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Sustainability Victoria
Recycling campaign
 
  • Can I recycle this?
  • Help with your recycling
  • Why your recycling matters
  • Where your recycling goes
  • Find your local council

Can I recycle this?

Use this tool to find out what you can and can't recycle. If you can't find what you are looking for, contact your local council.

  • Adhesive strips Also: Band Aids, sticky plaster, bandaid, Elastoplast
    Adhesive strips
    Band Aids, sticky plaster, bandaid, Elastoplast

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    Put adhesive strips in your rubbish bin.

    Australia Post satchels (plastic) Also: post packs, express post satchel, parcel post satchel
    Australia Post satchels (plastic)
    post packs, express post satchel, parcel post satchel

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    But you can still recycle it…

    You can take it to a REDcycle soft plastics drop-off point at participating supermarkets.

    Make it recycle ready

    • it should be empty and dry.
    • remove any paper inserts.

    Where do plastic Australian Post satchels go next?

    It will be:

    1. collected by REDcycle.
    2. taken to REDcycle facilities for processing.
    3. taken to manufacturing facilities to be turned into new recycled products.
    Balloons
    Balloons

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    Put balloons in your rubbish bin.

    What can I use instead of balloons?

    Balloons are in the top three most harmful pollutants threatening marine wildlife. Consider using a more sustainable alternative at your next celebration such as flowers or blowing bubbles which aren't just for kids. Find out more about wildlife-friendly alternatives to balloons.

    Bread bags Also: bread packaging
    Bread bags
    bread packaging

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    But you can still recycle it…

    You can take it to a REDcycle soft plastics drop-off point at participating supermarkets.

    Make it recycle ready

    • empty any remaining bread. Find out ways to use up food scraps.
    • remove the bread tag. Find out how to dispose of bread tags.

    Where do bread bags go next?

    They will be:

    1. collected by REDcycle.
    2. taken to REDcycle facilities for processing.
    3. taken to manufacturing facilities to be turned into new recycled products.
    Bubble wrap
    Bubble wrap

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    But you can still recycle it…

    You can take it to a REDcycle soft plastics drop-off point at participating supermarkets.

    Make it recycle ready

    • cut them into A3 size to make sure they fit. Large pieces of bubble wrap are too bulky to be placed in soft plastic bins at supermarkets.
    • ensure the bubble wrap is dry.

    Where does bubble wrap go next?

    It will be:

    1. collected by REDcycle.
    2. taken to REDcycle facilities for processing.
    3. taken to manufacturing facilities to be turned into new recycled products.
    Cellophane
    Cellophane

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    But you can still recycle it…

    You can take it to a REDcycle soft plastics drop-off point at participating supermarkets.

    Make it recycle ready

    Cut them into A3 size to make sure they fit. Large pieces of cellophane are too bulky to be placed in soft plastic bins at supermarkets.

    Where does cellophane go next?

    It will be:

    1. collected by REDcycle.
    2. taken to REDcycle facilities for processing.
    3. taken to manufacturing facilities to be turned into new recycled products.
    Cereal box inserts
    Cereal box inserts

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    But you can still recycle it…

    You can take it to a REDcycle soft plastics drop-off point at participating supermarkets.

    Make it recycle ready

    Remove any remaining cereal.

    Where do cereal box inserts go next?

    They will be:

    1. collected by REDcycle.
    2. taken to REDcycle facilities for processing.
    3. taken to manufacturing facilities to be turned into new recycled products.
    Chip packets Also: crisp packets
    Chip packets
    crisp packets

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    But you can still recycle it…

    You can take it to a REDcycle soft plastics drop-off point at participating supermarkets.

    Make it recycle ready

    • empty any remaining chips.
    • ensure chip packets are dry.

    Where do chip packets go next?

    They will be:

    1. collected by REDcycle.
    2. taken to REDcycle facilities for processing.
    3. taken to manufacturing facilities to be turned into new recycled products.
    Learn more
    Cling wrap Also: Cling film, gladwrap, saran wrap, plastic film wrap
    Cling wrap
    Cling film, gladwrap, saran wrap, plastic film wrap

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    But you can still recycle it...

    Only Glad brand and Coles and Woolworths Essentials homebrand cling wrap is accepted at REDcycle soft plastics drop-off points at participating supermarkets.

    Why can’t cling wrap go in my recycling bin?

    Cling wrap is a soft plastic which can’t be sorted at a recycling facility. Cling wrap goes in your rubbish bin, but that means they sit in landfill for years.

    What to use instead of cling wrap?

    Cling wrap is mainly used to keep food fresh. Luckily, there are lots of other options to keep your food fresher for longer.

    You can:

    • use reusable glass and plastic containers.
    • cover food with a plate.
    • use reusable beeswax, soy or silicon wraps.
    • cover with foil which can be recycled. Find out how to dispose of aluminium foil.
    Disposable nappies Also: Diapers
    Disposable nappies
    Diapers

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    Put disposable nappies in your rubbish bin.

    Food pouches Also: squeeze pouches, yoghurt pouches, baby food pouches
    Food pouches
    squeeze pouches, yoghurt pouches, baby food pouches

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    But you can still recycle it…

    You can take it to a REDcycle soft plastics drop-off point at participating supermarkets.

    Make it recycle ready

    • empty any remaining food.
    • put the lid on again.
    • you do not need to remove the hard plastic tube.

    Where do food pouches go next?

    They will be:

    1. collected by REDcycle.
    2. taken to REDcycle facilities for processing.
    3. taken to manufacturing facilities to be turned into new recycled products.
    Frozen food bags
    Frozen food bags

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    But you can still recycle it…

    You can take it to a REDcycle soft plastics drop-off point at participating supermarkets.

    Make it recycle ready

    • remove any remaining food.
    • ensure frozen food bags are dry.

    Where do frozen food bags go next?

    They will be:

    1. collected by REDcycle.
    2. taken to REDcycle facilities for processing.
    3. taken to manufacturing facilities to be turned into new recycled products.
    Lolly wrappers Also: chocolate wrappers, sweet wrappers
    Lolly wrappers
    chocolate wrappers, sweet wrappers

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    But you can still recycle it…

    You can take it to a REDcycle soft plastics drop-off point at participating supermarkets.

    Make it recycle ready

    • remove any remaining lollies or chocolate.
    • ensure lolly wrappers are dry.

    Where do lolly wrappers go next?

    They will be:

    1. collected by REDcycle.
    2. taken to REDcycle facilities for processing.
    3. taken to manufacturing facilities to be turned into new recycled products.
    Plastic bags
    Plastic bags

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    But you can still recycle it…

    You can take it to a REDcycle soft plastics drop-off point at participating supermarkets.

    Make it recycle ready

    Ensure your plastic bags are dry.

    Where does plastic bags go next?

    They will be:

    1. collected by REDcycle.
    2. taken to REDcycle facilities for processing.
    3. taken to manufacturing facilities to be turned into new recycled products.
    Plastic film
    Plastic film

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    But you can still recycle it…

    You can take it to a REDcycle soft plastics drop-off point at participating supermarkets.

    Make it recycle ready

    It should be clean and dry.

    Where does plastic film go next?

    It will be:

    1. collected by REDcycle.
    2. taken to REDcycle facilities for processing.
    3. taken to manufacturing facilities to be turned into new recycled products.
    Plastic sachets
    Plastic sachets

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    But you can still recycle it…

    You can take it to a REDcycle soft plastics drop-off point at participating supermarkets.

    Make it recycle ready

    • remove any contents.
    • ensure plastic sachets are dry.

    Where do plastic sachets go next?

    They will be:

    1. collected by REDcycle.
    2. taken to REDcycle facilities for processing.
    3. taken to manufacturing facilities to be turned into new recycled products.
    Potting mix bags Also: mulch bags,
    Potting mix bags
    mulch bags,

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    But you can still recycle it…

    You can take it to a REDcycle soft plastics drop-off point at participating supermarkets.

    Make it recycle ready

    • empty any remaining potting mix.
    • cut them into A3 size to make sure they fit. Large pieces of soft plastic are too bulky to be placed in soft plastic bins at supermarkets

    Where do potting mix bags go next?

    They will be:

    1. collected by REDcycle.
    2. taken to REDcycle facilities for processing.
    3. taken to manufacturing facilities to be turned into new recycled products.
    Reusable shopping bags Also: green bags
    Reusable shopping bags
    green bags

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    But you can still recycle it…

    You can take it to a REDcycle soft plastics drop-off point at participating supermarkets.

    Make it recycle ready

    • make sure it is empty.
    • leave the plastic base inside as it is fully recyclable too.

    Where do reusable bags go next?

    They will be:

    1. collected by REDcycle.
    2. taken to REDcycle facilities for processing.
    3. taken to manufacturing facilities to be turned into new recycled products.
  • Biscuit trays
    Biscuit trays

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    Yes

    Unless...

    Some councils only accept hard plastics which are coded with a 1 or 2 in the recycling symbol. Check with your local council.

    Make it recycle ready

    Empty any remaining biscuits.

    Where do biscuit trays go next?

    They will be:

    1. collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
    2. taken to a recycling sorting facility.
    3. separated from other recyclables, such as steel and cardboard.
    4. taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
    5. taken to a manufacturer to be made into new products.
    Blister pack
    Blister pack

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    Put blister packs in your rubbish bin.

    Bottle tops (plastic) Also: bottle lids, bottle caps
    Bottle tops (plastic)
    bottle lids, bottle caps

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    Yes

    Unless...

    Some councils only accept hard plastics which are coded with a 1 or 2 in the recycling symbol. Check with your local council.

    Make it recycle ready

    Remove the bottle top from the plastic bottle.

    Bread tags
    Bread tags

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    But you can still recycle it…

    Bread Tags for Wheelchairs is a community program where individuals and organisations collect bread tags to be sold to plastics recycling companies.

    Find out more about Bread Tags for Wheelchairs.

    Cable ties Also: zip ties
    Cable ties
    zip ties

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    Put cable ties in your rubbish bin.

    Cake trays Also: plastic tray
    Cake trays
    plastic tray

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    Yes

    Unless...

    Some councils only accept hard plastics which are coded with a 1 or 2 in the recycling symbol. Check with your local council.

    Make it recycle ready

    Empty any remaining cake.

    Where do cake trays go next?

    They will be:

    1. collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
    2. taken to a recycling sorting facility.
    3. separated from other recyclables, such as steel and cardboard.
    4. taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
    5. taken to a manufacturer to be made into new products.
    CD cases
    CD cases

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    Yes

    Unless...

    Some councils only accept hard plastics which are coded with a 1 or 2 in the recycling symbol. Check with your local council.

    Make it recycle ready

    Remove CDs from the case. Find out how to dispose of CDs.

    Where do CD cases go next?

    They will be:

    1. collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
    2. taken to a recycling sorting facility.
    3. separated from other recyclables, such as steel and cardboard.
    4. taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
    5. taken to a manufacturer to be made into new products.
    CDs (not in case) Also: Compact discs
    CDs (not in case)
    Compact discs

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    But you can still recycle it…

    Check if there are any CD recycling programs near you by contacting your local council. If there are none, they go in your rubbish bin.

    Cleaning product bottles Also: Detergent bottles, spray and wipe
    Cleaning product bottles
    Detergent bottles, spray and wipe

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    Yes

    Unless...

    Some councils only accept hard plastics which are coded with a 1 or 2 in the recycling symbol. Check with your local council.

    Make it recycle ready

    • Remove any remaining liquid.
    • Unwanted household chemicals can be disposed of via the Detox your home program. Visit the Detox your home page to view permanent drop-off sites and upcoming events.

    Where do cleaning product bottles go next?

    They will be:

    1. collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
    2. taken to a recycling sorting facility.
    3. separated from other recyclables, such as steel and cardboard.
    4. taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
    5. taken to a manufacturer to be made into new products.
    Coffee cup lids
    Coffee cup lids

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    Unless…

    Some councils allow coffee cup lids in your recycling bin. Check with your local council.

    Coffee pods Also: Coffee capsules
    Coffee pods
    Coffee capsules

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    But you can still recycle it…

    Find a program near you to recycle your old coffee pods by visiting the TerraCycle website or contact your local council.

    Where do coffee pods go?

    Coffee pods are separated by their different materials which include metals, plastics and organics (coffee grounds).

    Metals are melted down to be recycled. Organics are composted and the remaining plastic is processed and made into new recycled plastic products.

    Cosmetics Also: beauty products, makeup, skincare
    Cosmetics
    beauty products, makeup, skincare

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    But you can still recycle it…

    Find a program near you to recycle your old cosmetics by visiting the TerraCycle website or contact your local council.

    Make it recycle ready

    Empty any remaining make-up or cosmetics.

    Where do cosmetics go?

    Cosmetics are separated by material, shredded and melted into hard plastic that can be made into new recycled products.

    Cutlery (plastic) Also: Knife, fork, knives, knife and fork, chopsticks
    Cutlery (plastic)
    Knife, fork, knives, knife and fork, chopsticks

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    Put plastic cutlery in the rubbish bin.

    Why can’t plastic cutlery go in my recycling bin?

    Plastic cutlery is lightweight and flat. So when it is being sorted at the recycling facility, the sorting machines can’t tell it apart from paper. It ends up bundled up with paper and cardboard and reduces the quality of any new recycled products made.

    Deodorant sticks Also: Roll-on
    Deodorant sticks
    Roll-on

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    Yes

    Unless...

    Some councils only accept hard plastics which are coded with a 1 or 2 in the recycling symbol. Check with your local council.

    Make it recycle ready

    Make sure it’s empty.

    Where do deodorant sticks go next?

    They will be:

    1. collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
    2. taken to a recycling sorting facility.
    3. separated from other recyclables, such as steel and cardboard.
    4. taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
    5. taken to a manufacturer to be made into new products.
    Dinnerware (plastic) Also: disposable plates, disposable bowls, single-use plates, single-use bowls
    Dinnerware (plastic)
    disposable plates, disposable bowls, single-use plates, single-use bowls

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    Yes

    Unless...

    Some councils only accept hard plastics which are coded with a 1 or 2 in the recycling symbol. Check with your local council.

    Make it recycle ready

    Remove any remaining food scraps.

    Where does plastic dinnerware go next?

    They will be:

    1. collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
    2. taken to a recycling sorting facility.
    3. separated from other recyclables, such as steel and cardboard.
    4. taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
    5. taken to a manufacturer to be made into new products.
    Food containers (plastic) Also: Single-use plastic containers, take-away food containers
    Food containers (plastic)
    Single-use plastic containers, take-away food containers

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    Yes

    Unless...

    Some councils only accept hard plastics which are coded with a 1 or 2 in the recycling symbol. Check with your local council.

    Make it recycle ready

    Empty any remaining food or liquid.

    Where do plastic take-away food containers go next?

    They will be:

    1. collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
    2. taken to a recycling sorting facility.
    3. separated from other recyclables, such as steel and cardboard.
    4. taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
    5. taken to a manufacturer to be made into new products.
    Food platters (plastic) Also: Food platter, servingware
    Food platters (plastic)
    Food platter, servingware

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    But you can still recycle it…

    You can take food platters (plastic) to your nearest second-hand store, charity bin or drop-off location.

    Make it recycle ready

    Make sure food platters are:

    • in good condition.
    • clean and not stained.

    Where do your second-hand food platters go?

    They will be re-sold at stores and op-shops. In many cases the profits will go to charity. Check with the store if you are unsure.

    Fruit and vegetable punnets Also: berry punnets, berry containers, strawberry punnets, blueberry punnets, blackberry punnets
    Fruit and vegetable punnets
    berry punnets, berry containers, strawberry punnets, blueberry punnets, blackberry punnets

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    Yes

    Unless...

    Some councils only accept hard plastics which are coded with a 1 or 2 in the recycling symbol. Check with your local council.

    Make it recycle ready

    Empty any remaining fruits and vegetables.

    Where do fruit and vegetable punnets go next?

    They will be:

    1. collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
    2. taken to a recycling sorting facility.
    3. separated from other recyclables, such as steel and cardboard.
    4. taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
    5. taken to a manufacturer to be made into new products.
    Hard plastic containers Also: Ice cream, yoghurt tub, butter, margarine
    Hard plastic containers
    Ice cream, yoghurt tub, butter, margarine

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    Yes

    Unless...

    Some councils only accept hard plastics which are coded with a 1 or 2 in the recycling symbol. Check with your local council.

    Make it recycle ready

    Empty any remaining food or liquid.

    Where do hard plastic containers go next?

    They will be:

    1. collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
    2. taken to a recycling sorting facility.
    3. separated from other recyclables, such as steel and cardboard.
    4. taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
    5. taken to a manufacturer to be made into new products.
    Meat trays (plastic)
    Meat trays (plastic)

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    Yes

    Unless...

    Some councils only accept hard plastics which are coded with a 1 or 2 in the recycling symbol. Check with your local council.

    Make it recycle ready

    • Remove any remaining meat.
    • Remove the absorbency pad.
    • Remove any plastic film.
    • Lightly rinse the tray.

    Where do plastic meat trays go next?

    They will be:

    1. collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
    2. taken to a recycling sorting facility.
    3. separated from other recyclables, such as steel and cardboard.
    4. taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
    5. taken to a manufacturer to be made into new products.
    Milk bottles (plastic) Also: Milk container
    Milk bottles (plastic)
    Milk container

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    Yes

    Unless...

    Some councils only accept hard plastics which are coded with a 1 or 2 in the recycling symbol. Check with your local council.

    Make it recycle ready

    Empty any remaining milk.

    Where do plastic milk bottles go next?

    They will be:

    1. collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
    2. taken to a recycling sorting facility.
    3. separated from other recyclables, such as steel and cardboard.
    4. taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
    5. taken to a manufacturer to be made into new products.
    Plant pots (small)
    Plant pots (small)

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    Yes

    Unless...

    Some councils only accept hard plastics which are coded with a 1 or 2 in the recycling symbol. Check with your local council.

    Make it recycle ready

    It should be empty with all dirt and plants removed.

    Where do plant pots go next?

    They will be:

    1. collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
    2. taken to a recycling sorting facility.
    3. separated from other recyclables, such as steel and cardboard.
    4. taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
    5. taken to a manufacturer to be made into new products.
    Plastic toys
    Plastic toys

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    Yes

    Unless...

    Some councils only accept hard plastics which are coded with a 1 or 2 in the recycling symbol. Check with your local council.

    Make it recycle ready

    Any batteries must be removed.

    Where do plastic toys go next?

    They will be:

    1. collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
    2. taken to a recycling sorting facility.
    3. separated from other recyclables, such as steel and cardboard.
    4. taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
    5. taken to a manufacturer to be made into new products.
    Reusable plastic containers Also: Tupperware
    Reusable plastic containers
    Tupperware

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    Yes

    Unless...

    Some councils only accept hard plastics which are coded with a 1 or 2 in the recycling symbol. Check with your local council.

    Make it recycle ready

    Empty any remaining food or liquid.

    Where do reusable plastic containers go next?

    They will be:

    1. collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
    2. taken to a recycling sorting facility.
    3. separated from other recyclables, such as steel and cardboard.
    4. taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
    5. taken to a manufacturer to be made into new products.
    Shampoo and conditioner bottles
    Shampoo and conditioner bottles

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    Yes

    Unless...

    Some councils only accept hard plastics which are coded with a 1 or 2 in the recycling symbol. Check with your local council.

    Make it recycle ready

    Empty any remaining shampoo and conditioner.

    Where do shampoo and conditioner bottles go next?

    They will be:

    1. collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
    2. taken to a recycling sorting facility.
    3. separated from other recyclables, such as steel and cardboard.
    4. taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
    5. taken to a manufacturer to be made into new products.
    soap pump bottles Also: hand soap bottle
    soap pump bottles
    hand soap bottle

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    Yes

    Unless...

    Some councils only accept hard plastics which are coded with a 1 or 2 in the recycling symbol. Check with your local council.

    Make it recycle ready

    Empty any remaining soap.

    Where do soap pump bottles go next?

    They will be:

    1. collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
    2. taken to a recycling sorting facility.
    3. separated from other recyclables, such as steel and cardboard.
    4. taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
    5. taken to a manufacturer to be made into new products.
    Soft drink bottles Also: plastic bottles, water bottles
    Soft drink bottles
    plastic bottles, water bottles

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    Yes

    Unless...

    Some councils only accept hard plastics which are coded with a 1 or 2 in the recycling symbol. Check with your local council.

    Make it recycle ready

    Empty any remaining soft drink.

    Where do soft drinks bottles go next?

    They will be:

    1. collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
    2. taken to a recycling sorting facility.
    3. separated from other recyclables, such as steel and cardboard.
    4. taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
    5. taken to a manufacturer to be made into new products.
    Straws (plastic) Also: Drinking straws
    Straws (plastic)
    Drinking straws

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    Put plastic straws in your rubbish bin.

    Why can’t plastic straws go in my recycling bin?

    Unlike a lot of hard plastics which can go into your recycling bin at home, plastic straws cannot be recycled. Yes, straws are a hard plastic even though they can bend.

    As they travel down the conveyor belt at a recycling facility, small items like straws fall through the cracks of the machinery. They end up either in landfill for years or pollute our oceans and waterways, harming marine life.

    What can I use instead of a plastic straw?

    There are also many alternatives to using a plastic straw such as metal, bamboo and glass straws.

    For some people, straws are a necessity. But if you don't need one, simply say "no straw, please" when you order a drink.

    Takeaway plastic cups Also: slushie cups, slurpee cups
    Takeaway plastic cups
    slushie cups, slurpee cups

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    Yes

    Unless...

    Some councils only accept hard plastics which are coded with a 1 or 2 in the recycling symbol. Check with your local council.

    Make it recycle ready

    • Empty any remaining liquid.
    • Remove and put straw in the rubbish bin. Learn more about Wildlife-friendly alternatives to plastic straws.

    Where do takeaway plastic cups go next?

    They will be:

    1. collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
    2. taken to a recycling sorting facility.
    3. separated from other recyclables, such as steel and cardboard.
    4. taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
    5. taken to a manufacturer to be made into new products.
    Toothbrushes
    Toothbrushes

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    But you can still recycle it…

    Find a program near you to recycle your old toothbrushes by visiting the TerraCycle website or contact your local council.

    Where do toothbrushes go?

    Toothbrushes are separated by material, shredded and melted into hard plastic that can be made into new recycled products.

    Toothpaste tubes
    Toothpaste tubes

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    But you can still recycle it…

    Find a program near you to recycle your old toothpaste tubes by visiting the TerraCycle website or contact your local council.

    Make it recycle ready

    Use up any remaining toothpaste.

    Where do the toothpaste tubes go?

    Toothpaste tubes are separated by material, shredded and melted into hard plastic that can be made into new recycled products.

    Vitamin bottles Also: Pill bottles, plastic bottles
    Vitamin bottles
    Pill bottles, plastic bottles

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    Yes

    Unless...

    Some councils only accept hard plastics which are coded with a 1 or 2 in the recycling symbol. Check with your local council.

    Make it recycle ready

    Empty any remaining vitamins.

    Where do vitamin bottles go next?

    They will be:

    1. collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
    2. taken to a recycling sorting facility.
    3. separated from other recyclables, such as steel and cardboard.
    4. taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
    5. taken to a manufacturer to be made into new products.
    Yoghurt containers
    Yoghurt containers

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    Yes

    Unless...

    Some councils only accept hard plastics which are coded with a 1 or 2 in the recycling symbol. Check with your local council.

    Make it recycle ready

    • Empty any remaining yoghurt.
    • Remove the foil lid. Find out how to dispose of the aluminum foil lid.

    Where do yoghurt containers go next?

    They will be:

    1. collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
    2. taken to a recycling sorting facility.
    3. separated from other recyclables, such as steel and cardboard.
    4. taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
    5. taken to a manufacturer to be made into new products.
  • Foam boxes Also: Foam trays
    Foam boxes
    Foam trays

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    But you can still recycle it…

    See if there are any local foam or polystyrene recycling programs by contacting your local council. If there are none, it goes in your rubbish bin.

    Meat trays (foam)
    Meat trays (foam)

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    Put these in your rubbish bin.

    Polystyrene Also: Styrofoam
    Polystyrene
    Styrofoam

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    But you can still recycle it…

    See if there are any local polystyrene recycling programs by contacting your local council. If there are none, it goes in your rubbish bin.

    Why is polystyrene a problem for our recycling system?

    When polystyrene is incorrectly put in a recycling bin at home and goes in a recycling truck, it easily breaks up into small pieces. Small pieces of polystyrene cannot be sorted at a recycling facility and contaminate the other recyclables.

  • Bedding Also: manchester, quilt covers, pillow cases, linen, textiles, sheets
    Bedding
    manchester, quilt covers, pillow cases, linen, textiles, sheets

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    But you can still recycle it…

    You can take bedding to your nearest second-hand store, charity bin or drop-off location.

    Make it recycle ready

    Make sure bedding is:

    • clean and not stained.
    • not torn or frayed.

    Where does your second-hand bedding go?

    They will be re-sold at stores and op-shops. In many cases the profits will go to charity. Check with the store if you are unsure.

    Cleaning cloths Also: rags, towels,
    Cleaning cloths
    rags, towels,

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    Cleaning clothes go in your rubbish bin.

    Update: If you or someone in your household has coronavirus (COVID-19), make sure the used cleaning cloths are inside a plastic or paper bag that is securely closed before being placed in your kerbside rubbish bin. If other recyclable items such as paper and cardboard have mixed with the cleaning cloths, they should also be placed in the rubbish bin.

    Clothing Also: clothes, t-shirts, pants, trousers, jeans, jumpers, underwear, socks, textiles, bags, clothes, fabric
    Clothing
    clothes, t-shirts, pants, trousers, jeans, jumpers, underwear, socks, textiles, bags, clothes, fabric

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    But you can still recycle it…

    You can take clothing to your nearest second-hand store, charity bin or drop-off location.

    Make it recycle ready

    Make sure clothes are:

    • clean and not stained.
    • not covered in animal fur.
    • not torn or frayed.

    Where do your second-hand clothes go?

    They will be re-sold at stores and op-shops. In many cases the profits will go to charity. Check with the store if you are unsure.

    Curtains Also: drapes, blinds
    Curtains
    drapes, blinds

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    But you can still recycle it…

    You can take curtains to your nearest second-hand store, charity bin or drop-off location.

    Make it recycle ready

    Make sure curtains are:

    • clean and not faded.
    • not covered in animal fur.

    Where do your second-hand curtains go?

    They will be re-sold at stores and op-shops. In many cases the profits will go to charity. Check with the store if you are unsure.

    Pillows Also: cushions
    Pillows
    cushions

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    Pillows go in your rubbish bin.

    Shoes Also: sneakers, boots, runners, loafers, slippers, sandals
    Shoes
    sneakers, boots, runners, loafers, slippers, sandals

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    But you can still recycle it…

    You can take shoes to your nearest second-hand store, charity bin or drop-off location.

    Make it recycle ready

    Make sure shoes are:

    • in a good condition without any holes.
    • clean and not stained.

    Where do your second-hand shoes go?

    They will be re-sold at stores and op-shops. In many cases the profits will go to charity. Check with the store if you are unsure.

  • Coffee grounds
    Coffee grounds

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    But you can still recycle it…

    Some councils collect food waste for composting so coffee grounds can be recycled by putting them in the correct bin. To see if this happens in your local area check with your council.

    Or you can put them in a home compost, bokashi bin or worm farm. Some councils also offer discounted home compost bins and worm farms. Find out more about how to compost food waste.

    What happens to coffee grounds that go in a food and garden bin?

    After your food and garden bin has been collected it's taken to a processor where it gets sorted to remove any items that can’t be composted, like plastics. Food and garden waste is composted and used in agriculture, parks, schools and kindergartens to keep gardens healthy and looking great.

    Learn more about the benefits of recycling your food waste by visiting the Back to Earth initiative.

    Food scraps Also: food, kitchen scraps, fruit scraps, vegetable scraps, meat scraps, organics, bones
    Food scraps
    food, kitchen scraps, fruit scraps, vegetable scraps, meat scraps, organics, bones

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    But you can still recycle it…

    Some councils collect food waste for composting so food scraps can be recycled by putting them in the correct bin. To see if this happens in your local area check with your council.

    Or you can put them in a home compost, bokashi bin or worm farm. Some councils also offer discounted home compost bins and worm farms. Find out more about how to compost food waste.

    What happens to food scraps that go in a food and garden bin?

    After your food and garden bin has been collected it's taken to a processor where it gets sorted to remove any items that can’t be composted, like plastics. Food and garden waste is composted and used in agriculture, parks, schools and kindergartens to keep gardens healthy and looking great.

    Learn more about the benefits of recycling your food waste by visiting the Back to Earth initiative.

    Medicines Also: pills, capsules, tablets, Panadol, Nurofen
    Medicines
    pills, capsules, tablets, Panadol, Nurofen

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    But you can still recycle it…

    Dispose of medicines for free at your local pharmacy through the Returned Unwanted Medicines Project.

    Tea bags
    Tea bags

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    But you can still recycle it…

    Tea leaves can be composted but often the tea bag contains plastic or staples that can’t be composted. Check online to see if your tea brand uses compostable bags.

    Some councils collect food waste for composting so tea leaves can be recycled by putting them in the correct bin. To see if this happens in your local area check with your council.

    Or you can put them in a home compost, bokashi bin or worm farm. Some councils also offer discounted home compost bins and worm farms. Find out more about how to compost food waste.

    Make it recycle ready

    • Remove any plastic labels or metal staples.
    • Check if your tea brand uses compostable bags.
    • If the bag isn’t compostable, open the bag to empty the leaves into the compost and then dispose of the bag in your rubbish bin.
  • Christmas trees (real) Also: xmas tree
    Christmas trees (real)
    xmas tree

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    But you can still recycle it…

    Councils often have separate collections for real Christmas trees. For local services check with your local council.

    Where do Christmas trees go next?

    After your Christmas tree has been collected, it’s turned into mulch or compost and used in agriculture, parks, schools and kindergartens to keep gardens healthy and looking great.

    Learn more about the benefits of recycling your green waste by visiting the Back to Earth initiative.

    Garden waste Also: branches, flowers, grass, leaves, prunings, weeds
    Garden waste
    branches, flowers, grass, leaves, prunings, weeds

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    But you can still recycle it…

    If you have a garden waste bin, place your grass clippings, small branches, leaves and other garden waste in that bin.

    What does garden waste go next?

    After your garden waste has been collected, it's taken to a processor where it gets sorted and items which don’t belong in your garden waste bin are removed. Garden waste is turned into mulch or compost used in agriculture, parks, schools and kindergartens to keep gardens healthy and looking great.

    Learn more about the benefits of recycling your green waste by visiting the Back to Earth initiative.

  • Beer bottles Also: stubby, long neck
    Beer bottles
    stubby, long neck

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    Yes

    Unless…

    Some councils may have other ways to collect glass bottles to prevent broken glass contaminating other recyclables. Check with your local council.

    Make it recycle ready

    • empty any remaining beer.
    • don't include any broken glass. Find out how to dispose of broken glass.

    Where do beer bottles go next?

    They will be:

    1. collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
    2. taken to a recycling sorting facility.
    3. separated from other recyclables, such as plastic and cardboard.
    4. taken to a glass treatment facility and washed, sorted by colour, then crushed and melted.
    5. taken to a manufacturer to be made into new products.
    Broken glass
    Broken glass

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    Broken glass goes in your rubbish bin inside a box or wrapped in newspaper.

    Glass bottles Also: beer bottles, wine bottles, medicine bottles, cough medicine bottles
    Glass bottles
    beer bottles, wine bottles, medicine bottles, cough medicine bottles

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    Yes

    Unless...

    Some councils may also have other ways to collect glass bottles to prevent broken glass contaminating other recyclables. Check with your local council.

    Make it recycle ready

    • empty any remaining liquid or food.
    • don’t include any broken glass. Find out how to dispose of broken glass.

    Where do glass bottles go next?

    They will be:

    1. collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
    2. taken to a recycling sorting facility.
    3. separated from other recyclables, such as plastic and cardboard.
    4. taken to a glass treatment facility and washed, sorted by colour, then crushed and melted.
    5. taken to a manufacturer to be made into new products.
    Glassware Also: wine glass, drinking glass
    Glassware
    wine glass, drinking glass

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    But you can still recycle it…

    You can take unbroken glassware to your nearest second-hand store, charity bin or drop-off location.

    Make it recycle ready

    Make sure glassware is:

    • in good condition.
    • not cracked or broken. Find out how to dispose of broken glass.

    Where does your second-hand glassware go?

    It will be re-sold at stores and op-shops. In many cases the profits will go to charity. Check with the store if you are unsure.

    Jars Also: jam jars, vegemite jars
    Jars
    jam jars, vegemite jars

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    Yes

    Unless...

    Some councils may also have other ways to collect glass bottles to prevent broken glass contaminating other recyclables. Check with your local council.

    Make it recycle ready

    • empty any remaining food.
    • remove metal lid.
    • don't include any broken glass. Find out how to dispose of broken glass.

    Where do jars go next?

    They will be:

    1. collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
    2. taken to a recycling sorting facility.
    3. separated from other recyclables, such as plastic and cardboard.
    4. taken to a glass treatment facility and washed, sorted by colour, then crushed and melted.
    5. taken to a manufacturer to be made into new products.
    Mirrors
    Mirrors

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    But you can still recycle it…

    You can take mirrors to your nearest second-hand store, charity bin or drop-off location.

    Make it recycle ready

    Make sure mirrors are:

    • in good condition.
    • not cracked or broken.

    Where do your second-hand mirrors go?

    They will be re-sold at stores and op-shops. In many cases the profits will go to charity. Check with the store if you are unsure.

    Pyrex Also: kitchenware, cookware, heat-proof glass
    Pyrex
    kitchenware, cookware, heat-proof glass

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    But you can still recycle it…

    You can take unbroken Pyrex to your nearest second-hand store, charity bin or drop-off location.

    Make it recycle ready

    Make sure the Pyrex is:

    • clean.
    • not cracked or broken.

    Where does your second-hand pyrex go?

    It will be re-sold at stores and op-shops. In many cases the profits will go to charity. Check with the store if you are unsure.

  • Aerosol cans Also: spray cans
    Aerosol cans
    spray cans

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    Yes

    Make it recycle ready

    • make sure the aerosol can is completely empty.
    • remove the plastic lid.

    Where do aerosol cans go next?

    They will be:

    1. collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
    2. taken to a recycling sorting facility.
    3. separated from other recyclables, such as plastic and cardboard.
    4. taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
    5. taken to a manufacturer to be made into new products.
    Aluminium can Also: Beer cans, drink cans, soft drink cans
    Aluminium can
    Beer cans, drink cans, soft drink cans

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    Yes

    Make it recycle ready

    Empty any remaining liquid.

    Where do aluminium cans go next?

    They will be:

    1. collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
    2. taken to a recycling sorting facility.
    3. separated from other recyclables, such as plastic and cardboard.
    4. taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
    5. taken to a manufacturer to be made into new products.
    Aluminium foil Also: Alfoil, silver foil, metal foil, silver paper
    Aluminium foil
    Alfoil, silver foil, metal foil, silver paper

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    Yes

    Make it recycle ready

    • Collect and roll foil into a ball the size of a golf ball or bigger. Recycling sorting machines cannot process very small pieces of foil.
    • Remove food scraps and tear off any dirty or oily sections that cannot be cleaned easily.

    Where does aluminium foil go next?

    It will be:

    1. collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
    2. taken to a recycling sorting facility.
    3. separated from other recyclables, such as plastic and cardboard.
    4. taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
    5. taken to a manufacturer to be made into new products.
    Aluminium trays Also: Silver trays
    Aluminium trays
    Silver trays

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    Yes

    Make it recycle ready

    Empty any remaining food or liquid.

    Where do aluminium trays go next?

    They will be:

    1. collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
    2. taken to a recycling sorting facility.
    3. separated from other recyclables, such as plastic and cardboard.
    4. taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
    5. taken to a manufacturer to be made into new products.
    Bottle tops (metal) Also: Bottle caps
    Bottle tops (metal)
    Bottle caps

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    Yes

    Unless…

    Some councils don't allow metal bottle tops or lids in your recycling bin. Check with your local council.

    Coat hangers (wire)
    Coat hangers (wire)

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    But you can still recycle it…

    See if there are any local wire coat hanger recycling programs by contacting your local council. If there are none, it goes in your rubbish bin.


    Cutlery (metal) Also: Knife, forks, knives, forks, knife and fork, chopsticks
    Cutlery (metal)
    Knife, forks, knives, forks, knife and fork, chopsticks

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    But you can still recycle it…

    You can take metal cutlery to your nearest second-hand store, charity bin or drop-off location.

    Make it recycle ready

    Make sure metal cutlery is clean and in good condition.

    Where does your second-hand metal cutlery go?

    They will be re-sold at stores and op-shops. In many cases the profits will go to charity. Check with the store if you are unsure.

    Food cans Also: Canned vegetables, spaghetti tins, pet food cans, tin cans
    Food cans
    Canned vegetables, spaghetti tins, pet food cans, tin cans

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    Yes

    Make it recycle ready

    Empty any remaining food.

    Where do food cans go next?

    They will be:

    1. collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
    2. taken to a recycling sorting facility.
    3. separated from other recyclables, such as plastic and cardboard.
    4. taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
    5. taken to a manufacturer to be made into new products.
    Gas bottles Also: Gas canisters
    Gas bottles
    Gas canisters

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    But you can still recycle it…

    To find out where you can dispose of gas bottles please contact your local council.

    Paint tins (empty) Also: Paint can
    Paint tins (empty)
    Paint can

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    Yes

    Make it recycle ready

    • Remove any remaining paint.
    • Household paint can be disposed of for free at a permanent drop-off site or contact your local council.

    Where do paint tins go next?

    They will be:

    1. collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
    2. taken to a recycling sorting facility.
    3. separated from other recyclables, such as plastic and cardboard.
    4. taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
    5. taken to a manufacturer to be made into new products.
    Pots and pans Also: Saucepans
    Pots and pans
    Saucepans

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    But you can still recycle it…

    You can take pots and pans to your nearest second-hand store, charity bin or drop-off location.

    Also, some councils accept steel pots and pans to go in the recycling bin. To find out, contact your local council.

    Make it recycle ready

    Make sure pots and pans are:

    • in good condition.
    • clean and not heavily scratched.

    Where do your second-hand pots and pans go?

    They will be re-sold at stores and op-shops. In many cases the profits will go to charity. Check with the store if you are unsure.

    Scrap metal
    Scrap metal

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    But you can still recycle it…

    Find a facility that will accept scrap metal such as a local recycling centre by contacting your local council.

    Staples
    Staples

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    Put staples in your rubbish bin.

    Steel cans Also: tin cans, tuna cans
    Steel cans
    tin cans, tuna cans

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    Yes

    Make it recycle ready

    Make sure the steel cans are empty.

    Where do steel cans go next?

    They will be:

    1. collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
    2. taken to a recycling sorting facility.
    3. separated from other recyclables, such as plastic and cardboard.
    4. taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
    5. taken to a manufacturer to be made into new products.
  • Batteries
    Batteries

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    But you can still recycle it…

    Find your nearest e-waste drop-off point or contact your local council.

    Where do the batteries go next?

    Batteries and other e-waste contain a range of precious materials which can be used to make new products. Find out how e-waste is processed and reused.

    Car batteries Also: car battery
    Car batteries
    car battery

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    But you can still recycle it…

    Find your nearest e-waste drop-off point or contact your local council.

    Where do car batteries go?

    Car batteries and other e-waste contain a range of precious materials which can be used to make new products. Find out how e-waste is processed and reused.

    CD players Also: compact disc player
    CD players
    compact disc player

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    But you can still recycle it…

    Find your nearest e-waste drop-off point or contact your local council.

    Make it recycle ready

    Remove any CDs from the player.

    Where do CD players go?

    CD players and other e-waste contain a range of precious materials which can be used to make new products. Find out how e-waste is processed and reused.

    Computers Also: computer parts, monitors, screens
    Computers
    computer parts, monitors, screens

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    But you can still recycle it…

    Find your nearest e-waste drop-off point or contact your local council.

    Make it recycle ready

    Wipe your personal data like personal details, emails, photos and downloads. Find out more about removing data from your old computer.

    Where do computers go?

    Computers and other e-waste contain a range of precious materials which can be used to make new products. Find out how e-waste is processed and reused.

    DVD players
    DVD players

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    But you can still recycle it…

    Find your nearest e-waste drop-off point or contact your local council.

    Make it recycle ready

    Remove any DVDs from the player.

    Where do DVD players go?

    DVD players and other e-waste contain a range of precious materials which can be used to make new products. Find out how e-waste is processed and reused.

    Electric toothbrushes
    Electric toothbrushes

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    But you can still recycle it…

    Find your nearest e-waste drop-off point or contact your local council.

    Where do electric toothbrushes go?

    Electric toothbrushes and other e-waste contain a range of precious materials which can be used to make new products. Find out how e-waste is processed and reused.

    Electrical appliances Also: electronics, ewaste, e-waste
    Electrical appliances
    electronics, ewaste, e-waste

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    But you can still recycle it…

    Find your nearest e-waste drop-off point or contact your local council.

    Make it recycle ready

    Remove any household batteries.

    Where do electrical appliances go?

    Electrical appliances and other e-waste contain a range of precious materials which can be used to make new products. Find out how e-waste is processed and reused.

    Floppy disks Also: hard disks
    Floppy disks
    hard disks

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    But you can still recycle it…

    Find your nearest e-waste drop-off point or contact your local council.

    Where do floppy disks go?

    Floppy disks and other e-waste contain a range of precious materials which can be used to make new products. Find out how e-waste is processed and reused.

    Fluorescent light tubes Also: fluro lights
    Fluorescent light tubes
    fluro lights

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    But you can still recycle it…

    Find your nearest e-waste drop-off point or contact your local council.

    Where do fluorescent light tubes go?

    Fluorescent light tubes and other e-waste contain a range of precious materials which can be used to make new products. Find out how e-waste is processed and reused.

    Fridges Also: refrigerator
    Fridges
    refrigerator

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    But you can still recycle it…

    Find your nearest e-waste drop-off point or contact your local council.

    Make it recycle ready

    Remove any remaining food.

    Where do fridges go?

    Fridges and other e-waste contain a range of precious materials which can be used to make new products. Find out how e-waste is processed and reused.

    Light bulbs Also: light tubes, light globes
    Light bulbs
    light tubes, light globes

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    But you can still recycle it…

    Find your nearest e-waste drop-off point or contact your local council.

    Where do light bulbs go?

    Light bulbs and other e-waste contain a range of precious materials which can be used to make new products. Find out how e-waste is processed and reused.

    Mobile phones Also: iPhone, Galaxy, cellphone
    Mobile phones
    iPhone, Galaxy, cellphone

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    But you can still recycle it…

    Find your nearest e-waste drop-off point or contact your local council.

    Make it recycle ready

    Wipe your personal data like personal details, emails, photos and downloads. Find out more about removing data from your old mobile phone.

    Where do mobile phones go?

    Mobile phones and other e-waste contain a range of precious materials which can be used to make new products. Find out how e-waste is processed and reused.

    Printer cartridges (ink or toner) Also: Ink cartridge, printer cartridge
    Printer cartridges (ink or toner)
    Ink cartridge, printer cartridge

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    But you can still recycle it…

    Find your nearest e-waste drop-off point or contact your local council.

    Where do cartridges go?

    Cartridges and other e-waste contain a range of precious materials which can be used to make new products. Find out how e-waste is processed and reused.

    Smoke alarms (domestic) Also: smoke detectors
    Smoke alarms (domestic)
    smoke detectors

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    Put smoke alarms (domestic) in your rubbish bin after you have removed the batteries. You can recycle batteries at your nearest e-waste drop-off point.

    Televisions Also: TVs
    Televisions
    TVs

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    But you can still recycle it…

    Find your nearest e-waste drop-off point or contact your local council.

    Where do televisions go?

    Televisions and other e-waste contain a range of precious materials which can be used to make new products. Find out how e-waste is processed and reused.

    VHS tapes Also: video tapes
    VHS tapes
    video tapes

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    But you can still recycle it…

    Find your nearest e-waste drop-off point or contact your local council.

    Where do VHS tapes go?

    VHS tapes and other e-waste contain a range of precious materials which can be used to make new products. Find out how e-waste is processed and reused.

    Whitegoods Also: washing machines, dryers, air-conditioners, ovens, stoves
    Whitegoods
    washing machines, dryers, air-conditioners, ovens, stoves

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    But you can still recycle it…

    Find your nearest e-waste drop-off point or contact your local council.

    Where do whitegoods go?

    Whitegoods and other e-waste contain a range of precious materials which can be used to make new products. Find out how e-waste is processed and reused.

  • Books
    Books

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    Yes

    Unless…

    Books that are still in good condition can be taken to your nearest second-hand store, charity bin or drop-off location.

    Where do your second-hand books go?

    Books that are put in your recycling bin will be:

    1. collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
    2. taken to a recycling sorting facility.
    3. separated from other recyclables, such as plastic and steel.
    4. taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
    5. taken to a manufacturer to be made into new products.
    Cardboard boxes Also: Cereal boxes
    Cardboard boxes
    Cereal boxes

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    Yes

    Make it recycle ready

    Flatten cardboard boxes before putting them in your recycling bin.

    Where do cardboard boxes go next?

    They will be:

    1. collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
    2. taken to a recycling sorting facility.
    3. separated from other recyclables, such as plastic and steel.
    4. taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
    5. taken to a manufacturer to be made into new products.
    Cardboard boxes (waxed)
    Cardboard boxes (waxed)

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    Put these in your rubbish bin.

    Where do the waxed cardboard boxes go?

    Waxed cardboard boxes aren’t suitable for paper recycling due to their wax coating. They shouldn’t be considered the same as regular paper and cardboard.

    Disposable coffee cups Also: Single-use coffee cup
    Disposable coffee cups
    Single-use coffee cup

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    Put the disposable coffee cup in your rubbish bin.

    Why can’t coffee cups go in my recycling bin?

    Standard coffee cups are made from liquid paperboard. That’s a mix of paper and a thin layer of plastic to make it waterproof.

    At the moment, processing of liquid paperboard isn’t very effective so when coffee cups are put in the recycling bin, they contaminate the other items to be recycled.

    What can I use instead of a disposable coffee cup?

    Grab a reusable coffee cup and help avoid the 1 billion disposable coffee cups that Australians throw away every year. A lot of cafes now offer a small discount for bringing your own reusable cup.

    Or, if you have the time, why not sit down to enjoy your coffee in the cafe.

    Are disposable coffee cups recyclable?

    Disposable or single-use coffee cups are made from liquid paperboard which is tricky to recycle. They are made up of a mix of paper and plastic which need to be recycled separately.

    However if you get stuck without your reusable cup and can’t sit down for a coffee, 7-Eleven has several recycling points across Victoria where you can drop off your used coffee cups. Find a disposable coffee cup recycling point near you.

    Egg cartons
    Egg cartons

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    Yes

    Make it recycle ready

    Remove any remaining eggs.

    Where do egg cartons go next?

    They will be:

    1. collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
    2. taken to a recycling sorting facility.
    3. separated from other recyclables, such as plastic and steel.
    4. taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
    5. taken to a manufacturer to be made into new products.
    Envelopes (with or without windows) Also: Junk mail
    Envelopes (with or without windows)
    Junk mail

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    Yes

    Make it recycle ready

    Envelopes should be dry.

    Where do envelopes go next?

    They will be:

    1. collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
    2. taken to a recycling sorting facility.
    3. separated from other recyclables, such as plastic and steel.
    4. taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
    5. taken to a manufacturer to be made into new products.
    Food containers (cardboard) Also: Take-away food containers
    Food containers (cardboard)
    Take-away food containers

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    Yes

    Make it recycle ready

    Remove any remaining food.

    Where do cardboard take-away food containers go next?

    They will be:

    1. collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
    2. taken to a recycling sorting facility.
    3. separated from other recyclables, such as plastic and steel.
    4. taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
    5. taken to a manufacturer to be made into new products.
    Juice cartons (cardboard only) Also: Juice box
    Juice cartons (cardboard only)
    Juice box

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    Yes

    Make it recycle ready

    Empty any remaining juice.

    Where do cardboard juice cartons go next?

    They will be:

    1. collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
    2. taken to a recycling sorting facility.
    3. separated from other recyclables, such as plastic and steel.
    4. taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
    5. taken to a manufacturer to be made into new products.
    Long-life cartons Also: Tetra Pak, juice cartons, milk cartons
    Long-life cartons
    Tetra Pak, juice cartons, milk cartons

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    Unless...

    A few councils do accept long-life cartons in the recycling bin. Check with your local council.

    Why can’t long life cartons go in my recycling bin?

    Although some councils will accept them, some won't. Long-life are made from a material called liquid paperboard. This is a combination of mainly cardboard, with a thin layer of plastic and aluminum foil.

    At the moment, processing of liquid paperboard isn’t very effective so when long-life cartons are put in the recycling bin, they contaminate the other items to be recycled.

    Magazines
    Magazines

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    Yes

    Make it recycle ready

    Remove any protective plastic wrapping.

    Where do magazines go next?

    They will be:

    1. collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
    2. taken to a recycling sorting facility.
    3. separated from other recyclables, such as plastic and steel.
    4. taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
    5. taken to a manufacturer to be made into new products.
    Milk cartons (cardboard only)
    Milk cartons (cardboard only)

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    Yes

    Unless…

    Some councils don't allow milk cartons (cardboard only) in your recycling bin. Check with your local council.

    Make it recycle ready

    Empty any remaining milk.

    Where do cardboard milk cartons go next?

    They will be:

    1. collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
    2. taken to a recycling sorting facility.
    3. separated from other recyclables, such as plastic and steel.
    4. taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
    5. taken to a manufacturer to be made into new products.
    Newspapers
    Newspapers

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    Yes

    Make it recycle ready

    • Remove protective plastic wrapping.
    • The newspaper should be dry.

    Where do newspapers go next?

    They will be:

    1. collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
    2. taken to a recycling sorting facility.
    3. separated from other recyclables, such as plastic and steel.
    4. taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
    5. taken to a manufacturer to be made into new products.
    Paper (printer) Also: Copy paper, plain paper, Reflex
    Paper (printer)
    Copy paper, plain paper, Reflex

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    Yes

    Make it recycle ready

    The paper should be dry.

    Where does paper go next?

    It will be:

    1. collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
    2. taken to a recycling sorting facility.
    3. separated from other recyclables, such as plastic and steel.
    4. taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
    5. taken to a manufacturer to be made into new products.
    Paper (waxed)
    Paper (waxed)

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    Put this in your rubbish bin.

    Why can’t waxed paper go in the recycling bin?

    Waxed paper isn’t suitable for paper recycling due to its wax coating. It shouldn’t be considered the same as regular paper and cardboard.

    Paper towel (used)
    Paper towel (used)

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    Put paper towel in your rubbish bin.

    Update: If you or someone in your household has coronavirus (COVID-19), make sure the used paper towel is inside a plastic or paper bag that is securely closed before being placed in your kerbside rubbish bin. If other recyclable items such as paper and cardboard have mixed with the paper towel, they should also be placed in the rubbish bin.

    Paper towel roll (inner) Also: Toilet rolls
    Paper towel roll (inner)
    Toilet rolls

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    Yes

    Make it recycle ready

    It should be clean and dry.

    Where do paper towel roll inners go next?

    They will be:

    1. collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
    2. taken to a recycling sorting facility.
    3. separated from other recyclables, such as plastic and steel.
    4. taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
    5. taken to a manufacturer to be made into new products.
    Phonebooks Also: Yellow Pages, White Pages, telephone books
    Phonebooks
    Yellow Pages, White Pages, telephone books

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    Yes

    Make it recycle ready

    It should be clean and dry.

    Where do phonebooks go next?

    They will be:

    1. collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
    2. taken to a recycling sorting facility.
    3. separated from other recyclables, such as plastic and steel.
    4. taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
    5. taken to a manufacturer to be made into new products.
    Pizza boxes
    Pizza boxes

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    Yes

    Make it recycle ready

    • Remove any remaining pizza.
    • A little grease and baked on cheese is ok.

    Where do pizza boxes go next?

    They will be:

    1. collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
    2. taken to a recycling sorting facility.
    3. separated from other recyclables, such as plastic and steel.
    4. taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
    5. taken to a manufacturer to be made into new products.
    Tissues (used) Also: Kleenex
    Tissues (used)
    Kleenex

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    Put tissues in your rubbish bin.

    Update: If you or someone in your household has coronavirus (COVID-19), make sure the used tissues are inside a plastic or paper bag that is securely closed before being placed in your kerbside rubbish bin. If other recyclable items such as paper and cardboard have mixed with the tissues, they should also be placed in the rubbish bin.

    Toilet paper (used)
    Toilet paper (used)

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    No

    Any used toilet paper that is not flushed down the toilet should be put in your rubbish bin.

    Wrapping paper Also: Gift-wrap
    Wrapping paper
    Gift-wrap

    Can I put this in my recycling bin?

    Yes

    Make it recycle ready

    It should be clean, and remove any decorative ribbon or sticky tape.

    Where does wrapping paper go next?

    It will be:

    1. collected by your local council’s kerbside recyc