Which number on plastics that can be recycled was removed in an effort to clear up the perception number is the only indicator whether or not a plastic product is recyclable or not. Shape and size also factor into if a plastic is recyclable or not. For example, items smaller than a credit card should not recycled.
Also note that flexible packaging including plastic bags and wraps do not belong in your curbside recycling bin! They are considered Terrible Tanglers. Flexible plastic bags and packaging that passes the “thumb stretch test” can be recycled at major store retailers. To test whether flexible packaging can be recycled at a store apply thumb pressure to the plastic. If it stretches then it can be recycled at major store retailers, otherwise it should be discarded with your trash.
Learn more about Terrible Tanglers in the Terrible Tangler blog.