Dear Recycle Lady

Dear Recycle Lady,

Dove bar soap comes in a cardboard box that is highly scented. Can this box be recycled with cardboard?

Like Scented Packaging

Dear Likes Scented Packaging,

Yes, the scented box can be recycled with cardboard. Interestingly, Dove has committed to packaging their cosmetic soap bars in paper boxes that are free of plastic, according to Globalrecycle.net. They are also making progress on creating their bottles from 100% post-consumer recycled plastic. Eco-friendly soap packaging boxes are also now becoming available as is the practice of using less packaging. Thankfully, more manufacturers and businesses are working toward the development, and use, of zero-plastic materials.

Dear Recycle Lady,

A couple weeks ago you stated that aluminum pans can be used in the microwave. What about aluminum foil? Can it be used in a microwave?

Surprised

Dear Surprised,

As with putting aluminum pans in the microwave, there are two schools of thought on putting aluminum foil in the microwave. Some say yes, there are ways to do use it safely and others say no, as there is a danger of sparks or fire. I put a sheet of aluminum foil on the glass turntable and there were no sparks. I also placed a piece of aluminum foil on top of a glass bowl and that was also ok. One word of caution. Be careful that the aluminum foil is on a glass or ceramic turntable and that the foil does not touch the sides of the microwave. Never put food wrapped in aluminum foil in the microwave as the food will not heat as it will be unable to absorb the microwaves and it may cause sparks. Small pieces of foil can be used as shields to prevent overcooking of food, such as wings or drumsticks on poultry. You may have seen some foil-wrapped packaged foods that is safe to put in the microwave. Be sure to read the manufacturer’s directions before you begin.

A microwave heats foods from the top, so it is recommended that only food that is less than two inches thick be heated in a microwave. This recommendation is like the recommendation that aluminum pans put in the microwave should be less than 1.5 to 2 inches high. Also, be sure you are watching when you first start the microwave. If you notice sparks quickly open the door. The argument against put aluminum foil in the microwave, according to upgradedhome.com, is that a thin piece of aluminum foil can get hot very quickly and even light on fire. The food itself also could ignite and burn. They caution that, if you must put aluminum foil in the microwave, watch it carefully so you can open the door immediately if you see sparks flying or smell burning.

Interesting Information: Scruff, the recycling border collie, has collected thousands of plastic bottles on his daily walks, and his community loves him for it! This clever 13-year-old is bringing attention to the problem of plastic pollution in a unique way. (fto.com)

Dear Readers,

The Greenbrier Recycling Center, Greenworks, and I send you best wishes and much joy for this holiday season.  We greatly appreciate all your questions, comments and encouragement.  Please keep them coming in 2023.

Have questions about recycling, or interesting information about recycling? Send questions or requests to recyclelady@greenbrier-swa.com.  Dear Recycle Lady is sponsored jointly by the Greenbrier Recycling Center and Greenworks Recycling.