Chunks of food on containers that are tossed into the mixed recycling bin can contaminate the whole load. However, your recycling does not need to be scrubbed with soap until it is sparkling clean. Give your recyclables a quick rinse, just enough to remove the food residue. Leaving a thin film on the surface is OK. To avoid using extra water, rinse them in your dirty, soapy dishwater. Put the cap or lid back on bottles and jars and give it a shake.
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Photo by Susan O'Donnell