Use this page to find out what you should put in your green recycling sack and what you shouldn't, when your recycling sack is collected and what you can do to help us collect your recycling.
We collect your recycling every week (except for your chargeable garden waste which we collect every other week). Find out when your next collection day is using our collection day finder
What goes in your green recycling sack
| Material | Full list of suitable items | Unsuitable items and further instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Plastic pots, tubs and trays (used to contain food and drink) | Recycling A-Z | No black plastic, plastic bags, film or polystyrene |
| Metal packaging and foil | Recycling A-Z | No crisp packets or paper backed foil |
| Cans and aerosols | Recycling A-Z | |
| Paper | Recycling A-Z | No wrapping paper |
| Glass bottles and jars | Recycling A-Z | No broken glass (broken glass must be wrapped securely to prevent injury and placed in bags of general waste) |
| Cardboard and cardboard cartons (drinks and food containers) | Recycling A-Z | Cut large pieces of cardboard to 45cm square |
Prohibited items
You must not dispose of the following items in your green recycling sack:
- Food waste
- Clothes and textiles
- Facemasks
- Broken glass, sheet glass, light bulbs and drinks glasses
- Small electrical items
- Nappies
- Wipes or tissues
- Wrapping paper
Why we no longer accept wrapping paper
Unfortunately, we cannot recycle wrapping paper. Wrapping paper often contains non-paper additives such as plastic, foil or glitter which then spoils the waste stream. The paper mills will not accept it. Please consider sustainable alternatives like fabric wrap, fully recyclable brown paper, newspaper or reusable gift bags.
Why we are unable to collect food waste in green recycling sacks
As central Bath is very busy, we’re unable to provide containers to homes who would have to leave them out blocking pavements on collection day. The current sack service means we can ensure ensure streets are kept clear and tidy after collections. We are currently exploring options to provide a food waste collection service to homes in the city centre.
Putting your recycling out
WarningWe can fine you if you leave your waste and recycling out after your collection day, or if you block pavements.
To help us collect your recycling sack, please take note of the following:
- Put your green recycling sacks at the front edge of your property where we can see them
- Put your recycling sacks out by 6am on your collection day (or no earlier than 8pm the night before)
- Do not put out large or hazardous items
Moving home
If you move home, you must leave your green recycling sack at your old home.