BottleBank - How it works

All about our bags

To ensure an efficient recycling process, we exclusively use BOTTLEBANK blue bags when accepting recyclables. These specially designed bags are equipped with unique QR codes that our colleagues will scan every time you drop them off, so we can make sure you receive your well-deserved CRV refunds. You can get these bags at participating grocery stores, but availability may vary. Please make sure you only use these BOTTLEBANK blue bags when recycling with us.

In our commitment to providing you with the best recycling experience, we're excited to share that we're working on implementing RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) technology. Thanks to this improvement, all our bags will be equipped with embedded chips that will eliminate the need for QR code scanning, resulting in a more seamless and efficient process when dropping off bags. It won't mean you'll not be able to use your remaining QR-coded bags, however, as long as they're available in shops, you're free to use both type at the same time.

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What we take

Unsure about what to recycle with BottleBank?
Here's a simple guide for determining what goes in your BottleBank bags:

Only beverage containers purchased in California can be redeemed for a refund. All containers must be completely empty, containers holding any liquid will not be counted.
The container examples below are not the only eligible containers nor an endorsement of specific products. New additions may not have CRV labels until July 1, 2025.

Please note that we always accept containers according to CalRecycle’s latest rules.

Wine

Franzia, Movino, Bota Box

Liquor

Smirnoff, Jose Cuervo, Cutwater Mai Tai

Beer and Malt Beverages

Coors, White Claw, Mike's Hard Lemonade

Wine Coolers and Distilled Spirit Coolers

Arbor Mis White Zinfandel, Woodchuck Hard Cider, High Noon Vodka Soda

Carbonated Soft Drinks

Pepsi, Sprite, Coca-Cola

Non-Carbonated Soft Drinks

SoBe Lifewater, Visvista Aloe Vera Drink, Califa Almond Milk

Carbonated Fruit Drink

Martinelli’s Sparkling Cider, Ocean Spray Sparkling Juice, Izzie Sparkling Juice

Carbonated Water Beverages

LaCroix, San Pelligrino, Bubly

Sport Drinks

Gatorade, Powerade, Pedialyte Sport

Noncarbonated Water

Evian Natural Springs, Dasani Purified, Fiji Natural Artesian

Fruit Juice

Coconut Water, Dole Tropical Fruit Punch, Simply Orange Juice

Vegetable Juice

Cambell’s Tomato, Odwalla Carrot, V8 Vegetable

Coffee and Tea Beverages

Starbucks Frappuccino, Lipton Iced Tea, Arizona Green Tea

Milk

Medical food

Infant formula

Food and non-beverage containers

Juice boxes

Juice pouches

Juice cartons

Simply check the labels and if you see any of the following messages printed on them, they’re eligible:

"California Redemption Value"

"CA Redemption Value"

"California Cash Refund"

"CA CRV"

"CA Cash Refund"

Please note that containers that became eligible on January 1, 2024 may not have CRV labels on them until July 1, 2025.

FAQ

How can I access the balance remaining in my previous account on the old system?

As of July 1, 2024, BOTTLEBANK has launched a new mobile app. If your previous account still holds a balance, you may withdraw your funds via the former app or at the physical kiosk located at Our Planet Recycling, 445 Bayshore Blvd, San Francisco, CA 94124, open Monday through Saturday from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm. Please note that this option is available only until October 31, 2024.

After November 1, 2024, access to the previous mobile app and kiosk for fund transfers or withdrawals will no longer be available. Customers with updated mailing addresses will receive a check by mail. For those needing assistance, you may contact the former Customer Service team toll-free at 833-732-6885 between 8:00 am and 6:00 pm daily to request a check.

California Unclaimed Property Law requires business entities to transfer inactive funds to the State Controller’s Office (SCO). For more information, visit the California SCO’s website.

What is CRV?

CRV stands for California Redemption Value, a nominal fee applied to recyclable beverage containers purchased in California. By downloading our BottleBank CA app, you gain access to essential information on recycling these containers and reclaiming this fee effortlessly, transforming your recyclables into valuable assets.

What can I put into the bags?

The easiest way to decide is to simply check the outside of your aluminum, glass or plastic bottles, and see if they have a "CA Cash Refund" or "CA CRV Refund" message printed on them. If they do, you can lightly crush these containers if you wish and, regardless of their type, mix them all in the same BottleBank bag for drop-off. Please note that items added after this notice may not be labeled until July 1, 2025. For more details, check out our guide on eligible items.

How does redemption work?

With BOTTLEBANK® It's simple - just download the NEW app, collect your bottles and cans in our special bag, take them to the nearest BOTTLEBANK® recycling point and get your bags scanned. You'll receive your CRV funds electronically within 72 hours.

How will I get my CRV back?

When you drop off a bag, our helpful staff will scan it. After processing, your refund will be credited electronically within 72 hours.

Do I have to separate the containers by type?

No, we also accept bags with mixed materials,so you don't have to separate your bottles and cans if you don't want to.

Where can I get BOTTLEBANK® bags?

You can find them at participating stores all over San Francisco. Check out our list of locations to see which one is closest to you.

Can I crush the plastic bottles and aluminum cans?

Yes, with the new BOTTLEBANK you can crush them. This way you can fit in more bottles and cans in every bag.

Where can I drop off my recycled items?

Simply open your BottleBank CA app, check on its built-in map which drop-off location is the most convenient for you, and you're ready to go.

Is the BOTTLEBANK® service free?

Enjoy a waived $0.25 bag processing fee until January 1, 2025!

How much money do I get for my containers?

The latest prices are always available in the app, and are in accordance with CalRecycle’s latest updates. So, finding out how much you can get for your containers is just a few taps away.

Is there a limit to how much I can drop off?

Customers are allowed to drop off up to 25 pounds per day for each material type, excluding glass. For glass containers, the daily limit is 250 pounds per person. These load limits are regulated by CalRecycle. Anything over the load limit will be paid scrap price. More information in the Terms of Services.