Waste A to Z

Find out what goes in which bin

To find information online, please use our accessible search function below.

If the item you are looking for is not listed, please contact us at waste@eastcambs.gov.uk. We will advise you of the best method of disposal and add it to the online search.

Filter by type

Aerosol cans

Blue lidded bin

Materials from your blue lidded bin are sorted and turned into new products. Please put things in the bin loose and not in bags. This helps us process it.

More information on how your recycling is processed can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Air, home and laundry care packaging

Other

These can now be recycled by Terracycle. You need to save up your air fresheners and drop them off at a collection point.

Find out more about the Terracycle's Air, Home and Laundry Care Recycling Programme (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Aluminium tube like tomato puree

Blue lidded bin

Materials from your blue lidded bin are sorted and turned into new products. Please put things in the bin loose and not in bags. This helps us process it.

More information on how your recycling is processed can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Armchair

Other

Re-use or donate

If in good condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link).

Bulky collection service

We offer a bulky domestic waste collection service for household items (not from businesses). For more information, visit our bulky service page

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Asbestos

Other

Asbestos can be a dangerous material which, while being removed and disposed of, must be handled carefully and competently. A specialist licenced contractor should be used to ensure it is removed and disposed of in a controlled and safe manner.

Visit the Health and Safety Executive website (external link) for the latest advice on asbestos.

Cambridgeshire County Council (external link) offers residents a disposal service for small quantities of cement-bonded asbestos.

Ash (coal)

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Ash (wood)

Other

Wood ash can be used on your garden by adding directly to the soil around plants.

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Compost at home

Composting is a natural process that turns your kitchen and garden waste into a valuable and nutrient-rich food for your garden. For more information about home composting, please visit Recycle Now’s website (external link)

Green lidded bin

Allow to completely cool and then bag it in a paper bag and put in your green bin. It must be bagged or it will blow out when the bin is emptied, and can be a hazard for our bin collectors.

Your food and garden waste from green lidded bin is turned into compost. You can put things straight into the green bin. You can wrap food waste in newspaper or put it in a paper bag. Please do not use biodegradable plastic or corn starch bags. These do not break down quickly enough and result in extra processing costs. Your bin could also be refused collection.

More information on how the compost is made, can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Baby food pouches

Other

These can’t be recycled in your blue bin, but they can now be recycled by Terracycle and turned into products like fleeces, or springy surfaces for playgrounds.

Rinse and store your empty pouches somewhere convenient until you’ve collected a few. Then take them to your nearest collection point and they will be sent off to Terracycle. Find your nearest EllaCycle collection point (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Babybel cheese packaging

Other

There is a Terracycle collection scheme for Babybel packaging. Find out more about The Babybel Recycling Programme (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Bamboo or wood BBQ skewers

Green lidded bin

More information on how the compost is made, can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Bathroom ceramics

Other

Re-use or donate

If in good condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link).

Bulky collection service

We offer a bulky domestic waste collection service for household items (not from businesses). For more information, visit our bulky service page

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Batteries

Other

Please never place them in your black sack or recycling bin as batteries can cause fires. For more information about safe batteries disposal, visit Take Charge website (external link)

Re-use

Consider using rechargeable batteries. Modern rechargeable batteries hold their charge a lot longer than in the past, and can be charged more quickly.

Collection points

There are also collection points in all major retailers that sell batteries like supermarkets and electrical shops.

Bed linens

Other

Re-use or donate

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link)

Textile recycling points

Clean and dry blankets, sheets and duvet covers (even if worn out) can be put in textile and clothing banks in various locations around the district. For example, supermarket car parks. Please note that duvets and pillows should not be put in these banks.

Bedding textiles are usually accepted in all clothing banks, even those which are only marked 'clothes and shoes'.

Find local recycling banks (external link)

Duvets and pillows

These are usually not accepted in clothing banks. Please check your local animal charities as they sometimes accept them.

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Compost at home

If you are a confident home composter with a large compost bin or heap, and are certain that your duvet or pillow is made from totally natural fibres (for example: 100% cotton outer with either feather or wool filling), you could compost it at home. It is likely to take a long time to break down though!

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Beds and mattresses

Other

Re-use or donate

If in good condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link).

Bulky collection service

We offer a bulky domestic waste collection service for household items (not from businesses). For more information, visit our bulky service page

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Bicycle

Other

Re-use or donate

If in good condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link).

Bulky collection service

We offer a bulky domestic waste collection service for household items (not from businesses). For more information, visit our bulky service page

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Bicycle tyres

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Biscuit, cracker and cake wrappers

Other

Biscuit, cracker and cake wrappers can now be recycled by Terracycle (external link). You need to save up your wrappers and drop them off at a collection point. One of the collection points is located at the Grange, Nutholt Lane, Ely, Cambridgeshire, CB7 4EE.

Find out more about the Biscuits And Snacks Recycling Programme (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Black bags

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Black plastic food trays

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Blankets

Other

Re-use or donate

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link)

Textile recycling points

Clean and dry blankets can be put in textile and clothing banks in various locations around the district. For example, supermarket car parks.

Find your local recycling banks (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Blender

Other

Electrical items should not be placed in bins or black sacks at home.

Re-use or donate

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Blister packs or pill packets

Other

Please do not place these in your recycling bin. Blister packs are made of plastic and foil firmly glued together, so they are not easy to recycle.

Terracycle

Although these can’t be recycled in your blue lidded bin, they can now be recycled by Terracycle. You need to save empty packets up and drop them off at a collection point.

Find our more about The Medicine Packet Recycling Programme (external link), including collection points at Superdrug Pharmacies (external link)

If you still have medicine left, please take it to your pharmacy for safe disposal. Prevent medicine waste and lower NHS costs by only ordering what you need. Find more tips at Medicine Waste UK (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Books

Other

Donate or re-use

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Blue lidded bin

Materials from your blue lidded bin are sorted and turned into new products. Please put things in the bin loose and not in bags. This helps us process it.

More information on how your recycling is processed can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Bottle tops and plastic lids

Blue lidded bin

After rinsing and (where applicable) squashing your bottles and jars, please replace the lids on them before putting in the blue lidded bin. This helps the small lids to find their way through the various conveyors in the sorting process, and they can be separated from the containers later on.

Materials from your blue lidded bin are sorted and turned into new products. Please put things in the bin loose and not in bags. This helps us process it.

More information on how your recycling is processed can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Bras

Other

Bras, like other textiles, cannot be recycled from home.

Re-use or donate

There is an Against Breast Cancer (external link) bra recycling box at the reception at The Grange, Nutholt Lane, Ely, CB7 4EE.

Some shops selling lingerie have their own collection schemes. Check your local charity shops to see if they accept items of underwear.

Textile recycling point

Bras can be put in textile and clothing banks in various locations around the district. For example, supermarket car parks.

Find your local recycling banks (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Bread and pastry

Other

Prevent waste

If you have surplus, try freezing before or on the use-by date.

For food-saving ideas and inspiration, visit Love Food Hate Waste's website (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Green lidded bin

More information on how the compost is made, can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Brick-a-brac

Other

Donate or re-use

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Bricks

Other

Re-use or donate

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle, Freecycle or Gumtree

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Broken drinking glass

Black sack

Please wrap it in bubble wrap, plastic bags or paper for safety.

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Bubble wrap

Other

Re-use

Offer spare bubble wrap tp charity shops that can use it for wrapping sold items. Or offer to other for example using Freegle (external link)

Recycle at a supermarket

Bubble wrap can be recycled along with plastic film and carrier bags at supermarkets' collection points.

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Buckets

Other

Re-use or donate

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle, Freecycle or Gumtree

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Building rubble, soil and bricks

Other

Re-use or donate

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle, Freecycle or Gumtree

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Other

Specialist disposal

If you have building work done by a company, any waste resulting from it, is classed as business waste and needs to be dealt with by the company.

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Bulky items

Other

Re-use or donate

If in good condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link).

Bulky collection service

We offer a bulky domestic waste collection service for household items (not from businesses). For more information, visit our bulky service page

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Butter wrapper

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Cakes and pastries

Other

Prevent waste

If you have surplus, try freezing before or on the use-by date.

For food-saving ideas and inspiration, visit Love Food Hate Waste's website (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Green lidded bin

More information on how the compost is made, can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Cameras

Other

Donate or re-use

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link)

Candles

Other

Re-use

If you do not wish to add to landfill, you can re-use your old candles (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Car or motorcycle battery

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Car parts

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Cardboard

Blue lidded bin

Materials from your blue lidded bin are sorted and turned into new products. Please put things in the bin loose and not in bags. This helps us process it.

More information on how your recycling is processed can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Compost at home

Green lidded bin

Small amount of cardboard can be added to green bin to stop food and garden waste sticking to the bottom and side of the bin. Please make sure there are no tape or stickers left on cardboard.

More information on how the compost is made, can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Cardboard egg boxes

Other

Re-use

They biodegrade and can be used for growing seeds.

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Compost at home

Blue lidded bin

Materials from your blue lidded bin are sorted and turned into new products. Please put things in the bin loose and not in bags. This helps us process it.

More information on how your recycling is processed can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Carpet

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Old carpets will only be accepted if you are fitting new carpets yourself. If you are having a carpet fitted professionally, the company should remove the old one for you.

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Cartons including Tetra Pak

Blue lidded bin

Materials from your blue lidded bin are sorted and turned into new products. Please put things in the bin loose and not in bags. This helps us process it.

More information on how your recycling is processed can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Cat litter

Black sack

Please double bag cat litter and make sure bags are not too heavy by mixing with lighter waste.

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Catalogues and directories

Blue lidded bin

Materials from your blue lidded bin are sorted and turned into new products. Please put things in the bin loose and not in bags. This helps us process it.

More information on how your recycling is processed can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Ceramics, crockery and china

Other

Donate or re-use

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Black sack

Please wrap it in bubble wrap, plastic bags or paper for safety.

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Cereal boxes

Blue lidded bin

Materials from your blue lidded bin are sorted and turned into new products. Please put things in the bin loose and not in bags. This helps us process it.

More information on how your recycling is processed can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Cereal packet plastic inner liner

Other

Please check your local supermarket, as some supermarkets have collection points for these.

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Chairs

Other

Re-use or donate

If in good condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link).

Bulky collection service

We offer a bulky domestic waste collection service for household items (not from businesses). For more information, visit our bulky service page

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Chemicals - white spirit, wood stain, paint, turpentine and garden chemicals

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Chest of drawers

Other

Re-use or donate

If in good condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link).

Bulky collection service

We offer a bulky domestic waste collection service for household items (not from businesses). For more information, visit our bulky service page

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Chewing gum

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Chocolate and confectionery wrappers

Other

Plastic chocolate wrappers and chocolate or sweet pouches can be recycled by Terracycle. You need to save up your wrappers and drop them off at a collection point.

Find out more about the Confectionery Recycling Programme (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Christmas crackers

Other

Reduce waste

Choose re-usable crackers. You can find cardboard and fabric re-usable crackers online, with or without snaps (a great option, if you have nervous pets). You can add your own re-usable fabric party hats, a joke, chocolate coins or a small gift chosen for each person.

If you buy single-use crackers, please note that metallic card, glitter, ribbons or wire decorations cannot be recycled in blue lidded bin.

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Blue lidded bin

Materials from your blue lidded bin are sorted and turned into new products. Please put things in the bin loose and not in bags. This helps us process it.

More information on how your recycling is processed can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Christmas decorations

Other

Re-use

Pass on any unwanted decorations in good condition to others via Facebook, Freegle, Gumtree or Freecycle, or donate to charity shops (preferably just before Christmas, so they can be sold on quickly).

Green bin or home composting

Natural decorations like holly, mistletoe and poinsettias (without the pot) can be put in the green bin or home composted. Remove ribbons from natural wreaths and check for florists wire. Paper chains can be composted, if they are not glittery or metallic (the paper parts are too small to be sorted for recycling correctly).

Black sack

Tinsel, baubles and other plastic decorations can not be recycled.

Wreaths or other natural decorations containing florists wire, ribbons or other plastic or metal embellishments that are hard to remove should be put in the black sack.

Christmas trees (fake, plastic)

Other

Re-use or donate

If in good condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link).

Bulky collection service

We offer a bulky domestic waste collection service for household items (not from businesses). For more information, visit our bulky service page

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Christmas trees (real)

Compost at home

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Green lidded bin

Cut up and put pieces in the bin with the lid fully closed. In January, we collect real Christmas trees that are cut into pieces that are not higher or wider than the bin. Check you bin collection dates for the exact dates we collect in your area.

More information on how the compost is made, can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Cigarette butts

Black sack

Cigarette butts should never be discarded on the ground - it is illegal and you could be fined for littering.

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Cigarette packet

Blue lidded bin

Materials from your blue lidded bin are sorted and turned into new products. Please put things in the bin loose and not in bags. This helps us process it.

More information on how your recycling is processed can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Cleaning spray bottles

Blue lidded bin

Materials from your blue lidded bin are sorted and turned into new products. Please put things in the bin loose and not in bags. This helps us process it.

More information on how your recycling is processed can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Cling film

Other

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Clothing

Other

Re-use or donate

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link)

Textile recycling points

Clean and dry clothes (even if worn out) can be put in textile and clothing banks in various locations around the district. For example, supermarket car parks.

Find your local recycling banks (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Coat hangers

Other

Donate or re-use

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Coffee filters

Other

Reduce waste

Avoid coffee filter waste by using a re-usable coffee filter made of metal mesh (make sure it’s compatible with your particular coffee maker).

You could also experiment with a different method of brewing coffee that doesn’t require paper, for example a cafetiere.

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Compost at home

Green lidded bin

More information on how the compost is made, can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Coffee grounds

Compost at home

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Green lidded bin

More information on how the compost is made, can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

gold coffee pod with coffee spilling out

Coffee pods and capsules like Nespresso and Tassimo

Other

Reduce waste

More traditional ways of making coffee, like a cafetiere or french press avoid waste, resulting in only coffee grounds which can be composted or added to your green bin. They are cheaper too!

Re-use

It is possible to buy re-usable metal coffee capsules which you can fill with your choice of coffee grounds.

Compostable pods

There are now some brands which offer compostable coffee capsules:

Those made from 'bagasse' sugar-cane fibre or wood pulp can be accepted in the green bin e.g. Halo.

Those made from bio-plastic or PLA can not be put in the green bin or home composting bin.

Recycle

Some types or brands of coffee pods (and other difficult-to-recycle items) are collected for recycling by a company called TerraCycle (external link)

A new nationwide scheme called Podback (external link) also offers a recycling service.

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Coins

Other

Re-use

Foreign and old money can be given to some charity shops, Including:

Cancer Research Shops (paper money only)
Oxfam Shops
Save the Children Fund
Sue Ryder
EACH (East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices)

Compostable plastic bags, cups, cutlery or packaging

Other

Reduce waste

If you are choosing cups or cutlery for an event, the best option is to use re-usable items and wash them up or use a glass hire.

The best disposable options are ordinary plastic cups, which can be recycled in blue lidded bins and cheap plain paper plates without a design (more expensive or decorative ones have a plastic lamination) which can be composted, and wooden cutlery which can also be composted.

Packaging can be avoided in some cases by buying products loose from local refill shops or by buying in larger packs.

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Black sack

Compostable or biodegradable plastic corn starch caddy liners (for example, BioBag), bio-plastic cups (or compostable paper cups, which have a layer of bio-plastic) and cutlery (for example, Vegware or Edenware), and other compostable plastic packaging (for example, Two Farmers crisp packets, Riverford salad bags and some magazine sleeves) cannot be accepted in the green bins, even if they are EN13432 certified or display the compostable seedling logo, as they do not compost quickly enough for our fast composting process.

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill so these items will have the opportunity to break down to some extent Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Computer screen, monitor, hard drive or CPU

Other

Electrical items should not be placed in bins or black sacks at home.

Re-use or donate

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Contact lenses and packaging

Other

These can’t be recycled at home, but they can now be recycled by Terracycle. You need to save up your soft lenses, blister packs and peel-off foil and drop them off at a collection point.

Find out more about the ACUVUE Contact Lens Recycle Programme (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Cooked food

Other

Prevent waste

If you have surplus, try freezing before or on the use-by date.

For food-saving ideas and inspiration, visit Love Food Hate Waste's website (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Green lidded bin

More information on how the compost is made, can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Cooker or oven

Other

Re-use or donate

If in good condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link).

Bulky collection service

We offer a bulky domestic waste collection service for household items (not from businesses). For more information, visit our bulky service page

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Cooking oil

Other

Never pour fats down the drain

Items wrongly flushed down the drains and fats create blockages known as fatbergs. Find out more about their impact at Anglian Water website (external link)

Compost at home or use the green lidded bin

Use kitchen towel to absorb cooled liquid fat from cooking pans and trays and If you have a home compost heap or bin you can place it there, or in your green lidded bin.

Household waste recycling centre

Larger amounts of oil can be allowed to cool, poured into a bottle and taken to a Household Recycling Centre.

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Cork - plastic

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Cork - real

Compost at home

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Green lidded bin

More information on how the compost is made, can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Cotton wool pads

Other

Choose re-use

Washable make-up remover pads are available, which can be used repeatedly.

For babies, use washable baby wipes, which are like a small flannel which is used once and then washed.

Although cotton wool is technically compostable, some of the products it is used to remove are not suitable for composting. Some make-up remover pads may also contain plastic. Please dispose of them in your black sack.

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Crisp packets

Other

These can’t be recycled at home, but they can now be recycled by Terracycle. You need to rinse and save up your packets and drop them off at a collection point. For every packet collected,

Find out more about the Crisp Packet Recycling Scheme (external link). There is a collection point at the reception at The Grange, Nutholt Lane, Ely, CB7 4EE.

Some supermarkets started collection of crisp packets, along other packaging, so it is worth checking, if you can take your crisp packets when going shopping.

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

crisp tube lying on its side with crisps spilling out

Crisp tubes

Other

Crisp tubes can not be recycled, but Pringles tubes can be recycled via Terracycle. Find your nearest collection point for the Pringles Can Recycling Programme (external link). Please note that other brands are not accepted.

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Disposable drink cups

Other

line of disposal vapes in bright colours

Disposable vapes

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Drink cans

Blue lidded bin

Materials from your blue lidded bin are sorted and turned into new products. Please put things in the bin loose and not in bags. This helps us process it.

More information on how your recycling is processed can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Duvets and pillows

Other

If in good, clean condition with a B.S.7175 fire label, pass on via networks such as Freegle or Gumtree. Most charities will not accept them.

Pillows and duvets cannot be accepted in textile banks.

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Compost at home

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Effervescent tablet tubes

Blue lidded bin

Materials from your blue lidded bin are sorted and turned into new products. Please put things in the bin loose and not in bags. This helps us process it.

More information on how your recycling is processed can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Egg shells

Compost at home

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Green lidded bin

More information on how the compost is made, can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Electric toys

Other

Electrical items should not be placed in bins or black sacks at home.

Re-use or donate

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Electric whisk

Other

Electrical items should not be placed in bins or black sacks at home.

Re-use or donate

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Electrical items

Other

Electrical items should not be placed in bins or black sacks at home.

Re-use or donate

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Empty paint cans

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Envelopes

Blue lidded bin

Materials from your blue lidded bin are sorted and turned into new products. Please put things in the bin loose and not in bags. This helps us process it.

More information on how your recycling is processed can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Faeces - dog poo and cat poo

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Fairy lights

Other

Electrical items should not be placed in bins or black sacks at home.

Re-use or donate

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Fat

Other

Never pour fats down the drain

Items wrongly flushed down the drains and fats create blockages known as fatbergs. Find out more about their impact at Anglian Water website (external link)

Compost at home or use the green lidded bin

Use kitchen towel to absorb cooled liquid fat from cooking pans and trays and If you have a home compost heap or bin you can place it there, or in your green lidded bin.

Household waste recycling centre

Larger amounts of oil can be allowed to cool, poured into a bottle and taken to a Household Recycling Centre.

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

four red fire extinguishers grouped together

Fire extinguisher (household only)

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Fish

Other

Prevent waste

If you have surplus, try freezing before or on the use-by date.

For food-saving ideas and inspiration, visit Love Food Hate Waste's website (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Green lidded bin

More information on how the compost is made, can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Flammable liquids

Other

If you have more than five litres of flammable liquids or chemicals, or more than 20 litres of paint to dispose of, please email wmt@cambridgeshire.gov.uk before attending any site.

Please note that paint is only accepted at Witchford, March, Milton, St Neots, Thriplow and Wisbech only.

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Flexible plastic tube

Other

These can be recycled for via the Terracycle personal care and beauty recycling programme.

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Blue lidded bin

Materials from your blue lidded bin are sorted and turned into new products. Please put things in the bin loose and not in bags. This helps us process it.

More information on how your recycling is processed can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Foil

Blue lidded bin

Clean foil, including foil trays from takeaways or ready-meals can be put in your blue bin. If possible, please save up small pieces of foil and scrunch into a tennis-ball sized ball before putting in the bin - this is because very small items can get lost throughout the sorting process, and this will help ensure they can be recycled effectively.

Materials from your blue lidded bin are sorted and turned into new products. Please put things in the bin loose and not in bags. This helps us process it.

More information on how your recycling is processed can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Food waste

Compost at home

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Green lidded bin

More information on how the compost is made, can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Fridge, fridge freezer or freezer

Other

Re-use or donate

If in good condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link).

Bulky collection service

We offer a bulky domestic waste collection service for household items (not from businesses). For more information, visit our bulky service page

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Fruit pits or stones

Compost at home

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Green lidded bin

More information on how the compost is made, can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Frying pans and saucepans

Other

Re-use or donate

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle, Freecycle or Gumtree

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Furniture

Other

Re-use or donate

If in good condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link).

Bulky collection service

We offer a bulky domestic waste collection service for household items (not from businesses). For more information, visit our bulky service page

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Garden strimmer

Other

Re-use or donate

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle, Freecycle or Gumtree

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

green recycling icon with garden twigs and leaves

Garden waste

Compost at home

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Green lidded bin

More information on how the compost is made, can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Gas canisters and gas bottles

Other

Re-use or donate

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle, Freecycle or Gumtree

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Glass bottles, including medicine bottles

Blue lidded bin

Materials from your blue lidded bin are sorted and turned into new products. Please put things in the bin loose and not in bags. This helps us process it.

More information on how your recycling is processed can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

clean and empty clear glass jar with black lid

Glass jars and lids

Blue lidded bin

Materials from your blue lidded bin are sorted and turned into new products. Please put things in the bin loose and not in bags. This helps us process it.

More information on how your recycling is processed can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Grass cuttings

Compost at home

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Green lidded bin

More information on how the compost is made, can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Greaseproof paper

Other

Re-use

You can wash and re-use ordinary greaseproof paper a couple of times before it needs to be replaced.

Look out for reusable greaseproof paper (for example, Magic Non-Stick Liner), which you can cut to the shape of your favourite baking tins and then wash after each use.

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Greeting cards

Blue lidded bin

Most cards are paper based and can be recycled, along with their envelopes, in your blue lidded bin.

Any embellishments such as ribbons or glitter cannot be recycled so should be removed first by simply tearing off that section. Batteries should also be removed from musical cards and disposed of at battery recycling points.

Materials from your blue lidded bin are sorted and turned into new products. Please put things in the bin loose and not in bags. This helps us process it.

More information on how your recycling is processed can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Hair straighteners

Other

Electrical items should not be placed in bins or black sacks at home.

Re-use or donate

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Hairdryer

Other

Electrical items should not be placed in bins or black sacks at home.

Re-use or donate

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Handbags

Other

Donate or re-use

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Hard board fruit punnet

Other

Re-use or donate

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle, Freecycle or Gumtree

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Hearing aids

Other

Specialist disposal

Hearing aids are often collected for charity at a variety of places including:

Doctors surgeries
Hospital audiology departments
Private hearing specialists
Some charity shops - for example: Help the Aged and Age Concern

Donated hearing aids are repaired, refurbished and sent overseas for re-use in developing countries. Batteries for hearing aids are also wanted.

Hedge trimmer

Other

Donate or re-use

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Hedge trimmings

Compost at home

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Green lidded bin

More information on how the compost is made, can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Ice cream tubs

Blue lidded bin

Materials from your blue lidded bin are sorted and turned into new products. Please put things in the bin loose and not in bags. This helps us process it.

More information on how your recycling is processed can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Inhalers

Other

Inhalers can not be placed in black sacks or recycling bin.

Please take them to your pharmacy so they can de disposed safely.

For more information about inhaler recycling, visit the Recycle Now website (external link)

Instant porridge sachets

Other

Reduce waste

Why not make your own instant porridge! Buy oats loose at a refill shop, or in a paper bag and measure out yourself - half a cup of oats to one cup of milk, and heat for two minutes in the microwave.

Instant porridge sachet which appear to be made of paper, usually have a thin layer of plastic, in order to measure out the milk needed. This means they are not recyclable.

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

IPods or MP3 players

Other

Electrical items should not be placed in bins or black sacks at home.

Re-use or donate

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Iron

Other

Electrical items should not be placed in bins or black sacks at home.

Re-use or donate

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Ironing board

Other

Re-use or donate

If in good condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link).

Bulky collection service

We offer a bulky domestic waste collection service for household items (not from businesses). For more information, visit our bulky service page

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Jewellery

Other

Donate or re-use

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link)

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Jiffy envelopes

Other

Re-use or donate

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle, Freecycle or Gumtree

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Junk mail

Blue lidded bin

Materials from your blue lidded bin are sorted and turned into new products. Please put things in the bin loose and not in bags. This helps us process it.

More information on how your recycling is processed can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Kettle

Other

Electrical items should not be placed in bins or black sacks at home.

Re-use or donate

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Keyboard - laptop

Other

Donate or re-use

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Keyboard - musical instrument

Other

Donate or re-use

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Kitchen Knives

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please ensure sharp parts are protected and cannot cause injury.

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Kitchen roll

Compost at home

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Green lidded bin

Small amount of kitchen paper are suitable for composting. Together with your food and garden waste, it will be turned into compost.

You can put things straight into the green bin. You can wrap food waste in newspaper or put it in a paper bag. Please do not use biodegradable plastic or corn starch bags. These do not break down quickly enough and result in extra processing costs. Your bin could also be refused collection.

More information on how the compost is made, can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Lamps

Other

Electrical items should not be placed in bins or black sacks at home.

Re-use or donate

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Large electrical appliances

Other

Re-use or donate

If in good condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link).

Bulky collection service

We offer a bulky domestic waste collection service for household items (not from businesses). For more information, visit our bulky service page

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

$hand wearing a blue latex glove$ Latex or rubber gloves

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Lawn mower

Other

Re-use or donate

If in good condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link).

Bulky collection service

We offer a bulky domestic waste collection service for household items (not from businesses). For more information, visit our bulky service page

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Leaves

Compost at home

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Green lidded bin

More information on how the compost is made, can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Leftovers

Green lidded bin

More information on how the compost is made, can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Lids

Blue lidded bin

Materials from your blue lidded bin are sorted and turned into new products. Please put things in the bin loose and not in bags. This helps us process it.

More information on how your recycling is processed can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Light bulbs

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Liquid soap dispenser bottle

Other

Reduce waste

You can avoid the need to dispose of liquid soap bottles by using solid bars of soap.

Although plastic bottles are recyclable, the dispenser pump must be removed, as this contains a small metal spring and is not currently recyclable via the blue bin.

The pumps are accepted in the Terracycle Personal Care and Beauty Recycling Programme but should otherwise be placed in the black bin.

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Blue lidded bin

Materials from your blue lidded bin are sorted and turned into new products. Please put things in the bin loose and not in bags. This helps us process it.

More information on how your recycling is processed can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Magazine wrapper

Other

Ordinary polythene or cellophane plastic magazine wrappers can be recycled at some supermarkets at their plastic film recycling points.

Compostable plastic wrappers can not be recycled in blue lidded bin and they do not break down quickly enough in the fast composting process used for green lidded bin material. Please put it in your black bin.

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Magazines

Blue lidded bin

Materials from your blue lidded bin are sorted and turned into new products. Please put things in the bin loose and not in bags. This helps us process it.

More information on how your recycling is processed can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Make-up packaging

Other

Plastic bottles and pots, glass jars and cardboard boxes can all be rinsed out and recycled in your blue lidded bin.

TerraCycle® has e recycling programme for all brands of empty makeup packaging. This includes compacts, tubes, eyeliner pens, mascara wands, lipsticks, lip glosses and lip balms. Many Boots and Tesco stores are drop-off locations. Find out more about the Maybelline Makeup Recycling Programme (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Margarine tub

Blue lidded bin

Materials from your blue lidded bin are sorted and turned into new products. Please put things in the bin loose and not in bags. This helps us process it.

More information on how your recycling is processed can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Meat and bones cooked

Green lidded bin

More information on how the compost is made, can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

clean soaker pad from an unused meat tray

Meat or fruit tray soaker pad

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Medicine

Other

Reduce waste

Prevent medicine waste and lower NHS costs by only ordering what you need. Find more tips at Medicine Waste UK (external link).

Even if you never open them, once medicines have left the pharmacy, they cannot be recycled or used by anyone else.

Take unused medicines to your pharmacy for safe disposal. Never dispose of your unused or unwanted medicines down the toilet.

Metal food tins

Other

Re-use or donate

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle, Freecycle or Gumtree

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Blue lidded bin

Materials from your blue lidded bin are sorted and turned into new products. Please put things in the bin loose and not in bags. This helps us process it.

More information on how your recycling is processed can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Microwaves

Other

Re-use or donate

If in good condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link).

Bulky collection service

We offer a bulky domestic waste collection service for household items (not from businesses). For more information, visit our bulky service page

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Mirror glass

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Black sack

Mirror glass can not be recycled with container glass (bottles and jars). Small amounts can be put in your black sack. Please make sure you wrap it in bubble wrap, film or paper for safety.

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Mobile phones

Other

Re-use

Various charities collect mobile phones, some in their shops and, if you have several, by post. Just search for 'recycle mobile phone for charity' online for details.

Visit Recycle Now (external link) for more information.

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Mops

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Motor or engine oil

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Never pour used engine oil down the drain. It will cause pollution and it is also an offence. Engine oil is classed as a hazardous waste and must be disposed of properly. If you spill engine oil, use sand or earth to absorb it – never hose it down.

Avoid mixing used engine oil with other materials as this makes it difficult to separate and recycle.

Contact a local garage or take to the Household Recycling Centre.

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Musical instruments

Other

Re-use or donate

Used orchestral instruments – strings, woodwind, brass and percussion can be donated to children via Sistema England.

If in good working condition, pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link)

Nail varnish bottles

Black sack

Nail varnish bottles cannot be recycled. Even though the bottles are made of glass, the nail varnish inside is very difficult to remove, and the bottles are too small to be captured correctly during the recycling process.

Throw your empty nail varnish bottles, including the brush, into your rubbish bin.

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Nappies - disposable

Other

Disposable nappies cannot be recycled. Consider re-usable nappies - modern styles are easy to use and wash.

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Newspapers

Other

Newspaper can be used for wrapping food waste to go in your green lidded bin, and for lining a kitchen caddy, if you have one.

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Blue lidded bin

Materials from your blue lidded bin are sorted and turned into new products. Please put things in the bin loose and not in bags. This helps us process it.

More information on how your recycling is processed can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Nut shells

Compost at home

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Green lidded bin

More information on how the compost is made, can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Packaging chips - polystyrene

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Paint

Other

Re-use or donate

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle, Freecycle or Gumtree

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Paints are sorted and distributed to charities, community groups or individuals who need it by the Community RePaint scheme (external link).

Community RePaint is a scheme run by the Cambridgeshire Community Reuse and Recycling Network (CCORRN) (external link) that sorts unwanted leftover paint and makes it available to charities, community groups, schools, organisations and individuals at low cost.

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Paper

Blue lidded bin

Materials from your blue lidded bin are sorted and turned into new products. Please put things in the bin loose and not in bags. This helps us process it.

More information on how your recycling is processed can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Pens and correction fluid pots

Other

Terracycle

It is possible to recycle pens (including highlighters, markers and correction fluid pots) via Terracycle collection points at some schools and stationers. Wooden pencils and crayons are not accepted. Find out more about the Writing Instruments Recycling Programme (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Perfume bottles

Blue lidded bin

Materials from your blue lidded bin are sorted and turned into new products. Please put things in the bin loose and not in bags. This helps us process it.

More information on how your recycling is processed can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Pet food pouches

Other

These type of pouches are made from layers of plastic and aluminium which are very difficult to separate out, and therefore they can not be recycled at home.

However, Co-operative stores now accept soft plastic packaging, including clean pet food pouches, in their in-store recycling bins. You can find out if your local Co-Op is part of the scheme and more about what they accept on the Co-Op Soft Plastic Recycling page (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Photographs

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Pizza box

Blue lidded bin

It is important that cardboard is clean and dry for recycling, without any food waste left on it. Please tear off any greasy parts and dispose of them, together with food scraps, in the green lidded bin so that they can be recovered through composting and do not contaminate the blue lidded content.

Materials from your blue lidded bin are sorted and turned into new products. Please put waste in loose and not in bags.

More information on how your recycling is processed can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Green lidded bin

More information on how the compost is made, can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Compost at home

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Plastic bottles and tops

Blue lidded bin

Materials from your blue lidded bin are sorted and turned into new products. Please put things in the bin loose and not in bags. This helps us process it.

More information on how your recycling is processed can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

clear plastic bottle filled with blue liquid

Plastic bottles from chemicals

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Plastic carrier bags

Other

Reduce waste

Please use re-usable bags.

Re-use

If you don't have a use for plastic bags yourself, some charity shops and small independent shops will be grateful for them.

Recycle at your supermarket

A lot of supermarkets have collection points for various plastic bags including carrier bags.

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Plastic cutlery

Other

Reduce waste

Avoid disposable plastic cutlery by keeping a set of cutlery in your bag, or in your car glove box (don’t forget to wash it between uses and return it there!). For parties, choose finger-food, hire cutlery or buy extra from charity shops.

Disposable plastic cutlery should be disposed of in your black bag.

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Plastic dishwasher tablet tub

Blue lidded bin

Materials from your blue lidded bin are sorted and turned into new products. Please put things in the bin loose and not in bags. This helps us process it.

More information on how your recycling is processed can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Plastic egg boxes

Blue lidded bin

Materials from your blue lidded bin are sorted and turned into new products. Please put things in the bin loose and not in bags. This helps us process it.

More information on how your recycling is processed can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

clear plastic punnet full of strawberries

Plastic food trays and fruit punnets

Blue lidded bin

Materials from your blue lidded bin are sorted and turned into new products. Please put things in the bin loose and not in bags. This helps us process it.

More information on how your recycling is processed can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Plastic fruit or vegetable nets

Other

Reduce waste

Avoid nets by buying fruit and vegetables loose.

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Plastic instant noodle pots

Blue lidded bin

Materials from your blue lidded bin are sorted and turned into new products. Please put things in the bin loose and not in bags. This helps us process it.

More information on how your recycling is processed can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Plastic milk bottles

Blue lidded bin

Materials from your blue lidded bin are sorted and turned into new products. Please put things in the bin loose and not in bags. This helps us process it.

More information on how your recycling is processed can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Plastic plant pots

Other

Re-use

Pass on to friends or family, give away via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link), donate to local allotments or charity gardening projects (check if they need them first), or take back to garden centres which have a collection or pick-up area for them.

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Blue lidded bin

Smaller plastic plant pots (smaller than about the size of an A3 piece of paper) which are not black can be recycled via your blue bin, if they are clean. Please rinse off soil or compost.

Materials from your blue lidded bin are sorted and turned into new products. Please put things in the bin loose and not in bags. This helps us process it.

More information on how your recycling is processed can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Black sack

Very dirty pots and all black pots are not recyclable, please put in your black sack.

Unfortunately, recycling sorting equipment cannot detect the colour black and therefore black plastic items can not be recycled. This is an issue across the UK and work is being done to find a solution to reduce black plastic recyclability issues (external link).

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

package of tic tacs with sweets spilling out

Plastic sweetener or Tic Tac box

Blue lidded bin

Materials from your blue lidded bin are sorted and turned into new products. Please put things in the bin loose and not in bags. This helps us process it.

More information on how your recycling is processed can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Plastic washing-up bowls

Other

Re-use

If in good condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Polystyrene packaging

Black sack

Please break larger pieces into smaller ones, so they fit in black bags. Please mix them up with heavier waste.

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Polystyrene takeaway food packaging

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Postage stamps

Other

Re-use

Many charities collect postage stamps, where they can be sold in bulk. Ask your local charity shop or call a national charity to see, if you can post to them. Cut around postage stamps and leave a good margin, do not steam off.

Postcards

Blue lidded bin

Materials from your blue lidded bin are sorted and turned into new products. Please put things in the bin loose and not in bags. This helps us process it.

More information on how your recycling is processed can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

PPE (personal protective equipment)

Other

Choose re-use

Washable fabric face masks, and even gloves, can be washed and re-used over and over again. You can buy them online, or make your own using instructions online.

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Black sack

All medical waste and disposable PPE (such as face masks and gloves) should be disposed of using your black sack, or a litter bin, if outside. If there are no litter bins outside, take the waste home.

If you are suffering from Coronavirus symptoms, any medical waste and PPE should be bagged separately and left for 72 hours (three days) before put out for collection.

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Printer cartridges

Other

Re-use

You may be able to return your printer cartridges to a shop or manufacturer to be refilled.

Donate

There are charities which collect used cartridges, or organisations that collect on their behalf. Search 'recycle printer cartridges' online for various schemes which you can send your cartridges to Freepost.

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Printers

Other

Donate or re-use

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Projectors

Other

Donate or re-use

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

small container with a foil pull safety seal

Pull tab / safety seal - like milk bottle or tablet bottle seals

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Pyrex crockery

Other

Donate or re-use

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Black sack

Please wrap it in bubble wrap, plastic bags or paper for safety.

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Radios

Other

Donate or re-use

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Razors and razor blades

Other

Reduce

You can switch to traditional razors, which use a permanent metal handle with separate steel blades. The blades last a long time and can be recycled. You can put them into a steel food tin, pinch the tin and turn the top over using pliers to seal them in, and put in the scrap metal section at a Household Recycling Centre.

TerraCycle

They have a recycling scheme (external link) for disposable razors. Also, some supermarkets and beauty shops have envelopes available.

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Real, washable or cloth nappies

Other

Re-use or donate

If in good condition, pass on to friends or family or via networks such as Facebook, Freegle or Gumtree. You could also consider donating them to a cloth nappy library (external link)

Textile recycling points

Clean and dry cloth nappies can be recycled in clothing and textile banks (external link) around the district. Clean cloth nappies are accepted in all clothing banks, even those which are only marked clothes and shoes.

Receipts

Black sack

Due to their size, receipts are difficult to sort correctly and often end up contaminating the sorted glass. Additionally, some thermal receipts also contain BPA plastic which is associated with health risks, and therefore should not be used in recycled paper products.

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Ring binders

Other

Donate or re-use

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Rugs, mats and door mats

Other

Donate or re-use

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Sanitary pads, pantyliners or tampons

Other

Reduce

Disposable sanitary pads and tampons cannot be recycled and most contain plastic. Consider reusable alternatives - many different styles of washable pads and period pants are now available, as well as alternatives such as menstrual cups. Find out more on the Trial Period website (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Sat nav

Other

Donate or re-use

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Sawdust, wood shavings or straw pet bedding

Compost at home

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Green lidded bin

Soiled sawdust or wood shavings from rabbit, guinea pig, hamster and gerbil cages can be put in your green bin. If you have large amounts, please put in a paper bag, as the sawdust can blow out over the bin collectors when tipping the bin.

More information on how the compost is made, can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Scrap metal

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Shoes

Other

Re-use or donate

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link)

Textile recycling points

Clean and dry clothes (even if worn out) can be put in textile and clothing banks in various locations around the district. For example, supermarket car parks.

Find your local recycling banks (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Shredded paper

Other

Small amounts of shredded paper can be added to your home compost bin. Small amounts layered with food waste and garden waste can be also added to your green lidded bin.

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Green lidded bin

Small amounts of shredded paper layered with food waste and garden waste can be also added to your green lidded bin.

Your food and garden waste from green lidded bin is turned into compost. You can put things straight into the green bin. You can wrap food waste in newspaper or put it in a paper bag. Please do not use biodegradable 'plastic' or corn starch bags. These do not break down quickly enough and result in extra processing costs. Your bin could also be refused collection.

More information on how the compost is made, can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Blue lidded bin

Please put shredded paper in an old envelope or paper bag to prevent it blowing out when the bin is emptied and littering the street.

Materials from your blue lidded bin are sorted and turned into new products. Please put things in the bin loose and not in bags. This helps us process it.

More information on how your recycling is processed can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Soil, stones and turf

Other

Re-use or donate

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle, Freecycle or Gumtree

Sponge scourer or washing-up brush

Other

Reduce waste

Compostable alternatives exist, made for example from loofah plants – these can be put in the green bin when worn out.

Wooden washing-up brushes are available but the bristles are synthetic so they still need to be put in the black bin.

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Suitcase

Other

Donate or re-use

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Table

Other

Re-use or donate

If in good condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link).

Bulky collection service

We offer a bulky domestic waste collection service for household items (not from businesses). For more information, visit our bulky service page

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Tea and coffee packets

Other

Tea and coffee packets are usually made from metallised plastic, and can not be recycled in blue lidded bins. You can do the scrunch test - foil will not spring back when scrunched, but plastic will.

Co-Operative food stores nationwide now accept soft plastic packaging, including wrappers from tea and teabags, ground coffee, etc., in their in-store recycling bins. You can find out if your local Co-Op is part of the scheme and more about what they accept on the Co-Op Soft Plastic Recycling page (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Tea bags and coffee grounds

Compost at home

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Green lidded bin

More information on how the compost is made, can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Tealight cases

Blue lidded bin

Thin aluminium cases from tealights, which do not have any wax remaining in them, can be put in your blue lidded bin for recycling.

Tealight cases still containing candles or wax should be put in your black sack.

Materials from your blue lidded bin are sorted and turned into new products. Please put things in the bin loose and not in bags. This helps us process it.

More information on how your recycling is processed can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Telephone

Other

Donate or re-use

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Telephone directory

Blue lidded bin

Materials from your blue lidded bin are sorted and turned into new products. Please put things in the bin loose and not in bags. This helps us process it.

More information on how your recycling is processed can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Televisions

Other

Re-use or donate

If in good condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link).

Bulky collection service

We offer a bulky domestic waste collection service for household items (not from businesses). For more information, visit our bulky service page

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Tiles

Other

Re-use

Leftover unused tiles can be donated to some charity shops (check first) or passed on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Tissue paper

Other

Re-use

Save and re-use any tissue paper. It can be used for wrapping presents or putting some of it in the top of a gift bag to hide the gifts.

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Green lidded bin

Please make sure that any sellotape has been removed, before putting your tissue paper in the green lidded bin.

More information on how the compost is made, can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Tissues

Other

Please do not place tissues in blue lidded bin.

Normally, green lidded bin would be fine, however, if you have Covid, our advice is to put all tissues in your black bin.

If you have symptoms or have tested positive for coronavirus, please:

keep your personal waste (including tissues and cloths or wipes used to clean exposed surfaces) in a separate bin bag,
when the bag is full, tie the top, place the whole bag into another bin bag and tie the top of that,
store the bag for at least 72 hours before putting for collection.

Toaster

Other

Electrical items should not be placed in bins or black sacks at home.

Re-use or donate

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Toothbrushes and toothbrush heads

Other

Re-use

Please re-use your toothbrushes for cleaning shoes and getting in those hard-to-reach cleaning spots.

Terracycle

Although toothbrushes can’t be recycled in your blue bin but they can now be recycled by Terracycle along with empty toothpaste tubes. You need to save them up and drop them off at a collection point.

Find our more about the Colgate Oral Care Recycling Programme (external link) including local collection points.

Reduce waste

There are toothbrushes with replaceable heads.

There are also bamboo or wood toothbrushes available but they often have plastic bristles. Fully biodegradable toothbrushes use natural bristles. These cannot be placed in your green bin and need to be placed in black sacks.

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Toothpaste pump

Blue lidded bin

Materials from your blue lidded bin are sorted and turned into new products. Please put things in the bin loose and not in bags. This helps us process it.

More information on how your recycling is processed can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Toothpaste tube (soft squeezy tube)

Other

These can’t be recycled in your blue bin, but they can now be recycled by Terracycle along with plastic toothbrushes and replaceable heads from electric toothbrushes. You need to save them up and drop them off at a collection point.

Find out more about the Colgate Oral Care Recycling Programme (external link) including local collection points. All brands are accepted, not just Colgate.

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Torch

Other

Electrical items should not be placed in bins or black sacks at home.

Re-use or donate

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Towels - cloth

Other

Re-use or donate

If in good condition, donate to a charity shop, Women's Aid or homeless shelter (check what they will accept first) or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link)

If in clean but worn condition, check if animal shelters would like them for pet bedding.

Re-use worn-out towels at home for wipes or rags.

Textile recycling banks

Clean and dry towels in any condition can be put in textile banks.

Towels are accepted in all clothing banks, even those which are only marked clothes and shoes.

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Black sack

Dirty, oily or wet towels can not be re-used or recycled.

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Toys

Other

Donate or re-use

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Treated wood, timber or plywood

Other

Re-use

Large useable pieces in good condition can be passed on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Trigger spray

Blue lidded bin

Leave triggers on your empty spray bottles and put them in your blue lidded bin, these can be recycled along with bottle caps.

Materials from your blue lidded bin are sorted and turned into new products. Please put things in the bin loose and not in bags. This helps us process it.

More information on how your recycling is processed can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Tumble dryer

Other

Re-use or donate

If in good condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link).

Bulky collection service

We offer a bulky domestic waste collection service for household items (not from businesses). For more information, visit our bulky service page

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Turkey carcass

Other

Make turkey stock, broth or gravy. If you don't have time right away, put the carcass in a freezer bag, label it and freeze it for later.

Once you have used your turkey carcass, it can go in your green bin to be composted.

For food-saving ideas and inspiration, visit Love Food Hate Waste's website (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Green lidded bin

More information on how the compost is made, can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Tyres

Other

Re-use

Stacked car tyres can make useful planters for plants that need warmth as the black rubber absorbs the heat. This is not recommended for vegetables or edible plants. You can also make tyre swings and outdoor furniture - search online for ideas.

Specialist disposal

Car tyres can not be accepted for recycling or disposal by East Cambs District Council. If you have tyres to dispose of, contact your local garage who may be able to take them for you either for free or for a small charge. Alternatively, search for specialist tyre disposal services online.

Untreated wood

Other

Re-use

You could make a wood pile in your garden as a wildlife habitat.

You can burn untreated wood in a wood burner or open fire after seasoning for a year. If you have a lot of wood from a fallen tree for example, and don't have a wood burner, consider passing on via Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Green lidded bin

Branches and pieces of bark up to the thickness of a broom handle can be accepted in the green lidded bin. Larger pieces can be added, if they are split first.

Sawn timber is not suitable for composting, as it may have been pressure treated or contain nails.

More information on how the compost is made, can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Large branches thicker than a broom handle can be taken to the Household Recycling Centre.

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Vacuum bags

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Vacuum cleaner

Other

Re-use or donate

If in good condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link).

Bulky collection service

We offer a bulky domestic waste collection service for household items (not from businesses). For more information, visit our bulky service page

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Other

Electrical items should not be placed in bins or black sacks at home.

Re-use or donate

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link)

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Vegetable and fruit peelings

Compost at home

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Green lidded bin

More information on how the compost is made, can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Video tapes, cassettes, CDs and DVDs

Other

Re-use

If in good condition, pass them on - ask family and friends, if they would like them, go online to give them away at sites like Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link), and check locally - a community project near you may have a use for them.

For more information and creative ideas visit Recycle Now website (external link)

If broken and not re-usable, put in your black bin.

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Vinyl records

Other

Re-use

If in good condition, donate to a charity shop (check they are accepted first), sell or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link)

Made from PVC, vinyl records are often re-purposed into new stylish ornaments, wall art or tableware - so even scratched records may be wanted by somebody.

Vinyl records can not be recycled. If broken, put in your black sacks.

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Wallpaper

Other

Re-use

Unused surplus rolls of wallpaper can be donated to some charities (check first) and Scrapstores, or re-use at home for children's artwork.

Wallpaper not suitable for re-use should be put in the black sacks.

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Wardrobe

Other

Re-use or donate

If in good condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link).

Bulky collection service

We offer a bulky domestic waste collection service for household items (not from businesses). For more information, visit our bulky service page

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Washing machine

Other

Re-use or donate

If in good condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link).

Bulky collection service

We offer a bulky domestic waste collection service for household items (not from businesses). For more information, visit our bulky service page

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Watches

Other

Donate or re-use

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle (external link) or Gumtree (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Water filters

Other

Reduce waste

Some kinds of water filters produce less waste than traditional plastic cartridges. Phox water filters (external link) can be refilled with sachets, or an activated Binchotan charcoal stick filter (external link) can be recharged, lasting up to six months.

Recycle points

Water filters cannot be recycled as part of your recycling collection scheme nor at household waste recycling centres. However, if you use a BRITA branded water filter you can recycle the used filters at most Argos and John Lewis stores where boxes are provided for the collection of used cartridges.

To find your nearest participating store, visit the BRITA website (external link)

For other water filter brands, please contact the manufacturer to find out if they provide a similar service.

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Weeds

Other

Most weeds can be added to your home compost bin, if you have one. However, avoid adding those which have seeded, as well as pernicious weeds like ground elder or bindweed, which will survive the low temperatures in your heap and will then be spread around your garden when you use the compost. For more home composting tips visit Garden Organic (external link)

All weeds except the particularly pernicious Japanese Knotweed can be safely put in your green lidded bin. The high temperatures the compost reaches during the municipal composting process will kill off any seeds.

Follow government advice for disposing of Japanese knotweed (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Compost at home

Green lidded bin

More information on how the compost is made, can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Wipes

Other

Wipes are not recyclable, compostable or flushable (even the vast majority of those which are marked flushable should not be), since most are made of a mix of paper and plastic fibres.

Compostable wipes, made of viscose or compostable plastics, are not accepted in the green lid bin, as they may not break down quickly enough for our fast composting process, and can also not be differentiated from other wipes. You should also not put any wipes with human waste on them in an ordinary home compost bin.

Choose re-usables

Consider using washable alternatives, there are various brands of washable baby wipes which are easy to use (and more effective than disposables), and cotton dishcloths can be washed and re-used for most other applications.

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Wool packaging

Compost at home

Wool packaging insulation, such as from meat deliveries, can be put in a home composter. It takes quite a long time to break down.

Wool insulation (or from jumpers) is not suitable for the green bin. This is partly because these kind of fibres can jam the shredding machinery used before composting, and also that wool can take several months to break down. The process used for green bin material takes 6-8 weeks.

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Worn-out clothes

Other

Reduce waste

Have a go at repairing your clothes. It's easier than you may think, and many techniques (for example, Sashiko, a style of Japanese visible mending) are very fashionable.

Find out more about reducing your impact on the environment at Love Your Clothes (external link)

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website (external link) before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Black sack

If clothes are soiled or wet, please place them in your black sacks.

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Wrapping paper

Other

Re-use

Save undamaged wrapping paper and gift bags at birthdays and Christmas, and store to use again.

You can also re-use other papers as wrapping, for example pages from an old road atlas, or decorative wallpaper.

For members of your household, try wrapping in fabric or fabric bags with real ribbons, which can be used over and over again for year, plus they create no mess!

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Blue lidded bin

Materials from your blue lidded bin are sorted and turned into new products. Please put things in the bin loose and not in bags. This helps us process it.

More information on how your recycling is processed can be found on RECAP’s website (external link)

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

Wrapping paper - metallic or glittered

Other

Do the scrunch test - if your wrapping paper springs back rather than staying scrunched, it is probably made of metallised plastic, and can not be recycled.

Heavily glittered paper should also not be recycled as the plastic glitter and glue cause problems with the recycling process.

Re-use

Save undamaged wrapping paper and gift bags at birthdays and Christmas, and store to use again.

You can also re-use other papers as wrapping, for example pages from an old road atlas, or decorative wallpaper.

For members of your household, try wrapping in fabric or fabric bags with real ribbons, which can be used over and over again for year, plus they create no mess!

If you cannot do the preferred option please see alternative options below:

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)

a chest x-ray being held up to the light

X-rays

Black sack

Black sacks go through a mechanical and biological sorting process before going to landfill. Find out more about this process on RECAP's website (external link)

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page (external link)