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What to do with

Paper

Paper is widely recycled
However, there are a few exceptions- find out more below. Most local authorities accept paper in their recycling collections - enter your postcode below to check if yours does.
Enter your postcode here to check

Paper recycling tips

  • Paper is a valuable recyclable material but only when it is clean.
  • Remove any plastic wrapping from newspapers and magazines - this can be recycled with plastic bags at larger supermarkets.
  • If you scrunch paper and it doesn't spring back, then it can be recycled.
Yes pleaseNo thanks
Newspapers and supplementsPaper that is stained with foodstuffs, grease, paint or dirt (e.g. greaseproof or baking paper, kids paintings)
Magazines, brochures and cataloguesHygiene/sanitary products (e.g. nappies, wipes, sanitary towels)
White paper (e.g. computer paper, letters)Used paper towels
Shredded paperTissues
Telephone directoriesCotton wool and make up pads
Junk mail and flyersWet wipes
Envelopes (including those with a window)Sticky papers (e.g. Post-it notes, sticky labels or paper tape)
Non-paper gift wrap or bags (e.g. foil-based gift wrapping)
Crisp or sweet packets or wrappers
Wallpaper and decoration paper
Brown paper (this should be recycled with card because it causes brown flecks in new paper)

Paper - how is it recycled?

What to do with...

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  • Christmas decorations & packaging
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Related content

Find out how to recycle:

  • Cardboard
  • Glass bottles and jars
  • Greetings cards
  • Wrapping paper
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The Waste and Resources Action Programme (which operates as WRAP) is a registered UK Charity No. 1159512 and registered as a Company limited by guarantee in England & Wales No. 4125764.

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