How to Determine Safe Plastic Bottles

Check the recycling logo to determine if a plastic bottle is safe to use.

Plastic bottles are convenient, inexpensive and recyclable. Unfortunately, some research has shown that certain kinds of plastics leach chemicals which may cause negative health effects over time.

The biggest concern is over biphenyl-A, a chemical that simulates estrogen in the body, potentially disrupting normal hormonal balance. Other undesirable chemicals present in some plastics are benzene, a known carcinogen, as well as suspected carcinogens butadiene and styrene.

Fortunately, most plastic bottles are clearly labeled with the information you need to choose safe options.

Instructions

1. Turn the plastic bottle over and locate the triangular recycling logo. This mark is usually on the bottom of the bottle.

2. Read the number printed inside the recycling logo. This number, along with the letters printed underneath, identifies the type of plastic used in the bottle.

3. Recycle the bottle if the identification reads 3 (PVC), 6 (PS) or 7 (OTHER). Do not use it to hold beverages, baby milk or formula. Identifying marks reading 1 (PET), 2 (HDPE), 4 (LDPE) or 5 (PP) are fine to use.

Tips & Warnings

• Check baby bottles for unsafe plastics before buying them. Baby bottles are sometimes made of polycarbonate, labeled 7 (OTHER), which may leach biphenyl-A as the bottle ages.

References

• Care 2: Which Plastics Are Safe?
• The Daily Green: 3 Suspect Plastics to Avoid in Baby Bottles, Water Bottles, More