Plastic Tablecloths
What Should I Do With It?
Disposable plastic tablecloths, commonly used for parties and outdoor picnics, are not accepted in standard curbside recycling programs. Because they are made from thin plastic film, they easily wrap around and tangle rotating sorting machinery, which creates hazardous delays for sanitation workers. Furthermore, many cheap plastic tablecloths are made from polyvinyl chloride, which is also known as PVC or plastic #3, a material that contains toxic chemical additives capable of leaching into the environment. To reduce waste, consider transitioning to washable fabric tablecloths, or reuse old plastic tablecloths as drop cloths for painting and home improvement projects.
Before throwing this away, see if it can be fixed up, given to a friend, or donated to a local thrift shop. Keeping items in use is the best way to stop waste before it starts!
The recycling guidelines shown here are for general reference and educational purposes. Every city and town has different rules, sorting equipment, and recycling programs.
Please check your local town website or ask your local garbage collection program to make sure you are following your neighborhood's rules.