Instructions depend on the type of carton you have. There are two main types of cartons. The Carton Council has photos of each type.

 

These cartons have a "roof" shape at the top. Milk, juice, and cream cartons are a common examples.

 

Rinse and recycle these carton. Put caps in the garbage. Do not bag recyclables. Recyclables must be loose.

 

Aseptic containers are rectangular and have a flat top with a plastic spout. They usually hold shelf-stable products like juice, soup, nut milk, or wine. Because they are made of paper, plastic, and foil, they are too difficult to recycle.