New recycling rules in England, effective from March 31, have clarified which bathroom items cannot be placed in recycling bins. The Simpler Recycling reforms, introduced under the Environment Act 2021, mandate separate collections for food waste, paper, card, glass, metal, and plastic, aiming to streamline recycling and reduce landfill waste.
Under the new regulations, absorbent hygiene products (AHPs) such as nappies, period products, and incontinence items are not required to be collected by local authorities. These should be disposed of in general waste bins or through specialised hygiene collection services, and must never be flushed down the toilet.
Cotton wool and makeup pads are also non-recyclable and should go into general waste. They cannot be flushed as they expand in water and can cause plumbing blockages. Similarly, tissues and toilet paper, though paper-based, contain short fibres unsuitable for recycling; tissues belong in general waste, while toilet paper can be flushed.
Wet wipes, including baby wipes, cosmetic wipes, and cleaning wipes, are neither recyclable nor flushable and must be placed in general waste. Mirrors with metallic coatings cannot be recycled with glass as they contaminate pure glass products; instead, take them to a local recycling centre or donate if in good condition.
Local authorities are required to provide clear recycling information, but some councils are exempt from the new rules until at least 2040. Residents are advised to check with their local council for specific guidelines.
