Some common recycling signs in plastic products
Plastic product recycling mark
Each plastic container has a triangular logo with 7 digital numbers inside. Each number represents a type of plastic material, which is like an “identity card” for plastic products. It is mainly used for classification when recycling plastic products. It is formulated by relevant agencies of the US plastics industry. The triangle formed by 3 arrows means that the plastic container is recyclable and does not mean that the plastic container can be reused, nor does it represent the safety level of the plastic container
“1” stands for PET (polyethylene terephthalate), which is common mineral water bottles and carbonated beverage bottles. It is easy to deform when heated to 70℃ and is not suitable for holding hot drinks.
“2” stands for HDPE (high-density polyethylene), which is mostly used for packaging liquids such as detergents, shampoos, shower gels, edible oils, and pesticides. The containers are mostly semi-opaque and feel waxy. Don’t use it as a water cup or as a storage container for other items.
“3” stands for PVC (polyvinyl chloride), which is mostly used to make water pipes, raincoats, school bags, building materials, plastic films, plastic boxes and other utensils.
“4” stands for LDPE (low density polyethylene). Plastic bags and food cling films are mostly made of LDPE.
“5” stands for PP (polypropylene), which is mostly used to make food and beverage packaging. The common soy milk bottles, yogurt bottles, juice drink bottles, and microwave lunch boxes have a melting point of up to 167°C and are the only ones that can be placed in a microwave oven. The plastic box can be reused after cleaning.
“6” stands for PS (polystyrene), which is mostly used to make building materials, toys, stationery, rollers, and cup boxes or disposable tableware for fast food restaurants to hold drinks. Commonly, there are bowls of instant noodle boxes and fast food boxes. Do not put it in a microwave oven for heating, and at the same time avoid packing hot food above 80°C.
“7” stands for PC (polysulfate) and other materials. PC is a material that is used in large quantities and is mostly used to make milk bottles, space cups, etc. PC may release toxic substance bisphenol A at high temperature, which is harmful to human body, so do not heat it when using it.