Recycling Guide UK Recycling Guide

The Complete Guide to Recycling in the UK

August 2024 9 min read

Share this article:

Share Share Share

Confused about what goes in which bin? You're not alone! Here's your simple guide to recycling properly in the UK.

What Goes in Each Bin?

Blue/Green Bin (Recycling)

Paper & cardboard
Plastic bottles & containers
Metal tins & cans
Glass bottles & jars
Food & drink cartons
Aerosol cans (empty)

Black/Grey Bin (General Waste)

Plastic bags & film
Food-contaminated packaging
Nappies & hygiene products
Broken ceramics

Brown Bin (Food/Garden Waste)

Food scraps & leftovers
Grass clippings
Garden waste & leaves
Small branches

Common Recycling Mistakes

Bagging recyclables - Don't put recycling in plastic bags. Items should be loose in the bin.
Not rinsing containers - Food residue contaminates recycling. Give items a quick rinse.
Recycling pizza boxes - Grease-soaked cardboard can't be recycled. Compost it instead.
Wishcycling - Don't guess! If unsure, check with your council or bin it.

Items That Need Special Recycling

Batteries

Take to supermarket collection points (free)

Electronics

HWRC or retailer take-back schemes

Textiles

Charity shops or textile banks

Furniture

Donate, sell, or use bulky waste collection

Top Tips for Better Recycling

  • Flatten cardboard boxes to save space in your recycling bin
  • Remove lids from jars and bottles - recycle separately
  • Squash plastic bottles to maximize bin capacity
  • Check local rules - recycling varies by council area
  • Keep it clean - contaminated items ruin whole batches
♻️

Did You Know?

The UK recycles about 45% of household waste. We recycle 90%+ of items from clearances to keep waste out of landfill.

Learn where your waste goes