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About This Location

Metro Area Redemption is a container-deposit redemption center in Cedar Falls, Iowa, open since 1994, that refunds the state's 5-cent deposit on eligible beverage containers. It takes aluminum cans, plastic bottles, and glass bottles carrying an Iowa deposit mark; water bottles and out-of-state containers have no deposit value. Walk-in customers are limited to 8 can bags per vehicle, while commercial and fundraising drop-offs are handled by appointment. This is a deposit-refund center, not a general curbside recycling drop-off.

What Metro Area Redemption Accepts

✓ Aluminum cans with an Iowa 5-cent deposit mark
✓ Plastic bottles with an Iowa 5-cent deposit mark
✓ Glass bottles with an Iowa 5-cent deposit mark (Must be boxed, never bagged)

Related recycling guides: Glass · Plastic

What they do not accept

✕ Water bottles (no deposit)
✕ Out-of-state containers (no Iowa deposit)

This is a deposit-redemption center, not a general curbside recycling drop-off, so it does not take non-deposit household recyclables.

Access & restrictions

Open to the public · Walk-in customers are limited to 8 can bags per vehicle; commercial and fundraising drop-offs are by appointment. Containers must be reasonably clean per Iowa law, or deductions apply.

Programs & events

  • Commercial and fundraising redemption — Larger commercial loads and fundraising drives are handled by appointment rather than the 8-bag walk-in limit.

Materials, fees and hours can change — call ahead to confirm before your visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I recycle cans and bottles for money in Cedar Falls, IA?

Metro Area Redemption in Cedar Falls accepts aluminum cans, plastic bottles, and glass bottles that carry an Iowa 5-cent deposit mark and refunds the deposit. Water bottles and out-of-state containers are not redeemable.

How much do you get per can for recycling in Iowa?

Iowa refunds a 5-cent deposit for each qualifying beverage container.

How should I prepare my containers?

Containers must be reasonably clean, glass must be in boxes (not bags), and cans and plastics should be separated by size and type. Excess garbage or liquid leads to deductions.

Is there a limit on how much I can bring?

Walk-in customers are limited to 8 can bags per vehicle; larger commercial or fundraising loads are handled by appointment.

What cannot be redeemed here?

Water bottles and out-of-state containers carry no Iowa deposit and are not redeemable, and this center does not take general curbside recyclables.

Last verified: October 2026. Sources: source. Spotted something wrong? Suggest a correction.

Contact & Location

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Address
9301 University Ave, Cedar Falls, IA 50613
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City / State
Cedar Falls, Iowa

Opening Hours

Monday 12–3:30 PM
Tuesday 12–3:30 PM
Wednesday 12–3:30 PM
Thursday 12–3:30 PM
Friday 12–3:30 PM
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed
← All centers in Cedar Falls