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I love the designs of the plastic bottles but I'm not sure which to buy. They all have recycling numbers from 1-6 on them but I'm not sure which number I should look for.

flag	asked Oct 10 at 17:43 Kevin 11●1

mouviciel · Answer 1 · 2009-10-12 20:07:33Z UTC

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What is wrong with glass?

answered Oct 12 at 20:07

mouviciel
51●2

	Glass isn't as convenient as plastic in many ways. Glass breaks more easily and is heavier. Plus I'm not sure I've seen too many water bottles for re-use that come in a variety of designs like the plastic ones do. – Jeff♦ Oct 12 at 20:59
	Sure, but glass is indefinitely recyclable and reffilable without any risk to drink chemicals along with water. – mouviciel Oct 12 at 22:13

Jeff · Answer 2 · 2009-10-12 21:08:41Z UTC

Check the Recycling symbol on your plastic bottle. If you are using a #2, #4, or #5. Most recyclable bottles are type #1 which is meant for single-use only but if you're just refilling water bottles with more water I'm not sure the universe will go after you - however, Type 1 does have a high chance of leeching (basically you can taste the plastic and chemicals when you drink) and should be recycled instantly if you can taste it.

The numbers for plastic recycling actually go up to #7 at the moment though it seems that #7 bottles have the potential to leech BPA into the liquid which is extremely harmful and has been banned in some areas/countries.

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