Many common bathroom items shouldn’t be recycled or your bin might not be collected.
There has been a huge change in recycling (Image: Nickbeer via Getty Images)
England has seen a significant change in recycling this year, with new regulations on items that are no longer allowed in recycling bins. Failing to follow the latest guidelines could result in your bin being left uncollected.
The UK’s Simpler Recycling reforms, introduced under the Environment Act 2021, have established mandatory and consistent recycling requirements for both businesses and households across England. This includes separate collections for food waste, paper and card, glass, metal and plastic, with the goal of streamlining recycling, cutting landfill waste and improving sustainability. Bathroom waste, in particular, can cause considerable confusion regarding what is and isn’t recyclable.
The new rules came into force on March 31. Local authorities are required to provide clear guidance on what materials can be recycled, though some councils remain exempt from the new regulations until at least 2040.
It is therefore essential to check with your local authority to confirm whether these new rules apply to your area.
Absorbent hygiene products
Under the new rules, local authorities do not need to collect absorbent hygiene products (AHPs). These items include nappies, period products and incontinence products.
These items should never be flushed down the toilet. While individual council policies may vary, AHPs should be disposed of in general waste bins or via specialist hygiene collection services.
Cotton wool and makeup pads
Commonly used in bathrooms, cotton wool and makeup pads cannot be recycled and must be disposed of in the general waste bin. These items should never be flushed down the toilet, as they absorb water and expand, potentially causing serious blockages in your plumbing.
Many common bathroom items can’t be recycled (Image: Javier Encinas via Getty Images)
Tissue or toilet paper
Although tissues and toilet paper are made from paper, they are not suitable for recycling due to their extremely short fibres, which are of insufficient quality to be processed. Tissues should be thrown in the general waste bin, while toilet paper can safely be flushed away.
Wet wipes
Wet wipes include baby wipes, cosmetic wipes, cleaning wipes and moist toilet tissues. None of these are recyclable or suitable for flushing and must be disposed of in the general waste bin.
Toilet roll should only be put down the toilet (Image: fhm via Getty Images)
Mirrors
While mirrors are a staple feature of most bathrooms, they cannot be placed in your recycling bin when it comes to getting rid of them. Due to their metallic coating, mirrors are incompatible with glass recycling facilities.
This coating risks contaminating pure glass materials that would otherwise be recyclable. Instead, take your old mirror to your nearest recycling centre, where it will be handled and disposed of in a responsible manner.
Alternatively, should the mirror still be in good condition, consider donating it to a local charity shop or offering it to a friend or family member who might have a use for it.