An empty soft drink can is often recyclable, but your collection system decides the preparation. Check the deposit mark and current local instructions before setting it out.
Leave cans whole for most single-stream recycling. A separated collection or redemption center may give different instructions.
Choose the Collection Route
- Single-stream curbside: empty the can and usually leave it uncrushed so sorting equipment can recognize it.
- Separated recycling or scrap drop-off: follow that facility’s instructions on crushing, sorting, and bags.
- Deposit return: keep the container eligible under the current program and follow the redemption center’s preparation rules.
Prepare the Can
Pour out the drink. A quick rinse can reduce sticky residue, odors, and insects when your program asks for clean containers.
Do not place a full or partly full can in recycling. Liquid can contaminate paper and add unnecessary weight during collection.
Leave the pull tab attached unless your program tells you otherwise. A loose tab is small and can be lost during sorting.
Do not put the can inside a plastic bag unless the collector requires bags. Many sorting facilities need recyclables loose.
Should You Crush the Can?
EPA advises against crushing cans in single-stream systems. Flattened cans can be mistaken for paper or become harder for equipment to sort.
A source-separated aluminum program may accept crushed cans. Use its current instructions because the equipment and handling process are different.
Deposit programs can also set their own condition requirements. Preserve the refund marking and shape if the official program or redemption center requires it.
Check Deposit Eligibility
A deposit mark does not mean you can redeem the can anywhere. It points to a specific program, container category, and purchase market.
Use the current state program website or a listed redemption center to confirm value, hours, quantity limits, sorting, and identification requirements.
California, for example, currently pays five cents for eligible containers under 24 ounces and ten cents for eligible containers 24 ounces or larger.
Those California rates are an example, not a national rule. Follow the program printed on your can and the official guidance where it was sold.
Handle Unusual Cans Separately
This guidance covers empty beverage cans. Aerosol cans, cans with unknown contents, and mixed-material drink pouches need their own local instructions.
If the can is badly contaminated, ask the collector whether it can be cleaned or must go in trash. Do not use sharp tools to cut it open.
Questions People Ask
Can I Recycle a Dented Soda Can?
Usually, if it is empty and the local program accepts aluminum beverage cans. A deposit center may have separate rules for damaged containers.
Do I Need to Remove the Label?
Most aluminum drink cans have printing directly on the metal, so there is no paper label to remove. Follow local instructions for any sleeve or attachment.
Can I Use a Can for Crafts?
Only choose a project that leaves no sharp edges and fits the item’s food-contact history. Recycling is the simpler route when you lack safe tools or a useful plan.
Our aluminum guide explains why recyclability and biodegradability answer different questions.