Can you recycle plastic cups?

It depends on the plastic. Red Solo-style party cups are #6 polystyrene, which isn't recyclable — trash. Clear disposable cups are often #1 (PET) or #5 and may be accepted if your program takes those rigid plastics, but they're frequently too flimsy or too small to sort, so the safe answer is usually the trash.

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Check the number

Flip the cup over and look for the resin code (1–7). #1 or #5 clear rigid cups may be recyclable where your program accepts them; #6 (including red Solo cups and clear crystal-style cups) is not. No number, black, or very thin/flimsy → trash.

Why so many are trash

Disposable drink cups are lightweight and often a low-value or unaccepted plastic, so many recyclers screen them out. Cups with drink residue, straws, or lids attached are even less likely to be recycled.

The better move

A reusable cup avoids the question entirely. For a party, look for cups labeled recyclable #1/#5 or certified-compostable (which need a commercial composter, not the blue cart).

Plastic Cups — quick FAQ

Are plastic cups recyclable?

Most aren't — red #6 party cups are trash, and clear disposable cups are often too flimsy or an unaccepted plastic. Check the number: #1/#5 rigid cups may be recyclable where your program takes them; otherwise trash.

Are red Solo cups recyclable?

No — red Solo cups are #6 polystyrene, which isn't accepted in curbside recycling. They go in the trash.

What about clear plastic cups?

Clear #1 (PET) or #5 cups can be recycled where your program accepts those rigid plastics — but many are too thin to sort. When unsure, trash it.

Related

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Not sure about something else? Point your camera at it and RecycleLens tells you the right bin.