J&B Recycling Knowledge

When it comes to recycling glass jars and bottles, a common question that arises is whether the metal lids should be left on or removed. While the answer may vary depending on your local recycling guidelines, it is generally recommended to remove the metal lids on wider rimmed jars and bottles before recycling. Where the lids are smaller (i.e. wine and beer bottles), we would advise to recycle with the lid on.

Here's why:

Material Separation: Recycling facilities like ours usually process glass and metal separately. By removing the metal lids, you help ensure that each material can be properly sorted and recycled efficiently. Leaving the lids on can complicate the recycling process and potentially result in contamination. 

>> Check out our video on YouTube to find out how the process works.

Safety Concerns: Metal lids can pose safety risks during the recycling process. When glass jars or bottles are crushed or broken, the lids can become loose and cause injury to recycling facility workers or damage recycling equipment. Removing the lids minimises these risks and promotes a safer recycling process.

Recycling Efficiency: Removing metal lids improves the efficiency of the recycling process. Glass is melted down at high temperatures to be reused, and metal lids can interfere with the melting process. By separating the two materials, the glass can be recycled more effectively, ensuring a higher quality end product.

*Note about smaller lids

Smaller lids can cause problems in the recycling process, which is why we recommend recycling wine and beer bottles with the lids on. There is a good chance the lids can be recovered further down the process at the glass re-processors, whereas they can get lost and caught in the machinery at a sorting facility.

Make Sure Glass Jars & Bottles Are Clean

We always recommend rinsing out glass jars and bottles before you put them in your recycling bin, this is even more important if you are leaving the lid off. Find out why in our article >> Cleaning Glass Jars and Bottles: A Crucial Step for Effective Recycling.

Check Your Local Authority Recycling Guidelines

It's important to note that recycling guidelines may differ depending on your location. Some recycling programs may accept glass jars and bottles with metal lids, while others may require them to be separated. Here at J&B Recycling, we recommend that glass jars and bottles are sent to us with their lids off, but it's always recommended to check with your local authorities recycling guidelines for specific instructions.

What About Plastic Bottles?

Always check your local authority guidance, but when it comes to plastic bottles, here at J&B Recycling, we would advise that you should recycle them with the lid on. Find out why in our article >> Do you recycle plastic bottles with the lid on or off?

In conclusion

While recycling practices may vary, it is generally advised to remove metal lids from glass jars and bottles before recycling - with the exception of wine/beer bottles. By doing so, you promote better material separation, enhance safety, improve recycling efficiency, and adhere to standard recycling practices. Remember to consult your local guidelines to ensure you are following the most appropriate recycling procedures for your area. Together, we can make a positive impact on the environment by recycling responsibly.

J&B Recycling are based in the North of England. Our commercial collection services operate from the Scottish Borders down to Hull and North Yorkshire. Our main areas for collecting and processing commercial waste include Teesside (Darlington, Hartlepool, Middlesbrough, Stockton), Durham, Gateshead, Newcastle, Sunderland, North Tyneside and Northumberland. If you have any other questions about Recycling, don't hesitate to >> Get In Touch