USEFULL Reusable Takeout Containers

USEFULL

USEFULL is CU Boulder's reusable takeout container program. Instead of disposable containers, participating dining locations serve meals in durable stainless steel containers that you can return and reuse, helping reduce waste on campus. 

The program is free to use as long as you return your container within two days. 

Download the USEFULL app

USEFULL is currently available at: 

Students, faculty, staff and campus visitors can participate by downloading the free USEFULL app and creating an account. 

With the app, you can: 

  • Show your checkout QR code  
  • View your checked-out containers  
  • Review fees  
  • Manage notifications  
  • Update your payment method 

Download the USEFULL app:

  iOS

  Android 

How USEFULL Works

1. Create Your Account

Download the USEFULL app and create your free account. iOS and Android 

Once you're signed in, your personal QR code will appear automatically. You'll use this QR code every time you check out a container. 

2. Check Out a Container

When you're ready to take your meal to go: 

  • Open the USEFULL app.  
  • Dining staff will scan your container.  
  • Scan your personal QR code at the checkout kiosk.  
  • Wait for the confirmation screen before leaving.  

Once you see the confirmation screen, you're all set. 

3. Enjoy Your Meal

Take your food wherever you'd like, even off campus. 

Before returning your container: 

  • Empty any leftover food or liquid.  
  • Don't wash it. Campus Dining will wash and sanitize every container before it's reused.  
  • Don't microwave it. Stainless steel containers are not microwave safe. 
4. Return Your Container

Return your container within two days to keep using the program for free. You can return your container to any USEFULL return station—it doesn't have to be the same location where you picked it up. 

To return it: 

  • Visit any USEFULL return station.  
  • Scan the QR code on the bottom of the container.  
  • Wait for the green confirmation light.  
  • Place the container in the return station.  

Return Station Locations:

  • University Memorial Center (UMC), including near Alferd Packer Grill  
  • Sustainability, Energy and Environment Community (SEEC) building near SEEC Café 

Fees and Policies

Return your container to any USEFULL return station within two days to avoid fees. 

  • Returned within two days: Free  
  • Returned after two days: $1 per day late fee until the container is returned  
  • Not returned after two weeks: The container is considered lost and a replacement fee is charged 

Any late fees you've already paid count toward the replacement fee. 

 

ContainerReplacement fee
Cup$17
Meal container$25

FAQs

Yes. There is no charge when you return your container within two days. 

You can return your container to any USEFULL return station. It doesn't have to be the same dining location where you checked it out. 

No. Simply empty any food or liquid before returning it. Campus Dining will wash and sanitize every container. 

No. USEFULL containers are made from stainless steel and should never be placed in a microwave. 

Yes. Just remember to return it to any USEFULL return station within two days. 

Need help?

Questions about your account or containers? Contact USEFULL Support at support@usefull.us.