Can you recycle plastic straws?

Plastic straws (banned from general sale in England since 2020, but still around) are too small and light to be captured by recycling sorters and go in general waste. Paper straws are also not recyclable once used — general waste or compost. Carton straws should be pushed into the empty carton so they travel with it.

Tips

• Push carton straws inside the carton before recycling it
• Reusable metal/silicone straws end the question

Which bin does it go in?

General waste

Before throwing it away, see reuse, repair and donation routes.

Background: Plastic numbers 1–7 explained.

Also searched as: drinking straws, paper straws.