Plastic bags are one of the most common recycling contaminants. They tangle in sorting machinery, shut down processing lines, and can send entire loads to landfill. They should never go in your curbside recycling bin — but there are better options than the trash.

The Problem

  • Plastic bags jam conveyor belts and sorting equipment at recycling facilities
  • Workers must stop machines to cut bags free — a safety hazard and costly delay
  • Bags that slip through contaminate bales of otherwise recyclable material
  • An estimated 100 billion plastic bags are used in the U.S. each year

What to Do With Plastic Bags

Return to Retail Drop-off

Many grocery and retail stores have collection bins near the entrance for plastic bags and film. Accepted materials typically include:

  • Grocery and retail bags
  • Bread and produce bags
  • Dry cleaning bags
  • Newspaper sleeves
  • Bubble wrap and air pillows

Bags must be clean and dry. Note: retail collection programs are less common than they used to be — check with your store before dropping off.

Reuse Them

  • Use as small trash can liners
  • Bring them back for your next shopping trip
  • Use for pet waste pickup

Garbage

If you can't return or reuse them, plastic bags go in the garbage — not recycling.

Bring Your Own Bag

The best solution is to avoid single-use bags altogether. California's plastic bag law (SB 1053, effective January 2026) prohibits plastic bags at checkout statewide:

  • Grocery, pharmacy, and convenience stores may only offer recycled-content paper bags (10¢ minimum charge)
  • Other retail stores may offer paper or reusable bags (10¢ minimum charge)
  • Restaurants may provide paper bags for free
  • WIC and CalFresh participants are exempt from bag charges

For full details on the law, including what stores must comply and bag specifications: Plastic bag laws

Tips for Going Bag-Free

  • Keep reusable bags in your car, by the front door, or in your work bag
  • Use a backpack or tote for small trips
  • Skip the bag entirely for one or two items
  • Choose reusable produce bags for fruits and vegetables