided above.
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