Where to Recycle Plastic Bags in New Jersey (Post-Rite Aid Closure)

If you're asking, "Where can I recycle plastic bags now that the Rite Aid at 117 closed?"—you’re not alone. The closure of that convenient recycling station has left many New Jersey residents searching for new waste and recycling options. The good news? There are still plenty of legal and accessible places to recycle plastic bags across the state—you just need to know where to look.

Why You Shouldn't Use the Curbside Bin for Plastic Bags

It might seem harmless to toss plastic grocery bags into your blue recycle bin, but doing so can cause serious problems in the recycling center.

Most recycling stations and municipal programs in New Jersey do not accept plastic bags curbside. Why?

• They jam machinery at Materials Recovery Facilities (MRFs), causing costly delays.

• They contaminate other recycled materials like paper, cardboard, and plastics #1–#2.

• They increase waste disposal costs for municipalities and taxpayers.

Instead, take your plastic bags to a designated drop-off recycling center near you.

Where Can You Recycle Plastic Bags in New Jersey?

Looking for recycling near me? These stores often provide dedicated bins for plastic film:

• ShopRite (many NJ locations)

• Stop & Shop

• Whole Foods Market

• Target

• Walmart

• Acme Markets

• Lowe’s (near customer service)

These stores typically have recycling bins located near entrances or customer service areas.

Bonus Tip:

If you're near NYC or North Jersey, Central Market on 110th Street is a recommended drop-off point. Always verify before visiting.

What Types of Plastic Bags and Film Are Accepted?

✅ Accepted for Recycling:

• Grocery and produce bags

• Bread bags

• Newspaper sleeves

• Bubble wrap & air pillows (deflated)

• Dry cleaning bags

• Plastic wrap from cases (e.g., water bottles)

• Zip-top bags (clean and dry)

❌ Not Accepted:

• Food-contaminated bags

• Frozen food bags

• Biodegradable or compostable bags

• Hard plastic containers

• Salad bags

Always ensure materials are clean and dry before dropping them off.

Can’t Find a Drop-Off Bin Nearby?

If local stores no longer accept plastic bags or enforcement is weak, try this:

🔍 Call a Disposal Company:

Skip the search — Daisy Disposal can collect your plastic bags and film right from your doorstep. No need to find a drop-off center. Just bag it, and they will handle the rest.

What About Reusing Plastic Bags?

Reusing is a short-term solution for tasks like:

• Lining trash cans

• Picking up pet waste

• Packing lunch

But for bulk packaging film and shrink wrap, recycling plastic bags remains essential.

Stay Informed and Do Your Part

With locations like the Rite Aid closing, knowing where to take your plastic waste is more important than ever.

✔️ Don't use curbside bins for plastic bags

✔️ Check local retailers for recycling stations

✔️ Visit plasticfilmrecycling.org for up-to-date info

✔️ Call the store before heading out

Recycling plastic bags responsibly keeps our waste and recycling systems working, protects wildlife, and supports a cleaner environment.

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🌿 About ReGenesis Materials

As a Class A recycling facility based in Voorhees, NJ, ReGenesis Materials processes high-volume recyclables like cardboard, aluminum, paper, plastic, and glass. We partner with municipalities, haulers, and businesses to ensure material recovery is clean, compliant, and sustainable.

Interested in a recycling partnership or educational outreach? Contact us today to schedule a site tour or set up a program for your building, office park, or community.