Many people regularly consume wine, either on special occasions or just after a long day. You may be one of them whose after-dinner routine involves the uncorking and pouring of a fine red or a crisp white. This might leave you with a collection of empty wine bottles. Rather than throwing them in the garbage, did you know that you could actually recycle wine bottles for cash? In this article, you will get to know places around you and online where you can recycle wine bottles and get paid.

Nearest Collection or Recycling Center

States like California, Hawaii, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, New York, Oregon, Vermont, and Connecticut have a Container Deposit Legislation, also known as “Bottle Bill”. This legislation ensures a minimum refundable deposit on beverage containers to promote recycling. For wine bottles, a refund value usually ranges from 5 cents to 15 cents per bottle. You can take your wine bottles to nearby redemption centers, bottle return machines, or recycling facilities in these states to cash them in.

Scrapyards or Junkyards

You can also take your wine bottles to scrapyards or junkyards for recycling. These places often pay you for the weight of the glass you turn in. The prices are not consistent since it depends on the current market price of glass. It is advisable to contact the scrapyard beforehand to determine if they accept glass and how they determine their prices.

Online Marketplaces

Online marketplaces like eBay and Craigslist can also be a solid option. There is a considerable demand for empty wine bottles for decorative and craft purposes. All you need is a good picture of your wine bottles and a brief description, and you are good to go.

Cash Recycling Machines

Some retail or grocery stores are equipped with cash recycling machines. These machines exchange your empty beverage containers for a cash receipt that you can use at the store or cash in at the service desk. However, they usually have guidelines regarding the cleanliness and condition of the bottles. Be sure to clean your wine bottles before you take them in.

Recycling Programs

Several wineries have recycling programs that offer incentives for returning their empty wine bottles. This joint effort not only aids the environment but also allows you to earn some cash. Choose wines from producers who offer such programs whenever you can.

Glass Collection Services

In certain areas, glass collection services collect glass directly from the curbside. Some of these services pay for the quantity of glass you turn in.

In conclusion, recycling wine bottles not only helps our environment by reducing waste, it also can fetch you some extra cash. Bear in mind that the wine bottles should be free from dirt and debris and the labels should be removed before turning them in for recycling. So the next time you enjoy a bottle of wine, remember you can recycle it and perhaps even make some cash.