7 Common Plastic Recycling Numbers You Need to Know for Sustainable Cosmetic Packaging

As a packaging manufacturer committed to sustainability, I've learned that understanding plastic recycling codes is essential for making environmentally responsible choices. These numbers guide both manufacturers and consumers toward better recycling practices.

The seven plastic recycling numbers (1-7) identify resin types for proper sorting: #1 PET, #2 HDPE, #3 PVC, #4 LDPE, #5 PP, #6 PS, and #7 Other, with each number indicating specific recycling capabilities and safety considerations crucial for sustainable cosmetic packaging selection.

Knowing these codes helps brands choose packaging that aligns with their environmental goals and local recycling infrastructure.

What is the code 7 for plastic recycling?

Recycling code 7 represents a category of miscellaneous plastics that don't fit into the other six classifications.

Code 7 plastic indicates "Other" resins including polycarbonate, PLA, acrylic, nylon, and multi-layer materials, presenting recycling challenges due to material diversity but often including innovative bioplastics and engineering plastics used in premium cosmetic packaging.

Code 7 Plastic Characteristics

Resin Type	Common Uses	Recyclability	Safety Considerations
Polycarbonate	Clear containers	Limited recycling	BPA concerns
PLA (Polylactic Acid)	Biodegradable packaging	Industrial composting	Generally safe
Acrylic	Premium containers	Not widely recycled	Food contact approved
Nylon	Brush handles, components	Specialized recycling	Durable and safe
Multi-layer	Barrier packaging	Difficult to recycle	Varies by layers

Code 7 represents the "catch-all" category for plastics that don't fit into the first six classifications. This category includes both traditional engineering plastics and innovative new materials. Polycarbonate (PC) is one common code 7 plastic valued for its clarity and impact resistance, though it faces recycling challenges and historical concerns about BPA content. PLA (polylactic acid) falls under code 7 and represents a growing segment of bioplastics derived from renewable resources like corn starch or sugarcane. While PLA is compostable in industrial facilities, it requires specific conditions not available in most home composting or municipal recycling systems. Acrylic (PMMA) offers excellent clarity and UV resistance, making it popular for premium cosmetic containers, but it's rarely recycled through curbside programs. Nylon provides exceptional durability for components like brush handles and pump mechanisms, but requires specialized recycling processes. Multi-layer materials, which combine different plastics to achieve specific barrier properties, present significant recycling challenges as the layers are difficult to separate. The code 7 category also includes new bio-based materials and plastic composites that continue to emerge in the market. From a recycling perspective, code 7 materials face infrastructure limitations because municipal recycling systems are typically designed for codes 1 and 2. However, some code 7 plastics like PLA are becoming more recyclable as infrastructure develops. For cosmetic packaging, understanding code 7 is crucial because many premium and functional packages use these materials. Brands choosing code 7 plastics should consider both the recycling infrastructure in their target markets and communicate clearly with consumers about proper disposal methods.

What are the 7 main types of plastic?

The seven main plastic types form the foundation of modern packaging materials and recycling systems.

The seven main plastic types are #1 PET (polyethylene terephthalate)¹, #2 HDPE (high-density polyethylene)², #3 PVC (polyvinyl chloride)³, #4 LDPE (low-density polyethylene)⁴, #5 PP (polypropylene)⁵, #6 PS (polystyrene)⁶, and #7 Other plastics, each with distinct properties and recycling characteristics for cosmetic applications.

Seven Plastic Types Comparison

Code	Plastic Name	Cosmetic Uses	Recyclability	Key Properties
#1	PET	Clear bottles, jars	Widely recycled	Clear, strong, lightweight
#2	HDPE	Opaque bottles, caps	Easily recycled	Chemical resistant, durable
#3	PVC	Blister packs, tubes	Rarely recycled	Flexible, clear, controversial
#4	LDPE	Squeeze tubes, lids	Sometimes recycled	Flexible, tough, low cost
#5	PP	Caps, containers	Increasingly recycled	Heat resistant, durable
#6	PS	Compact cases, trays	Difficult to recycle	Rigid, brittle, inexpensive
#7	Other	Various specialty uses	Limited recycling	Diverse properties

The seven plastic classification system provides a standardized way to identify materials for recycling and safety purposes. PET (#1) is renowned for its clarity and strength, making it ideal for transparent cosmetic bottles where product visibility matters. It's one of the most widely recycled plastics with established collection systems. HDPE (#2) offers excellent chemical resistance and durability, commonly used for opaque bottles and containers requiring robust protection. Its recycling infrastructure is well-developed, making it a sustainable choice. PVC (#3) provides flexibility and clarity but faces environmental concerns due to chlorine content and recycling difficulties. Many cosmetic brands avoid PVC due to these issues. LDPE (#4) offers flexibility and toughness for squeeze tubes and flexible packaging, though recycling availability varies by region. PP (#5) stands out for heat resistance, making it suitable for hot-filled products and components requiring sterilization. Its recyclability has improved significantly in recent years. PS (#6) provides rigidity at low cost but is brittle and difficult to recycle, leading many municipalities to exclude it from recycling programs. The #7 category encompasses all other plastics, including innovative materials and composites. Understanding these seven types helps cosmetic brands make informed packaging decisions based on product compatibility, sustainability goals, and market requirements. Each plastic offers unique advantages and limitations that must be balanced against environmental considerations and functional needs.

What are the plastics 1 5 and 7?

Plastics 1, 5, and 7 represent commonly used materials in cosmetic packaging with distinct sustainability profiles.

Plastics 1 (PET), 5 (PP), and 7 (Other) are frequently used in cosmetic packaging, with PET offering excellent clarity and recyclability, PP providing heat resistance and durability, and category 7 including various specialty materials with diverse recycling capabilities and applications.

Plastics 1, 5, and 7 Analysis

Property	PET (#1)	PP (#5)	#7 Plastics
Recyclability	Excellent	Good	Variable
Clarity	Crystal clear	Translucent	Varies widely
Heat Resistance	Moderate	Excellent	Dependent on type
Chemical Resistance	Good	Excellent	Specific to material
Common Cosmetic Uses	Serum bottles, toners	Caps, jars, tubes	Premium containers, components

PET (#1), PP (#5), and #7 plastics form a significant portion of cosmetic packaging materials, each serving different purposes. PET is prized for its glass-like clarity and excellent barrier properties, making it ideal for products where visual appeal and product protection are paramount. It's widely recycled globally, with well-established collection and processing systems. PET's lightweight nature also reduces transportation emissions compared to glass alternatives. PP (#5) offers exceptional heat resistance, allowing for hot filling processes and sterilization compatibility. Its durability makes it suitable for caps, hinges, and components requiring repeated use. PP recycling infrastructure has expanded considerably, though availability still varies by region. The material's chemical resistance protects against product-package interactions. Category #7 encompasses diverse materials including polycarbonate (valued for impact resistance), PLA (biodegradable option), acrylic (premium appearance), and various composites. This category's recyclability is highly variable – some #7 plastics like PLA require specific composting facilities, while others like polycarbonate have limited recycling options. For cosmetic brands, understanding the differences between these three categories helps in selecting appropriate materials for specific applications. PET works well for transparent liquid products, PP excels in components requiring durability and heat resistance, while #7 materials offer specialized properties for premium or functional packaging. The sustainability profile differs significantly among these categories, with PET generally having the best recycling rates, PP improving rapidly, and #7 facing ongoing challenges. Brands must consider both immediate functional requirements and long-term environmental impact when choosing among these options.

What are plastics with numbers 3 4 6 and 7?

Plastics 3, 4, 6, and 7 represent materials with more complex recycling profiles and specific applications.

Plastics 3 (PVC), 4 (LDPE), 6 (PS), and 7 (Other) include materials with varying recyclability challenges, with PVC facing environmental concerns, LDPE having limited recycling, PS being rarely recycled, and category 7 presenting diverse recycling scenarios depending on specific resin type.

Plastics 3, 4, 6, and 7 Sustainability Profile

Code	Material	Recycling Rate	Environmental Concerns	Cosmetic Applications
#3	PVC	Very low	Chlorine content, additives	Blister packs, tubes
#4	LDPE	Moderate	Film pollution, limited recycling	Squeeze tubes, lids
#6	PS	Low	Brittle, difficult to recycle	Compact cases, trays
#7	Other	Highly variable	Mixed materials, specialized needs	Premium components

Plastics 3, 4, 6, and 7 present distinct challenges and opportunities for sustainable cosmetic packaging. PVC (#3) offers clarity and flexibility but faces significant environmental concerns due to chlorine content and plasticizer additives. Many cosmetic brands avoid PVC despite its functional benefits due to these issues and very limited recycling options. LDPE (#4) provides flexibility and toughness for squeeze tubes and flexible packaging, but its recycling infrastructure is less developed than for rigid plastics. Thin LDPE films can contaminate recycling streams if not properly handled. PS (#6) is valued for its rigidity and low cost but is brittle and rarely recycled through municipal programs. Its lightweight nature can lead to environmental litter issues. Category #7 includes a wide range of materials with highly variable recycling profiles. Some #7 plastics like PLA offer compostable alternatives, while others like polycarbonate present recycling challenges. For cosmetic packaging, these materials often serve specialized functions – PVC for blister packaging, LDPE for flexible tubes, PS for rigid cases, and various #7 plastics for premium or technical applications. The sustainability considerations for these codes are more complex than for widely recycled plastics like #1 and #2. Brands using these materials should implement clear labeling and consumer education about proper disposal methods. Some manufacturers are developing improved versions of these plastics with better environmental profiles, such as PVC-free alternatives and enhanced recyclable LDPE. Understanding the limitations and opportunities associated with these plastic codes helps brands make more informed sustainability decisions and communicate transparently with environmentally conscious consumers.

Is a BPA free number 7 plastic safe?

BPA-free number 7 plastics generally offer good safety profiles, but understanding specific resin types remains important.

BPA-free number 7 plastics are generally safe for cosmetic packaging, as BPA concerns primarily relate to polycarbonate (a #7 plastic), but safety depends on the specific alternative material used and its compatibility with cosmetic formulations and usage conditions.

BPA-Free #7 Plastic Safety Evaluation

#7 Plastic Type	BPA Status	Safety Profile	Cosmetic Suitability
PLA	Naturally BPA-free	Excellent safety	Ideal for various products
Acrylic	BPA-free	Food-grade safe	Premium containers
Tritan	BPA-free alternative	Extensive testing	Durable components
Bio-based #7	BPA-free	Generally safe	Eco-friendly options
Polycarbonate	Contains BPA	Concern for some applications	Being phased out

The safety of BPA-free number 7 plastics depends on understanding what specific material is being used and its intended application. The BPA concern originally emerged with polycarbonate, which is a #7 plastic that traditionally used Bisphenol-A in its manufacturing. However, many #7 plastics are naturally BPA-free, including PLA (made from renewable resources), acrylic (PMMA), and various new bio-based materials. When manufacturers label a #7 plastic as "BPA-free," they're typically indicating it's not polycarbonate or that they're using alternative materials that don't contain BPA. Materials like Tritan (a copolyester) were developed specifically as BPA-free alternatives to polycarbonate while maintaining similar clarity and durability. These alternatives undergo rigorous safety testing and are generally considered safe for cosmetic applications. However, "BPA-free" doesn't automatically mean a material is free from all potential concerns. Some alternative materials may use different chemical compounds that require their own safety evaluations. For cosmetic packaging, the primary safety consideration is whether chemicals could migrate from the packaging into the product, especially with formulations containing oils, alcohols, or other ingredients that might interact with the plastic. Most modern #7 plastics designed for cosmetic use undergo compatibility testing to ensure they don't leach chemicals or affect product stability. Brands should work with suppliers who provide material safety data sheets and compliance certificates for their packaging materials. While BPA-free status is an important consideration, it's just one aspect of overall material safety that includes chemical stability, manufacturing quality control, and appropriate usage conditions. For consumers concerned about BPA, choosing products packaged in clearly labeled BPA-free materials from reputable brands provides reasonable assurance of safety.

Conclusion

Understanding plastic recycling numbers 1-7 enables informed sustainable packaging decisions, with codes 1 and 2 offering the best recyclability, while codes 3, 4, 6, and 7 require careful consideration of specific material properties and local recycling capabilities for environmentally responsible cosmetic packaging choices.