To prevent damage to your recycling bin, follow a few key guidelines. It's important to keep your bin clean and organized by only placing appropriate items inside and keeping them loose, not bagged. Here are some tips:
| Guidelines | Details |
|---|---|
| Keep it clean | Wash and squash recyclable items to save space and reduce contamination. |
| Do not use black bags | Always place recycling loose in the bin; black bags and carrier bags contaminate the recycling. |
| Avoid contamination | Do not include non-recyclable materials (e.g., food waste, pet waste) as they can spoil the entire bin's contents. |
| Proper disposal of excess | If the bin is full, use a clear plastic bag to leave extra recycling next to the bin. |
| Follow bin stickers | Pay attention to any yellow or orange stickers on your bin, which indicate the presence of incorrect items and guide you on what to do next. |
Following these guidelines not only helps keep your recycling bin intact but also enhances the overall recycling process in Durham. For more detailed advice, you can check the Durham recycling guidelines.