What to do with
Face coverings (masks) and PPE
Face coverings, or masks, have been required on public transport and in shops and supermarkets in England since 24 July 2020.
Wearing a re-usable cloth face covering will prevent more single-use plastic from going to landfill.
If we wear a cloth face covering in public, we should wash it after every use in line with the manufacturer’s instructions.
When removing, do not touch the front of the face covering, or the part of the face covering that has been in contact with your mouth and nose. Once removed, store reusable face coverings in a plastic bag until you have an opportunity to wash them.
The Big Community Sew website has information and videos on how to make your own face covering from items around your home.
If a face covering is not washable, is worn out or disposable, put it in your usual ‘black bag’ residual waste bin.
We must not put used face coverings of any kind or Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), such as gloves, into the recycling bin. Nor must we drop them as litter – it’s a criminal offence.
For more information about disposing of face coverings and other PPE, please visit GOV.uk.