Types of Plastic

Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is classified as type 1 plastic. This plastic is strong and tends to absorb odors. Branded pens, water bottles, hand sanitizer, shaker bottles, and kitchenware are made from PET plastic.

PET plastic is usually recyclable, but only 29.1% of these products are recycled according to the Alliance for Sustainable Energy.

High-density polyethylene (HDPE) is classified as type 2 plastic. This plastic is BPA-free, making it safe for food or drinks. It is also very flexible and can absorb water. Reusable water bottles, ice scrapers, and outdoor coolers are made from this type of plastic.

HDPE plastic is usually recyclable. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), 29.3% of all HDPE products created are recycled in a year.

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is classified as type 3 plastic. This plastic is lightweight and durable, which is why it’s often used for promotional bags. You’ll also find this plastic in luggage tags, hot cold packs, rain ponchos, and keychains.

Generally less than 1% of PVC plastic is recycled each year according to Earth 911. PVC is recyclable, but call your local facility first.

Low-density polyethylene (LDPE) is classified as type 4 plastic. This plastic does not release harmful chemicals, so it’s safe for food storage. Reusable lunch containers, bowls, plates, and lip balm tubes are made from this plastic.

LDPE makes up about 56% of all plastic waste, but recycling programs are evolving to better handle these products in the future. Always call your local facility first before recycling this type of plastic.

Polypropylene (PP) is classified as type 5 plastic. This strong, BPA-free plastic can withstand high or low temperatures. Many promotional items are made from polypropylene such as: frisbees, travel mugs, lanyards, tote bags, tumblers, and notebooks.

Bloomberg reports that over 76 million tons of polypropylene is created each year, yet only about 1% is recycled in the United States.

Polystyrene (PS) is classified as type 6 plastic. This plastic is lightweight and usually very affordable. Disposable cups, license plate frames, and clipboards are made from this type of plastic.

Styrofoam is made from this type of plastic and can be recycled, but it’s not always easy. Green Citizen reports that about 1,369 tons of Styrofoam are thrown in U.S. landfills every day!