FAQs

Domestic Recycling
What can be recycled and must go into the clear bag?
  • Plastic milk/drinks bottles and other containers
  • Paper and cardboard (flattened and folded)
  • Glass bottles and jars (no other glass)
  • Metal drinks and food cans
  • Juice or milk boxed containers
What cannot be recycled and must go into the refuse bin?
  • Food waste, scraps and peelings
  • Cling wrap, disposable nappies, toothpaste tubes
  • Wet or contaminated paper and cardboard
  • Old clothing and shoes
What must I do with my bag of recyclables?

Place your bag of recyclables next to (or on top of) your wheelie-bin for collection on refuse removal day.

When must I put my bag of recyclables out for collection?

On the same day as your refuse is collected.

How do I get a new clear bag for my recyclables?

A new clear bag will be swopped for the bag of recyclables that you put out for collection. You can also use blue bags available at most supermarkets to start with.

Are the lids from plastic bottles recyclable?

Bottles with tops on keep plastic bottles full of air. This takes up a lot of space in bags and on collection vehicles. So take tops off and squeeze plastic bottles flat. The caps can then be added in with the recyclables, but not left on the bottles.

What about pizza boxes and food packaging?

All paper, cardboard or plastic containers will be recycled. However, please remove excess food before placing the paper, cardboard or plastic container in recycling bag.

Should I rinse out milk bottles first?

It is not absolutely necessary to rinse bottles – but do it with dishwater if you can – but the bottles must be emptied of remaining liquid before placing the bottle in the recycling bag.

What must I do with cardboard boxes?

Flatten cardboard boxes and place beside wheelie-bin.

Can I recycle broken glass or cups or window glass?

No other glass except bottles can be put out for recycling.

What about electronic e-waste – like batteries, globes, appliances.

No these can’t be recycled in our system and must not be put into the clear bag. Some retailers such as Woolworths, Pick n Pay or Spar have stores which can take them.

Can I put garden refuse into the clear bag?

No – garden refuse must be taken to the City’s drop-off sites.

Are business also included in the free kerbside collection programme?

No. Businesses and restaurants must make their own recycling arrangements with contractors of their choice or they can contact us on 0860 – 456 786  or info@wastemart.co.za