Abstract: The machine comprises a hollow rotary body (1) of large dimensions which may be loaded with the containers to be recycled, nozzles for supplying and spraying washing fluid at a predetermined temperature to the rotary body (1) for the mutual separation and washing of the containers and the initial separation of labels and bases, and mechanical impact devices (2), (21, 23) housed in the rotary body (1) and actuated by the rotation of this body so as to exert on the containers a mechanical action suitable for the mutual separation of the containers themselves, the separation of the stoppers and the completion of the washing and label and base separation operation. The rotary body (1) may have an inlet opening (5) and an outlet opening (7) for the containers to be recycled or a single inlet and outlet opening (30) so as to form a machine operating continuously or discontinuously respectively.