What does a triangle on plastic mean?

Most people know the little triangle symbol at the bottom of plastic bottles means ‘recycle’ but what they don’t know is just because it has a triangle on the bottom, doesn’t always mean it can be recycled. The numbers indicate the grade of plastic and can also tell you about the safety and uses of that item.

What is the meaning of triangle under plastic bottles?

Mostly, these numbers that are printed inside a triangle, which is the universal symbol of recycling and is called a Resin Identification Code (RIC).

What does a 1 inside a triangle mean?

Polyethylene Terephthalate
Polyethylene Terephthalate (PETE or PET) A 1 inside the triangle indicates the plastic is polyethylene terephthalate, which is shortened to PET or PETE. This symbol is normally found on bottles for soft drinks and water; salad dressing, peanut butter, and vegetable oil containers; and mouthwash bottles.

Are plastics without numbers recyclable?

Many plastic-based products cannot break down and cannot be recycled. Most plastic that displays a one or a two number is recyclable (though you need to check with your area’s recycling provider). But plastic that displays a three or a five often isn’t recyclable.

What do symbols on plastic containers mean?

While it may seem like a secret recycling code, the symbols printed on plastic items identify what items are made of. Plastic containers like milk jugs and water bottles all contain a numerical code for the resin type. This would ensure they recycle them correctly instead of throwing them in landfills.

What does a recycle triangle with no number mean?

That symbol can be found on most plastics, and you would think that means that it’s recyclable. In the plastics industry, that little triangle is known simply as the “resin stamp,” a marking plastics manufacturers use to indicate the type of plastic it is.

What does a triangle with the number 2 mean?

Numerologically speaking, if one represents force, two represents an opening, then three is the birthing of wisdom. This is also said to represent the union of one and two. The meaning of the triangle can vary based on their orientation.

Which plastic symbols are recyclable?

How to know what plastics can be recycled

• Plastic Recycling Symbol #1: PET or PETE.
• Plastic Recycling Symbol #2: HDPE.
• Plastic Recycling Symbol #3: PVC or V.
• Plastic Recycling Symbol #4: LDPE.
• Plastic Recycling Symbols #5: PP.
• Plastic Recycling Symbol #6: PS.
• Plastic Recycling Symbol #7: Miscellaneous.

What number on plastic can be recycled?

The recycling code constitutes of the numbers 1 through 7. Sometimes below the numbers you also find the abbreviations for the plastic type (PETE, HDPE, etc.). The most widely accepted plastics for recycling are number 1 and 2, also most of plastic containers are type 1 and 2.