Contaminated bins

Wheelie bin

Contamination is when items are put into your recycling bin which cannot be recycled.

If your bin is contaminated you need to remove the contaminating items before the next scheduled collection day.

My recycling bin was contaminated

Below are some items that contaminate your bin

  • greasy cardboard such as takeaway pizza boxes
  • crisp packets
  • carrier bags - they can be re-used or returned to the bins at the supermarkets but not recycled in our bins
  • tissue or kitchen roll
  • hard plastic toys
  • nappies
  • textiles - any cloth materials
  • plastic flower pots
  • bubble wrap
  • polystyrene
  • aerosol cans
  • cigarette butts
  • electrical items
  • food
  • black bags

for more information and to check what items can be recycled use this handy tool

Get in touch about recycling and waste

The quickest way to contact us is by using our online forms which are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If you need to speak to us give us a call during office hours and talk to our Customer Services team who will be happy to help.

What can I recycle?

Use the search tool to find out what to do with an item. Put in your postcode and then search for the item. Remember, all items in your recycling bin should be clean, dry and loose – not in plastic bags or sacks

What can I recycle?
Bins