Bathroom items you can't recycle under England's new rules — what to do with them

Bathroom items you can't recycle under England's new rules — what to do with them England's Simpler Recycling reforms have introduced mandatory and consistent recycling requirements for businesses and households A significant shift has taken place in how recycling operates in England. This year, new regulations have specified certain items that must not go into recycling bins. Failure to follow the latest guidance could result in your bin being left uncollected. The UK's Simpler Recycling reforms, implemented under the Environment Act 2021, have introduced compulsory, uniform recycling requirements for businesses and households across England. This encompasses separate collections for food waste, paper and card, glass, metal and plastic. The objective is to simplify recycling, reduce landfill waste, and boost sustainability. Regarding bathroom waste, there's often uncertainty about what's recyclable and what isn't. The updated regulations took effect on March 31. Local authorities must provide transparent information about recyclable materials. Certain local councils are excluded from the new regulations until at least 2040. That being so, it's vital to check with your local authority whether these updated rules apply in your area. Absorbent hygiene products Under the updated regulations, local authorities aren't required to collect absorbent hygiene products (AHPs). Such items encompass nappies, period products and incontinence products. These items should never be flushed down the toilet. While different councils have varying policies, AHPs should be disposed of in general waste bins or via specialist hygiene collection services. Cotton wool and makeup pads are commonly found in bathrooms. They cannot be recycled and must go straight into your general waste bin. Never flush them down the toilet either — they expand when wet and are a leading cause of plumbing blockages. Tissue or toilet paper Although tissues and toilet paper are made from paper, they sadly cannot be recycled. The fibres they contain are far too short and low in quality to be processed. Tissues belong in the general waste bin, while toilet paper can be flushed down the toilet. Wet wipes Whether they're baby wipes, cosmetic wipes, cleaning wipes or moist toilet tissues, wet wipes are neither recyclable nor flushable. They must always be disposed of in the general waste bin. Mirrors Most of us have at least one mirror in the bathroom, but when it's time to get rid of yours, it cannot go in the recycling bin. The metallic coating on most mirrors means they are incompatible with glass recycling, as this coating will contaminate other glass products that could otherwise be recycled. Your best option is to take the mirror to your nearest recycling centre, where it will be handled and disposed of responsibly. Alternatively, if the mirror is still in good condition, consider donating it to a charity shop or passing it on to a friend or family member who might find it useful.