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

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)

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)

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)

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!

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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 (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)

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)

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)

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)

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 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)

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.

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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.

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.

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 (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)

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)

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 (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)

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.

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 (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)

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.

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.

$hand wearing a blue latex glove$ 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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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's important that cardboard for recycling is fairly clean and dry. Remove any food, and tear off any parts which are greasy (the greasy cardboard and food can be put in your green 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:

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)

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)

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 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 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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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 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)

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.

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)

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)

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 - 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)