Plastic, paper and glass items that cannot go in recycling bins in England

Plastic, paper and glass items that cannot go in recycling bins in EnglandTowns and cities across England are rolling out new household waste bins as part of the Simpler Recycling schemeCommentsNewsFiona Callingham Lifestyle writer11:50, 14 Apr 2026View 3 ImagesGuidance from GOV.UK states that certain items should not be put in any of your recycling bins(Image: Getty)Towns, cities, and villages throughout England are currently undergoing a shift in how they manage household waste collection. Under the "Simpler Recycling" scheme, the types of bins used are set to become standardised across the country.‌This includes separating general waste, paper and card recycling (although depending on where you live, this can be grouped with other dry recyclables), food waste, and other dry recyclable materials such as glass and metal (although this will vary depending on your council).‌While these changes were due to be in place by March 31 this year, some councils have yet to implement them, with the BBC reporting that roughly one in four councils are behind schedule.‌You'll need to check with your specific council to find out when your changes take effect and precisely how your waste should be sorted. More generally, however, the Government has set out which materials should not be placed in your recycling bins - including them could result in your waste being left uncollected.View 3 ImagesYou should check with your local council about specific recycling rules for your area(Image: Getty)GlassGOV.UK says you do not need to collect any glass not used as packaging. This includes:‌CandlesDrinking glassesFlat glassGlass cookware (such as Pyrex)Light bulbs and tubesMicrowave platesMirrorsVasesWindow glassCeramics, such as crockery or earthenwareMetalYou do not need to collect:Laminated foil, like pet food pouches and coffee pouchesElectrical items and batteriesGeneral kitchenware like cutlery, pots and pansKettlesIronsPipesMetal packaging that has contained white spir...