If you saw our social post this month, here’s the deeper dive. The short version: in most recycling programs, a crushed aluminum can is still an aluminum can, and it can still be recycled. Crushing typically just saves space.

The bigger win is simple: empty can, clean-ish, in the right bin.

 

Why this myth keeps popping up

A lot of people have heard “don’t crush cans” and assume it is a hard rule everywhere. In reality, recycling systems vary by municipality and by the sorting equipment a facility uses. Some programs may prefer cans uncrushed for easier sorting, but crushing alone is rarely the dealbreaker people think it is.

 

What matters most for recyclability

If you want the best chance your can gets recycled, focus on these basics:

• Empty it. Liquid left inside can contaminate other recyclables and create processing issues.

• Recycle it loose. Skip bagging recyclables unless your town specifically asks for it.

• Keep it out of the trash. Aluminum has strong value in recycling streams, but it cannot be recovered if it never enters the system.

 

So should you crush cans or not?

Here’s the practical answer:

• Crushing is usually fine and helps reduce volume in your bin.

• If your local program says “do not crush,” follow that. They know their equipment and process best.

• If you are unsure, “empty and uncrushed” is the safest default.

 

How the recycling loop actually works

Even with different sorting setups, the overall loop is consistent:

Collect & sort: Cans are collected and separated from other materials at a recycling facility (often using eddy current separation for aluminum).
Bale: Sorted aluminum is compacted into bales for efficient transport.
Re-melt: Aluminum is melted down, cleaned in the process, and prepared for reuse.
Back into products: That metal can be rolled into new sheet and turned into new aluminum products, including more cans.

Why aluminum is a recycling MVP

Aluminum is one of the most important materials in the recycling stream because it is:

• Highly recyclable and can be reused repeatedly

• Economically valuable, which helps drive collection and recovery

• Well-suited for a circular loop, especially for beverage packaging

 

For breweries and beverage brands

If you want to help customers recycle your product the right way:

• Consider adding a small “Empty and Recycle” reminder on packaging or in your social content.

• For events and taprooms, set up clearly labeled can-only bins to reduce contamination.

• Keep sustainability messaging practical. People follow instructions that feel easy and doable.

At Can-One USA, we believe sustainability works best when it is simple. Whether your customer is Team Crush or Team No Crush, the goal is the same: keep aluminum in the loop.