Dishes and Ceramics Trash Do Not Mix With Glass RecyclablesDishes and ceramics can not be recycled with bottles and jars, due to melting temperature and chemistry. Do not place them in the recycling container. Dishes and Ceramics can include: Ashtrays, bowls, glass storage containers, mixing bowls, mugs, planters, plates, and platters. Consider DonationIf the dishes are still usable, please donate. Visit Athens’ Material Reuse page for ideas. Ceramic is utilized in making mosaic art pieces. Check with local artisans, art studios, community art centers, schools art programs, and art based nonprofits to see if they accept ceramics. In the City of Los Angeles, the nonprofit Piece by Piece accepts china and ceramic for donation. They are unable to accept wall tile or any thicker tile type. Ways to Reuse Sell Your China If you have a vintage china set, you can try selling to an organization like Replacements, Ltd. Did You Know? Some Dishes Can Kill The FDA only recently (close to 40 years ago) created regulations for leachable lead in dinnerware. Consequently, some vintage dishes contain dangerous levels of lead, and sometimes even more harmful substances, such as uranium. Experts recommend doing an at-home lead test for your vintage dishes, as well as avoiding heating your dishes, and remaining wary of cracks and fades in ceramic glaze.