How Should Trash And Recyclables Be Stored [Residential & Commercial]

Howard Author: Howard Griner | Updated on May 16, 2024

Storing trash and recyclables properly is important for the environment and the public health. If not stored correctly, trash can attract pests and release harmful odors.

Recycling, on the other hand, helps conserve natural resources and reduce pollution. Therefore, knowing how to store trash and recyclables correctly is crucial.

Taking small steps in our daily routines, such as proper sorting and securing trash, not only keeps our surroundings tidy but also plays a crucial role in the larger effort to promote a healthier planet for future generations.

Key Takeaway

  • One of the most effective ways to store trash and recyclables is to use wheeled carts. You should have at least three carts - one for trash, one for recyclables, and one for green waste.
  • Recycling is an important part of waste management, and it is essential to store recyclables correctly to ensure they can be properly processed.
  • Separate recyclables into four categories, and make sure they are liquid-free. Keep cans and plastic apart, and fold dry paper, newspapers, and magazines before storing them. If the paper is soiled or wet, you can compost it.

Understanding Trash and Recyclables Storage

Proper storage of trash and recyclables is essential to maintain a clean and healthy environment.

Here are some tips to help you understand how to correctly store your trash and recyclables.

Americans-throw-out-4.9-pounds-of-trash-per-person-every-day-—-thats-nearly-1800-pounds-of-materials-per-American-every-year

Trash Storage

When storing trash, it is essential to keep it in a secure and well-ventilated area.

This can help prevent pests and rodents from getting into your trash and causing a mess. Here are some tips for storing your trash:

  1. Use a sturdy trash can with a tight-fitting lid to prevent animals from getting inside.
  2. Keep the trash can in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
  3. If you have a lot of trash, consider using heavy-duty trash bags to prevent them from tearing.
  4. If you have food waste, wrap it in newspaper or place it in a compost bin to prevent odors.

Recyclables Storage

Recycling is an essential part of keeping our environment clean and healthy.

When storing recyclables, it is essential to ensure that they are sorted correctly and kept clean. Here are some tips for storing your recyclables:

  1. Separate your recyclables into categories such as paper, plastic, glass, and metal.
  2. Rinse out any food containers or bottles before placing them in the recycling bin.
  3. Flatten cardboard boxes to save space.
  4. Keep your recycling bin in a well-ventilated area to prevent odors.

General Tips for Trash and Recyclable Storage

Here are some general tips to keep in mind when storing your trash and recyclables:

  1. Keep your trash and recyclables in separate bins to make sorting easier.
  2. Don't overfill your trash or recycling bins, as this can make them difficult to move or empty.
  3. If you live in an apartment or condo, check with your building management to see if they have specific guidelines for trash and recyclables storage.
  4.  

By following these simple tips, you can help keep your environment clean and healthy while doing your part to reduce waste and promote recycling.

Appropriate Places for Waste and Recyclables Storage

Americans recycle
Recycling Stats

When it comes to storing waste and recyclables, it's important to do it properly to maintain a clean and healthy environment.

Here are some guidelines to follow for storing waste and recyclables in residential and restaurant settings.

Residential Settings

residential trash setup

In residential settings, storing waste and recyclables in appropriate places is important to prevent odors and pests.

Here are some tips for storing waste and recyclables in your home:

  1. Store waste and recyclables in separate bins or containers.
  2. Keep the bins or containers in a cool, dry place.
  3. Make sure the bins or containers are sealed tightly to prevent odors and pests.
  4. If you have a compost bin, keep it in a shaded area away from direct sunlight.
  5. Don't store waste or recyclables near food or food preparation areas.

Restaurant Settings

restaurant trash set up

Restaurants generate a large amount of waste and recyclables, so it's important to have a proper storage system in place.

Here are some tips for storing waste and recyclables in a restaurant:

  1. Use separate bins or containers for waste and recyclables.
  2. Label the bins or containers clearly to avoid confusion.
  3. Keep the bins or containers in a designated storage area away from food preparation areas.
  4. Make sure the storage area is well-ventilated to prevent odors.
  5. Empty the bins or containers regularly to prevent overflow and pests.
  6. Train staff on proper waste and recyclables disposal procedures.

Storing Trash and Recycle Bowls

trash collection

When it comes to storing trash and recyclables, you should keep a few things in mind to ensure that your waste management is as efficient and effective as possible.

Here are some tips to help you store your trash and recycling properly:

Trash

  1. Use a sturdy trash can with a lid to prevent odors and keep pests away.
  2. Line your trash can with a plastic bag to make disposing of trash easier and more hygienic.
  3. Make sure to tie off and dispose of full trash bags promptly to prevent overflow and unpleasant smells.
  4. Store your trash can in a convenient location that is easy to access but out of the way.

Recyclables

  1. Rinse out containers like plastic bottles, cans, and glass jars before storing them in the recycling bin to prevent contamination.
  2. Sort your recyclables into categories such as paper, plastic, glass, and metal to make it easier for your local recycling facility to process them.
  3. Use a separate bin or bag for each category of recyclable to keep them organized and easy to transport.
  4. Store your recycling bin in a convenient location that is easy to access but out of the way.

Remember, proper storage of trash and recyclables is important for both hygiene and environmental reasons.

Conclusion

To wrap it up, properly storing trash and recyclables is essential for maintaining a clean and sustainable environment.

By following local guidelines, using designated bins, and considering the nature of waste, we can minimize environmental impact and contribute to a more efficient waste management system.

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