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To recycle plastics, apply the scrunch test. If it can be scrunched into a ball, it’s considered ‘soft plastic’ and cannot be recycled in your commingled bin. Make sure these rigid plastics are clean, dry and free from residue before recycling. Check with your local council for the full list before recycling.
Most forms of paper, like newspapers, printer paper, and junk mail can be recycled. However, paper products like used kitchen towels, napkins and glossy wrapping paper are not recyclable and should go in general waste.
Most cardboard can be recycled, as long as not wet, water damaged or contaminated by food. Cartons, or liquid paperboard containers, are not always included so check before recycling. Always compact your cardboard before recycling to save space.
Glass bottles and jars are infinitely recyclable and can be reused in a wide variety of applications. However, drinking glasses and other kinds of glassware are made of different glass material and are not recyclable in the commingled bin. Glass bottles may also be recycled through container deposit schemes.
Aluminium and steel containers, such as food cans and empty beverage cans are recyclable. All metal containers should be empty of any leftovers before being placed in the bin.
Soft plastics like plastic bags and food wrappers cannot be recycled through the commingled recycling bin. Recycle at soft plastic drop-off locations such as supermarkets.
Food waste and other organic waste such as garden waste are not recyclable in your commingled recycling bin. Compost or dispose in the general waste bin.
Clothes and other textiles cannot be recycled through the commingled recycling bin. Donate textiles in good condition to charity or put them in the general waste bin.
To recycle plastics, apply the scrunch test. If it can be scrunched into a ball, it’s considered ‘soft plastic’ and cannot be recycled in your commingled bin. Make sure these rigid plastics are clean, dry and free from residue before recycling. Check with your local council for the full list before recycling.
Most forms of paper, like newspapers, printer paper, and junk mail can be recycled. However, paper products like used kitchen towels, napkins and glossy wrapping paper are not recyclable and should go in general waste.
Most cardboard can be recycled, as long as not wet, water damaged or contaminated by food. Cartons, or liquid paperboard containers, are not always included so check before recycling. Always compact your cardboard before recycling to save space.
Glass bottles and jars are infinitely recyclable and can be reused in a wide variety of applications. However, drinking glasses and other kinds of glassware are made of different glass material and are not recyclable in the commingled bin. Glass bottles may also be recycled through container deposit schemes.
Aluminium and steel containers, such as food cans and empty beverage cans are recyclable. All metal containers should be empty of any leftovers before being placed in the bin.
Soft plastics like plastic bags and food wrappers cannot be recycled through the commingled recycling bin. Recycle at soft plastic drop-off locations such as supermarkets.
Food waste and other organic waste such as garden waste are not recyclable in your commingled recycling bin. Compost or dispose in the general waste bin.
Clothes and other textiles cannot be recycled through the commingled recycling bin. Donate textiles in good condition to charity or put them in the general waste bin.
Check with your council or service provider to confirm if an item is recyclable
If you’re not sure the item is recyclable, put it in general waste
Ensure recyclables are empty with no food residue before recycling
Never bag recycling. Always place recyclables loose in the bin
Recycling tricky items
Packing nuts
These cannot be recycled. Place them in your general waste/landfill bin.
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Juice cartons
Can be recycled, depending on location. Always check with your local council for the latest advice.
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Windowed envelopes
Can be recycled in your commingled bin as long as they are dry and have not been exposed to water.
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Black meat trays
Cannot be recycled in Australia as sorting equipment cannot identify them. Place this in your general waste/landfill bin.
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Plastic fruit punnets
These may be recyclable in certain locations. Check with your local council for the latest advice
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Deodorant roll-on
These can be recycled as long as completely empty.
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Aluminium foil
Can be recycled. Roll into ping-pong sized ball and place in an alu can.
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Bottle tops & lids
These can be recycled in certain locations. Check with your local council for the latest advice.
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Polystyrene and styrofoam
These cannot be recycled. Check with your local council for advice.
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Broken glass
Cannot be recycled. Place in your general waste bin.
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Batteries
Must be recycled as e-waste. Check with your local council for advice.
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Waxed paper and cardboard
Cannot be recycled. Place in your general waste bin.
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What can I recycle?
Putting the wrong item in your commingled recycling bin is contamination and can send a truck full of recyclable items to landfill. Our Recycling Hub is designed to answer the questions “What and how can I recycle”, clearing the confusion about things you can recycle in your kerbside bin.
Here you’ll find practical advice from how to recycle right to managing tricky items, and even items you didn’t know could be recycled, all on one convenient site. Check back often to discover new ways to recycle better and close the loop on waste.
Depending on your location, empty aerosol cans can be placed in the commingled recycling bin with their plastic caps and covers off.
Filled aerosol cans should be recycled separately. Contact your local council to learn how and where you can recycle these items.
Made of rigid plastic, a completely empty and used roll-on deodorant can be recycled in your commingled bin. Remove lid before placing it loose in the bin.
Clean and dry glass bottles can be recycled in most locations, but some municipalities may require these items to be placed in a separate bin. Contact your local council to learn more.
Aluminium foil should be clean and free of contaminants such as food. These can be scrunched into a ball and placed into another aluminium container such as a food can for recycling.
Paint stripper and thinners are classified as household hazardous waste. Contact your local council to learn more about hazardous household waste drop-offs.
Building materials such as timber, concrete, plasterboard, vegetation and other materials should not be placed in household bins. Contact your local council to learn how to dispose of them before you begin your project.
Zinc sheets and other building materials do not belong in your commingled recycling or general waste bin. Check with your local council to learn how to dispose of them.
Motor oil and its containers cannot be recycled in your commingled bin. Contact your local council to find the nearest drop off points for your used motor oil, filters and containers.
Polystyrene and styrofoam cannot be recycled through your commingled recycling bin. Contact your local council to see if a polystyrene recycling program is available.
With the exception of car batteries, all other battery types are considered to be e-waste. Household batteries can be dropped off at TechCollect locations nationwide while business can arrange for a pickup.
Clean and dry glass bottles can be recycled in most locations, but some municipalities may require these items to be placed in a separate bin. Contact your local council to learn more.
Clean and dry glass bottles can be recycled in most locations, but some municipalities may require these items to be placed in a separate bin. Contact your local council to learn more.
Black meat trays go into your general waste bin as recycling machines cannot sort them. Transparent or white meat trays may be recyclable in select locations, depending on its material. Contact your local council to learn more.
Lolly wrappers are soft plastics that cannot be recycled in your commingled bin. They can be recycled in certain supermarkets and other dropoff points. Contact your local council to learn more.
Never place any form of chemicals, including cleaning chemicals, in your bin. Contact your local council to find out where you can dispose of this safely.
Cooking fats and oils are not recyclable NOR should you pour them down the drains. Allow them to cool before collecting them into a sealed container for disposal in your general waste bin.
Books in good conditions can be donated or passed on. Some locations will accept books in the commingled recycling bin. Otherwise, place it in your general waste bin. Contact your local council to confirm.
Bottle tops are recyclable in certain locations. If so, they should be collected in a separate container before being placed in your commingled recycling bin.
Check with your local council or service provider before recycling it.
Rigid plastic containers such as shampoo and conditioner bottles can be recycled in your commingled recycling bin. Empty, rinse and dry before placing them in the bin.
Motor oil and its containers cannot be recycled in your commingled bin. Contact your local council to find the nearest drop off points for your used motor oil, filters and containers.
Building materials such as timber, concrete, plasterboard, vegetation and other materials should not be placed in household bins. Contact your local council to learn how to dispose of them before you begin your project.
Zinc sheets and other building materials do not belong in your commingled recycling or general waste bin. Check with your local council to learn how to dispose of them.
Timber can be recycled through your council's bulk waste services depending on its condition and whether it's treated or untreated. Contact your local council to learn more.
Clean and dry glass bottles can be recycled in most locations, but some municipalities may require these items to be placed in a separate bin. Contact your local council to learn more.
Polystyrene and styrofoam cannot be recycled through your commingled recycling bin. Contact your local council to see if a polystyrene recycling program is available.
Black meat trays go into your general waste bin as recycling machines cannot sort them. Transparent or white meat trays may be recyclable in select locations, depending on its material. Contact your local council to learn more.
Building materials such as timber, concrete, plasterboard, vegetation and other materials should not be placed in household bins. Contact your local council to learn how to dispose of them before you begin your project.
Zinc sheets and other building materials do not belong in your commingled recycling or general waste bin. Check with your local council to learn how to dispose of them.
Flatten clean and dry cardboard boxes before disposal in your commingled bin.
Wet or soiled cardboard cannot be recycled as these can contaminate the recyclables, so it must be disposed of in your general waste bin.
Shredded or torn cardboard are also not recyclable through the kerbside commingled as they are too small to be detected by our sorting machines. However, shredded cardboard and paper can be donated to the local pet shop to be used as bedding, used as mulch in the garden or mixed into a compost heap.
Cardboard and paper egg cartons are completely recyclable in your commingled bin. Make sure they are clean, dry and free from any food and egg stains before placing them in the bin.
Hard drives are e-waste and are not recyclable through your commingled recycling bin. Drop off these off at TechCollect collection points nationwide or contact your local council for advice.
Electrical appliances such as kettles, microwaves, game consoles, lamps and others are recyclable but must be sent to an approved recycler. Contact your local council to learn more.
Clean and dry glass bottles can be recycled in most locations, but some municipalities may require these items to be placed in a separate bin. Contact your local council to learn more.
Never place any form of chemicals, including cleaning chemicals, in your bin. Contact your local council to find out where you can dispose of this safely.
Clothing and other textiles cannot be recycled in your commingled bin. Upcycle, donate or repurpose fabrics and textiles in good condition. Otherwise, place them in your general waste bin for disposal.
Check with the manufacturer to see if your used coffee pods and capsules can be recycled. Never put them into the commingled recycling bin, as these items are too small to be sorted and usually have leftover organic material. Place them in your general waste bin instead.
Check with the manufacturer to see if your used coffee pods and capsules can be recycled. Never put them into the commingled recycling bin, as these items are too small to be sorted and usually have leftover organic material. Place them in your general waste bin instead.
Flatten clean and dry cardboard boxes before disposal in your commingled bin.
Wet or soiled cardboard cannot be recycled as these can contaminate the recyclables, so it must be disposed of in your general waste bin.
Shredded or torn cardboard are also not recyclable through the kerbside commingled as they are too small to be detected by our sorting machines. However, shredded cardboard and paper can be donated to the local pet shop to be used as bedding, used as mulch in the garden or mixed into a compost heap.
Cooking fats and oils are not recyclable NOR should you pour them down the drains. Allow them to cool before collecting them into a sealed container for disposal in your general waste bin.
Timber can be recycled through your council's bulk waste services depending on its condition and whether it's treated or untreated. Contact your local council to learn more.
Clothing and other textiles cannot be recycled in your commingled bin. Upcycle, donate or repurpose fabrics and textiles in good condition. Otherwise, place them in your general waste bin for disposal.
Broken metal cutlery may be accepted in some locations, provided you place them inside similar containers before disposing in your commingled bins. Metal cutleries in good condition can be donated, sold or repurposed. Otherwise, contact your local council for more information.
Empty, clean and dry ice cream tubs and containers made of plastic can be recycled in your commingled bin.
Cardboard ice cream containers are often layered with a thin plastic which may not be recyclable. Check with your local council for more information.
Made of rigid plastic, a completely empty and used roll-on deodorant can be recycled in your commingled bin. Remove lid before placing it loose in the bin.
Depending on your location, empty aerosol cans can be placed in the commingled recycling bin with their plastic caps and covers off.
Filled aerosol cans should be recycled separately. Contact your local council to learn how and where you can recycle these items.
Rigid plastic containers like detergent bottles can be recycled in the commingled bin. Make sure to empty, clean, and separate the lid from the bottle before placing it into the bin.
Rigid plastic containers such as shampoo and conditioner bottles can be recycled in your commingled recycling bin. Empty, rinse and dry before placing them in the bin.
Lolly wrappers are soft plastics that cannot be recycled in your commingled bin. They can be recycled in certain supermarkets and other dropoff points. Contact your local council to learn more.
Clothing and other textiles cannot be recycled in your commingled bin. Upcycle, donate or repurpose fabrics and textiles in good condition. Otherwise, place them in your general waste bin for disposal.
Rigid plastic containers such as shampoo and conditioner bottles can be recycled in your commingled recycling bin. Empty, rinse and dry before placing them in the bin.
Dry cleaning bags from the laundromat are made of soft plastics. These can be recycled in most supermarkets under a soft plastic recycling scheme. If in doubt, contact your local council.
Lolly wrappers are soft plastics that cannot be recycled in your commingled bin. They can be recycled in certain supermarkets and other dropoff points. Contact your local council to learn more.
Cardboard and paper egg cartons are completely recyclable in your commingled bin. Make sure they are clean, dry and free from any food and egg stains before placing them in the bin.
Flatten clean and dry cardboard boxes before disposal in your commingled bin.
Wet or soiled cardboard cannot be recycled as these can contaminate the recyclables, so it must be disposed of in your general waste bin.
Shredded or torn cardboard are also not recyclable through the kerbside commingled as they are too small to be detected by our sorting machines. However, shredded cardboard and paper can be donated to the local pet shop to be used as bedding, used as mulch in the garden or mixed into a compost heap.
Foam boxes cannot be recycled in your commingled recycling bin. However, it may be recyclable in certain locations. Contact your local council to check.
Electrical appliances such as kettles, microwaves, game consoles, lamps and others are recyclable but must be sent to an approved recycler. Contact your local council to learn more.
Incandescent light bulbs and other light fixtures cannot be recycled in your commingled bin, as they contain hazardous materials. If your incandescent light fixture is broken, wrap carefully in old newspapers and place in your general waste bin. Otherwise, you can check with your local light shops to see if they have a light bulb recycling program. You can also contact your local council to learn where you can drop them off safely.
Electrical cables cannot be recycled in your kerbside commingled bin. However, they can be recycled as e-waste or scrap metal, depending on your location. Check with your council to learn where you can drop these off.
Depending on your location, small wooden branches and garden prunings may be recyclable. Contact your local council to learn more. Otherwise place them in your general waste bin.
Lolly wrappers are soft plastics that cannot be recycled in your commingled bin. They can be recycled in certain supermarkets and other dropoff points. Contact your local council to learn more.
Depending on your location, real flowers may be recycled as compost. Check with your local council to learn more.
Plastic flowers cannot be recycled and should be placed in the general waste bin.
Depending on your location, small wooden branches and garden prunings may be recyclable. Contact your local council to learn more. Otherwise place them in your general waste bin.
Fluorescent tubes and other light fixtures cannot be recycled in your commingled bin as they contain hazardous materials. Contact your local council to learn where you can drop them off safely.
Incandescent light bulbs and other light fixtures cannot be recycled in your commingled bin, as they contain hazardous materials. If your incandescent light fixture is broken, wrap carefully in old newspapers and place in your general waste bin. Otherwise, you can check with your local light shops to see if they have a light bulb recycling program. You can also contact your local council to learn where you can drop them off safely.
Foam boxes cannot be recycled in your commingled recycling bin. However, it may be recyclable in certain locations. Contact your local council to check.
Polystyrene and styrofoam cannot be recycled through your commingled recycling bin. Contact your local council to see if a polystyrene recycling program is available.
Flatten clean and dry cardboard boxes before disposal in your commingled bin.
Wet or soiled cardboard cannot be recycled as these can contaminate the recyclables, so it must be disposed of in your general waste bin.
Shredded or torn cardboard are also not recyclable through the kerbside commingled as they are too small to be detected by our sorting machines. However, shredded cardboard and paper can be donated to the local pet shop to be used as bedding, used as mulch in the garden or mixed into a compost heap.
Aluminium foil trays can be recycled. Just ensure they're clean, dry and empty. However, foil packaging for crisp packages and similar material which are made of metallised plastic are not accepted.
To check, scrunch the material into a ball. If it stays in shape, it is aluminium foil and can be placed in your commingled bin. If it "bounces back" then it is plastic and should be placed in your general waste bin.
Lolly wrappers are soft plastics that cannot be recycled in your commingled bin. They can be recycled in certain supermarkets and other dropoff points. Contact your local council to learn more.
Most fresh milk, juice cartons and other tetrapak containers are made of liquid paperboard (LPB) and may be recycled in certain locations. Always empty, rinse and dry these cartons and containers before placing them in the bin. Check with your council for more information about the right way to dispose of this material.
Wooden planks and furniture in good condition can be resold, donated or repurposed. Never put it in your commingled recycling bin. Contact your local council for more information to learn how to recycle this item.
Gardening tools such as shears and hoses do not belong in your commingled recycling bin. If in doubt, contact your local council to learn where you can dispose of them safely.
Gas cylinders, bottles and butane canisters are a potential fire risk. Swap out empty cylinders with the manufacturer, drop off at a council hazardous waste collection point or at a transfer station near you.
Depending on your location, empty aerosol cans can be placed in the commingled recycling bin with their plastic caps and covers off.
Filled aerosol cans should be recycled separately. Contact your local council to learn how and where you can recycle these items.
Clean and dry glass bottles can be recycled in most locations, but some municipalities may require these items to be placed in a separate bin. Contact your local council to learn more.
Clean and dry glass bottles can be recycled in most locations, but some municipalities may require these items to be placed in a separate bin. Contact your local council to learn more.
Books in good conditions can be donated or passed on. Some locations will accept books in the commingled recycling bin. Otherwise, place it in your general waste bin. Contact your local council to confirm.
Clean wrapping papers can go into your commingled recycling bin except if they are made from foil or plastic. Small bits of wrapping paper cannot be recycled and should be disposed of in your general waste bin.
Clean wrapping papers can go into your commingled recycling bin except if they are made from foil or plastic. Small bits of wrapping paper cannot be recycled and should be disposed of in your general waste bin.
Human and animal hair are organic materials and may be recycled as compost or placed in a FOGO bin. Contact your local council before you place them in the bin.
Hard drives are e-waste and are not recyclable through your commingled recycling bin. Drop off these off at TechCollect collection points nationwide or contact your local council for advice.
With the exception of car batteries, all other battery types are considered to be e-waste. Household batteries can be dropped off at TechCollect locations nationwide while business can arrange for a pickup.
Depending on your location, hot water bottles may be recyclable. Check with your local council to confirm. Otherwise, dispose in your general waste bin.
Lolly wrappers are soft plastics that cannot be recycled in your commingled bin. They can be recycled in certain supermarkets and other dropoff points. Contact your local council to learn more.
Never place any form of chemicals, including cleaning chemicals, in your bin. Contact your local council to find out where you can dispose of this safely.
Paint stripper and thinners are classified as household hazardous waste. Contact your local council to learn more about hazardous household waste drop-offs.
Empty, clean and dry ice cream tubs and containers made of plastic can be recycled in your commingled bin.
Cardboard ice cream containers are often layered with a thin plastic which may not be recyclable. Check with your local council for more information.
Incandescent light bulbs and other light fixtures cannot be recycled in your commingled bin, as they contain hazardous materials. If your incandescent light fixture is broken, wrap carefully in old newspapers and place in your general waste bin. Otherwise, you can check with your local light shops to see if they have a light bulb recycling program. You can also contact your local council to learn where you can drop them off safely.
Fluorescent tubes and other light fixtures cannot be recycled in your commingled bin as they contain hazardous materials. Contact your local council to learn where you can drop them off safely.
Clean, dry and empty glass jars can be recycled in most locations, but certain municipalities may require these items to be placed in a different bin. When in doubt, check with your local council.
Clean and dry glass bottles can be recycled in most locations, but some municipalities may require these items to be placed in a separate bin. Contact your local council to learn more.
Human and animal hair are organic materials and may be recycled as compost or placed in a FOGO bin. Contact your local council before you place them in the bin.
Knitting needles made of unvarnished wood may be recycled in your commingled waste bin. However broken and knitting needles made of other materials should be placed in your general waste bin.
Depending on your location, small wooden branches and garden prunings may be recyclable. Contact your local council to learn more. Otherwise place them in your general waste bin.
Depending on your location, real flowers may be recycled as compost. Check with your local council to learn more.
Plastic flowers cannot be recycled and should be placed in the general waste bin.
Unless specifically requested by your council, always remove jars and lids from your containers, jars and cartons. Sort the lids by type (plastic in one pile, metal in another), then place them in a corresponding container before disposal.
Clean and dry glass bottles can be recycled in most locations, but some municipalities may require these items to be placed in a separate bin. Contact your local council to learn more.
Lolly wrappers are soft plastics that cannot be recycled in your commingled bin. They can be recycled in certain supermarkets and other dropoff points. Contact your local council to learn more.
Black meat trays go into your general waste bin as recycling machines cannot sort them. Transparent or white meat trays may be recyclable in select locations, depending on its material. Contact your local council to learn more.
Fluorescent tubes and other light fixtures cannot be recycled in your commingled bin as they contain hazardous materials. Contact your local council to learn where you can drop them off safely.
Incandescent light bulbs and other light fixtures cannot be recycled in your commingled bin, as they contain hazardous materials. If your incandescent light fixture is broken, wrap carefully in old newspapers and place in your general waste bin. Otherwise, you can check with your local light shops to see if they have a light bulb recycling program. You can also contact your local council to learn where you can drop them off safely.
Rigid plastic containers like margarine and butter tubs can be recycled in your commingled bin. Make sure they are clean, empty and dry before placing them loose in the bin.
Rigid plastic containers like detergent bottles can be recycled in the commingled bin. Make sure to empty, clean, and separate the lid from the bottle before placing it into the bin.
Mattresses and mattress toppers cannot be recycled in your commingled bin. They can be disposed through a hard waste collection or at selected drop-off points. Mattress toppers can also be repurposed into new cushions. Contact your local council for advice on safe disposal.
Black meat trays go into your general waste bin as recycling machines cannot sort them. Transparent or white meat trays may be recyclable in select locations, depending on its material. Contact your local council to learn more.
Lolly wrappers are soft plastics that cannot be recycled in your commingled bin. They can be recycled in certain supermarkets and other dropoff points. Contact your local council to learn more.
Aluminium foil trays can be recycled. Just ensure they're clean, dry and empty. However, foil packaging for crisp packages and similar material which are made of metallised plastic are not accepted.
To check, scrunch the material into a ball. If it stays in shape, it is aluminium foil and can be placed in your commingled bin. If it "bounces back" then it is plastic and should be placed in your general waste bin.
Expired or leftover medication cannot be put into your bins, but will be accepted at some community pharmacies and other locations. Contact your local council for safe disposal advice.
Empty, clean and dry ice cream tubs and containers made of plastic can be recycled in your commingled bin.
Cardboard ice cream containers are often layered with a thin plastic which may not be recyclable. Check with your local council for more information.
Aluminium foil trays can be recycled. Just ensure they're clean, dry and empty. However, foil packaging for crisp packages and similar material which are made of metallised plastic are not accepted.
To check, scrunch the material into a ball. If it stays in shape, it is aluminium foil and can be placed in your commingled bin. If it "bounces back" then it is plastic and should be placed in your general waste bin.
Depending on your location, hot water bottles may be recyclable. Check with your local council to confirm. Otherwise, dispose in your general waste bin.
Expired or leftover medication cannot be put into your bins, but will be accepted at some community pharmacies and other locations. Contact your local council for safe disposal advice.
Hard drives are e-waste and are not recyclable through your commingled recycling bin. Drop off these off at TechCollect collection points nationwide or contact your local council for advice.
With the exception of car batteries, all other battery types are considered to be e-waste. Household batteries can be dropped off at TechCollect locations nationwide while business can arrange for a pickup.
USB stick and drives are e-waste and cannot be recycled in the commingled recycling bin. Drop off these off at TechCollect collection points nationwide or contact your local council for advice.
Leftover nail polish is classified as a hazardous chemical as it may harm the environment if not disposed properly. Contact your local council to learn more about safe disposal of hazardous household chemicals.
Clean wrapping papers can go into your commingled recycling bin except if they are made from foil or plastic. Small bits of wrapping paper cannot be recycled and should be disposed of in your general waste bin.
Oily rags cannot be recycled in your commingled bin or placed in your general waste bin. If not stored properly, oily rags can turn into a fire hazard, likely to combust when exposed to temperature changes and possible friction. Check with your local council to learn where you can drop off your oily rags.
Motor oil and its containers cannot be recycled in your commingled bin. Contact your local council to find the nearest drop off points for your used motor oil, filters and containers.
Leftover paint and empty paint containers can be recycled through Paintback. Do not dispose leftover paint and containers in your general waste or commingled recycling bins.
Paint stripper and thinners are classified as household hazardous waste. Contact your local council to learn more about hazardous household waste drop-offs.
Paint stripper and thinners are classified as household hazardous waste. Contact your local council to learn more about hazardous household waste drop-offs.
Leftover paint and empty paint containers can be recycled through Paintback. Do not dispose leftover paint and containers in your general waste or commingled recycling bins.
Clean wrapping papers can go into your commingled recycling bin except if they are made from foil or plastic. Small bits of wrapping paper cannot be recycled and should be disposed of in your general waste bin.
Used paper towels, napkins and tissues cannot be recycled. Some locations may accept them as compost material. Contact your local council to learn more.
Pens and other stationery cannot be recycled in your commingled bin as they are too small to be picked up by the machinery. Check with your local council to see if a writing utensil program is available in your area.
Motor oil and its containers cannot be recycled in your commingled bin. Contact your local council to find the nearest drop off points for your used motor oil, filters and containers.
Paint stripper and thinners are classified as household hazardous waste. Contact your local council to learn more about hazardous household waste drop-offs.
Photographs and negatives are generally unrecyclable and should be placed in your general waste bin. Check with your local council to see if a recycling program exists.
Books in good conditions can be donated or passed on. Some locations will accept books in the commingled recycling bin. Otherwise, place it in your general waste bin. Contact your local council to confirm.
Consider upcycling your picture frames if they are still in good condition. Plain picture frames made of paper and untreated wood can be recycled. Picture frames made of plastic and other materials are not recyclable and must be placed in the general waste bin.
Contact your local council for more information.
Clean pizza boxes with no food stains can be recycled in your commingled recycling bin.
Soiled pizza boxes with greasy food stains should be placed in your general waste bin.
Most fresh milk, juice cartons and other tetrapak containers are made of liquid paperboard (LPB) and may be recycled in certain locations. Always empty, rinse and dry these cartons and containers before placing them in the bin. Check with your council for more information about the right way to dispose of this material.
Flatten clean and dry cardboard boxes before disposal in your commingled bin.
Wet or soiled cardboard cannot be recycled as these can contaminate the recyclables, so it must be disposed of in your general waste bin.
Shredded or torn cardboard are also not recyclable through the kerbside commingled as they are too small to be detected by our sorting machines. However, shredded cardboard and paper can be donated to the local pet shop to be used as bedding, used as mulch in the garden or mixed into a compost heap.
Rigid plastic containers such as shampoo and conditioner bottles can be recycled in your commingled recycling bin. Empty, rinse and dry before placing them in the bin.
Pram and strollers cannot be recycled in your commingled bin. If in good condition, look out for local groups that can take and donate your used pram and strollers. Otherwise, contact your local council for advice.
Black meat trays go into your general waste bin as recycling machines cannot sort them. Transparent or white meat trays may be recyclable in select locations, depending on its material. Contact your local council to learn more.
Polystyrene and styrofoam cannot be recycled through your commingled recycling bin. Contact your local council to see if a polystyrene recycling program is available.
Black meat trays go into your general waste bin as recycling machines cannot sort them. Transparent or white meat trays may be recyclable in select locations, depending on its material. Contact your local council to learn more.
Pram and strollers cannot be recycled in your commingled bin. If in good condition, look out for local groups that can take and donate your used pram and strollers. Otherwise, contact your local council for advice.
Electrical appliances such as kettles, microwaves, game consoles, lamps and others are recyclable but must be sent to an approved recycler. Contact your local council to learn more.
Razor blades, whether as detachable blade heads or as part of a disposable razor, should not be recycled or disposed in your kerbside bin. Depending on your location, you can dispose used razor blades and disposable razors as sharps waste in dedicated sharps waste community bins or recycle through a dedicated razor recycling service.
Aluminium foil should be clean and free of contaminants such as food. These can be scrunched into a ball and placed into another aluminium container such as a food can for recycling.
Ropes cannot be placed in your commingled recycling bin as they are usually made of mixed plastic. Depending on the length, certain ropes can be placed together with your hard waste collection. Contact your local council to learn more.
Rugs and carpets cannot be recycled in the commingled bin. Check with your local charities or secondhand shops if they will accept rugs and carpets in good conditions. Wool rugs and carpets with natural backing material can also be composted, but check with your manufacturer first. Otherwise, place in your general waste bin. If it is too large, dispose of it in your hardwaste collection.
Clothing and other textiles cannot be recycled in your commingled bin. Upcycle, donate or repurpose fabrics and textiles in good condition. Otherwise, place them in your general waste bin for disposal.
Shoes, sandals and other footwear cannot be recycled in your commingled bin. If they are in good condition, check with your local shoe store and charities to see if they will accept washed and clean footwear for potential donations and reuse. Some sport brands and retailers will even take in your old and damaged footwear to be recycled into new footwear. Otherwise, place these into your general waste bin.
Clothing and other textiles cannot be recycled in your commingled bin. Upcycle, donate or repurpose fabrics and textiles in good condition. Otherwise, place them in your general waste bin for disposal.
Rigid plastic containers such as shampoo and conditioner bottles can be recycled in your commingled recycling bin. Empty, rinse and dry before placing them in the bin.
Rigid plastic containers like margarine and butter tubs can be recycled in your commingled bin. Make sure they are clean, empty and dry before placing them loose in the bin.
Rigid plastic containers like detergent bottles can be recycled in the commingled bin. Make sure to empty, clean, and separate the lid from the bottle before placing it into the bin.
Shredded paper cannot be recycled in your commingled recycling bin as it is too small to be processed by sorting machines. Some locations may accept shredded paper as compost. Contact your local council to learn more.
Clean wrapping papers can go into your commingled recycling bin except if they are made from foil or plastic. Small bits of wrapping paper cannot be recycled and should be disposed of in your general waste bin.
Steel scrubbers, also known as metal scourers, steel wool or stainless steel scrubbing pads, can be recycled in your kerbside recycling bin. They are usually made of metal and are completely recyclable. Make sure these are clean and dry without any food debris or grime before placing them in the bin.
Aluminium foil should be clean and free of contaminants such as food. These can be scrunched into a ball and placed into another aluminium container such as a food can for recycling.
Timber can be recycled through your council's bulk waste services depending on its condition and whether it's treated or untreated. Contact your local council to learn more.
Wooden planks and furniture in good condition can be resold, donated or repurposed. Never put it in your commingled recycling bin. Contact your local council for more information to learn how to recycle this item.
Building materials such as timber, concrete, plasterboard, vegetation and other materials should not be placed in household bins. Contact your local council to learn how to dispose of them before you begin your project.
Toothbrushes cannot be recycled as they are too small to be picked up by the sorting machine and are made of mixed materials. However, certain locations may offer toothbrush recycling programs. Check with your local council to learn more.
Toothbrushes cannot be recycled as they are too small to be picked up by the sorting machine and are made of mixed materials. However, certain locations may offer toothbrush recycling programs. Check with your local council to learn more.
Timber can be recycled through your council's bulk waste services depending on its condition and whether it's treated or untreated. Contact your local council to learn more.
Wooden planks and furniture in good condition can be resold, donated or repurposed. Never put it in your commingled recycling bin. Contact your local council for more information to learn how to recycle this item.
Motor oil and its containers cannot be recycled in your commingled bin. Contact your local council to find the nearest drop off points for your used motor oil, filters and containers.
Umbrellas, broken or not, cannot be recycled. If in good condition, considering donating or upcycling umbrellas. Otherwise, these will go into the general waste bin.
USB stick and drives are e-waste and cannot be recycled in the commingled recycling bin. Drop off these off at TechCollect collection points nationwide or contact your local council for advice.
Hard drives are e-waste and are not recyclable through your commingled recycling bin. Drop off these off at TechCollect collection points nationwide or contact your local council for advice.
Human and animal hair are organic materials and may be recycled as compost or placed in a FOGO bin. Contact your local council before you place them in the bin.
Single-component varnishes can be recycled through Paintback or household hazardous waste collection services and drop-offs. These should never be placed in your general waste or commingled recycling bins. If in doubt, contact your local council to learn where you can drop off your varnishes.
Leftover paint and empty paint containers can be recycled through Paintback. Do not dispose leftover paint and containers in your general waste or commingled recycling bins.
Paint stripper and thinners are classified as household hazardous waste. Contact your local council to learn more about hazardous household waste drop-offs.
Video games consoles are not covered by the National Television and Computer Recycling Scheme. Consider gifting, selling, or donating video game consoles in good condition. Contact your local council to learn how to dispose of broken gaming equipment.
USB stick and drives are e-waste and cannot be recycled in the commingled recycling bin. Drop off these off at TechCollect collection points nationwide or contact your local council for advice.
Hard drives are e-waste and are not recyclable through your commingled recycling bin. Drop off these off at TechCollect collection points nationwide or contact your local council for advice.
Waxed paper and cardboard cannot be recycled or composted as it usually comes with a layer of plastic that doesn't biodegrade. Place this in your general waste bin.
Empty, clean and dry ice cream tubs and containers made of plastic can be recycled in your commingled bin.
Cardboard ice cream containers are often layered with a thin plastic which may not be recyclable. Check with your local council for more information.
Depending on your location, weeds and garden waste may be recyclable. Contact your local council to learn more. Otherwise place them in your general waste bin.
Depending on your location, real flowers may be recycled as compost. Check with your local council to learn more.
Plastic flowers cannot be recycled and should be placed in the general waste bin.
Depending on your location, small wooden branches and garden prunings may be recyclable. Contact your local council to learn more. Otherwise place them in your general waste bin.
Depending on your location, small wooden branches and garden prunings may be recyclable. Contact your local council to learn more. Otherwise place them in your general waste bin.
Depending on your location, weeds and garden waste may be recyclable. Contact your local council to learn more. Otherwise place them in your general waste bin.
Depending on your location, real flowers may be recycled as compost. Check with your local council to learn more.
Plastic flowers cannot be recycled and should be placed in the general waste bin.
Wooden planks and furniture in good condition can be resold, donated or repurposed. Never put it in your commingled recycling bin. Contact your local council for more information to learn how to recycle this item.
Depending on your location, real flowers may be recycled as compost. Check with your local council to learn more.
Plastic flowers cannot be recycled and should be placed in the general waste bin.
Clean wrapping papers can go into your commingled recycling bin except if they are made from foil or plastic. Small bits of wrapping paper cannot be recycled and should be disposed of in your general waste bin.
X-Rays and other medical imaging film contain heavy metals and are considered e-waste. Do not put in your commingled recycling bin. Instead, check TechCollect for an e-waste drop-off location closest to you. For bigger volumes, contact us to set a pick-up appointment.
Expired or leftover medication cannot be put into your bins, but will be accepted at some community pharmacies and other locations. Contact your local council for safe disposal advice.
Yoga mats are durable but they are often made of unrecyclable material. If available, check with the manufacturer to see if they will accept the mats for recycling. Otherwise, upcycle the mats or place them in your general waste bin.
Mattresses and mattress toppers cannot be recycled in your commingled bin. They can be disposed through a hard waste collection or at selected drop-off points. Mattress toppers can also be repurposed into new cushions. Contact your local council for advice on safe disposal.
Rigid plastic containers like detergent bottles can be recycled in the commingled bin. Make sure to empty, clean, and separate the lid from the bottle before placing it into the bin.
Rigid plastic containers such as shampoo and conditioner bottles can be recycled in your commingled recycling bin. Empty, rinse and dry before placing them in the bin.
Both plastic and glass beverage bottles should be placed in your commingled recycling bin with the lids removed, unless advised differently by your council.
Zinc sheets and other building materials do not belong in your commingled recycling or general waste bin. Check with your local council to learn how to dispose of them.
Building materials such as timber, concrete, plasterboard, vegetation and other materials should not be placed in household bins. Contact your local council to learn how to dispose of them before you begin your project.
Wooden planks and furniture in good condition can be resold, donated or repurposed. Never put it in your commingled recycling bin. Contact your local council for more information to learn how to recycle this item.
Ziplock bags with an outer paper covering and a transparent plastic window are also known as standup pouch bags. These are not recyclable in your kerbside bin as they are made from mixed materials (paper and plastic). Place them in your general waste bin.
Plastic zip lock bags, also known as snap lock bags, are clear transparent bags that can be resealed. These are soft plastics and cannot be recycled in your kerbside bin. However, you can recycle them in most supermarkets and drop-off locations that accept soft plastics for recycling.
Plastic zip lock bags, also known as snap lock bags, are clear transparent bags that can be resealed. These are soft plastics and cannot be recycled in your kerbside bin. However, you can recycle them in most supermarkets and drop-off locations that accept soft plastics for recycling.
Fluorescent tubes and other light fixtures cannot be recycled in your commingled bin as they contain hazardous materials. Contact your local council to learn where you can drop them off safely.
Video games consoles are not covered by the National Television and Computer Recycling Scheme. Consider gifting, selling, or donating video game consoles in good condition. Contact your local council to learn how to dispose of broken gaming equipment.
Incandescent light bulbs and other light fixtures cannot be recycled in your commingled bin, as they contain hazardous materials. If your incandescent light fixture is broken, wrap carefully in old newspapers and place in your general waste bin. Otherwise, you can check with your local light shops to see if they have a light bulb recycling program. You can also contact your local council to learn where you can drop them off safely.
Clothing and other textiles cannot be recycled in your commingled bin. Upcycle, donate or repurpose fabrics and textiles in good condition. Otherwise, place them in your general waste bin for disposal.
Always compact your cardboard boxes before binning them
Got chocolate?
The alufoil is recyclable! Just scrunch into a ball and place into an alu can for recycling.
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What happens after I recycle?
Collected recyclables are screened for contamination before processing. If a batch has too many contaminants (such as textiles, nappies and other non-recyclable items) mixed in, the entire batch will be sent to landfill. This is why recycling correctly is so important – putting an item that needs to be recycled elsewhere into your commingled bin will not “magically” ensure the item is recycled.
Uncontaminated recycling is a high quality commodity that can be used to replace virgin raw material. Some recyclables such as e-waste, is broken down into component parts, while others are baled and sent directly to recyclers. If you have ever wondered where does recyclable items after you place them in your bin, then this section is for you.
Most paper and cardboard items such as magazines, boxes and windowed envelopes can be recycled into new paper products.
Glass bottles and jars can be recycled into new glass bottles and jars almost infinitely. Crushed glass can also be used as an environmentally-friendly substitute for sand in roadworks.
Single-use rigid plastic containers such as plastic bottles, deodorants, and butter tubs can be turned into new containers or used to create polar fleece jackets and park benches.
Aluminium can be recycled almost infinitely with minimal loss of quality. Recycling aluminium can save up to 95% of the energy required to make a new can from raw materials.
Food waste and other organic waste can be turned into compost and other beneficial soil conditioners. However, strict guidelines apply to minimise contamination and ensure the organic material is safe to be used.
Most paper and cardboard items such as magazines, boxes and windowed envelopes can be recycled into new paper products.
Glass bottles and jars can be recycled into new glass bottles and jars almost infinitely. Crushed glass can also be used as an environmentally-friendly substitute for sand in roadworks.
Single-use rigid plastic containers such as plastic bottles, deodorants, and butter tubs can be turned into new containers or used to create polar fleece jackets and park benches.
Aluminium can be recycled almost infinitely with minimal loss of quality. Recycling aluminium can save up to 95% of the energy required to make a new can from raw materials.
Food waste and other organic waste can be turned into compost and other beneficial soil conditioners. However, strict guidelines apply to minimise contamination and ensure the organic material is safe to be used.
Home
Recycling Directory
Hazardous Waste
Recycling journey
Resources
National Recycling Week
For Schools
Resources
Check out these resources, including downloadable fact sheets, informational videos and easy-to-read ebooks.