Last updated:
1st June 2026
Reduce, re-use and recycle
Before you throw anything away, check whether it can be recycled. Better still, you can:
- Reduce the amount of waste you produce (and save money).
- Reuse items by donating them to local charities, selling them, or giving them away for free using online platforms and apps.
- Repair items or find another use for them before you dispose of them. You can find a local repair café
Find out more about how to waste less and recycle more in our fortnightly newsletter.
Subscribe to the Rubbish and Recycling newsletter
How to donate your items
Donate unwanted household items from your doorstep, free of charge with Anglo Doorstep Collections.
| Item | How to donate |
|---|---|
| Batteries | Any shop selling batteries will have a collection point. Take used batteries to the recycling centre. Batteries are a hazard so don't put them out for a kerbside collection. |
| Disposable nappies and wipes |
Try reusable nappies as an easy and cost-effective alternative. Contact Nappy Library | Reading, to trial various styles and for advice Use our nappy cashback scheme. Fill in and return the Real nappy cashback scheme form (PDF document). |
| Furniture | Take unwanted furniture to the recycling centre. Donate unwanted furniture to Age UK. |
| Glass bottles and jars | Return to a local bottle bank and keep the metal lids on. All other broken glass can be taken to the recycling centre. |
| Laptops | Recycling Technology (Retec) has been launched to support local families. Visit the Wokingham Lions website for drop-off points and information. |
| Printer ink and toner cartridges | Return to the supplier or check your local shop that sells cartridges. Visit the Stinkyink website. |
| Shoes, clothes and bags |
Donate these to your favourite local charity shop including The Cowshed local charity or your local donation bank. |
| Soft plastics | These include plastic bags and packaging for fruit, vegetables, crisps and biscuits. Read the packaging for advice on what can be recycled. Check if your local supermarket has a collection point for soft plastics. |
These websites also offer useful guidance and tips:
- Recycling the right things – visit the re3 website or the Recycle Now website.
- Reducing food waste with tips and recipes – visit the Love Food Hate Waste website
- The Anglo Doorstep collection service helps residents give unwanted items a second life and supports selected charities.
Further information can be found here Recycling
