If you’ve debated whether something is trash or recycling and ultimately tossed it in the recycling bin thinking, ‘surely that’s recyclable’ you might be a wishcycler. Wish-cycling, a term coined by Bill Keegan, refers to “the practice of tossing questionable items in the recycling bin, hoping they can somehow be recycled.” While it feels like you’re doing the right thing, wishcycling is actually pretty harmful. Wishcycling costs money, time, and resources because every time a rogue item finds its way into the sea of recyclable items, the whole system can grind to a halt. The previously clean batch of recycling items is now contaminated and all of it may have to be thrown out. The challenge of contaminated recyclables continues to grow but you can make a difference!

First step – just like mom used to say, do your homework! Click here to find out what our recycling program accepts and what it doesn’t. If you’re unsure, it’s actually better to put something into the trash than to toss it in the recyclable bin and contaminate the entire load.

Some of the most common items that are wishcycled include contaminated items (items that are wet, covered in food waste, etc.), plastic bags, light bulbs and batteries. But don’t despair! Our local Lowe's and Walmart stores offer in-store recycling for plastic plant pots, plastic bags, CFL bulbs and rechargeable batteries! Just drop them off with any associate and they will recycle them for you! Dropping CFL bulbs into the recycling can contaminate the recycling load and can also injure workers, so it’s especially important to dispose of CFL bulbs properly. Simply collect your CFL bulbs and drop them into the appropriate in-store recycling bin, and Lowe’s will dispose of them properly. Have you recently purchased a new power tool? Recycle your old removable and rechargeable battery (of any brand) at a Lowe’s in-store recycling bin. Since these batteries can combust, it is critical that you cover the positive terminal on the battery (marked with a "+" sign) with electrical or duct tape and place in the kiosk. Lowe’s associates are happy to help if you need assistance.

Do you toss your plastic bag full of other plastic bags into the recycling, hoping they can be recycled? Take them to your local Lowe’s, Walmart, or grocery store instead and toss them into the store’s in-store recycling center. If you don't see the recycling center, ask any store associate where they belong.