Surprising items that can be recycled

Recycling has come a long way. What was once a straightforward task of separating paper from plastics now involves understanding a diverse mix of recyclable materials, many of which are commonly mistaken for general waste.

In this guide, we at W&S Waste Management take a look at some surprising items that can be recycled, including chewing gum, textiles, aerosols, and WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment).

We'll explain how these materials are repurposed, why it matters, and how you can recycle more confidently at home or through a professional recycling centre.

Why Recycling Unexpected Items Matters

Most of us are familiar with cardboard and drink cans going in the recycling bin. But every year, recyclable household items end up in landfill simply because we weren’t aware they belonged elsewhere.

According to Waste Direct’s 2025 Recycling Statistics, 46% of UK waste is recycled, yet a significant portion of household and business waste still ends up in landfill, highlighting the need for clearer recycling guidance and improved public awareness.

Knowing which mixed recyclables are recyclable not only reduces landfill waste but also supports a circular economy that reuses valuable materials, saves energy, and cuts costs.

Surprising Everyday Items That Are Recyclable

There are a lot of surprising items that can be recycled; items which are often discarded with general waste where they end up in landfill sites. With a little more awareness, it’s very easy to take steps towards reducing your carbon footprint.

Aerosol Cans

Used deodorants, hairsprays and cleaning sprays are often discarded incorrectly. Made from tinplated steel or aluminium, these items are widely recyclable.
Before disposal:

• Ensure The Can is Empty
• Remove Any Detachable Lids
• Avoid Crushing or Piercing Them

Takeaway Pizza Boxes

Given the UK’s love of pizza, this one is an especially commonplace issue. Contrary to popular belief, grease and food stains are fine, so long as the box is empty. Simply remove leftover crusts and toppings before recycling.

Batteries

Household batteries, laptop battery packs, and even car batteries are recyclable. While some councils offer kerbside collection, it's safest to drop batteries off at your nearest recycling centre or participating store. And remember – under no circumstances should they ever be disposed of alongside general waste.

Aluminium Foil and Trays

A lot of people don’t realise that foil can be recycled, so this very often ends up going in the bin. Clean aluminium trays and sheets of foil are widely recycled, just be sure to wipe off any crumbs or food residue.

Shampoo and Detergent Bottles

Once rinsed and emptied, plastic recycling for these bottles is straightforward. Keep lids attached to prevent leaks and make sorting easier.

Mobile Phones and Electricals

Electrical items form an integral part of daily life, and so their correct disposal is easily a priority. WEEE recycling covers any item with a plug or battery. That includes irons, mobile phones, and old laptops. If it features a crossed-out wheelie bin symbol, it’s a candidate for recycling.

Unusual Household Items You Can Recycle

But the list doesn’t stop there. Beyond the basics, here are some truly unexpected materials that have recyclable potential, yet you likely didn’t know it:

Crayons

Old, broken, or mismatched crayons don’t need to be binned. They can be melted down and recycled into fresh, usable crayons, giving them a second life in classrooms, art studios or charity packs. It’s a simple way for families to contribute to waste reduction while promoting creativity and sustainability.

Toothbrushes

Toothbrushes are made of composite materials, typically plastic handles and nylon bristles, which require separation before recycling. Once sorted, each part can be sent to a suitable facility. Several specialist recycling programmes now exist, helping reduce plastic waste from everyday hygiene routines while supporting broader mixed recyclables efforts.

Mattresses

Approximately 20 million mattresses reach landfill each year, despite being recyclable. Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) are found in mattresses, and these can be potentially damaging to the environment and wildlife.

The good news is that specialist recycling centres, such as ours, can dismantle mattresses into reusable components such as metal springs, foam, and fabrics. These parts are then repurposed into insulation, padding, or industrial materials.

CDs and DVDs

Although no longer widely used, CDs and DVDs contain recyclable plastics that can be shredded, melted down and reused. These discs often find new life in car manufacturing, construction materials or even street furniture. Repurposing optical media helps reduce electronic waste and keeps more plastics in the circular economy. H2: Light Bulbs and Coffee Pods Let’s shine a light on yet more surprising items that can be recycled, from bulbs to coffee pods you might overlook daily.

Light Bulbs

Energy-efficient bulbs shouldn’t be binned, as many can be recycled at sites like W&S Recycling. And businesses using fluorescent tubes should arrange compliant disposal through licensed suppliers under WEEE recycling regulations.

Remember that proper recycling prevents hazardous waste entering landfill and allows valuable materials like metal and glass to be recovered.

Coffee Pods

We’re a nation of coffee drinkers and, as such, coffee pods are a growing part of plastic recycling. Brands like Nespresso offer collection bags for used capsules, which can be dropped off at stores or scheduled for pickup. These pods are then separated into aluminium and organic components for reuse, reducing landfill waste while supporting a more circular waste system.

Find out more on our take-back recycling sheme here.

Repurposing and Textile Recycling

Repurposing before discarding is an excellent way to reduce waste. For instance, egg boxes and newspapers work brilliantly in craft projects, while old clothes can be refreshed through sewing and imagination.
Textile recycling includes:

• Clothing and Fabric Scraps
• Shoes and Accessories
• Curtains and Bed Linen

Most textile recycling is best done via designated recycling centres, where items are sorted for reuse, repurposing or safe disposal.

Recyclable Plastic Wrapping

Many types of plastic wrapping, such as bread bags, cereal liners and bubble wrap, are recyclable despite not always featuring clear symbols. Just avoid items like cling film or food pouches unless your local facility confirms they’re accepted.

How W&S Can Help You Recycle More Confidently

Our experienced team at W&S Waste Management can help you safely dispose of a wide variety of household and commercial waste. From plastic recycling to textile recycling, and WEEE recycling to confidential document shredding, we support your sustainability goals through a network of professional recycling centres across the South of England.

Whether it’s shampoo bottles, batteries, or broken CDs, if it’s recyclable, we’ll help you handle it responsibly.

Why Choose Us?

At W&S Waste Management, we offer an extensive range of services, from mixed recyclables and hazardous waste to confidential disposal, designed to suit homes and businesses alike.

Our tailored solutions deliver high-quality results at competitive prices, backed by decades of experience and full licensing for regulatory peace of mind. We're proud to be environmental champions, working tirelessly to minimise landfill and promote responsible re-use.

You can count on us for fast, secure and dependable service, every time. Whether it's plastic recycling, textile disposal or WEEE recycling, we help customers navigate waste management with clarity, care and complete confidence.

Call us today on 01202 675564 or use our online contact form to get started. Whether you’re unsure what counts as recyclable, or you need help disposing of trickier items, our team is here to support you every step of the way.