Recyclopedia By Category

RECYCLOPEDIA - The Three Rs of Recycling 

 
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), approximately 75% of the trash Americans throw away each week is recyclable. Yet only 25% is actually recycled. Simple steps can help our home, our families and the environment. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. Small recycling efforts make a significant impact.
 
Recycling is more than just filling the red and blue bins every week. There are many questions you can ask yourself from the time of purchase onward. What is it made of? Is the packaging recyclable? How long will it last? What will I do with it once I am done with it? Does it have any life left? Getting into the habit of thinking this way will help you make “reduce” and “reuse” part of the recycling process.
 
Just as important as recycling is to keep your recyclables free of contamination. For example, plastic bags can be recycled, but not curbside. If they are added to your recycling bins, they can clog up the machinery in the transfer station. As another example, greasy pizza boxes should be discarded rather than added to your paper and cardboard bin. The goal is to recycle right, and the information you need can be found in this Recyclopedia.
 
If you cannot find an item in our database, see a mistake, or have other solutions, please email us with your suggestions, corrections and updates. Thank you!
 

 Search the Recyclopedia

 
Categories

 

Aerosol Cans

Reduce/Reuse

Please recycle.

Recycle

If empty and clean, recycle in the mixed recycling bin. Recycle the plastic top as well.

Disposal

If can is not empty, it must be treated as hazardous waste.  Westchester County's Household Material Recovery Facility (H-MRF) is located on the Grasslands Campus at 15 Woods Road, Valhalla, NY.  Schedule a drop-off time here: https://environment.westchestergov.com/h-mrf-reservation

The County periodically holds a Household Recycling Day on a weekend at FDR Park in Yorktown Heights.  Most of the materials accepted at the H-MRF are also accepted on these days. More information here: https://environment.westchestergov.com/news/2583-household-material-reco...

Antennas, TV

Reuse

Currently there is no reuse option available for this item.

Recycle

This is scrap metal and can be recycled curbside by scheduling a Wednesday special pickup.  Make an appointment for pickup here:
https://croton.seamlessdocs.com/f/metalpickup

Disposal

This item should be recycled.

Bedding, Sheets, and Towels

Reuse

If in useable, good condition, consider donating:

Love in Action in Yorktown Heights

https://yorktownloveinaction.com/

Goodwill

https://www.goodwill.org/

Big Brothers Big Sisters: Schedule a pickup (877) 399-2570, or put in donation bin located in Cortlandt Manor

If not suitable for human use, consider donating to Adopt-a-Dog in Armonk, NY. Please call first.

https://adopt-a-dog.org/

 

Recycle

Textiles can now be dropped off at Westchester County's Household Materials Recovery Facility (H-MRF) located on the Grasslands Campus, 15 Woods Road, Valhalla, NY.  They will either be donated or recycled depending on their condition. Schedule a drop-off time here: https://environment.westchestergov.com/h-mrf-reservation

Disposal

These can be disposed of as waste, but the reuse and recycle options above will keep them out of a landfill or incinerator.

Belts, leather/plastic

Reuse

Belts in good condition can be donated to:

Love in Action in Yorktown
https://yorktownloveinaction.com/


Goodwill
https://www.goodwill.org/

Recycle

Currently there is no recycle option for this item.

Disposal

This item is trash and can be placed curbside, but the options listed under "reuse" will prevent it being sent to a landfill or incinerator.

Bicycles

Reuse

If in working condition, you could try selling it through Craig's List, or consider posting for free on Freecycle.org. Bike enthusiasts may be interested in Recycle-A-Bicycle, which accepts adult and children's bikes.

Donate your used bicycles to Danny's cycles in Scarsdale. Danny's accepts adult and children's bikes, but there is a greater need for adult bikes.

dannyscycles.com

 

Recycle

If unusable, remove non-metal parts and recycle curbside by scheduling a Wednesday special pickup.  Make an appointment for pickup here:

https://croton.seamlessdocs.com/f/metalpickup

Disposal

Should be reused or recycled.

Binders, 3-Ring

Reduce/Reuse

If lightly used you can donate to Good Will or Love in Action.

Recycle

Binders must be dissected in order to be recycled. Cut off the metal 3-ring mechanism and place in comingled bin. Extract the cardboard and vinyl from the front and back covers.  Vinyl goes in the comingled bin and cardboard in the paper and cardboard bin.

Disposal

Should be recycled. If you cannot take the binder apart, the entire item may be placed with waste.

Brita Water Filters

Reuse

 

Recycle

Brita water filters are #5 plastic. You may recycle.

Disposal

Please recycle.

Candy Wrappers

Reduce/Reuse

 

Recycle

Currently this item cannot be recycled.

Disposal

Place with waste.

Capri-Sun and Other Brand Juice Pouches

Reduce/Reuse

 

Recycle

There is currently no recycling option for this item.

Disposal

Place in trash.

Caps, Bottle (Plastic, Metal)

Reuse

Please recycle.

Recycle

Recycle in the mixed bin.

Disposal

Please recycle.

Carpets, Rugs, and Padding

Reduce/Reuse

If rugs are small, animal shelters may accept them, but call first. SPCA of Westchester: (914) 603-7132

If in good condition, offer on Freecycle

https://groups.freecycle.org/group/WhitePlainsNY/posts/all

or donate on Greendrop

https://www.gogreendrop.com/acceptable-items

Recycle

In addition to clothing, the expanded textile recycling program now provides residents the opportunity to recycle shoes, sneakers, slippers, boots, backpacks, purses, duffle bags, gloves, sheets, towels, blankets, curtains, leather, throw rugs, pet clothing, and more. The items can be in any condition (torn, worn, stained, broken zippers, etc.) as long as they are clean, dry, and odorless. A full list of accepted items can be found online at: https://environment.westchestergov.com/residents/recycling-guidelines/textiles

Residents can dispose of their textiles and other hard-to-get-rid-of household waste by making a convenient appointment with the County’s Household-Material Recycling Facility (H-MRF), 15 Woods Road, Valhalla.  The H-MRF is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. by appointment only. For more information about the H-MRF, or to make an appointment today, visit https://environment.westchestergov.com/facilities/h-mrf or call (914) 813-5425.

Disposal

If your item is not appropriate for reuse, place with waste. Carpets/rugs/padding can be picked up on trash days.

 

Catalogs

Reduce/Reuse

Please recycle.

Recycle

Put in recycling bin with paper and cardboard.

Disposal

This item should be recycled.

CD's and CD Cases

Reuse

Barter, sell or donate.

You may also donate to the Croton Free Library's annual book and CD sale.  Collection bins are found at the base of the library parking lot.

Recycle

CD cases can be recycled in the mixed recycling bin. CDs cannot.

Greendisk is a company that specializes in recycling electronic waste, including CDs.  This is a mail-in program. https://www.greendisk.com/gdsite/default.aspx

 

Disposal

Can be disposed of as trash, but the options listed under "reuse" and "recycle" will avoid having them go to a landfill or incinerator.

Ceramics

 

Reuse

If in good condition, sell or consider donating to a local thrift shop.

Recycle

Currently there is no recycle option available for this item.

Disposal

If the item is broken, place with waste.

This item may be considered waste and placed for pickup, but reuse options will avoid it being discarded into a landfill.

Charcoal Lighter Fluid

This material is hazardous waste and must be disposed of properly. This item cannot be placed with your waste for pickup.

Reuse

Currently, there is no reuse option available for this item.

Recycle

 

If empty and clean, the metal or plastic container can be recycled. Rinse and leave the top off.

Recycle plastics #1-7 in mixed recycling bin.

Recycle metal curbside by scheduling a Wednesday special pickup.  Make an appointment for pickup here:

https://croton.seamlessdocs.com/f/metalpickup

 

.

Disposal

Do not put lighter fluid in the trash or down the drain. It is hazardous waste and can be disposed of at Westchester County's Hazardous Materials Recovery Facility. H-MRF is located on the Grasslands Campus: 15 Woods Road, Valhalla, NY.  Schedule a drop-off time here: https://environment.westchestergov.com/h-mrf-reservation

The County periodically holds a Household Recycling Day on a weekend at FDR Park in Yorktown Heights.  Most of the materials accepted at the H-MRF are also accepted on these days. More information here: https://environment.westchestergov.com/news/2583-household-material-reco...

 

Christmas Trees

Reuse

There is currently no reuse option for this item.

Recycle

There is currently no recycle option for this item.

Disposal

Holiday trees, untrimmed and unbagged, will be collected curbside during the month of January.

Cigarette Packs

Reuse

Currently, there is no reuse option available for this item.

Recycle

Remove the inner foil and place with paper and cardboard for recycling.

Disposal

Please recycle.

Clothes hangers, metal

Reduce/Reuse

Currently, there is no reuse option available for this item.

Recycle

Can be recycled as scrap metal. Or bring wire clothes hangers back to your local dry cleaner. They should be in good condition.

Scrap metal can be recycled curbside by scheduling a Wednesday special pickup.  Make an appointment for pickup here:
https://croton.seamlessdocs.com/f/metalpickup

Disposal

Please recycle.

Clothes hangers, vinyl-coated

Reduce/Reuse

If hangers are in good condition, donate them to a dry cleaner or thrift store.

Recycle

Currently, there is no recycle option available for this item.

Disposal

This item can be disposed of in the trash.

Clothes, Damaged (Not Reusable)

Reduce/Reuse

If you have enough rags, see "Recycle."

Recycle

The Village of Croton-on-Hudson has partnered with Helpsy to offer a free, home pickup clothing recycling service for residents. Helpsy will accept clean, dry, odorless clothing. Damaged clothing can be turned into rags for industrial use or stuffing and insulation. Croton residents can visit www.helpsy.com/crotononhudsonny and schedule at-home pickups on Thursdays, starting March 7, 2024. After scheduling a pickup, residents can leave the items at their front door in clearly labeled plastic bags. Drivers make home pickups between 7 am and 5 pm. Helpsy recommends requesting a pickup when you have a minimum of 3 bags to minimize emissions. For additional questions, please email info@helpsy.co or call 1-800-244-6350.

Goodwill will accept clothes for recycling. The clothing gets shredded and delivered in bulk to foreign countries for repurposing.  For drop off sites, go to the Goodwill website.

Greentree Textiles recycles fabric.  They can be found at the Ossining Farmers market every Saturday:

https://www.greentreetextiles.org/donate/

All kinds of clothing can be dropped off at Westchester County's Household Materials Recovery Facility, which will ensure they will be reused or recycled. H-MRF is located on the Grasslands Campus: 15 Woods Road, Valhalla, NY.  Schedule a drop-off time here: https://environment.westchestergov.com/h-mrf-reservation

 

Disposal

This item may be considered waste and placed for pickup, but the other disposal options outlined will avoid it being discarded into a landfill or incinerated.

Clothes, Good Condition (Suitable for Donation)

Reduce/Reuse

Sell, hand down, or donate. The following organizations accept clothes:

Recycle

The Village of Croton-on-Hudson has partnered with Helpsy to offer a free, home pickup clothing recycling service for residents. Helpsy will accept clean, dry, odorless clothing. Croton residents can visit www.helpsy.com/crotononhudsonny and schedule at-home pickups on Thursdays, starting March 7, 2024. After scheduling a pickup, residents can leave the items at their front door in clearly labeled plastic bags. Drivers make home pickups between 7 am and 5 pm. Helpsy recommends requesting a pickup when you have a minimum of 3 bags to minimize emissions. For additional questions, please email info@helpsy.co or call 1-800-244-6350.

Fabric is now accepted, and sent out either for reuse or recycling, by Westchester County's Household Materials Recovery Facility. H-MRF is located on the Grasslands Campus: 15 Woods Road, Valhalla, NY.  Schedule a drop-off time here: https://environment.westchestergov.com/h-mrf-reservation

Disposal

This item may be put out as waste, but the "reuse" and "recycle" options will avoid sending it to a landfill or incinerator.

Cooking Oil

Reuse

Currently, there is no local reuse option available for this item.

Recycle

Currently, there is no recycling option available for this item.

Disposal

Place with waste.  If liquid, absorb with kitty litter first.  Do not put large quantities of cooking oil down the drain, even when mixed with hot water.  Drains are not made to handle grease.  And oil pollutes local waterways.

Corks

Cork is a biodegradable, recyclable material that doesn't need to be disposed of in a landfill.

Reuse

Cork is a natural tree product that can be ground up and used as mulch for your houseplants to help them retain moisture.

Cork can also be composted.

Recycle

ReCork is a national organization that recycles cork into products such as shoe soles.

corkhttps://recork.com/us/

The following local businesses are drop-off locations for ReCork:

Grape Expectations, 92 N. Broadway,
Tarrytown, NY, 10591
914-332-0294

Best Wine Purveyors,210 Marble Avenue
Pleasantville, NY, 10570
914-579-2280

Call to confirm drop-off hours.

Disposal

Please reuse or recycle to avoid it being discarded into a landfill.

Crayons

Reuse

Currently, there is no reuse option available for this item.

Recycle

Crazy Crayons has started the National Crayon Recycle Program, turning old and broken crayons into new crayons. This is a mail in program. See their website for details, or call (952) 847-0455.
 

Disposal

This item may be considered waste and placed for pickup, but the other disposal option outlined under "Recycle" will avoid it being discarded into a landfill or incinerator.

Crocs

Reduce/Reuse

Many Crocs distributors accept gently used Crocs back for donation. The Crocs website will direct you to locations that accept donations. Crocs forwards the shoes on to Soles4Souls.

You can donate your Crocs directly to Soles4Souls which collects shoes and distributes them to people in need all over the US and the world.  There is a drop-off site at Designer Shoe Warehouse in Cortlandt Town Center, 3091 E. Main Street, Mohegan Lake.  Bring shoes up to the cashier in the store to donate. (Phone: 914-529-7001)  The East Coast mail-in center is located at c/o ADS Logistics, LP, 23 Mack Drive, Edison, N.J. 08817.

 

Recycle

There is currently no recycle option for this item.

Disposal

This item may be considered waste and placed for pickup.

Crutches and other medical equipment

Orthotics, crutches, splints, canes, wheelchairs, and braces.

Reuse

AFYA FOUNDATION

https://afyafoundation.org/get-involved/donate-supplies/

Donations of medical supplies are an integral part of Afya's work and are sought after and welcomed. Local donation drop off location is:

140 Saw Mill River Road
Yonkers, NY 10701
914-920-5081

Alternatively, donate to Good Will or Freecycle.org.

Recycle

Currently, there is no recycle option available for this item.

Disposal

This item may be considered waste and placed for pickup, but the other disposal options outlined under "Reuse" will avoid it being discarded into a landfill or incinerated.

Cups, Expanded Polystyrene (Known As Styrofoam, a Dow Product)

Some haulers pick up polystyrene but it does not get recycled.

Reduce/Reuse

Currently, there is no reuse option available for this item.

Recycle

Currently, there is no recycle option available for this item, which is a good reason to reduce the number used.

Disposal

Place with trash.

Cups, Paper and Cardboard

Reduce/Reuse

 

Recycle

Recycle all clean cups in paper bin. Rinse as required.

If waxed they cannot be recycled.

Disposal

Please dispose of as trash if they cannot be cleaned, or if they are waxed. 

Cups, Plastic

Much plastic ware, including cups, can be recycled.

Reduce/Reuse

Some plastic cups can be washed and reused.

Recycle

You can recycle numbered (#1-7) plastic. All must be rinsed and placed in the mixed recycling bin.

Disposal

If not numbered (#1-7), place with waste.

Diapers, Disposable

Reuse

 

Recycle

Currently, there is no recycle option available for this item.

Disposal

Place with waste. This item is not accepted for recycling. Diapers are designed not to break down when wet, and for the same reason do not break down in the recycling process.

Dishes

Dishes cannot be recycled with glass.

Reuse

Sell, barter, or donate:

Recycle

There is currently no recycling option for ceramics.

Disposal

If broken, place with waste.

This item may be considered waste and placed for pickup, but the other disposal options outlined under "Reuse" will avoid it being discarded into a landfill.

Dog / Cat Food Bags

Reuse

Currently, there is no reuse option available for this item.

Recycle

Currently, there is no recycling option for this item.

Disposal

Place with waste.

Egg Cartons that are made of Expanded Polystyrene (Known as Styrofoam, a Dow Product)

Reuse

 

Recycle

There is currently no recycling option available for this item.

Disposal

 

Egg Cartons, Cardboard

Reuse

If you will not be reusing your egg carton, please recycle.

Recycle

Put in the paper and cardboard recycling bin.  Or, tear apart and add to your compost bin.

Disposal

Please recycle.

Exercise Equipment

Treadmills, home gyms, ellipticals, stair climbers, rowers, stationary bikes, barbells

Reuse

If in good condition, consider selling or donating.

Recycle

Scrap metal can be recycled curbside by scheduling a Wednesday special pickup.  Make an appointment for pickup here:

https://croton.seamlessdocs.com/f/metalpickup

Disposal

Depending on what the equipment is, it may be placed at the curb for pickup on a regular trash day.  Please reuse or recycle if possible to avoid having it discarded into a landfill.

Expanded Polystyrene (Known as Styrofoam, a Dow Product) Peanuts

Styrofoam is a brand name (Dow trademark) for expanded polystyrene (EPS). When plastic is expanded, air is injected into the resin to create foam. This air can't be removed, so it's technically impossible to "recycle" Styrofoam (because you can't turn it back into regular polystyrene). But it can be shredded into flakes to make new EPS, which is essentially reusing it. Because it's usually cheaper to manufacturer new EPS from virgin plastic, the recycling market is limited. Dart is one of the largest US EPS "recyclers." Click here to visit their website.

Reduce/Reuse

 

Recycle

Expanded polystyrene peanuts and bubble wrap are accepted at UPS Stores for recycling. (This program was put on hold during the pandemic.)

Disposal

This item is waste and can be placed for pickup, but the other disposal options outlined under "Recycle" will avoid it being discarded into a landfill.

Expanded Polystyrene (Known as Styrofoam, a Dow Product), Packaging

Reduce/Reuse

Currently, there is no reuse option available for this item.  When you have a choice, please purchase items that are not packaged in Styrofoam.

Recycle

Currently, there is no recycle option available for packaging made of expanded polystyrene (known as Styrofoam, a Dow product.)

The exception is expanded polystyrene peanuts which are accepted at UPS Stores for recycling.

Disposal

Styrofoam trays and packaging are not accepted yet for recycling. Even though many expanded polystyrene products now have recycling numbers (#6) on them, they cannot be recycled. Place these items with waste for pickup.

When you have a choice, please purchase items that are not packaged in Styrofoam.

Fishing line (monofilament line)

Reuse

Currently, there is no reuse option available for this item.

Recycle

This item is waste and cannot be recycled.

Disposal

Please dispose of as waste.

Flag, American

Do not discard flags with waste. Federal law prescribes proper flag etiquette and disposal. See instructions below.

Reuse

Currently, there is no reuse option available for this item.

Recycle

Currently, there is no recycle option available for this item.

Disposal

Federal Law, 4 U.S.C. Section 8(k), states: "The flag, when it is in such condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem for display, should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning."

This process is called a flag retirement. Please send an email to scoutmaster@troop28croton.org to request that the flag be retired. Croton Boy Scout Troop 28 will retire the flag responsibly.   

 

Flatware / kitchen cutlery

Reuse

If useable, please considering donating this item.

Many places like Goodwill accept flatware donations

Recycle

Flatware can be can be recycled curbside with other scrap metal by scheduling a Wednesday special pickup.  Make an appointment for pickup here:

https://croton.seamlessdocs.com/f/metalpickup

Disposal

This item is waste and can be placed for pickup, but the other disposal options outlined under "Reuse" and "Recycle" will avoid it being discarded into a landfill.

Flip Flops

Reduce/Reuse

Soles4Souls collects new and gently used shoes (any kind of shoe), cleans and reconditions the shoe, and then distributes shoes to people all over the world. There is a drop-off site at Designer Shoe Warehouse in Cortlandt Town Center, 3091 E. Main Street, Mohegan Lake.  Bring shoes up to the cashier in the store to donate. (Phone: 914-529-7001)  The East Coast mail-in center is located at c/o ADS Logistics, LP, 23 Mack Drive, Edison, N.J. 08817.

Recycle

Currently there is no recycle option available for this item.

Disposal

Place with waste. The soles are rubber and the straps are PVC.

Foil Gift Wrapping Paper

Reduce/Reuse

 

Recycle

Currently there is no recycle option available for this item.

Disposal

Place with waste. Consider switching to non-foil wrapping paper, which can be recycled with your other papers.

Furniture

Reuse

If the furniture is gently used and in good repair (and not excessively large), contact a local charity.

 

Furniture Sharehouse in White Plains

https://furnituresharehouse.org/

(914) 834-1294

 

Goodwill

https://www.goodwillnynj.org/

Elmsford (914) 347-4376

 

Salvation Army     

salvationarmy.org

(800) 728-7825 

You can call to schedule a pick up of your furniture.

Recycle

All-metal furniture can be recycled as scrap metal. 

Scrap metal is recycled curbside by scheduling a Wednesday special pickup.  Make an appointment for pickup here:

https://croton.seamlessdocs.com/f/metalpickup

 

Disposal

Most furniture can be placed with waste curbside on your regular recycling day.  All-metal furniture should be recycled as scrap metal.  Furniture that is a combination of metal and non-metal may need to be disassembled before being disposed of.  For example:  couch-beds must have the metal bedframe removed and then can be placed curbside as waste.

Golf Equipment

Reuse

Consider donating to an organization of your choice.

Recycle

Metal can be recycled curbside by scheduling a Wednesday special pickup.  Make an appointment for pickup here:

https://croton.seamlessdocs.com/f/metalpickup

 

Ice Cream Containers (cardboard)

Reduce/Reuse

Currently, there is no reuse option available for this item.

Recycle

These can be rinsed and placed in the red bin with mixed recycling (not with paper and cardboard.)  This is to keep the paper and cardboard dry and clean.

Disposal

Please recycle.

Juice and Milk Cartons

Reduce/Reuse

Currently, there is no reuse option available for this item.

Recycle

All milk and juice cartons should be put in the mixed recycling bin.  The cap can be recycled too. Rinse first.  These cartons are NOT put with paper and cardboard in order to keep those materials as dry as possible.

Disposal

Please recycle.

Juice Pouches

Reuse

Currently, there is no reuse option available for this item.

Recycle

Currently, there is no recycle option available for this item, as it has multiple layers of materials.

Disposal

Discard as waste. Not accepted for recycling. This packaging is designed NOT to break down when wet, and for the same reason does not break down in the recycling process.

Leaves

Reduce/Reuse

Shredded leaves make excellent mulch and fertilizer for lawns and garden beds.

Recycle

Whenever possible, compost leaves, branches and other organic debris. If you have wooded property, organic debris will naturally decompose if raked or swept into the woods and left there.  It will recycle needed nutrients back into the soil.

Leaves can be shredded with a lawnmower and left to fertilize your lawn.  They will decompose over the winter.

For more information visit Leave Leaves Alone, created by Bedford 2030, at   https://www.leaveleavesalone.org/

Disposal

Residents are strongly encouraged to keep leaves on their properties by composting.

The Village of Croton-on-Hudson DPW collects yard waste curbside during the spring, summer and fall months.  All yard waste must be placed in biodegradable leaf bags or open top garbage cans.  Yard waste in plastic bags will not be collected. Yard waste put out with the garbage  or mixed in with the garbage will not be collected. No more than ten bags or three open top garbage cans per pickup.

Accepted: small twigs, flowers, hedge trimmings in biodegradable yard waste bags. Small branches will be collected provided they meet the following criteria: 1) Cut into lengths not to exceed 4 feet; 2) Tied into bundles not exceeding 18” in diameter; 3) Not more than two bundles of small branches per collection.

Not accepted: Tree trunks, stumps, large limbs over 4” in diameter, shrubs and bushes, bagged leaves or grass clippings,, dirt, sod, stones, concrete, bricks, lumber, and railroad ties.

Yard waste is collected curbside twice monthly April-October.  The schedule can be found here: https://www.crotononhudson-ny.gov/public-works/pages/garbage-collection-...
 

Light Bulbs, Fluorescent

This material is hazardous waste and must be disposed of properly. This item cannot be placed with trash for pickup.

Reuse

Currently, there is no reuse option available for this item.

Recycle

Currently, there is no recycle option available for this item.

 

Disposal

Because they contain mercury, fluorescent bulbs are classified as hazardous waste and must be disposed of accordingly.

Compact fluorescents are accepted at Home Depot.

Compact and tube fluorescents are accepted at Westchester County's Household Materials Recovery Facility. H-MRF is located on the Grasslands Campus: 15 Woods Road, Valhalla, NY.  Schedule a drop-off time here: https://environment.westchestergov.com/h-mrf-reservation

 

Light Bulbs, Incandescent

Reuse

 

Recycle

Currently, there is no recycle option available for this item.

Disposal

Place in waste. Wrap carefully.

Mattresses and Box Springs

Reuse

If the mattress and box spring is in good condition (no stains),
please consider donating it to Furniture Sharehouse. Please visit the website for donation guidelines (they do not accept king-sized mattresses and box springs.)

https://furnituresharehouse.org/

 

Recycle

 

Disposal

This item can be disposed of curbside on your regular waste collection day.

Milk and Juice Cartons

Reuse

Currently, there is no reuse option available for this item.

Recycle

All milk and juice cartons can be placed in the mixed recycling bin.  First rinse and flatten.  Caps can also be recycled.  The reason that cartons are not placed with the paper and cardboard is to keep those materials dry.

Disposal

Please recycle.

Mirrors

Reduce/Reuse

If the mirror is in good condition, please consider donating it to Furniture Sharehouse. Please click here visit their website for donation guidelines.

Craigslist - Barter, sell and wanted classifieds.

eBay - Buy, sell, trade.

Recycle

There is currently no recycling option for this item.

Disposal

If the mirror is broken, please wrap carefully and place with waste.  If unbroken, tape with masking or painter's tape before placing curbside.

Mothballs

This material is hazardous waste and must be disposed of properly. This item cannot be placed with trash for pickup.

Reuse

Currently, there is no reuse option available for this item.

Recycle

Currently, there is no recycle option available for this item.

Disposal

Mothballs are accepted at Westchester County's Household Materials Recovery Facility. H-MRF is located on the Grasslands Campus: 15 Woods Road, Valhalla, NY.  Schedule a drop-off time here: https://environment.westchestergov.com/h-mrf-reservation

The County periodically holds a Household Recycling Day on a weekend at FDR Park in Yorktown Heights.  Most of the materials accepted at the H-MRF are also accepted on these days. More information here: https://environment.westchestergov.com/news/2583-household-material-reco...

 

Nail Polish and Remover

Reuse

Currently, there is no reuse option available for this item

Recycle

Currently, there is no recycle option available for this item.

Disposal

This is hazardous waste and cannot be disposed of in the trash.

Westchester County's Household Material Recovery Facility (H-MRF) is located on the Grasslands Campus at 15 Woods Road, Valhalla, NY.  Schedule a drop-off time here for your hazardous waste:

https://environment.westchestergov.com/h-mrf-reservation

The County periodically holds a Household Recycling Day on a weekend at FDR Park in Yorktown Heights.  Most of the materials accepted at the H-MRF are also accepted on these days. More information here:

 https://environment.westchestergov.com/news/2583-household-material-reco...

Negatives, Photographic

Reuse

Currently, there is no reuse option available for this item.

Recycle

Currently, there is no recycle option available for this item.

Disposal

Place with waste.

Orthotics

Orthotics, crutches, splints, canes, wheelchairs, and braces.

Reuse

Call Joni and Friends at (818) 707-5664 for information about the items they accept and how to mail the items, or click here to visit their website.

Call the Christian Blind Mission at (800) 937-2264 for information about the items they accept and how to mail the items, or click here to visit their website.

Ayfa Foundation - Supply donations are an integral part of Afya's work and are sought after and welcomed. Local donation drop off location is 140 Saw Mill River Road, Yonkers, NY 10701. You can call them at (914) 920-5081.

Recycle

Currently, there is no recycle option available for this item.

Disposal

Orthotics can be disposed of as trash, but the options outlined under "Reuse" may prevent them from going to a landfill or incinerator.

Paint, Stripper, or Varnish

This material is hazardous waste and must be disposed of properly. This item cannot be placed with your waste for pickup.

Reuse

Currently, there is no reuse option available for this item.

Recycle

Currently, there is no recycle option available for this item

Disposal

Paint and varnish stripper are accepted at Westchester County's Household Materials Recovery Facility. H-MRF is located on the Grasslands Campus: 15 Woods Road, Valhalla, NY.  Schedule a drop-off time here: https://environment.westchestergov.com/h-mrf-reservation

The County periodically holds a Household Recycling Day on a weekend at FDR Park in Yorktown Heights.  Most of the materials accepted at the H-MRF are also accepted on these days. More information here: https://environment.westchestergov.com/news/2583-household-material-reco...

Patagonia Clothing

Reuse

If in reasonable condition, consider selling via Craig's List or donating. Churches and organizations often collect coats and sweaters to provide to those in need for the Winter.

Recycle

The Patagonia website says, "We accept used Patagonia clothing that functions perfectly and is in good condition." https://wornwear.patagonia.com/

Westchester County's Household Material Recovery Facility (H-MRF) accepts used fabrics and ensures they will be donated or recycled. H-MRF is located on the Grasslands Campus at 15 Woods Road, Valhalla, NY.  Schedule a drop-off time here:

https://environment.westchestergov.com/h-mrf-reservation

 

Disposal

If possible please donate or recycle to avoid having it ending up in a landfill.

Peanut Butter Jars, Glass / Plastic

Reduce/Reuse

 

Recycle

You can recycle glass and plastics numbered #1-7.  Please wash the jar well.  It must be empty and clean. Plastic tops can also be recycled.  Place in the mixed recycling bin.

Disposal

Please clean and recycle.

Pet Food Bags

Reuse

 

Recycle

Currently, there is no recycle option available for this item.

Disposal

Refer to package instructions. If recycling not indicated, place with waste. This packaging is waterproof and too resilient to break down in the recycling process.

Pots and Pans

Reuse

If usable and in good repair, it can be sold or donated to a local thrift store.

Salvation Army: 1-800-958-7825

Love in Action in Yorktown

https://yorktownloveinaction.com/

Goodwill

https://www.goodwill.org/

Recycle

If not in usable condition, this item is considered scrap metal. Scrap metal can be recycled curbside by scheduling a Wednesday special pickup.  Make an appointment for pickup here:

https://croton.seamlessdocs.com/f/metalpickup

Disposal

Please recycle.

Propane Gas Tanks

Reduce/Reuse

Currently, there is no reuse option available for this item.

Recycle

Bring empty propane gas tanks to Home Depot.

Most sellers of propane will have a return policy for propane tanks.

Disposal

Please recycle.

Pudding Cups

Reduce/Reuse

Currently, there is no reuse option available for this item.

Recycle

Plastics #1-7 go in the mixed recycling bin. Must be clean and empty.

Disposal

Please recycle.

Rope, Climbing

Reuse

Currently, there is no reuse option available for this item.

Recycle

Maine-based Sterling Rope Company will accept all (from any manufacturer) worse-for-the-wear petroleum based cords. All rope that is salvageable is repurposed into dog collars, dog tags, bracelets, and key chains, while anything that is beyond repair is ground up, melted down, and turned into new climbing ropes.

Find mail-in instructions at:  https://sterlingrope.com/recycle

Disposal

This item may be considered waste and placed for pickup, but the option under "Recycle" will avoid it being discarded into a landfill.

Running Shoes

Reuse

If usable, please consider donating .

Soles4Souls takes shoes that are gently used:

Soles4Souls
c/o ADS Logistics, LP
23 Mack Drive
Edison, N.J. 08817

Recycle

Nike sponsors the Reuse-A-Shoe program. Nike will take the shoe apart and recycle and reuse all of its parts. https://www.nike.com/help/a/recycle-shoes

RecycledRunners is a California-based organization whose motto is, "Running is Hard - Giving is Easy." This site lists Domestic Shoe Donation Sites, International Shoe Donation Sites, and Shoe Material Recycling Programs that accept donated sneakers. Click here to visit their website.

Run the Planet is another compilation of sites that offer recycling programs around the world. Click here to visit their website.

Disposal

This item may be considered waste and placed for pickup, but the options under "Reuse" and "Recycle" will avoid it being discarded into a landfill.

Shrink Wrap, Food

Reduce/Reuse

Currently, there is no reuse option available for this item.

Recycle

Currently, there is no recycle option available for this item.

Disposal

Place with waste.

Ski and Snowboard Equipment

Reuse

If in good condition, can be sold to a used sporting goods store, or donated on Freecycle.

Sports Attic, Yorktown Heights

https://sportsatticny.com/

 

Freecycle

https://groups.freecycle.org/group/WhitePlainsNY/posts/all

 

 

 

 

 

Recycle

There is currently no recycling option for these items.

 

Disposal

These items can be disposed of as trash, but the options listed under "reuse" will keep them out of the landfill or incinerator.

Sneakers

Reuse

If usable, please consider donating to any of the sites below.

 

Soles4Souls takes shoes that are gently used:

Soles4Souls
c/o ADS Logistics, LP
23 Mack Drive
Edison, N.J. 08817

Recycle

The Village of Croton-on-Hudson has partnered with Helpsy to offer a free, home pickup clothing recycling service for residents. Helpsy will accept clean, dry, odorless footwear. Croton residents can visit www.helpsy.com/crotononhudsonny and schedule at-home pickups on Thursdays, starting March 7, 2024. After scheduling a pickup, residents can leave the items at their front door in clearly labeled plastic bags. Drivers make home pickups between 7 am and 5 pm. Helpsy recommends requesting a pickup when you have a minimum of 3 bags to minimize emissions. For additional questions, please email info@helpsy.co or call 1-800-244-6350.

 

Nike sponsors the Reuse-A-Shoe program. Nike will take the shoe apart and recycle and reuse all of its parts. Click here to visit their website for more information.

RecycledRunners is a California-based organization whose motto is, "Running is Hard - Giving is Easy." This site lists Domestic Shoe Donation Sites, International Shoe Donation Sites, and Shoe Material Recycling Programs that accept donated sneakers. Click here to visit their website.

In addition to clothing, the County's expanded textile recycling program provides residents the opportunity to recycle shoes, sneakers, slippers, boots, backpacks, purses, duffle bags, gloves, sheets, towels, blankets, curtains, leather, throw rugs, pet clothing, and more. The items can be in any condition (torn, worn, stained, broken zippers, etc.) as long as they are clean, dry, and odorless. A full list of accepted items can be found online at: https://environment.westchestergov.com/residents/recycling-guidelines/te...

Residents can drop off sneakers and other textiles by making an appointment with the County’s Household-Material Recycling Facility (H-MRF), 15 Woods Road, Valhalla.  The H-MRF is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. by appointment only. For more information about the H-MRF, or to make an appointment today, visit https://environment.westchestergov.com/facilities/h-mrf or call (914) 813-5425.

Run the Planet is another compilation of sites that offer recycling programs around the world. Click here to visit their website.

Disposal

This item may be considered waste and placed for pickup, but the options under "Reuse" and "Recycle" will avoid it being discarded into a landfill.

Soccer Equipment

 

Peace Passers is a not-for-profit that redistributes soccer gear to global communities. It is a mail-in program. Click here to visit their website for more information.

Adopt-a-Dog, located in Armonk, can always use old soccer balls as toys for the animals. Call them at (914) 273-1674 before donating. Click here to visit their website for more information.

 

Recycle

 

Disposal

This item may be considered waste and placed for pickup, but the other disposal options outlined under "Reuse" will avoid it being discarded into a landfill.

Sofas

Reuse

If the furniture is gently used and in good repair (and not excessively large), contact a local charity or one of the charities below:

 

Furniture Sharehouse 

https://furnituresharehouse.org/
(914) 834-1294

 

Salvation Army
https://www.salvationarmy.org/
(800) 728-7825 - You can call to schedule a pick up of your furniture.

Goodwill
https://www.goodwillnynj.org/
Elmsford (914) 347-4376

Recycle

Currently, there is no recycle option available for this item.

Disposal

If the furniture is not in good condition and, therefore, cannot be donated, you may consider it waste. Sofas can be disposed of curbside on your regular trash collection day.   If it is a pullout / sleeper sofa, the bed frame must be removed and recycled separately as metal.

Soy, Rice, Almond, Hemp Milk Cartons

Reduce/Reuse

 

Recycle

All soy, rice, almond, and hemp milk cartons (aseptic packages) should be rinsed and placed in the mixed recycling bin.  They are not placed with paper and cardboard in order to keep the items in the paper/cardboard bin dry. The caps can also be recycled.

Disposal

Please recycle.

Sporting Goods

Reuse

If in good condition, Sports attic in Yorktown Heights sells used sporting equipment

https://sportsatticny.com/

 

Recycle

Currently, there are no recycling options for most sporting equipment.

Disposal

This equipment may be considered waste and placed for pickup, but the option outlined under "Reuse" will avoid it being discarded into a landfill.

Spray Bottles

Reduce/Reuse

  • Reduce the number by re-filling your bottles from a larger container.

Recycle

Please recycle plastics numbered #1-7. Place with mixed recycling. Must be clean and empty. Plastic tops can also be recycled.  If the plastic item does not have a number, the Village cannot recycle it.

Disposal

Please recycle.

Stoves, Household

Reuse

If in good condition, please consider donating:

Green Demolitions - Phone: (888) 887-5211; Green Demolitions accepts kitchens, appliances (less than 5 years old), bathrooms, home décor, architectural artifacts, building materials, art, and more. Green Demolitions supports outreach programs of All Addicts Anonymous.

Recycle

If not in usable condition, this item is considered scrap metal and can be recycled curbside by scheduling a Wednesday special pickup.  Make an appointment for pickup here:

https://croton.seamlessdocs.com/f/metalpickup

Disposal

Please recycle.

String

Reuse

Currently, there is no reuse option available for this item.

Recycle

Currently, there is no recycle option available for this item.

Disposal

Place with waste.

Stuffed Animals

Reduce/Reuse

SAFE (Stuffed Animals For Emergencies), a not-for-profit, will accept gently used stuffed animals, toys, children's books, and baby blankets that are clean and in good condition. SAFE cleans the stuffed animals and toys, and delivers them to children in emergency situations or donates them to other children's organizations, military organizations, libraries, and nursing homes. This is a mail in program. Click here to visit their website to find links to other organizations that accept stuffed animals.

Recycle

Currently, there is no recycle option available for this item.

Disposal

If the stuffed animals are not in good condition, place with waste.

Take Out Food Containers

Reduce/Reuse

Currently, there is no reuse option available for this item.  Many restaurants allow you to bring your own containers.

Recycle

If plastic or aluminum, clean it and put it in the mixed recycling bin.  All containers must be empty and clean.  If styrofoam, it cannot be recycled.

Disposal

If it cannot be cleaned, put it in the garbage.    If it is biodegradable, put it in the compost or in the garbage.  Many biodegradable containers are meant to be composted in industrial-scale facilities and will be slow to decompose in a home compost heap.

Teflon Coated Pots and Pans

Reuse

If usable, consider donating to:

Yorktown Love in Action (914) 743-1314

https://yorktownloveinaction.com/

Goodwill  (203) 363-5228

Salvation Army - Phone: 1-800-958-7825

Recycle

If not in usable condition, this item is considered scrap metal. Scrap metal can be recycled curbside by scheduling a Wednesday special pickup.  Make an appointment for pickup here:

https://croton.seamlessdocs.com/f/metalpickup

Disposal

Please recycle.

Tennis Balls

Reuse

Accepted by Adopt-a-Dog at their Armonk shelter located at 23 Cox Avenue. Call (914) 273-1674 prior to donating.

Recycle

The company reBounces re-pressurizes balls on site. You can send old, dead balls to reBounces to be repressurized and you can purchase repressurized balls at steep discounts. Alternatively, you can send reBounces your old balls and they will recycle them. This is a mail-in program. If you have large amounts of balls (200 or more) reBounces will provide you with a pre-paid mailing sticker. Click here to visit their website for more information.

Disposal

Tennis balls can be placed with waste, but the options listed under "reuse" and "recycle" will prevent them from being sent to the landfill or incinerator.

Tennis Racquets

Reuse

Tennis Racquets for Kids, Inc. is a non-profit organization dedicated to the distribution of donated tennis racquets to individual children, or to organizations that represent children, in need of such racquets. TRK will usually restring your donated racquet and see that it gets to be used. Racquets get mailed to:

Tennis Racquets for Kids, Inc.
c/o Dr. Guy Mintz
287 Northern Blvd.
Suite 211
Great Neck, NY 11021

There is a Freecycle Group in White Plains.  Contact them here: https://groups.freecycle.org/group/WhitePlainsNY/posts/all

 

Recycle

Currently, there is no recycle option available for this item.

Disposal

Item can be disposed of in regular trash.

Thermometers, Mercury

This material is hazardous waste and must be disposed of properly. This item cannot be placed with trash for pickup.

Reduce/Reuse

Currently, there is no reuse option available for this item.

Recycle

 

The County periodically holds a Household Recycling Day on a weekend at FDR Park in Yorktown Heights.  Most of the materials accepted at the H-MRF are also accepted on these days. More information here: https://environment.westchestergov.com/news/2583-household-material-reco...

Disposal

Silver liquid within the thermometer indicates mercury, a toxic metal that must be disposed of properly. This material is hazardous waste. Mercury thermometers are accepted at Westchester County's Household Materials Recovery Facility. H-MRF is located on the Grasslands Campus: 15 Woods Road, Valhalla, NY.  Schedule a drop-off time here: https://environment.westchestergov.com/h-mrf-reservation

Any color of liquid other than silver indicates a non-mercury containing thermometer that can be disposed of in the trash. Wrap in paper and tape before discarding to avoid any hazard from broken glass.

Tools

Reuse

Tools in working condition can be donated through Freecycle.

Recycle

If the tool is made of metal it can be recycled as scrap metal.

Disposal

This item is waste and can be placed curbside, but the other disposal options outlined under "Recycle" will avoid it being discarded into a landfill.

If made of hard plastic and wood, place with waste. Remove and recycle rechargeable batteries.

Towels, Cloth / Bath

Reduce/Reuse

If in good condition, consider donating to:

https://yorktownloveinaction.com/

If not suitable for human use, some animal shelters accept towels and linens. Call first before donating.

Recycle

Textiles can be recycled at  Greentree Textiles  at the Ossining Farmers market every Saturday .  https://www.greentreetextiles.org/donate/

Fabrics can now be left for recycling at the Westchester County's Household Material Recovery Facility (H-MRF)  located on the Grasslands Campus at 15 Woods Road, Valhalla, NY.  Schedule a drop-off time here: https://environment.westchestergov.com/h-mrf-reservation

Disposal

These can be disposed of as trash, but the options listed under "reuse" and "recycle" will prevent them from going to the landfill or incinerator.

Toys

Reduce/Reuse

SAFE (not-for-profit) will accept gently used stuffed animals, toys, children's books, and baby blankets that are clean and in good condition. SAFE cleans the stuffed animals and toys, and delivers them to children in emergency situations or donates them to other children's organizations, military organizations, libraries, and nursing homes. This is a mail in program. Click here to visit their website for more information and links to other organizations that accept stuffed animals.

Recycle

Most toys are not recyclable.

Disposal

Can be disposed of as waste.

Tyvek, House wrap

Reuse

Currently, there is no reuse option available for this item.

Recycle

Currently, there is no recycle option available for this item.

Disposal

Place with waste. This is not recyclable. Large quantities are considered construction/demolition debris and must be disposed of by your contractor.

Wheelchairs

Reuse

Afya Foundation - Supply donations are an integral part of Afya's work and are sought after and welcomed. Local drop off location is 140 Saw Mill River Road, Yonkers, NY 10701. Phone: (914) 920-5081

Recycle

If not in usable condition, this item is considered scrap metal.  Scrap metal can be recycled curbside by scheduling a Wednesday special pickup.  Make an appointment for pickup here:

https://croton.seamlessdocs.com/f/metalpickup

Disposal

Please recycle.

Yard Waste

Reduce/Reuse

Fallen branches and trees do not have to be removed, as long as they are not an obstruction.  They are a natural part of the ecosystem and provide habitat.  Branches and logs can be left where they are, or in a corner of the property to decompose. 

Recycle

Whenever possible, compost leaves, branches and other organic debris. If you have wooded property, organic debris will naturally decompose if raked or swept into the woods and left there.  It will recycle needed nutrients back into the soil.

Leaves can be shredded with a lawnmower and left to fertilize your lawn.  They will decompose over the winter.

For more information visit Leave Leaves Alone, created by Bedford 2030, at   https://www.leaveleavesalone.org/

Disposal

Residents are strongly encouraged to keep leaves on their properties by composting.

The Village of Croton-on-Hudson DPW collects yard waste curbside during the spring, summer and fall months.  All yard waste must be placed in biodegradable leaf bags or open top garbage cans.  Yard waste in plastic bags will not be collected. Yard waste put out with the garbage  or mixed in with the garbage will not be collected. No more than ten bags or three open top garbage cans per pickup.

Accepted: small twigs, flowers, hedge trimmings in biodegradable yard waste bags. Small branches will be collected provided they meet the following criteria: 1) Cut into lengths not to exceed 4 feet; 2) Tied into bundles not exceeding 18” in diameter; 3) Not more than two bundles of small branches per collection.

Not accepted: Tree trunks, stumps, large limbs over 4” in diameter, shrubs and bushes, bagged leaves or grass clippings,, dirt, sod, stones, concrete, bricks, lumber, and railroad ties.

Yard waste is collected curbside twice monthly April-October.  The schedule can be found here: https://www.crotononhudson-ny.gov/public-works/pages/garbage-collection-...
 

Yogurt Containers

Reduce/Reuse

 

Recycle

All plastic containers #1-7 can be rinsed and placed in the mixed recycling bin. Aluminum tops should be removed, rinsed, and placed in the mixed recycling bin as well.

Disposal

Please recycle.

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