Let's Talk Trash: Dispose of, donate, or repurpose that old dishware!
Discarded dishes disposal locations
Got some outdated plates, mugs, and bowls lying around? Our guide will help you decide where to put them for proper disposal, recycling, or even donation!
By Nele Fischers
Here's a breakdown of what we'll cover:
- What goes in which bin?
- Recycling glass, ceramic, and porcelain dishes
- Disposal tips for plastic and disposable dishes
- Creative, sustainable alternatives to tossing your dishes
Which Bin Works Best for Old Dishware?
Most old dishes can go in the regular trash, but exceptions and alternatives may apply depending on the amount and material involved.
Recycling Glass, Ceramic, and Porcelain Dishes
Small Amounts
Small, household quantities of ceramic or porcelain dishes can be easily disposed of in the regular trash. For your safety, protect against sharp edges by wrapping them in newspaper beforehand.
Larger Amounts
Larger quantities can be recycled at your local recycling center, but remember that certain types of dishes are not accepted in glass recycling programs.
Plastic and Disposable Dishes
Small Amounts
Small, household quantities of plastic and disposable dishes can be disposed of in the regular trash, while larger amounts may need to be taken to the recycling center.
Pro Tip!
Check out our articles on disposing of metal dinnerware:
- Dispose of cutlery
- Dispose of knives
- Dispose of pans
- Dispose of cooking pots
Some Eco-Friendly Options
Dishes in good condition and those with only minor defects can be:
- Donated: Consider donating to food banks, social stores, free stores, or second-hand shops.
- Sold: Use classified ads to sell any items that still have value.
- Repurposed: Get creative and refashion dishes for new uses such as art projects, plant pots, or bird feeders.
Frequently Asked Questions on Disposing of Dishes
What's the cost to dispose of dishes at the recycling center?
Prices for recycling household quantities are usually free, but minor fees may apply in some cases. Contact your local recycling center for specific fees.
Can glass or porcelain dishes be recycled in the glass recycling bin?
No, most glass recycling programs don't accept glass-like items such as ceramics, porcelain, plate glass, window glass, mirrors, or light bulbs.
Is there a fine for improper disposal?
Improper disposal, including mixing non-recyclable items with recyclables, can result in fines. The exact amount depends on the offense and the region, ranging from a few dollars to hundreds of dollars.
When you have excess ceramic or porcelain dishes that are too numerous for normal trash, consider taking them to your local recycling center. On the other hand, if you wish to change your home-and-garden lifestyle, you could explore eco-friendly options such as donating dishes in good condition to food banks or second-hand shops, or finding creative uses for them, like turning them into planters or art pieces.
