Maya Ellison
If you're looking to get rid of plastic storage containers, there are several options available to you. You can try to recycle them, either by putting them in your rubbish bin or by taking them to a recycling centre. If they're in good condition, you could also try selling them online or giving them away for free on sites like Facebook Marketplace. If they're no longer usable, you may need to cut them into smaller pieces before disposal.
How to get rid of plastic storage containers
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Recycling | Plastic storage containers cannot be put in your recycling bin. |
| Certain brands are recyclable and can be put in recycling bins. | |
| Large containers can be taken to alternative recycling centres or skips. | |
| Local waste management agencies can advise on how and where to recycle plastic storage containers. | |
| Reuse | Plastic storage containers can be reused around the house, e.g. in the garage, for pet supplies, or in the car for day trips. |
| They can also be used to store other recyclable materials that don't fit in kerbside bins. | |
| Containers can be offered for free on local Facebook "Buy Nothing" groups or left on the curb for someone to take. | |
| Disposal | Large containers can be cut into pieces and placed in trash bags. |
| Odour Removal | Containers can be washed with soap and water, then filled with white vinegar and left for a few minutes before being washed again. |
| Containers can be left outside with the lids off on a sunny day to air out and benefit from the sun's natural ability to eliminate odours. | |
| Charcoal can be placed inside the container to absorb odours. | |
| Lemon juice or a wedge of lemon can be rubbed on the inside of the container to eliminate odours. | |
| Newspaper can be scrunched up and used to fill the containers, then left for 24 hours to absorb odours. | |
| Baking soda can be mixed with water and rubbed inside the container to eliminate odours. |
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What You'll Learn
Reuse containers for other purposes
Plastic storage containers can be reused in a variety of ways around the home. Smaller containers, such as yoghurt pots, can be used to organise drawers and store small items such as elastic bands, paper clips, thumbtacks, rubber bands, twist ties, coins, wine charms, candles, batteries, and hair ties. They can also be used to store food in the fridge, such as garlic cloves. Larger containers can be used to store plastic bags, or as a planter.
For those who enjoy DIY, plastic containers can be used to store cleaning products in spray bottles, or to hold paint for small touch-ups around the house. They can also be used to store and transport food, such as sandwiches for a road trip, which will prevent them from getting squished.
For those with children, plastic containers can be used for craft projects, such as making a pencil case or a terrarium. They can also be useful for storing children's toys, such as small toys, craft supplies, and brushes.
For those with a garden, larger plastic containers can be used for vermicomposting, which involves using worms to compost food waste. Holes can be drilled into the containers for aeration.
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Cut containers into smaller pieces for disposal
If you want to cut your plastic storage containers into smaller pieces for disposal, there are several methods you can use. One of the most popular tools for cutting plastic is a fine-toothed saw. This method will allow you to cut through thick plastic precisely without destroying the material itself. Jigsaws and table saws are also effective for cutting through thicker and larger pieces of plastic.
When using a fine-toothed saw, it is recommended to clamp the plastic to a table or workbench. Use the entire length of the blade and move it in smooth, quick back-and-forth motions through the plastic. You can purchase fine-toothed saws at hobby stores or hardware stores.
Another option is to use a jigsaw, which is especially useful for cutting heavy-duty plastic like PVC pipe. Hold the object firmly or use a C-clamp to secure it to a table. Squeeze the trigger to start the blade moving before touching it to the plastic. Apply firm pressure to press the blade through the plastic.
Table saws with non-melt blades can also be used to cut through thick plastic. Start by placing the plastic on the flat surface of the saw table and holding it by its sides. Slowly push the plastic forward until it engages with the blade, continuing to move it forward steadily until the blade has cut through the entire object.
Additionally, you can use a string or a drill bit to cut through plastic. With a string, move the thread back and forth to create an incision, replacing the string if it gets hot or frayed. Using a drill bit, you can drill holes in the plastic and then cut from one hole to the other.
For smaller cuts or detailed work, a box cutter or a heated knife can be useful. However, be cautious when using a heated knife, as it may produce fumes.
When cutting your plastic storage containers, be mindful of your safety. Always wear protective gear, such as gloves and eye protection, and ensure you are in a well-ventilated area.
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Find alternative recycling skips
If you are looking to dispose of plastic storage containers, it is important to first check whether they can be recycled. Look out for the universal recycling symbol, which consists of three arrows in the shape of a triangle with a number inside. If the number is 1, 2, or 5, then most recycling programmes will accept it. However, this symbol does not necessarily mean your local programme will collect it for recycling, so it is worth checking with them.
If your plastic storage containers do not have this symbol, or your local programme does not accept them, you can find alternative recycling skips. Search online for 'recycling centre' or 'recycling skip' with your location to find the nearest place to you. These facilities usually accept larger and more difficult-to-recycle items, but it is worth contacting them to check.
Your local waste management agency or council may also be able to help. You can usually find your local recycling coordinator through the council or in the yellow pages. They may even pick up your plastic storage containers.
If your containers are in good condition, you could also try offering them for free online. There may be people in your community who would find them useful for crafts, paint, or even for storing food at a soup kitchen.
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Sell containers online
If your plastic storage containers are in good condition, you can try selling them online. Here are some tips to help you sell your containers:
Take Good Photographs
Before you list your containers for sale, make sure to take clear and attractive photographs that showcase the containers from different angles. Good photos will help potential buyers see the condition of the containers and increase the chances of a sale.
Write Detailed Descriptions
When creating your listing, provide detailed descriptions of the containers, including dimensions, capacity, and any unique features or benefits. Be honest about any flaws or defects, so buyers know exactly what they are getting.
Choose the Right Platform
There are many online marketplaces where you can sell items, such as eBay, Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, or specialist container websites. Choose a platform that you are comfortable with and that reaches your target audience.
Set a Competitive Price
Research similar containers for sale to get an idea of a reasonable price point. You can also consider bundling multiple containers together to create a more attractive offer for buyers.
Communicate Promptly with Buyers
Respond quickly to any inquiries or messages from potential buyers. Good communication will ensure a smooth transaction and a positive experience.
Offer Local Pickup or Delivery
If you're selling larger containers, offering local pickup or delivery options can make the transaction more convenient.
By following these steps, you can effectively sell your plastic storage containers online, giving them a new lease of life and keeping them out of the waste stream.
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Remove odours with baking soda
If your plastic containers have developed an odour, it may be because they were not cleaned or stored properly. Residual food particles can release odours, and moisture can accumulate inside the container, creating an environment for mould and mildew to grow. To prevent this, wash your containers with soap and water after every use, and ensure they are completely dry before storing anything new.
To remove odours with baking soda, you can try the following methods:
- Mix baking soda and water into a paste and rub it inside the container. Leave it for a day or two, and then wash the container before use.
- Fill your container with warm water and add a generous amount of baking soda. Stir the solution to dissolve the baking soda. Let the container soak for several hours or overnight. Dispose of the solution and rinse with clean water.
- Create a thick paste with baking soda, dish soap, and a tiny bit of water. Smear the paste on all surfaces and let it sit for a day or two before washing.
- Add a teaspoon of baking soda to the rinse water to neutralise any remaining odours.
- Fill the container with water and add at least a tablespoon of baking soda. Wet the lid, sprinkle on some baking soda, and wait an hour before rinsing and washing normally.
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Frequently asked questions
If your container is in good condition, you could try selling it or giving it away on a local Facebook "Buy Nothing" group or on Craigslist. If it's damaged, you might need to cut it into smaller pieces and place them inside a trash bag. You can then dispose of it in your regular trash or take it to a local recycling centre.
No, plastic storage containers cannot be put in your recycling bin. They are too large and kerbside recycling services are not set up to take these boxes. However, certain brands are recyclable and can be put in recycling bins. Check the website of the brand or look for the recycling symbol.
You can recycle plastic storage containers at your local recycling centre. Search for a "recycling centre" or "recycling skip" with your location to find the nearest one. Alternatively, contact your local waste management agency for advice on how and where to recycle plastic storage containers.
