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Changes to the recycling list

These are the changes to our recycling list since July 2025: 

Pizza boxes


  • Empty takeout pizza boxes can go in the recycling container, even if greasy.
  • Remove food, liners and plastic.
  • Frozen pizza boxes go in the trash.


Plastic bottles, jars and tubs


  • Plastic bottles, jars and tubs, must be 2 inches by 2 inches or larger. 
  • Smaller items go in the trash.

Plastic caps


  • Empty plastic bottles and jars can now be recycled with their caps screwed on.
  • Empty, rinse and screw caps on.
  • No caps on paper cartons or glass bottles. 

Shredded paper


  • Shredded paper can no longer go in the recycling. 
  • Put shredded paper in the trash, use a shredding service, or take it to a recycling center. 
  • Bags of shredded paper can break open easily and make a mess.

Tips to prevent food from going bad

Visit the Eat Smart, Waste Less website for tips on reducing food waste and getting the most out of your groceries.

Shop with meals in mind.

Make a shopping list and plan your meals.

Prepare now to eat later. Prep ingredients ahead of time.

Keep it fresh longer. Storing food properly keeps it fresh and tasty.

Check out the Eat Smart, Waste Less video playlist.

Choose the container that fits your needs

Are you using the right size garbage container? If your container is often overflowing or empty on your collection day, you may want to adjust your service level. 



  • Call your garbage and collection company to change sizes.
  • Choose from four container sizes.

Reduce food waste that goes to landfills

Nearly 30% of garbage is food scraps. Composting turns food scraps and yard debris into healthy soil and also helps reduce pollution. Participate in a curbside compost collection or make your own compost at home to help reduce food waste sent to landfills.

Collecting food scraps is easy

Place your food scraps container in a convenient spot.

Collect all your food scraps in the container.

Put the food scraps into the yard waste container.

Learn how to make your own compost at home

What to do with these things

Bulky waste


  • Donate items in good condition.
  • Try curbside pickup for furniture and appliances that can no longer be used.
  • Call your collection company for pricing and to schedule a pickup.

Plastic nursery pots


  • Put clean, rigid plant pots larger than four inches in diameter or up to five gallons in the recycling bin.
  • Crinkly and easy-to-crush pots and trays go in the garbage container.

Compostable packaging and utensils


  • Put them in the garbage.
  • Do not put in the food and yard waste container.

Get the Garbage and Recycling Day app

Use the Garbage and Recycling Day tool online or download the app to:


  • Download the app on your phone.
  • View or print a collection calendar.
  • Sign up for collection reminders and schedule change alerts.
  • Find special events and drop-off options.

You are receiving this email because you have interacted with Washington County Solid Waste & Recycling. Please add recycle@washingtoncountyor.gov to your address book so our emails can reach your inbox!

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