Essential Guide to Recycling in the UK What Can and Can’t Go in the Bin

NICOLE FIFIELD
Jan 27
3 min read

Recycling helps reduce waste, save resources, and protect the environment. Yet, many people find it confusing to know exactly what can and cannot go in the recycling bin. This guide clears up common questions and offers practical advice for recycling correctly in the UK.

Why Recycling Matters in Exeter Devon & Everywhere!

Recycling reduces the amount of waste sent to landfill and lowers pollution. It also saves energy by reusing materials instead of making new ones from scratch. For example, recycling one tonne of paper saves about 17 trees and 7,000 gallons of water. When you recycle properly, you help create a cleaner, healthier environment for everyone.

What Can Go in the Recycling Bin

Local councils in the UK often have similar rules, but always check your council’s website for specific guidelines. Here are the most common items accepted in household recycling bins:

Paper and Cardboard

Newspapers, magazines, and junk mail
Cardboard boxes (flattened)
Office paper and envelopes (remove plastic windows)
Food packaging cartons (rinse and flatten)

Avoid greasy or heavily soiled paper like pizza boxes with food residue.

Plastic Packaging

Plastic bottles (rinse and replace caps)
Yogurt pots, margarine tubs, and plastic trays
Plastic bags and film are usually not accepted in kerbside bins but can be recycled at supermarket collection points

Check for recycling symbols and numbers on plastics to confirm.

Glass Containers

Glass bottles and jars (clear, green, and brown)
Rinse to remove food residue

Do not put broken glass, window glass, or Pyrex in the bin as they require special handling.

Metal Items

Aluminium cans and foil (cleaned)
Steel tins and food cans
Empty aerosol cans (make sure they are empty)

Avoid putting large metal objects or scrap metal in the bin.

What Cannot Go in the Recycling Bin in Exeter, UK

Putting the wrong items in the recycling bin can contaminate the whole batch, causing it to be sent to landfill instead. Avoid these common mistakes:

Food waste and liquids
Nappies and sanitary products
Polystyrene foam (like takeaway boxes)
Electrical items and batteries
Clothes and textiles
Ceramics, mirrors, and window glass
Garden waste such as grass clippings and branches

If you have these items, look for special recycling schemes or local collection points.

How to Prepare Items for Recycling

Proper preparation helps recycling centres process materials efficiently:

Rinse containers to remove food and drink residue
Flatten cardboard boxes to save space
Remove lids and caps from bottles and jars
Do not bag recyclables unless your council requests it

Following these steps reduces contamination and improves recycling quality.

Special Recycling Collections and Facilities

Many councils offer additional recycling services for items not accepted in the bin:

Electricals and batteries: Often collected at recycling centres or through special collections
Textiles: Charity shops or textile banks accept clothes and shoes
Garden waste: Some councils provide garden waste bins or composting schemes
Hazardous waste: Paint, chemicals, and medicines require special disposal

Check your local council’s website for details on these services.

Common Recycling Myths

Myth: All plastics are recyclable.

Not all plastics can be recycled at kerbside. Some types require special facilities.

Myth: Recycling bins are for all rubbish.

Only specific items should go in recycling bins to avoid contamination.

Myth: Food residue doesn’t matter.

Food waste can spoil recyclables and attract pests.

Understanding these facts helps improve recycling efforts.

How Recycling Benefits You and Your Community

Recycling saves money by reducing landfill costs and can lower your council tax in some areas. It also creates jobs in recycling and manufacturing industries. By recycling correctly, you contribute to a cleaner neighbourhood and a healthier planet.