# Plastic recycling numbers: a guide to resin codes

Canonical: https://materiumapp.com/learn/plastic-recycling-symbols/

By Materium. Published 2026-10-22. English.

Learn how plastic recycling numbers identify resin types and help you find the right local collection guidance.

Plastic recycling numbers identify resin categories. Read the marking first, then use the item type and your local collection guidance to choose the appropriate recycling route.

Topics: [plastic recycling numbers](https://materiumapp.com/learn/#topic-plastic-recycling-numbers), [identify plastic type](https://materiumapp.com/learn/#topic-identify-plastic-type)

| Code | Common resin name |
| --- | --- |
| 1 | PET — polyethylene terephthalate |
| 2 | HDPE — high-density polyethylene |
| 3 | PVC — polyvinyl chloride |
| 4 | LDPE — low-density polyethylene |
| 5 | PP — polypropylene |
| 6 | PS — polystyrene |
| 7 | Other plastics or combinations |

## Find the material marking

Look at the base, rim or label for a number and abbreviation. Photograph the characters clearly and keep a whole-item image for context. A readable marking makes a useful companion to a visual material assessment.

The familiar 1–7 codes describe resin categories. Recycle Now explains these symbols for UK readers. The code helps identify the material; collection guidance answers the separate question of where a particular item is accepted.

## Connect the code to the object

Record the complete item: for example, a drink bottle with a cap or a food tray with a film lid. If instructions distinguish those components, keep the details separate in your notes.

Use the current accepted-item list from your council, municipality or waste provider. Search by the object type as well as the resin name. This gives your material identification a practical next step that is specific to the collection you use.

## Keep a helpful packaging record

Materium can help you explore the surface and save a scan. Add the visible marking and the local guidance to your own research notes. “Marked 5 PP; provider’s tub instructions checked today” creates a clear, reusable reference.

Follow the product’s instructions for care and reuse, and the collection provider’s instructions for disposal. Compostable packaging can have a separate route. Keeping identification and collection information together makes everyday sorting easier to understand.

[How Materium analyses patterns and material context](https://materiumapp.com/how-materium-works/).

## Sources

Sources checked 2026-10-19.

- [Recycle Now: recycling symbols (UK guidance)](https://www.recyclenow.com/how-to-recycle/recycling-symbols)
- [US EPA: recycling common materials (US guidance)](https://www.epa.gov/recycle/how-do-i-recycle-common-recyclables)

AI-assisted educational content. [Editorial policy](https://materiumapp.com/editorial/).

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