Items We Didn’t Know Could Be Recycled?

We’re used to recycling bottles, jars, paper and cans, and maybe even have a compost bin in our garden. Everything else gets thrown in the general rubbish bin. But there are many surprising items that most people aren’t aware can actually be recycled, so don’t throw the following items away …

Eye glasses. Sooner or later you need a new prescription, so end up with several old pairs that you never use again. A spare pair is useful, but send the rest to a charity that passes them on to people in developing countries.

Bras. Do you throw your old bras away? Those too can be passed on to women in developing countries.

Motor oil. You’re probably aware that when your car needs an oil change, you should never pour the old oil down the drain. But when you take it to a garage or refuse tip, it won’t be disposed of – it will actually be cleaned up and reused.

Tights. A pair of tights never seems to last long before they ladder. Thrifty mothers find many household uses for old tights, but it’s even possible to recycle them for making items like park benches and playground equipment.

Plastic bags. Even if your council collects plastic, most people are unsure whether you can recycle plastic bags and packaging. But in fact most plastics can be recycled, including food trays, yoghurt pots, and ice cream tubs. If your council won’t collect clingfilm or plastic bags, you may be able to recycle them at the supermarket.

Cosmetics. Some companies such as MAC collect used makeup containers for recycling.

Carpet. When you replace your carpet, don’t throw it in a skip – it can be recycled.

Shoes and trainers. When worn out, your old trainers or shoes can be recycled at the refuse tip or sent to a company that turns them into running tracks and tennis courts.

Bikes and bike parts. These can either be sent to developing countries for reuse, or tyres can be recycled at bike shops.

Wine corks. How many wine corks do you throw away each year? Store them – some stores will collect them for recycling.

Water filters. BRITA brand filters can be taken to ARGOS for recycling.

Toothbrushes. Some brands of toothbrush can be recycled.

Electronic devices. Many parts in electronic devices can be recycled.

Cooking oil. Larger quantities (from catering or factories) can be collected for recycling.