The new recycling rules came into force across England on 31st March 2026. And while this new ‘simpler recycling’ scheme has many benefits, it’s hard to ignore that it will make decluttering more difficult. So, it’s important to be careful if you’re clearing-out this spring.
I’m a huge advocate for a good decluttering session. Clearing out unwanted items can create a calm, clutter-free space, and until recently, recycling was one of the best ways. Get rid of things after decluttering. But under this New recycling rulesMany things we used to be able to put in our recycling bins are no longer allowed.
The caveat is that there are many councils Exemption from these new rules Until 2048, but if your local authority has already made the changes, it’s important to understand your options. And if you plan to declutter anytime soon, here are the things you can no longer recycle and what to do with them instead.
Article continues below
Clutter you can no longer recycle
To make things easier, I’ve compiled a list of items you can no longer put under new in your recycling bin. ‘Easy Recycling’ scheme:
- drinking glasses
- Candle jars
- Glass cookware
- Vase
- mirrors
- Ceramics
- Cutlery
- Pots and pans
- Kettle
- Iron
- Plastic plant pots
(Image credit: Future plc/James French)
Depending on your local authority, items such as drinking glasses and candle jars may already be banned from kerbside pickup due to their potential to contaminate the recycling process.
However, these new rules make this exclusion standard across England, with every local council required to comply – either now or by 2048 at the latest.
Fortunately, that doesn’t mean you have to hold on to your clutter. Shannon Murphy, Business Planner and Founder Simple Living Cosays, ‘While the new rules mean that fewer items can be recycled at home, there are still plenty of practical and sustainable options available.’
What to do with your unwanted items if they can’t be recycled
1. Use a recycling scheme
It’s important to note that while the above items are no longer available for curbside pickup, many are Still Can be recycled – it just requires a little more work on your part. This is especially true if you want to Recycle plastic plant pots.
Not only can you use schemes like B&Q’s plant pot recycling scheme (which are available in over 100 stores nationwide), but it may be that your local authority offers alternative static recycling sites for glass bottles and jars too. These can usually be found in supermarket car parks or in community centres.
As Shannon explains, ‘Your local recycling center is still a great first port of call if you need to dispose of it. Many accept items that can’t go in the household bin, and some even have recycling shops where useful pieces can be donated.’
2. Restore them
(Image credit: Future plc/James French)
Even if you are Decluttering to save money when moving house Or simply changing your home decor, and wanting to get rid of items that still have a lot of life left in them, repurposing is another great option.
You can give your unwanted items to friends and family instead of just throwing them away, and most people will jump at the chance to take them off your hands – especially if this involves a new (good, old) mirror or sturdy Pyrex dish.
If they don’t want them, offer them to the local community. ‘Candle jars and similar containers can be ideal for charity arts groups or community centres, where they are often used as water vessels or to store supplies,’ says Shannon. ‘Plant pots can be offered to local allotments, community gardens or forest schools, where they are usually very gratefully received.’
3. Upcycle them
If you can’t recycle your clutter under the new rules, why not try upcycling? Many unwanted items can be given a second life if you’re willing to get a little creative – especially if something isn’t to your taste.
You can turn an ugly mirror into something that suits your style with simple decorations, or pop it out for something unique. Garden Mirror Ideas. The same applies to candle jars and vases, as you can use sets like these Candle Making Kit (£24.99 on Amazon) To refill them yourself.
If you want to avoid extra jars and vases in the future, our home decor editor, Sara, is a big fan. Refillable candles – and is one of her favorites M&S Apothecary Calm Candle and Refill Set (£12 at M&S). That way, you know you’ll always be able to upcycle and reuse your purchases.
4. Sell them
(Image credit: Future plc/Siobhan Doran)
You know what they say: one person’s trash is another person’s treasure, and this is something to remember when decluttering. After all, you can often Turn clutter into cash If you are willing to sell it.
You’ll be surprised what people will buy, so it’s always worth trying to sell as much as you can – whether it’s in person at a car boot sale or online through reselling sites such as Vinted, eBay or Facebook Marketplace.
As Shannon explains, ‘For vases, platforms like Facebook Marketplace are great, as many people look for affordable options for weddings or events, especially for DIY table settings.’ This way, you can ensure that your unwanted items get a new life instead of being thrown away.
5. Think about future purchases
These new recycling rules affect everyone in England, so it’s worth bearing them in mind when you make your next purchase. To make this easier, keep track Which you can still recycle – which will also help you understand what you can’t do.
To avoid these rules and make life easier in the long run (especially if you plan to declutter again soon, or just want to maintain a clean and tidy home), you can invest in a new recycling bin or compost bin to stick to your garden. Changes to rules for garden waste binsAlso.
But more than anything, it might make you think twice before making that next purchase — especially if it’s only for a temporary purpose. Will it be easy to get rid of when you no longer want it? Is it worth it? In some cases, it may not be.
Accommodation 45 liter triple compartment recycling bin
To simplify your recycling efforts, this bin has a 45L capacity divided into 3 x 15L compartments. It’s also pedal-operated, so you don’t have to touch the lids.
Joseph Joseph Stack 4l Stone Food West Kd
Under these new rules, we are all now entitled to food waste bin collection – but Only if you use the right liners. However, choosing a small caddy like this for indoor use is fine. It also comes with an anti-odor filter.
4Smile 300 liter garden composter bin
Now that some garden waste can’t be collected by the council, why not invest in a compost bin so you can compost it yourself? By doing this, you can feed your garden for free!
Happy decluttering!
If you enjoyed reading this, sign up for Ideal Home Newsletter All the latest home decor trends and inspiration delivered straight to your inbox
