There is a number stamped in a triangle (see image below) on the bottom of just about every plastic bottle we use, which varies from one to seven. I’ve read in various sources where claims have been made that the particular number represents the recycling process of the plastic, specifically, the amount of times that exact bottle has been recycled, but in reverse order. Well … yes and no … While it does have everything to do with recycling, the number of times an item has been recycled has absolutely nothing to do with that particular number.
That number actually represents the type of plastic which is used in the manufacturing of that particular type of bottle. For example, the number ‘5’ is made out of polypropylene (PP) while the number ‘1’ is called PET which stands for polyethlyene terephthalate.
The numbers below represent the material (type of plastic) that goes into the making of that specific bottle. This number will be useful for you when sorting through the bottles for recycling, but more importantly, the number will help you to determine which bottle is best for reusing or refilling for your own personal use.
Choose water bottles carefully
It is worth paying attention to the type of plastic your water bottle is made of, to ensure that the chemicals in the plastic do not leach into the water.
To be certain that you are choosing a bottle that does not leach, check the recycling symbol on your bottle. If it is a #2 HDPE (high density polyethylene), or a #4 LDPE (low density polyethylene), or a #5 PP (polypropylene), your bottle is fine.
The type of plastic bottle in which water is usually sold is usually a #1, and is only recommended for one time use. -Do not refill it-
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