Waste A to Z

Find out what goes in which bin

You can print a copy of our what goes in which bin poster [PDF, 1.5MB]. - but to find information online, please use our accessible search function below. Please note, this poster is for printing purposes only and is therefore not accessible.

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.

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.

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page.

Armchair

Other

RE-USE / DONATE

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

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 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 licensed 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 for the latest advice on asbestos.

Cambridgeshire County Council offers residents a disposal service for small quantities of cement-bonded asbestos. Please check the Cambridgeshire County Council for more information.

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

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.

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page.

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.

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.

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page.

Babybel cheese packaging

Other

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

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.

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page.

Bathroom ceramics

Other

RE-USE / DONATE

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

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 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.

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

Textiles should never be placed in blue lidded bins.

RE-USE / DONATE

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

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.

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:

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.

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page.

Beds and mattresses

Other

RE-USE / DONATE

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

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 before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Bicycle

Other

RE-USE / DONATE

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

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 before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Biscuit, cracker and cake wrappers

Other

Biscuit, cracker and cake wrappers can now be recycled by Terracycle. 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.

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.

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page.

Blankets

Other

Blankets should never be placed in blue lidded bins.

RE-USE / DONATE

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

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.

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

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website 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.

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page.

Blender

Other

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

RE-USE / DONATE

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle 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 before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Blister packs / 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, including collection points at Superdrug Pharmacies.

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.

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.

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page.

Books

Other

RE-USE / DONATE

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

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page.

Bras

Other

Bras, like other textiles, should never be placed in blue lidded bins.

RE-USE / DONATE

There is an Against Breast Cancer 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.

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

Household Waste Recycling Centre

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

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.

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.

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page.

Brick-a-Brac

Other

RE-USE / DONATE

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

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page.

Bricks

Other

RE-USE / DONATE

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle 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 before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

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.

RECYCLE AT 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.

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page.

Buckets

Other

RE-USE / DONATE

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

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page.

Building rubble, soil and bricks

Other

RE-USE / DONATE

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle 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 before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Bulky items

Other

RE-USE / DONATE

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

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 before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

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.

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.

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page.

Cameras

Other

RE-USE / DONATE

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

Candles

Other

RE-USE

If you do not wish to add to landfill, you can re-use your old candles.

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.

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page.

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.

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page.

Household Waste Recycling Centre

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

Ceramics, crockery and chine

Other

RE-USE / DONATE

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

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page.

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 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.

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page.

Chairs

Other

RE-USE / DONATE

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

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 before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Chest of drawers

Other

RE-USE / DONATE

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

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 before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

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.

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.

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page.

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.

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page.

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.

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page.

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 / 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 / DONATE

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

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 before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

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.

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page.

Clothing

Other

Textiles and shoes should never be placed in blue lidded bins.

RE-USE / DONATE

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

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.

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

Household Waste Recycling Centre

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

Coat hangers

Other

RE-USE / DONATE

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

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page.

Coffee filters

Other

REDUCE WASTE

avoiding 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 cafeteria.

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.

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page.

Coffee pods / 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're 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.

A new nationwide scheme called Podback 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.

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page.

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.

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page.

Computer screen / monitor/ hard drive / CPU

Other

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

RE-USE / DONATE

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle 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 before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Contact lenses and packaging

Other

These can’t be recycled in your blue lidded bin, 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.

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.

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page.

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.

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.

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page.

Cooker / oven

Other

RE-USE / DONATE

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

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 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.

COMPOST AT HOME / 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 before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

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.

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page.

Crisp packets

Other

These can’t be recycled in your blue lidded bin 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. 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.

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page.

Crisp tubes

Other

Crisp tubes can not be recycled in your blue lidded bin, but Pringles tubes can be recycled via Terracycle. Find your nearest collection point for the Pringles Can Recycling Programme. 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.

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page.

Disposable drink cups

Other

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 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.

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page.

Electric toys

Other

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

RE-USE / DONATE

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

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

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle 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 before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Fairy lights

Other

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

RE-USE / DONATE

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

COMPOST AT HOME / 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 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.

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.

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page.

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.

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page.

Fridge / fridge freezer / freezer

Other

RE-USE / DONATE

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

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 before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Frying pans / saucepans

Other

RE-USE / DONATE

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

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page.

Furniture

Other

RE-USE / DONATE

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

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 before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Garden strimmer

Other

RE-USE / DONATE

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle 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 before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Gas canisters and gas bottles

Other

RE-USE / DONATE

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle 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 before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

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.

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page.

Hair straighteners

Other

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

RE-USE / DONATE

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle 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 before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Hairdryer

Other

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

RE-USE / DONATE

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle 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 before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Handbags

Other

RE-USE / DONATE

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

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page.

Hard board fruit punnet

Other

RE-USE / DONATE

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

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page.

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

RE-USE / DONATE

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle 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 before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

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 Recycle Now website.

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 - 1/2 a cup of oats to 1 cup of milk, and heat for 2 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.

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page.

IPods or MP3 players

Other

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

RE-USE / DONATE

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle 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 before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Iron

Other

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

RE-USE / DONATE

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle 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 before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Ironing board

Other

RE-USE / DONATE

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

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 before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Jewellery

Other

RE-USE / DONATE

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

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.

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page.

Jiffy envelopes

Other

RE-USE / DONATE

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

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page.

Kettle

Other

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

RE-USE / DONATE

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle 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 before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Keyboard - laptop

Other

RE-USE / DONATE

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle 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 before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Keyboard - musical instrument

Other

RE-USE / DONATE

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle 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 before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Lamps

Other

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

RE-USE / DONATE

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle 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 before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Large electrical appliances

Other

RE-USE / DONATE

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

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 before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Lawn mower

Other

RE-USE / DONATE

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

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 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.

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page.

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.

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page.

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.

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.

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page.

Medicine

Other

REDUCE WASTE

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

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 / DONATE

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

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page.

Microwaves

Other

RE-USE / DONATE

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

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 before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

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 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 before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Motor / 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 before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Musical instruments

Other

RE-USE / 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 or Gumtree.

Nappies - disposable

Other

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

Find out more about a discount offer available for residents in East Cambridgeshire.

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.

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page.

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.

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page.

Paint

Other

RE-USE / DONATE

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

Community RePaint is a scheme run by the Cambridgeshire Community Reuse and Recycling Network (CCORRN) 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 before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

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..

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.

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page.

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 in your blue lidded bin.

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.

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.

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page.

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.

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page.

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.

This type of plastic cannot be recycled in blue lidded 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.

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page.

Plastic fruit / veg nets

Other

REDUCE WASTE

Avoid nets by buying fruit and vegetables loose.

These cannot be recycled in your blue lidded 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.

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page.

Plastic plant pots

Other

RE-USE

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

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page.

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website 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.

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

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page.

Plastic washing-up bowls

Other

RE-USE

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

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page.

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.

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.

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page.

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 before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Printers

Other

RE-USE / DONATE

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle 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 before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Projectors

Other

RE-USE / DONATE

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle 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 before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Pyrex crockery

Other

RE-USE / DONATE

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

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.

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page.

Radios

Other

RE-USE / DONATE

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

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page.

Real / washable / cloth nappy

Other

Textiles should never be placed in blue lidded bins.

Considering re-usable nappies? Find out more about a discount offer available for residents in East Cambridgeshire.

RE-USE / 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.

TEXTILE RECYCLING POINTS

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

Ring binders

Other

RE-USE / DONATE

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

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page.

Rugs, mats and door mats

Other

RE-USE / DONATE

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

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page.

Sanitary pads / pantyliners / 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.

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.

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page.

Sat nav

Other

RE-USE / DONATE

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle 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 before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Shoes

Other

Textiles and shoes should never be placed in blue lidded bins.

RE-USE / DONATE

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

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.

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

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website 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.

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page.

Sponge scourer or washing-up brush

Other

REDUCE WASTE

Compostable alternatives exist made e.g. 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.

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page.

Suitcase

Other

RE-USE / DONATE

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle 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 before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Table

Other

RE-USE / DONATE

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

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 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.

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.

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page.

Telephone

Other

RE-USE / DONATE

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle 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 before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Televisions

Other

RE-USE / DONATE

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

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 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 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 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.

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page.

Tissues

Other

Please do not place tissues in blue lidded bin.

Normally, green lidded bin would be fine, however, due the pandemic our advice is to put all tissues in your black bin at this time.

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 / DONATE

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle 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 before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Toothbrushes / 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 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.

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page.

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 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.

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page.

Torch

Other

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

RE-USE / DONATE

If in good working condition, donate to a charity shop or pass on via networks such as Freegle 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 before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Towels - cloth

Other

RE-USE / 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 or Gumtree.

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.

TEXTILES 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 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.

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page.

Toys

Other

RE-USE / DONATE

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

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page.

Treated wood / timber / plywood

Other

RE-USE

Large useable pieces in good condition can be passed on via networks such as Freegle 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 before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Tumble dryer

Other

RE-USE / DONATE

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

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 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.

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.

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page.

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 or Gumtree.

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.

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page.

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 before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Vacuum cleaner

Other

RE-USE / DONATE

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

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 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 or Gumtree, and check locally - a community project near you may have a use for them.

For more information and creative ideas visit Recycle Now website.

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.

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page.

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 or Gumtree.

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.

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page.

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.

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page.

Wardrobe

Other

RE-USE / DONATE

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

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 before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Washing machine

Other

RE-USE / DONATE

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

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 before you visit Witchford Household Recycling Centre.

Watches

Other

RE-USE / DONATE

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

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page.

Water filters

Other

REDUCE WASTE

Some kinds of water filters produce less waste than traditional plastic cartridges. Phox water filters can be refilled with sachets, or an activated Binchotan charcoal stick filter 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.

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.

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page.

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.

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.

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.

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page.

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website 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.

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page.

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.

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

Household Waste Recycling Centre

Please check Cambridgeshire County Council’s website 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.

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page.

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.

You can check your bin collection dates on our bin collection day page.

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.

You can check your waste collection dates on our bin collection day page.