A plain guide to household waste disposal
What goes in which bin, what needs special handling, and what to do with the big stuff.
Most household waste has an obvious home. The problems start with the things that do not fit the bins, or should not go in them. Here is how to sort it.
General waste
Anything that cannot be recycled or composted: food-soiled packaging, plastic film, polystyrene, nappies and hygiene products. Bag it securely so it does not leak or smell.
Recycling
- Plastic bottles, tubs and trays, rinsed
- Glass bottles and jars, lids off
- Paper, cardboard and newspapers, dry and flattened
- Food and drink cans, aerosols and clean foil
Every council sorts slightly differently, so check yours. A dirty item can spoil a whole bin of recycling.
Food and garden waste
Peelings, coffee grounds, tea bags, leaves and grass cuttings can go in a food caddy, a garden waste bin or a compost heap.
Hazardous waste
- Batteries
- Paint, solvents and chemicals
- Electrical items and anything with a plug
- Medicines and sharps
None of these belong in a normal bin. Your local tip takes most of them, chemists take back medicines, and many shops take back batteries and small electricals.
Bulky items
Furniture, mattresses, fridges and washing machines are too big for the bins. You can book a council bulky collection, take them to the tip, donate them if they are in good condition, or have us collect them. We load, so you do not lift anything.