Hey, neighbors! Recycling is one of the easiest ways we can keep our community clean, save money, and protect the planet. That said, figuring out what goes in the recycling bin and what doesn’t can feel like a puzzle sometimes. Lucky for us, the City of Quincy’s Waste & Recycling Division has some clear guidelines to make it simple. We've put together this handy guide based on the city's website to make it easy!
Why Recycling Matters Here
First off, did you know that Quincy has used Single Stream Recycling since 2008? That means we can toss all our recyclables—paper, glass, plastic, metal cans, and cardboard—into one big container without sorting. Studies show this system boosts participation, cuts down on trash, and even saves the city cash. Less trash means lower disposal costs and that’s money that can go toward things like schools and parks. Plus, recycling helps save resources like trees and metals.
What CAN Go in Your Recycling Bin
Here’s the good news: with Single Stream Recycling, you don’t need to separate anything. Just make sure it’s clean (rinse out those containers!) and toss the following into your bin with a City-supplied recycling sticker:
Paper: Newspapers, magazines, junk mail, office paper, and even paper bags.
Cardboard: Break down those boxes—pizza boxes are okay if they’re grease-free.
Glass: Bottles and jars (no need to remove labels, just rinse them out).
Plastic: Bottles, jugs, and containers with a recycling symbol (think water bottles or detergent jugs).
Metal: Aluminum cans, tin cans, and foil (cleaned, of course).
Pick-up happens on your regular trash day, so just have your bin out by 7:00 AM. Free Single Stream Recycle Stickers are available at the City Hall Information Desk, 1305 Hancock St., the DPW, 55 Sea Street, Monday through Friday, 8:30 A.M. to 3:30 P.M. and the Kennedy Center, 440 East Squantum Street
You may also call 617-376-1952 to have stickers mailed to your home.
What CAN’T Go in Your Recycling Bin
Now, here’s where it gets tricky. Some things might seem recyclable but aren’t allowed in our curbside bins. Recent changes in the recycling market mean we’ve got to be extra careful about what we include. Here’s what to keep out:
Plastic Bags: These tangle up the machines at recycling plants. Drop them off at a supermarket instead.
Food Waste: Even a little leftover sauce can ruin a batch of recyclables. Rinse everything well!
Ropes, Hoses, Chains, and Cables: These are a no-go—they mess with the equipment.
Household Hazardous Materials: Paint, batteries, and chemicals need special handling (more on that below).
Needles: These are dangerous—call Clean Harbors at (855) 633-9783 for safe disposal.
Milk and Juice Cartons: These waxed containers aren’t recyclable here anymore.
Shredded Paper: Sadly, it’s too small for our system—check the Smart Recycling Guide for other options.
Aerosol Cans: Even if they’re empty, they’re not accepted curbside.
If it’s not on the “yes” list, assume it’s a “no” for the bin. When in doubt, check out the Smart Recycling Guide by Recycle Smart MA— nice and simple!
How to Get Started
If you don’t have a recycling bin yet, grab a free Single Stream Recycling sticker at the City Hall Information Desk (1305 Hancock St.). Slap it on one of your trash containers, and you’re good to go. You can still use your old recycling bin if you prefer, but the sticker makes it official. Collection happens weekly alongside your trash, so no extra trips needed.
Beyond the Bin: Special Items
Got stuff that doesn’t fit in the recycling bin? Quincy’s got options:
Hazardous Waste: Save it for the twice-yearly drop-off days at the DPW Yard or take it to Clean Harbors in Braintree (781-380-7100).
Textiles: Drop off clothes and bedding at bins in every public school yard—available 24/7.
Electronics and More: The DPW Yard at 55 Sea St. takes yard waste, appliances, and scrap metal (check hours online).
Let’s Keep Quincy Green Together
Recycling might seem small, but it adds up. By keeping plastic bags and food waste out of our bins, we help the system work better and avoid extra costs that come back to us as taxpayers. So, next time you’re tossing something, take a quick sec to double-check. Have questions? Hit up the Waste & Recycling Division’s page at quincyma.gov or chat with a neighbor— we’re all figuring this out together!
Happy recycling!
