Recycling is one of the easiest ways to reduce waste and help the environment, but many people unknowingly throw away items that could be given a second life. While most of us know that paper, plastic, and glass can be recycled, several everyday household items you might not realize are recyclable. Here are ten surprising items you can recycle instead of sending to landfills.
1. Toothbrushes and Toothpaste Tubes
Traditional plastic toothbrushes and toothpaste tubes often end up in the bin, but many brands now offer recycling programs. Companies like TerraCycle accept oral care products, including toothbrushes, floss containers, and toothpaste tubes, keeping them out of landfill.
2. Old CDs, DVDs, and VHS Tapes
Even though we’ve moved to digital streaming, many households still have stacks of CDs, DVDs, or even VHS tapes lying around. These can be recycled at specialist recycling centers, and some charities accept them for reuse.
3. Broken Electronics and Cables
E-waste is a growing environmental problem, but many electronic items, including chargers, headphones, and cables, can be recycled. Many retailers and recycling centers accept electronic waste to extract valuable materials like copper and aluminum.
4. Used Cooking Oil
Pouring used cooking oil down the drain can cause plumbing issues, but did you know it can be recycled into biodiesel? Many waste disposal companies and recycling centers accept used oil, helping convert it into a sustainable fuel source.
5. Empty Makeup Containers
Cosmetic brands are increasingly offering recycling programs for used beauty product containers. From foundation bottles to lipstick tubes and mascara wands, many brands allow customers to return empties in exchange for discounts or rewards.
6. Old Pens and Markers
Used-up pens, markers, and highlighters don’t have to go in the bin. Some recycling schemes, like TerraCycle, accept writing instruments and turn them into new plastic products.
7. Coffee Pods
Single-use coffee pods are often made of aluminum and plastic, making them difficult to recycle. However, brands like Nespresso and Keurig offer special recycling programs where you can send back used pods to be processed properly.
8. Wine Corks
Natural corks from wine bottles can be repurposed into flooring, insulation, and craft materials. Some recycling programs collect corks to turn them into sustainable materials, helping reduce waste.
9. Old Clothes and Textiles
Worn-out clothing, towels, and bed linens can often be recycled instead of thrown away. Many fashion brands and local charities collect textiles for reuse, repurposing, or recycling into industrial materials.
10. Batteries and Light Bulbs
Throwing batteries and light bulbs in the bin can be hazardous due to the chemicals they contain. Many supermarkets and recycling centers have designated drop-off points for safe disposal of household batteries and energy-saving light bulbs.
Recycle More with Eco Waste Clearance
At Eco Waste Clearance, we believe in reducing landfill waste by promoting responsible recycling. We provide hassle-free waste collection services and ensure recyclable items are properly processed. If you have household or commercial waste to dispose of, contact us today for an eco-friendly rubbish removal service!
