K-Cups & Coffee Pods
Whether a K-Cup pod can go in curbside recycling depends entirely on your local program, per Keurig. They're made of recyclable #5 polypropylene, but many municipalities don't accept plastic this small. Peel off the lid, empty the coffee grounds, and check locally before recycling the empty cup. If your area doesn't take them, Keurig's K-Cycle At Home is a paid mail-back alternative.
Curbside recycling?
Varies by location
Not recycled in many communities, per Keurig, even though the plastic itself (#5 polypropylene) is technically recyclable. Check your local program before putting an empty pod in the bin.
How to prepare it
- Peel off the foil lid, starting at the puncture point, and dispose of it
- Empty the coffee grounds, compost them if you can, the paper filter can stay in the cup
- Check with your local waste management program before putting the empty cup in curbside recycling
- If your area doesn't accept them, consider Keurig's paid K-Cycle At Home mail-back program instead
Common fees
Curbside recycling, where accepted, is free. Keurig's K-Cycle At Home mail-back program charges for its prepaid bags.
Quantity limits
Not confirmed
Residency restrictions
Not confirmed
Appointment required?
Not confirmed
Nearby locations
No locations yet for this item
Our facility coverage is still expanding beyond Los Angeles and Houston. Check the retailer/manufacturer programs above, or your city's official page.
Frequently asked questions
- Where can I recycle k-cups & coffee pods?
- Whether a K-Cup pod can go in curbside recycling depends entirely on your local program, per Keurig. They're made of recyclable #5 polypropylene, but many municipalities don't accept plastic this small. Peel off the lid, empty the coffee grounds, and check locally before recycling the empty cup. If your area doesn't take them, Keurig's K-Cycle At Home is a paid mail-back alternative.
- Can k-cups & coffee pods go in curbside recycling?
- Not recycled in many communities, per Keurig, even though the plastic itself (#5 polypropylene) is technically recyclable. Check your local program before putting an empty pod in the bin.
Programs, hours, fees, eligibility, and accepted materials can change. Confirm details with the facility before traveling.
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