Recycling Centers Near You

The Best Recycling Centers Near You in Chicago — A Side-by-Side Guide

Looking for a “recycling center near me” in Chicago? You’re not alone. Whether you’re cleaning out after a big project, running a business, or just trying to do the right thing for the planet, finding the right recycling facility can make a big difference.

Here’s a guide comparing three of the top recycling locations in the Chicago area — including our very own GreenWay Recycling Services — so you can choose the best spot for your materials.

🌿 1. GreenWay Recycling Services — Chicago’s All-in-One Solution

Location: 2100 S. Kilbourn Ave, Chicago, IL 60623
Hours: Monday–Friday 5 a.m.–6 p.m., Saturday 5 a.m.–3 p.m.
Phone: 773-522-0025

If you’re looking for a full-service recycling center with fast drop-offs and early hours, GreenWay is one of the most convenient options in the city. We accept a wide range of materials — from cardboard, paper, plastics, and metals to construction debris and yard waste — and even pay you for certain recyclables.

Our facility is open to both residents and contractors, making it a perfect choice whether you’re doing home clean-outs, post-Halloween drop-offs, or large commercial pickups. Located near Cicero Ave with easy access from I-290 and I-55, GreenWay is built for speed, service, and sustainability.

Why people choose GreenWay:

• Long, flexible hours (early morning through evening)

• Quick weigh-in and weigh-out for drop-offs

• Competitive payouts for certain materials

• Spanish-speaking staff available

Before visiting, make sure materials are clean and sorted — and call ahead if you have large or unusual loads.

🌎 2. The Resource Center — Community Recycling Done Right

Location: North Park Village, 5801 N. Pulaski Rd., Chicago, IL 60646
Hours: 10 a.m.–4 p.m. (check site for current days)
Website: theresourcecenterchicago.org

The Resource Center is a non-profit recycler that focuses on sustainability education and neighborhood accessibility. It’s great for residents who want to drop off household recyclables like paper, glass, and plastics #1–7.

This center has a friendly, community feel — and it’s a good choice for anyone who prefers a slower pace and a mission-driven atmosphere.

Why people choose The Resource Center:

• Accepts a wide range of household recyclables

• Staffed by sustainability experts and volunteers

• Multiple convenient neighborhood drop-off sites

Good to know: They don’t handle large construction debris or commercial loads. If you’re bringing everyday recyclables, this is your spot.

🔧 3. CHaRM — Center for Hard-to-Recycle Materials (Cook County)

Location: 15800 State St., South Holland, IL 60473
Website: cookcountyil.gov/CHaRMCenter

The CHaRM Center is perfect for materials that can’t go into standard recycling bins — think electronics, Styrofoam, metal fixtures, and special plastics. Run by Cook County, it’s one of the most advanced specialty recycling facilities in the region.

Why people choose CHaRM:

• Handles tough items most centers can’t take

• County-run with high environmental standards

• Great for one-off, hard-to-dispose-of items

Good to know: Hours are limited (typically Tuesdays, Thursdays, and select Saturdays), and they mainly serve residential customers — so check before you go.

♻️ Which Recycling Center Is Best for You?

💡 Quick Recycling Tips

• Sort and clean your materials before dropping them off.

• Call ahead for large loads or special items.

• Ask about rebates — GreenWay may pay for certain recyclables.

• Bring ID for resident-only sites like CHaRM.

📍 Do Your Part — the GreenWay

Whether you’re recycling pumpkins after Halloween, cleaning out your garage, or managing a commercial cleanup, GreenWay makes it easy to do the right thing for Chicago’s environment.

Stop by our recycling center at 2100 S. Kilbourn Ave — and see why more Chicagoans are choosing to recycle the GreenWay.

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