It's easy to forget what items go in which bin when you're cleaning up, and which plastics are "good" or "bad." This list is a handy breakdown of the rules of recycling in Milwaukee, and reference on what to do with hazardous or unusual materials. Don't forget: If in doubt, call the city any time at 414.286.3500, or at 414.286.CITY during business hours. Reach a telecommunication device for the deaf at 414.286.2025.
Recycling at Home
Recyclable Items- Aluminum or steel cans and empty aerosol cans
- Plastic bottles marked with a #1 or #2
- Any kind of glass jars or bottles
- Phonebooks, magazines, newspapers, cardboard, mixed paper and mail
Non-Recyclable Items
- Window glass, light bulbs, ceramics or china
- Styrofoam
- Plastic bags
- Plastic bottles marked with #3 - #7 or not marked
- Oil or antifreeeze bottles
- Needles
- Paper lined with wax, foil or plastic
Milwaukee Self-Help Recycle Centers
Be sure to bring proof that you're a Milwaukee resident or property owner when accessing the self-help centers.- North Side: 6660 N. Industrial Rd.
- South Side: 3879 W. Lincoln Ave.
What to recycle at a self-help center:
- Household waste: used motor oil and oil filters; used antifreeze; car batteries; Ccmputers (up to 10 components); appliances; scrap metal; tires (up to 5 passenger tires; corrugated cardboard; concrete; and regular recyclables
- Yard waste: brush; grass clippings; leaves and garden debris
- Large items: garbage; old furniture; up to 2 yards of construction or remodeling debris
Hazardous Material Disposal Centers
Call 414.272.5100 or visit the MMSD website for hours and lists of acceptable materials.- South Side: 3879 W. Lincoln Ave.
- Menomonee Falls: W124 N9451 Boundary Rd. (124th St)
- Franklin: 10518 S. 124th St.
