Can I recycle this?

What do you want to recycle?

Soft plastic
Adhesive strips Also: Band Aids, sticky plaster, bandaid

Adhesive strips

Band Aids, sticky plaster, bandaid

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:

collected by REDcycle.
taken to REDcycle facilities for processing.
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:

collected by REDcycle.
taken to REDcycle facilities for processing.
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:

collected by REDcycle.
taken to REDcycle facilities for processing.
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:

collected by REDcycle.
taken to REDcycle facilities for processing.
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:

collected by REDcycle.
taken to REDcycle facilities for processing.
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:

collected by REDcycle.
taken to REDcycle facilities for processing.
taken to manufacturing facilities to be turned into new recycled products.
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:

collected by REDcycle.
taken to REDcycle facilities for processing.
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:

collected by REDcycle.
taken to REDcycle facilities for processing.
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:

collected by REDcycle.
taken to REDcycle facilities for processing.
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:

collected by REDcycle.
taken to REDcycle facilities for processing.
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:

collected by REDcycle.
taken to REDcycle facilities for processing.
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:

collected by REDcycle.
taken to REDcycle facilities for processing.
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:

collected by REDcycle.
taken to REDcycle facilities for processing.
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:

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

Hard plastic
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:

collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
taken to a recycling sorting facility.
separated from other recyclables, such as steel and cardboard.
taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
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:

collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
taken to a recycling sorting facility.
separated from other recyclables, such as steel and cardboard.
taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
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:

collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
taken to a recycling sorting facility.
separated from other recyclables, such as steel and cardboard.
taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
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:

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

Coat hangers (plastic)

Can I put this in my recycling bin?

Yes

Make it recycle ready

No preparation needed. Just put plastic coat hangers in your recycling bin.

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:

collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
taken to a recycling sorting facility.
separated from other recyclables, such as steel and cardboard.
taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
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:

collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
taken to a recycling sorting facility.
separated from other recyclables, such as steel and cardboard.
taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
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:

collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
taken to a recycling sorting facility.
separated from other recyclables, such as steel and cardboard.
taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
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:

collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
taken to a recycling sorting facility.
separated from other recyclables, such as steel and cardboard.
taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
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:

collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
taken to a recycling sorting facility.
separated from other recyclables, such as steel and cardboard.
taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
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:

collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
taken to a recycling sorting facility.
separated from other recyclables, such as steel and cardboard.
taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
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:

collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
taken to a recycling sorting facility.
separated from other recyclables, such as steel and cardboard.
taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
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:

collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
taken to a recycling sorting facility.
separated from other recyclables, such as steel and cardboard.
taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
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:

collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
taken to a recycling sorting facility.
separated from other recyclables, such as steel and cardboard.
taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
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:

collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
taken to a recycling sorting facility.
separated from other recyclables, such as steel and cardboard.
taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
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:

collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
taken to a recycling sorting facility.
separated from other recyclables, such as steel and cardboard.
taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
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:

collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
taken to a recycling sorting facility.
separated from other recyclables, such as steel and cardboard.
taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
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:

collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
taken to a recycling sorting facility.
separated from other recyclables, such as steel and cardboard.
taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
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:

collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
taken to a recycling sorting facility.
separated from other recyclables, such as steel and cardboard.
taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
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:

collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
taken to a recycling sorting facility.
separated from other recyclables, such as steel and cardboard.
taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
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:

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

Polystyrene and foam

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.

Clothing and textiles
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: t-shirts, pants, trousers, jeans, jumpers, textiles, bags, clothes

Clothing

t-shirts, pants, trousers, jeans, jumpers, textiles, bags, clothes

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.

Food waste
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, meat scraps, organics, bones

Food scraps

food, kitchen 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.

Green waste

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.

Glass
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:

collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
taken to a recycling sorting facility.
separated from other recyclables, such as plastic and cardboard.
taken to a glass treatment facility and washed, sorted by colour, then crushed and melted.
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:

collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
taken to a recycling sorting facility.
separated from other recyclables, such as plastic and cardboard.
taken to a glass treatment facility and washed, sorted by colour, then crushed and melted.
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:

collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
taken to a recycling sorting facility.
separated from other recyclables, such as plastic and cardboard.
taken to a glass treatment facility and washed, sorted by colour, then crushed and melted.
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.

Metal
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:

collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
taken to a recycling sorting facility.
separated from other recyclables, such as plastic and cardboard.
taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
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:

collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
taken to a recycling sorting facility.
separated from other recyclables, such as plastic and cardboard.
taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
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:

collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
taken to a recycling sorting facility.
separated from other recyclables, such as plastic and cardboard.
taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
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:

collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
taken to a recycling sorting facility.
separated from other recyclables, such as plastic and cardboard.
taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
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:

collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
taken to a recycling sorting facility.
separated from other recyclables, such as plastic and cardboard.
taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
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:

collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
taken to a recycling sorting facility.
separated from other recyclables, such as plastic and cardboard.
taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
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:

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

Electronics (e-waste)

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.

Paper and cardboard
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:

collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
taken to a recycling sorting facility.
separated from other recyclables, such as plastic and steel.
taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
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:

collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
taken to a recycling sorting facility.
separated from other recyclables, such as plastic and steel.
taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
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:

collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
taken to a recycling sorting facility.
separated from other recyclables, such as plastic and steel.
taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
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:

collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
taken to a recycling sorting facility.
separated from other recyclables, such as plastic and steel.
taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
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:

collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
taken to a recycling sorting facility.
separated from other recyclables, such as plastic and steel.
taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
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:

collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
taken to a recycling sorting facility.
separated from other recyclables, such as plastic and steel.
taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
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:

collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
taken to a recycling sorting facility.
separated from other recyclables, such as plastic and steel.
taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
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

Make it recycle ready

Empty any remaining milk.

Where do cardboard milk cartons go next?

They will be:

collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
taken to a recycling sorting facility.
separated from other recyclables, such as plastic and steel.
taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
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:

collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
taken to a recycling sorting facility.
separated from other recyclables, such as plastic and steel.
taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
taken to a manufacturer to be made into new products.
Paper Also: Printing paper, Reflex

Paper

Printing 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:

collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
taken to a recycling sorting facility.
separated from other recyclables, such as plastic and steel.
taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
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:

collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
taken to a recycling sorting facility.
separated from other recyclables, such as plastic and steel.
taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
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:

collected by your local council’s kerbside recycling truck.
taken to a recycling sorting facility.
separated from other recyclables, such as plastic and steel.
taken to a re-processing centre and broken down.
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:

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

Tissues (used)

Kleenex