What are the 7 main types of plastic?

The 7 Main Types of Plastic You Encounter Every Day

Plastic is everywhere — from the water bottle in your hand to the dashboard of your car. But not all plastics are the same. Understanding the seven main types helps explain their uses, safety, and how to recycle them properly.

High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) and Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) fall under the broader Polyethylene (PE) category. HDPE is used in milk jugs and detergent bottles, while LDPE appears in plastic bags and flexible wraps. Both are relatively safe and recyclable.

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) is tough and versatile — think pipes, shower curtains, and vinyl flooring. It’s durable but can release harmful chemicals, especially when burned, so handling matters.

Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA), also known as acrylic, is that shatter-resistant glass substitute in signage and displays. It’s transparent and strong but not commonly recycled.

Polycarbonate (PC) is another clear plastic, often used in eyewear and electronics. Be cautious — some PC plastics contain BPA, a chemical increasingly avoided in food containers.

Polypropylene (PP) handles heat well, making it ideal for yogurt cups, bottle caps, and microwavable containers. It’s becoming more accepted in recycling programs.

Finally, Acrylonitrile-Butadiene-Styrene (ABS), the sturdy plastic in LEGO bricks and appliance housings, offers impact resistance and rigidity. It’s not typically recycled curbside but valued in specialty streams.

Knowing these types empowers smarter choices — whether you're reusing, recycling, or avoiding certain plastics altogether.