What Is Mixed Recycling
Mixed recycling using Mixed Recycling Bins – sometimes called dry mixed recycling – is one of the easiest and most effective ways for UK workplaces to reduce waste and improve sustainability. But confusion about what can and cannot go into a mixed recycling bin leads to contamination, rejected collections, and unnecessary landfill. Here’s a clear, up-to-date guide on what counts as mixed recycling and how to use it correctly in your office. Contact us for more information
What Can Go In A Mixed Recycling Office Recycling Bin
Mixed recycling includes clean, dry, everyday recyclable materials such as paper, card, plastic bottles, cans, tins and empty aerosols. These items can all be placed together in a single bin because they are separated later at a specialist materials recovery facility (MRF). For most offices, this covers the majority of daily recyclables: printouts, envelopes, cardboard packaging, soft drink bottles, food tubs, drinks cans and metal lids. As long as these materials are rinsed and free from food residue, they can safely go into your mixed recycling stream.
What Cannot Go In A Mixed Recycling Office Recycling Bin
Equally important is knowing what not to place in the mixed bin. Glass, food waste, greasy packaging, soft plastics, and paper coffee cups all require separate streams. These materials contaminate the recycling process and can cause the entire contents of a bin to be rejected. Batteries, electronics, and chemicals must also be disposed of through specialist collections. As a simple rule: if the item is wet, greasy, or hazardous, it does not belong in mixed recycling.
Colour Coded Office Recycling Bin Stations
For offices aiming to boost recycling rates, the key is clarity. Use colour-coded lids, clear labels, and consistent signage across the workspace. A green-lid bin is the standard choice for mixed recycling in many UK workplaces and helps staff immediately recognise the stream.
Correct use of mixed recycling reduces waste disposal costs, supports UK recycling targets, and helps create a cleaner, more sustainable workplace.
Use our Mixed Recycling bins to help streamline your waste sorting. Customers regularly buy a General Waste office recycling bin to set up a stylish office recycling bin station. The office Recycling Bin Separate is an ideal solution or office recycling bin Divide. Read about colour coded office recycling bins. Read more about Zero Waste.