Omaha Recycling Guide
Plastic Takeout Containers
Some Restrictions Apply
ACCEPTED: Empty, Clean Plastics #1, #2, #3, or #5
Place EMPTY and CLEAN all-plastic takeout containers marked #1, #2, #3, or #5 in a curbside recycling cart or drop-off site container.
- Rinse to remove all food residue
- Keep items loose and do not bag
NOT ACCEPTED: Plastics #4, #6, #7, or Unmarked Plastics
DO NOT place plastic containers made from #4, #6, #7, or unmarked plastics in a City of Omaha curbside recycling cart or drop-off site container. Place these types of containers in the garbage if you cannot use an alternative option.
Related Items: Certified Compostable Products, Foam Takeout Containers, Plastic Silverware
Where Else Could It Go?
EMPTY and CLEAN plastic takeout containers, plastic cups, and other serveware made from #4, #6, #7, or unmarked plastics can be placed in an orange Hefty® ReNew® bag.
FirstStar Recycling offers this special program to collect hard-to-recycle plastics in our community. To participate, you can purchase orange Hefty® ReNew® bags, which will be collected through your existing curbside and drop-off site services. When filled with accepted materials and tied shut, the bright orange Hefty® ReNew® bag is the ONLY bag that can be placed in a curbside recycling cart or drop-off site container. Learn more about the local Hefty® ReNew® program:
Did You Know
Plastic takeout containers are NOT designed for reuse. They can contain chemicals that may leach into your food if you wash and reuse them. Recycle your empty and clean plastic containers marked #1, #2, #3, or #5, or discard takeout containers in the garbage.
Tip: Some containers may look like plastic, but are labeled "Certified Compostable." Compostable products are NOT recyclable and should be placed in the garbage, or composted through a paid program at an industrial-composting facility, such as Hillside Solutions.