Reduce, reuse and repair before recycling
Recycling is useful, but it comes after preventing waste and keeping products in use. The practical order is: avoid, use longer, reuse, repair, pass on, recycle, then dispose.
Before buying
- Use, borrow or hire what already exists.
- Choose refillable, repairable or replaceable-part products.
- Buy the amount you will actually use.
- Check whether packaging and consumables have a local recycling route.
Keep products working
Clean filters, descale appliances, tighten fixings, update software, store items correctly and use protective cases where useful. Keep model numbers and manuals so replacement parts are easier to find.
Repair safely
Simple textile, furniture and mechanical repairs can often be done locally or at a repair café. For mains electricals, lithium batteries, pressurised products and safety equipment, use a competent repairer rather than improvising.
Pass useful items on
Sell, donate, swap or give away clean and working items. Describe faults honestly. Check a charity's acceptance list before leaving bulky goods, electricals, child car seats or upholstered furniture.
Recycle the remainder correctly
Separate batteries, electricals, textiles, metals, packaging and hazardous materials into the appropriate collection. Search the item and check the local rule before travelling.
Source: GOV.UK — guidance on applying the waste hierarchy.
✓ Last checked: 17 Jul 2026. Spot an error or an out-of-date rule?