How much do you need to clean out your recyclable containers?

Question

Ok. So, I am in a running debate with my roommate: How clean do recyclables (like yogurt containers, pasta sauce jars, shampoo bottles, etc) have to be when you put them on your curb? I have heard that they have to be completely empty of all original contents, or else they are not recycled, or, worse, could contaminate the whole batch of recyclables-- Is this true? Can anyone (who actually knows) weigh in on this? References are much appreciated.

Answer 1

I always wash mine out using hot water. Although I'm conscious while I'm doing it that I'm using up energy at the same time! Bit of a catch 22 there.  

Answer 2

A simple rinse out with water gets out everything they expect to be removed.   They are not asking for sterilization.

Answer 3

for sanitation reasons (odour and pests)it is best to rinse them out,as for the actual recycling process these items get crushed ,grinded and heated to melting points that burn up any food residuals it doesn't make a difference.I do service work in a local collection plant you should see the condition stuff comes in it just gets bailed up and sent to specific processing plants ie glass,tin,newsprint .....

Answer 4

It should be rinsed out of the product because it could contaminate the whole batch. It does not take long to rinse out the containers.

http://www.homerny.org/winter07-p5.pdf