Mixed recycling

What can I put in the mixed recycling bin?

• Plastic bottle - with codes 1, 2 and 3*
• Drink bottles
• Detergent bottles
• Plastic milk bottles
• Plastic containers - with codes 5 and 6*
• Yoghurt pots (code 6)
• Drinks cans
• Food cans
• Aluminium cans
• Steel cans
• Food tins and foil
• Small amounts of tetra pak containers can also be put in the mixed recycling but please empty and rinse before disposal.

PLEASE REMOVE BOTTLE LIDS, AND EMPTY AND RINSE CONTAINERS IF NECESSARY

* The plastic recycling code can be found on the base of the packaging - you will see a single digit surrounded by a triangle of numbers.

 

 What can't I put in the mixed recycling bin?

• Any other plastic with codes 4 or 7
• Expanded polystyrene foam 
• Any other metal
• Glass

For clarification, this includes:

• Sandwich packets
• Crisp packets
• Biscuit wrappers
• Plastic bags
• Metal bindings
• Broken stationery e.g. staplers

Good tip to remember: If in doubt, leave it out.  If you're not sure whether an item can be recycled, email waste@reading.ac.uk or put the item in the general waste.