If we want to recover the money we overpay when purchasing bottles or cans, we need to know what exactly the rules apply to the deposit system. Therefore, you should be aware of which packaging can be returned and which does not require cash. We explain which bottles are covered by the deposit system.
Packaging that can be subject to the deposit system is marked with a special symbol. It is located on the label, right next to the barcode. It is a square made of two arrows, inside which there is the inscription “deposit” and its value.. This is the first thing we need to pay attention to if we want to return the bottles.
The next issue that determines whether they are accepted into the deposit system is the capacity of the beverage packaging. We can only receive cash if it is a PET bottle with a capacity of up to 3 liters or a metal can with a capacity of up to 1 liter.
There is a fee of 50 cents for both of these products. If we want to recover it, we must return the bottles or cans to collection points or to deposit machines.
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It is also worth knowing what is not subject to the deposit system. So far, it does not cover disposable glass bottles. It also does not apply to cartons in which we buy, for example, fruit juices or milk. In addition, the deposit does not cover various types of multi-material packaging, such as PET cans with aluminum lids, beverage bags, cups with aluminum lids or aluminum bottles.
It should also be added that not all plastic bottles can be returned. If they do not have a deposit mark, they should be disposed of in accordance with the regulations . In addition, we must know that if we want to return bottles, we cannot crush them, because bottle lockers only accept whole and uncrushed bottles and cans. So we have to ensure that they are in such a condition that the machine can properly recognize them and scan the codes.
It is also worth remembering that the deposit system is still being developed and may cover more and more products over time. It is possible that other types of packaging will also be included in the system in the future. It is currently known that from January 1, 2026, it will also cover reusable glass bottles up to 1.5 liters, for which PLN 1 will be refunded.
